SOUTHEND'S iconic Cliffs Pavilion has announced it will be reopening at the end of the month.

Having been in hibernation since January when the latest Covid lockdown was enforced, the theatre will finally be welcoming people back from July 31.

And the theatre is set to get off to a flying start, with comedian Jimmy Carr hosting back-to-back shows on both July 31 and August 1.

It is hoped the Cliffs will be back to full capacity for all upcoming shows amid the Government’s plans to remove all remaining social distancing and Covid rules on what’s being called Freedom Day – July 19.

So here are five must-see shows due to be held at the Cliffs this summer and how much tickets will cost you:

King of Pop

Monday, August 9

It’s not the real MJ – but it’s the next best thing.

The world’s leading Michael Jackson tribute artist, Navi, will be heading to the Cliffs alongside MJ’s own iconic guitarist - Jennifer Batten.

Navi was handpicked by Michael himself as his official body double.

Michael also hired Navi to perform at two of his birthday parties where the popstar gave him a standing ovation and described his performance as “Incredible”.

He has also starred in the new MJ movie “Michael Jackson – Searching For Neverland”.

The show will feature all the greatest hits – such as Thriller and Beat It - along with an incredible live band and dancers.

Tickets cost £27.50.

Rumours of Fleetwod Mac

Friday, August 27

Endorsed by Fleetwood Mar co-founder Mick Fleetwood himself, this tribute band are said to be one of the finest in the world.

Their upcoming show at the Cliffs is brand new and does what it says on the tin – celebrates the very best of Fleetwood Mac.

It also includes a special blues set paying tribute to Fleetwood Mac’s legendary Peter Green era.

Channelling the spirit of Fleetwood Mac at their very best, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac offers a unique opportunity for fans, both old and new, to rediscover the songs and performances that have ensured the rock and roll group’s place as one of the most loved groups of all time.

Tickets cost between £31 and £41.

Bedknobs and Broomsticks

Wednesday, September 1 - Saturday, September 5

Disney class Bedknobs and Broomsticks makes its world premiere as an exciting new stage musical at the Cliffs.

It follows three orphaned Rawlins children who are reluctantly evacuated from wartime London to live with the mysterious Eglantine Price.

After discovering Eglantine to be a trainee witch, they join forces to search for a secret spell that will defeat the enemy once and for all.

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Armed with an enchanted bedknob, a bewitched broomstick and a magical flying bed, they encounter surprising new friendships on their journey from Portobello Road to the depths of the beautiful briny sea.

There will be eight showings of Bedknobs and Broomsticks.

Tickets range from £25 and £52.

Priscilla Queen of the Desert

Monday, September 6 - Saturday, September 11

The joyous and award-winning musical Priscilla Queen of the Desert is back in Southend by popular demand.

Based on the Oscar-winning movie, Priscilla is the hilarious and heart-warming adventure of three friends who hop aboard an old bus bound for the Outback to put on the show of a lifetime.

Two worlds collide on this fabulous journey of self-discovery and friendship, and along the way our trio discover the true power of love, the show will feature spectacular dance routines, a dazzling array of costumes, and sing-a-long classics such as Hot Stuff, It’s Raining Men, I Will Survive, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun and many more.

Tickets range between £26.50 and £51.50

Rob Brydon: A night of songs and laughter

September 12

Perhaps best known for his role as Uncle Bryn in Gavin and Stacey, Rob Brydon has been a regular on the BBC for more than a decade.

His show, A Night of Songs and Laughter, will see Rob tell his persona journey from South Wales to the West End and beyond – all through music.

Tickets range between £37 and £42.