Pet Shop Boys were very special guests on Take That's Progress Live 2011 Tour.
Pet Shop Boys commented: “We are delighted to accept Take That’s invitation to be part of their Progress show and tour which is undoubtedly going to be one of the most exciting events of 2011. We look forward to every night being a huge celebration of pop music.”
Neil and Chris took to the stage at 7.15 pm and performed a 40-minute set of highlights from their "Pandemonium" show. Pet Shop Boys were joined onstage by the four dancer/singers from the "Pandemonium" tour and, for "West End girls", by eight of Take That's dancers (including Nathan Holliday who performed in the "Fundamental" tour). Es Devlin, who designed both of Pet Shop Boys' last two tour productions, oversaw the staging of Pet Shop Boys' set as well as being part of the creative team behind Take That's spectacular live production which sees Robbie Williams reunited with Take That.
Robbie Williams commented: “I’m a huge Pet Shop Boys fan so for me it will be an absolute joy to be able to watch them every night.” Jason Orange added: “I’m flattered and very happy they’ve agreed to do it. They’re so talented; I thought they’d be above it and us.”
“Pet Shop Boys was the first CD I ever bought” said Gary Barlow. “I've followed their whole career and always loved their unique approach to records and live performance. That combined with two lovely people means we’re in for a great tour.”
Progress Live 2011 presented by Samsung kicked off at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light on May 27th. Pet Shop Boys also joined Take That for the subsequent European leg of the tour.