SWINDON’S Charity Ball will get under way in true Manhattan jazz style after The Ratpack’s original West End backing band agreed to join the bill.

A vastly talented quintet of musicians, who have played the country’s biggest shows and stages, will entertain the crowd in big band style.

The Ratpack’s original West End cast of Mark Adams, George Daniel Long and Stephen Triffit were already headlining the Vegas-themed evening.

But in a surprise move Mark, who was born and bred in Swindon, confirmed that they will be backed by the band, the first time a West End ensemble has played at the ball.

“We have got some of the guys who play with us in the West End to come to Swindon, we hand-picked them and they all agreed, which is fantastic,” Mark said. “We’ve known them for 10 years and it’s a great chance to perform old classics, new material and have some fun.”

The quintet, known simply as the Ratpack band, includes drummer Elliott Henshaw, who has played more than 20 West End shows and with artists including Deep Purple.

Dominic Barlow, who has landed rave reviews as the band’s lead, will be the musical director as well as playing piano.

Also booked is Bob Sydor, a world class saxophonist and bass player Rob Levy, a veteran of more than 40 West End shows.

Tony Barnard, a respected guitarist, completes the line-up. As well as backing up the three crooners, the musicians may give one or more audience members a chance in the spotlight.

The Sophistication dancers will add a touch of Vegas glitz to the ball.

“Some people hear a live band and can’t resist the temptation to get up on stage,” said Mark. “There might just be a chance for someone to put their money where their mouth is. It would be nice way of raising more money for the charities.”

The hit production features songs by legendary performers Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr and Dean Martin. The show began its West End run in 2003 but has toured the UK and filled 4,600 seats at a theatre in St Louis, Missouri, before Christmas.

The original Rat Pack was best-known for living the high-life in the 1960s.

The event, which is organised by the Rotary Club of Swindon, will take place at the Marriott Hotel on May 19.

The event has already sold out but a reserved list is operating for tickets, priced £75 per person. Contact 01793 610222 or sharding@dpds.co.uk.