Jeff Wayne’s Musical Version of The War of The Worlds is back with a monumental new 17-date (19 shows) UK and Ireland arena tour, arriving just in time to celebrate 130 years since the publication of HG WELLS’ dark Victorian tale. Conducted by Jeff Wayne and featuring Liam Neeson in 3D holography as The Journalist, who recounts his story of survival from the Martian invasion of 1898.
And the latest announcement sees Fightstar and Busted frontman Charlie Simpson set to use his gravel-voiced pop vocals on his next mission to battle a Martian invasion, as he joins the cast of Jeff Wayne’s Musical Version of The War of The Worlds The Spirit of Man Tour 2025.
Charlie will be playing the role of The Sung Thoughts of the Journalist, which has previously been performed by Gary Barlow (recorded), and on tour with Brian McFadden, Marti Pellow and Justin Hayward . Charlie, Anna-Marie and Nathan join an all-star cast alongside, Enter Shikari’s Rou Reynold (The Artilleryman), The Wanted’s Max George (Parson Nathaniel) and Maisie Smith (Beth, The Parson’s Wife).
“When Jeff Wayne called to ask whether I wanted to perform the role of The Sung Thoughts of The Journalist in his next arena tour, I knew I had to rise to the challenge — who wouldn’t want to battle against the Martians?” says Charlie. “The War of The Worlds is one of those iconic pieces of music that’s become a building block in popular culture over the last forty-six years. I have vivid memories of listening to the album during my childhood, and I’m so thrilled that I get to sing ‘The Eve of The War’ and ‘Forever Autumn’ next year on arena stages across the country.”
Jeff Wayne comments: “Since we began touring arenas in 2006 with my musical version of TWOTW, I’ve been so fortunate to have attracted a range of artists whose careers I’ve first admired, and then I discover they’re keen to come on board our Martian adventure. In March 2025 when we hit the road, our cast will be full of distinction once again, and I’m happy that I can now announce our last new cast member – Charlie Simpson of Busted and Fightstar fame, who has both a wonderful voice and physical presence that will grace the stage in our coming The Spirit of Man tour as The Sung Thoughts of The Journalist.”
The tour will feature an exciting new cast to star alongside Charlie Simpson including, Rou Reynolds, The Wanted’s Max George and Maisie Smith (Eastenders & Strictly).
One of the most trailblazing arena tours of all time, Jeff Wayne’s Musical Version of The War of The Worlds (TWOTW) ‘The Spirit of Man Tour’ returns with a musical spectacular like none other, with the production remaining a favourite to millions around the world, exciting audiences of all ages.
MARCH 2025
Hull Connexin Live – Fri 28th
APRIL 2025
Aberdeen P&J Live – Tue 1st
Glasgow OVO Hydro – Wed 2nd
Leeds First Direct Arena – Thu 3rd
Newcastle Utilita Arena – Sat 5th
Manchester Co-op Live – Sun 6th
Sheffield Utilita Arena – Tue 8th
Liverpool M&S Bank Arena – Wed 9th
Nottingham Motorpoint Arena – Thu 10th
Brighton Centre –Sat 12th
Bournemouth Int Centre – Sun 13th
Bournemouth Int Centre – Mon 14th
Cardiff Utilitia Arena – Wed 16th
Cardiff Utilita Arena – Thu 17th
Birmingham bp Pulse Live – Fri 18th
London The O2 – Sun 20th
