Eastenders star to 'share secrets of showbiz' in trip to Essex

A singer, actress and entertainer who has been in showbiz for 65 years is preparing to share her secrets of showbiz in a brand new show coming to Essex this month. Anita Harris is bringing her show to the county in which she will spill some hidden secrets of the industry,

Known for her roles in massive TV shows such as Eastenders, Top of the Pops and Casualty, she began her singing career after a chance meeting with Dusty Springfield while filming Top of the Pops which lead to the superstar's big single Just Loving You which sold millions around the globe. It was written by Dusty’s brother Tom and it was Dusty who suggested Anita should take it on.

Her TV credits include everything from The Morecambe and Wise Show to EastEnders and Casualty. She’s worked with Tommy Cooper, Harry Secombe and had Frank Sinatra sing to her. In her Essex show, which will be taking place at Brentwood Theatre, Anita will be sharing stories about her career, the people she has worked with and the places it has taken her.

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Among the songs she’ll be singing live will be Never Lose Hope, a track she wrote and recorded this year in tribute to her late husband Mike Margolis who died a few days after celebrating their golden wedding anniversary in May 2023. The song is raising funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK and came from witnessing Mike’s strength and courage while dealing with the symptoms of the disease.

Anita said: "I can’t wait to recall stories from the world of showbiz. I’ve got lots of special stories and memories to share, very treasured ones, and will be performing a few songs of my life too."

Also appearing on stage, one of the last 60’s music and show promoters, Alan Goldsmith, who began in the business when he was just 18. It wasn’t long before he was working with the biggest names in music including Elton John, The Who, Small Faces and Dionne Warwick. Alan will be revealing how much he paid Stevie Wonder when he booked him for a local gig and why he turned down Tom Jones and decided not to book The Rolling Stones.

The show is hosted by Steve Scruton who has been broadcasting in Essex for over 35 years. Steve will be in conversation with Anita and Alan to tease out their stories. He’ll also be sharing his memories of interviewing more than 20,000 guests on BBC Essex including Rod Stewart who gave him an unexpected hug, and a former East End gangster who made him a shocking offer.

Secrets of Showbiz is at the Brentwood Theatre on Sunday November 24 2024 at 2.30pm. Tickets are available now at £15 concessions, £20.50 standard or £48.50 for a special VIP package which includes a welcome drink on arrival, some souvenirs of the day and the chance to meet Anita, Alan and Steve after the performance.

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