Features

My Top 5 Showtunes: Emma Kingston

We caught up with the ”Les Miserables” actress to find out the musical numbers she couldn’t live without

Ben Hewis
London London's West End

Emma Kingston is currently starring in Les Miserables at the Queen's Theatre.

Her previous theatre credits include In the Heights (Southwark Playhouse), Grease and Priscilla Queen of the Desert (UK Tour).

We caught up with Emma and asked her: "If you were stranded on a desert island, which five showtunes could you not live without?"

1. "Don’t Rain On My Parade from "Funny Girl"

EK: Funny Girl is one of my all time favourite shows and the film is just amazing! Fanny Brice is a dream role of mine and Barbra Streisand in the film is nothing short of phenomenal. She is one of my Idols. The song "People" also is just a work of genius! If I could pick the whole soundtrack I would! I cannot wait to see it in London, I got in there quick and got tickets. So excited!

2. "In The Heights" from In The Heights

EK: I had the time of my life playing Vanessa in this show at Southwark Playhouse. Every time I listen to the opening it makes me smile and reminds me of such a happy time. I challenge you not to get up and dance when listening to it. I'm so excited that the show is coming back in its new home at The Kings Cross Theatre and more people can experience it! Lin Manuel (in my opinion) is a modern day Shakespeare! I have seen some clips of Hamilton online and I hope that show also makes it across the pond!

3. "Blow Gabriel Blow" from Anything Goes (1987 Patti Lupone Version)

EK: This was one of the first shows I saw when I was little. I used to go into nursery singing "Blow Gabriel Blow" I was that 3 year old singing Cole Porter instead of nursery rhymes.

4. "Soliloquy" from Carousel

EK: In my humble opinion, this is one of the greatest pieces of music ever written! Musically and lyrically, it is genius. I could listen to it all day and never ever tire of it.

5. "The Light in the Piazza" from The Light in the Piazza

EK: I became more aware of Adam Guettel's music when I was given the chance to play Clara in The Light in the Piazza in my 3rd year at drama school. His music is so delicate yet rich with content and such amazing detail. This show needs a home in London.

If I could have 2 more choices, they would be "One Day More" from Les Mis and "Defying Gravity" from Wicked. Both dream shows and I’m lucky enough to be in one at the moment!