Harrods has signed stars from West End musicals and the BBC show Strictly Come Dancing in an effort to attract consumers during the credit crunch.

Cast members from Mama Mia!, Chicago and Avenue Q, as well as dancers from the English National Ballet, will perform 20-minute showcases in store.

The eight-week “That’s Entertainment” programme of events begins next month.

Harrods chief executive James McArthur said: “It’s all doom and gloom out there. This will be about being fun and entertaining.”

Luxury retailers are weathering the downturn better than most. Harrods’ sales are up more than 10 per cent compared with last year.