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MUSICAL MADNESS FOR X-FACTOR WINNER STEVE

He's famous as the first winner of the UK's biggest talent search and for falling out with its creator, Simon Cowell. Now Steve Brookstein will be centre stage once again appearing in the award-winning musical Our House at Birmingham Repertory Theatre from May 29th - June 21st.

Written by Tim Firth, the musical uses the music of Madness to tell the story of youngster Joe Casey, with Steve Brookstein appearing as his Dad. And Steve is thrilled to be making his first appearance in a musical:

"On the X Factor I was singing in front of millions of viewers every week, but I can't wait to be singing live in front of an audience in Birmingham every night," he says. "You get so much back from people, it's the best feeling in the world and where I feel really at home. Acting is an exciting new challenge for me and it's great to show what I can do. Our House is a fabulous story and it uses the fantastic music of Madness - what more could you want for a great night out."

Our House will open at The REP in May ahead of a major UK tour. A touching tale of life and love, heartbreak and comedy, right and wrong, Our House is a brilliant musical bursting with non-stop classic hits from everyone's favourite 80s pop group, Madness.

The musical was a hit in the West End and won the Olivier Award for Best New Musical. It features the Madness hits My Girl, Wings of a Dove, Baggy Trousers, House of Fun, Driving In My Car and of course, It Must Be Love.

Tickets are on sale now and available from 0121 236 4455 or www.birmingham-rep.co.uk

I've been writing and singing for many years and I've been involved with a number of record labels. In 1996 MCA signed me to their dance label and had Judge Jules Record Of The Week. In 2000, my production company signed two female artists to major deals in the USA (Colombia) and UK (Innocent/Virgin). I was signed to EMI Publishing but me big break came as a singer when in December 2004 I won The X Factor with a staggering 5.5 million votes. Sadly things didn't work out after I fell out with Simon Cowell but I guess things happen for a reason.

Over the years I'm lucky enough to have duetted with BeBe Winans and Maxi Priest and supported Dionne Warwick. I've played great venues from the East Ham Social Club to the 606 Club and Wembley. I've done all the many classic TV shows like Top Of The Pops (twice), CD:UK and Paul O'Grady Show. The Frank Skinner Show was a good laugh and doing The Wright Stuff was always a big favourite. I guess prime time TV on Saturday night to 10 million was quite nice! I love to sing and write but I also love quiet times with my family and friends. I never saw myself as a pop star and I'm glad things have calmed down since those heady heights of 2005, though I'm glad I have had a number one album! I did enjoy the classic old soul numbers but it would be nice to have success with my own songs too. It is something that would never happen with Mr Cowell. I'm also involved in my wife's jazz album which has been an absolute joy. Please check out stevebrookstein.com

I was performing in Ireland when I heard that Luther died...He was the greatest. Glad to say I recorded 'Dance With My Father' on my debut album. This one is for him!

This is from our honeymoon in Rome. We had a fantastic time and can't wait to go back. If you've never been - GO! Amazing city.