THE local creators of a unique 'Show in A Box' package have received a Millennium commission from top holiday company Thomson.

Jester Productions Ltd, which records in Lowton, has been asked to write a summer 2000 show to be used in the tour operator's "great for entertainment" Superfamily resorts.

The company, conceived by established musicians Rob Jones and Kevin Needham have been asked to produce an original show.

The duo, based in Standish, set out in business to create a finished product that would provide clients with most of the resources needed to put on a professional show.

Their first major project was 'Jukebox Journey', a musical which tells the story of popular Western music and culture from 1940-45.

Initially it was this and the 'Show In A Box' format which caught Thomson's attention.

And as part of the deal the duo have been asked to train their reps in how to rehearse and use the show with children.

Kevin said: "This in itself will be a major project as it actually involves putting on a production ourselves.

"Jester have completely embraced new technology. We owe so much to modern developments, particularly in computer aided design and computer sound technology.

"It was important from the outset that the quality of what we were producing was in keeping with the times and with what clients would expect."

The shows can be performed by as few as eight people running into hundreds.

The duo boast impressive CVs.

Kevin founded FBI who went on to win the NW Battle of the Bands as well as being UK finalists in the Best Club Act competition 1982. They recruited Rick Astley who went on to solo success and supported bands like Marillon.

Kevin also taught guitar work and supplied session work for Radio City.

Rob's musical career started early when he and his brother formed the duo, Spectrum, which went on to win various compettions. They were chosen out of the whole UK to perform at Elvis Presley conventions.

He has produced artwork and written for the international magazine Bassist and supplied the Rick Wakeman communications office with art work. He has also taught bass guitar as well as maintaining a career in teaching.

The two met in 1991 when Solid Ground was formed. The band enjoyed cabaret success and reached its peak when they wrote and performed a song on the National Lottery Live in 1995.

Anyone, including schools, interested in using any of Jester's 'Show In A Box' packages, or wants more information, should contact 01257 472191 or email Jester@ic24.net.y

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.