TV Wire cop set for month at the Fringe

Clarke Peters, the 58-year-old star of the smash hit US cop series, is to star in a major revival of the award-winning hit musical Five Guys Named Moe, at Underbelly's McEwan Hall.

Peters caught the Fringe bug after paying a flying visit to last year's event.

Speaking exclusively to the Evening News, he said: "I had such a great time at the Festival last year. Having not been to Edinburgh in August for a number of years I'd forgotten how all-consuming and extraordinary it really is.

"To have the chance to return to Edinburgh with a show I created, and to be part of the Festival again, is just so great. I really can't wait."

Peters will play the pivotal role in the revival of the musical, which tells the tale of newly-single Nomax and five guys named Moe – Big Moe, Four-Eyed Moe, Eat Moe, No Moe, and Little Moe.

In the piece, which is also written by Peters, the five guys named Moe comfort Nomax by blasting out the hit songs of 1930s jazz legend Louis Jordan, who brought a popular new slant to jazz and paved the way for the rock 'n' roll of the 1950s with hits such as Early In The Morning, Choo, Choo, Ch'Boogie and Saturday Night Fish Fry.

Mr Peters added: "I am over the moon that, 20 years on, Five Guys still has the power to excite people with expectation.

"There are fond memories for those who 'partied' with us before and joyful curiosity for those who didn't. I don't think they will be disappointed.

"To be taking it to Edinburgh is an added bonus as so many people around the world will be exposed to this show. I'm excited it's happening."

Produced by Underbelly and Theatre Royal Stratford East, the 20th anniversary production, which opens on 4 August, will be choreographed by original cast member Paul J Medford, better known as Kelvin Carpenter in EastEnders during the Eighties.

Medford, 43, who won an Olivier Award nomination for his portrayal of Little Moe in the original production, said: "I can't wait to bring the party to Edinburgh."

Underbelly director Ed Bartlam, 29, added: "We're delighted to be working with Clarke Peters. It's a chance to bring quality, professional theatre to the Fringe and it's the perfect festival show for all ages."

Tickets are on sale from www.underbelly.co.uk