THE UK Tour of Judy – The Songbook of Judy Garland has had to cancel all performances at Darlington Civic Theatre in July following the announcement that Garland's daughter and star of the show Lorna Luft requires swift treatment for breast cancer.

Lorna was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012 and finished her last treatment of chemotherapy in 2013. She has been clear for the past two years. Sadly, it has now returned.

Lorna has now been advised by her medical team that she requires further treatment and extensive surgery. Consequently, Lorna will be returning to her home in the US to undergo the necessary medical procedures.

Producer David King, of Spirit Productions who brought Lorna to the UK for the tour said: “I am shocked and saddened by this news. Lorna is an incredible performer, and she lights up the stage at every performance. We wish her a full recovery from her surgery and hope and pray that her breast cancer will be gone forever.”

This means the Civic Theatre leg of the tour, Monday, July 20 to Wednesday, July 22, will no longer take place.

Anyone who has booked tickets will be offered a ticket swap for the production of Puttin’ On The Ritz, which runs from Sunday October 11 to Tuesday, October 13 October. Puttin’ On The Ritz is currently touring the UK and will star Strictly Come Dancing favourites Anya Garnis and Robin Windsor when it comes to Darlington. For every ticket swap, Puttin on the Ritz will pledge £5 to a major Breast Cancer Charity.

Everyone who has booked tickets for Judy – The Songbook of Judy Garland will be contacted personally by Darlington Civic Theatre with full details of how to arrange a ticket swap or alternatively receive a full refund.