Renowned Oscar-winning lyricist, Sir Tim Rice, has hinted at the possibility of reuniting with his former musical collaborator, Lord Andrew Lloyd-Webber, to embark on a new creative venture. While speaking to BBC South East, Sir Tim expressed openness to the idea of teaming up with Lord Lloyd-Webber again but emphasized that any new project would have to ignite his passion.
The dynamic duo, known for their iconic works such as Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Evita, recently joined forces to compose songs for a fresh comedic production titled “Sherlock Holmes and the 12 Days of Christmas.” This whimsical production, set to premiere at The Birmingham Rep Theatre in November, promises a delightful blend of mystery and humor.
Reflecting on the collaboration, Sir Tim shared his enthusiasm for the project, describing it as a joyful experience. The musical maestro, who honed his craft at Lancing College in West Sussex, shed light on the plot of the upcoming comedy, revolving around a serial killer with a sinister connection to the festive tune, “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” Sir Tim emphasized the comedic essence of the production, promising audiences a riotous experience filled with laughter.
When questioned about the synergy of working alongside Lord Lloyd-Webber once more, Sir Tim acknowledged their sporadic collaborations over the years, including contributing an additional song for Madonna in the film adaptation of “Evita.” While their creative paths diverged in the 1980s, with Lord Lloyd-Webber crafting hit musicals like Cats and Phantom of the Opera, Sir Tim delved into collaborations with the likes of Abba’s Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, as well as Disney, producing timeless hits for Aladdin and The Lion King.
Sir Tim’s illustrious career has earned him multiple Academy Awards for his exceptional songwriting, including chart-topping hits like “A Whole New World,” “Can You Feel The Love Tonight,” and “You Must Love Me.” His knack for crafting memorable melodies has seen him collaborate with music legends such as Elton John, Rick Wakeman, and Burt Bacharach. Despite his extensive portfolio, Sir Tim expressed regret over not exploring more creative avenues with the late Freddie Mercury, lamenting the missed opportunity to create music with the iconic Queen frontman.
As Sir Tim gears up for his upcoming UK tour with a captivating musical showcase titled “My Life In Musicals – I Know Him So Well,” audiences can anticipate a journey through his storied career, featuring performances in Guildford, Worthing, Eastbourne, and beyond. This intimate portrayal of his musical legacy offers fans a glimpse into the maestro’s creative evolution and enduring contributions to the world of theater and film.
In the ever-evolving landscape of musical theater, Sir Tim Rice continues to captivate audiences with his lyrical prowess and unparalleled storytelling.
