London's O2 arena set for Ben Hur Live show

London's O2 arena is to host the world premiere of Ben Hur Live tonight, a show based on the 1880 novel by Lewis Wallace. The original novel was adapted for the 1959 film, starring Charlton Heston, and won 11 Oscars.

The two-hour show, created by German producer Franz Abraham, will involve actors, acrobats, dancers, horses, donkeys, eagles, and chickens.

More than 400 people are involved in the production, which includes gladiator fights, a sea battle and chariot racing.

The spectacular finale will see five chariots, pulled by horses, race around the 360 degree arena which covers a total of 2,500 square metres. The horses and charioteers underwent a 12-month intensive training programme to prepare for the show.

Little-known actor Sebastian Thrun stars in the lead role as Judah Ben Hur, and Stewart Copeland, the Police drummer, will narrate the action. He also composed the music for the show.

Ben Hur Live is the culmination of 15 years preparation by producer Mr Abraham.


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