Two Liverpool legends take the Empire Stage

Read the latest from Pete Price07:00, 30 Jul 2026Two dear friends, proud Scousers, stars, and household names, have both left their mark on the famous cobbles of Coronation Street.‌Now, they are bringing their talents home to Liverpool, both starring in fabulous productions at The Empire. Claire Sweeney is taking on the role of Miss Hannigan in the world-famous musical Annie - a part she has dreamed of playing for years.‌Meanwhile, Les Dennis stars as Old Joe in the hit musical Waitress (and we’ve just learned he’ll also be appearing in a stage adaptation of Dinnerladies next year!). Despite all their success, neither of them has ever forgotten their roots, making them truly amazing ambassadors for our city.‌My connection with both goes back decades. I first met Les at the Shakespeare Thea