Micky Dolenz to star in B'way's 'Aida'

NEW YORK, Nov. 12 (UPI) -- Micky Dolenz, lead singer of the pop group The Monkees, is set to join the cast of the hit Broadaway musical, "Aida."

Dolenz will play the role of Zoser in Disney's Tony Award-winning, musical love story written by Elton John and Tim Rice. Dolenz's first performance at the Palace Theatre will be Jan. 6, 2004.

"I am thrilled to be working with so many talented people on such a prestigious project," Dolenz said in a statement. Dolenz previously played the role of Zoser in the national touring company of "Aida."

In addition to the 1960s TV show that made the group famous, Dolenz's theatrical work includes the national touring company of "Grease" (as Vince Fontaine), "A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum" (as Pseudolus), Harry Nilsson's "The Point" (as The Count's Kid) and "Tom Sawyer" (as Huckleberry Finn). Dolenz also wrote the book for, and directed, "Bugsy Malone" on the London stage. He has continued to tour over the years as a solo artist, and with his former bandmates.

Co-starring Michelle T. Williams of Destiny's Child, Will Chase, and Lisa Brescia, "Aida" tells the story of a love triangle between Aida, a Nubian princess forced into slavery, Amneris, an Egyptian

princess, and Radames, the soldier they both love. Dolenz will play the role of Zoser, the father of the Egyptian Captain Radames.

"Aida" is the winner of four 2000 Tony Awards and is the only production that opened during the 1999-2000 theater season still running on Broadway.