ROBBIE’S WEDDING PRESENT

(thanks to jlml @rwap)
ROBBIE’S WEDDING PRESENT Superstar may be mystery backer of new stage show By Andy Lea Robbie Williams is ready to relaunch his showbiz career – as a theatre impresario. The multi-millionaire pop star has put plans for a new album on hold after warring with his record label EMI. And now the striking star is devoting his time and money to musical theatre. Robbie, who signed an £80 million contract with EMI in 2002, is said to be the mystery backer of a stage version of the Adam Sandler movie The Wedding Singer, which opened in Manchester last month. The play, which stars his best pal Jonathan Wilkes, 29, and former Hollyoaks actress Natalie Casey, 27, will tour the UK until August before moving to London’s West End. A source said: “It looks like there could be a new angel in the world of theatre.” Pals of the 34-year-old confirm he is serious about a move into musicals. One said: “He does have time on his hands after going on strike with EMI.” Since beating a prescription drugs addiction last year, Robbie has been at his LA mansion hanging out with pal Max Beesley and playing Scrabble with his dad Pete Conway. His pals reckon his new interest in the theatre could even inspire him to start penning new music. “Who knows, he might even write a musical himself,” said the pal. “Robbie : The Musical would be massive – and he wouldn’t have to cough up a penny to EMI.”