Spice Girls take to stage

Emma Bunton (aka Baby Spice) has confirmed that the Spice Girls musical is well underway and is likely to be seen on the West End in 2012.

Viva Forever is being written by Absolutely Fabulous star Jennifer Saunders, with Mamma Mia! producer Judy Craymer serving as executive producer.

“I’ve heard a little bit about the story but it’s top secret. We’ve been in touch with the producer and the writer,” Bunton said in an interview with PA.

Tony Award-winning Marianne Elliott was named director in April this year and many hope the musical will lead to the famous girl group returning to the stage in something akin their 2007 reunion tour, which grossed an estimated US$100 million.

In confirming the announcement earlier this year, producer Judy Craymer said:

“I am delighted that Marianne [Elliot] has agreed to direct Viva Forever. With her theatrical aptitude for exploring strong women and their relationships and her meticulousness to detail she is absolutely the right person to direct this new musical which is all about female friendship, celebrity and fame. I’m so happy to have her on board, together with Jennifer Saunders, who has written the musical.”