Features

A week in the life of Kerry Ellis

The ”Wicked” star is taking on her first non-singing role in a UK tour of ”The Importance of Being Earnest”

Ben Hewis

09 February 2018

Best known for her work in musical theatre, including roles in Wicked and We Will Rock You, Kerry Ellis is currently making her debut in a non-singing role in the UK tour of The Importance of Being Earnest.

Directed by Alastair Whatley, Ellis will play Gwendolen in the production which is touring to Plymouth, Belfast, Bath, Winchester, Manchester, Salisbury, Lichfield, Bromley, Cambridge, York and Eastbourne.

We asked Ellis to give us a look at life backstage during rehearsals.

1. Rehearsal selfie

KE: "Monday morning rehearsals with the wonderful Louise Coulthard who plays Cecily Cardew – 'You will call me sister, will you not?'"

2. Teatime

KE: "Tuesday morning with the incredible Gwen Taylor and marvellous Simon Shackleton. Loving this new adventure – 'Sugar is not fashionable anymore.' "

3. Becoming Gwendolen

KE: "Wednesday – costume fitting, feeling like a princess. These costumes by Camden Costumes are magnificent, this show is going to look incredible – 'I am always smart, aren’t I, Mr Worthing?'"

4. Three's not a crowd

KE: "Thursday – first run through of the show with these comedy beauties! Susan Penhaligon and Geoff Aymer – 'Then that is all quite settled, is it not?'"

5. Kerry's 'popular'

KE: "Friday rehearsal – final run through in the room before moving to the theatre. Love this cast."

6. All dressed up with lots of places to go

KE: "Saturday – I did my radio show on Encore Radio and sang in a concert day for the Salvation Army charity in Regent Street. We raised a lot of money for a great cause so I’m very happy! The working week is over and I’m ready for more Earnest fun next week!"