Amanda Abbington shares major update as Giovanni Pernice 'quits' Strictly

ok.co.uk:

Amanda Abbington has bagged a major new role as the lead in the theatrical memoir, When It Happens To You. The 52 year old actress expressed her excitement about being part of the show.This news comes on the heels of reports that her former Strictly Come Dancing partner, Giovanni Pernice, has quit the BBC show.

Amanda is moving forward in her career with this new role in When It Happens to You.The memoir is based on Tawni O'Dell's personal journey of keeping her family together after a life-altering event.The Sherlock star confessed she was hooked on the book and couldn't put it down, and will now be leading an ensemble cast.

Sharing her thoughts on the opportunity, Amanda said: "When Jez sent me When It Happens to You, I immediately read it in one sitting I couldn't put it down.The story is important and necessary, and the characters are nuanced, complex and completely relatable." "The Mother character of Tara is a gift of a role for any actor, and I'm thrilled to be working with Jez Bond who I know will direct the piece with the care and sensitivity it deserves." Jez Bond chimed in: "When It Happens to You is an important, timely and powerful piece of theatre.

I'm thrilled to be working with Amanda Abbington who read the play and, like me, immediately felt compelled to do it.The best theatre is often a story told simply that connects to the heart of the audience, and I can't think of a more powerful play to present within the intimate setting of Park200.