Kerry Ellis is royalty in the world of musical theatre. Her most recent role was playing “Nancy” in the West End production of “Oliver” but she is probably most known for her time spent playing the lead role of “Elphaba” in the hit musical “Wicked.” This role not only saw her triumph in London’s West End when she took over from Idina Menzel, (who originated the role) but also took her across the pond to New York where she reprised the role with critical acclaim on Broadway. Kerry has always been destined for big things in the world of theatre. She trained at Laine Theatre Arts where her incredible vocal talent was championed. This training and without a doubt her natural talent allowed a gifted and ambitious Kerry to chase her dreams and live out her passion on stage. Over the years she has played many a musical theatre role. Before “Wicked” and “Oliver” Kerry played “Fantine” in West End production of “Les Miserables,” and “Ellen” in the National Theatre Tour of “Miss Saigon.” She understudied the role of “Eliza” in Trevor Nunn’s production of “My Fair Lady,” at the National Theatre and Drury Lane. She often stood in for Martine McCutcheon who was frequently absent due to illness. It was here that Brian May first encountered the young Kerry in action and her presence and vocal ability blew him away. When it came to finding performers for his new musical, “We Will Rock You,” he simply had to have her audition. Of course she was hired and originated the role of “Meat” in the original London Cast recording of the now smash hit musical.
Brian has shown an everlasting faith in Kerry and has invested his heart and soul into their “Anthems” project, both the album and the tour.
May 1st 2011 saw me witness their partnership in its prime at London’s Royal Albert Hall. The show opened with a tribal fanfare of drums after which the orchestra built up the brass and string arrangement whilst mysterious caped, hooded figures leapt and weaved around the stage, trying to guard, protect and prevent a hidden treasure from breaking away from the group. The frenzy of chords built to a crescendo just as Brian May strides on stage with his signature guitar playing the musical hook to the anthemic “Dangerland.” Kerry bursts free from the shadows and rips off her cape to reveal a daring black diamond encrusted corset and some very short, feathered hot pants! Her heart is pumping and she’s ready to live dangerously, rise to the challenge and delve courageously into a programme of performances that will take her to another level mentally, physically and vocally. Her voice is in prime condition and as she sings her vocals soar powerfully around the majestic walls of the Royal Albert Hall. Kerry Ellis reigns supreme in belting out ballads.
“Anthems: The Concert,” is where theatre meets rock, where structure mixes with wild abandon. With her radiant blue eyes and cascading blonde locks, adorned with some quirky designer outfits, Kerry has a striking visual presence on stage. Kerry Ellis and Brian May pour their heart and soul into every interpretation, stamping their unique sound on many musical styles from Queen classics such as “Somebody To Love” and “Save Me” to musical theatre, “I’m Not That Girl“ from “Wicked,” and “Anthem,” from “Chess” to classic power ballads like “Diamonds Are Forever,” and pop covers like “The Feeling’s” hit “I love It When You Call.” For this performance she is even joined by “The Feeling’s” Dan Gillespie and together with Brian May they delivered an effervescent and upbeat interpretation of the song that sees everyone in the Royal Albert Hall on their feet, dancing along and clapping their hands above their heads. Kerry transcends with ease through the scripted introvert world of musical theatre to the unpredictable, extrovert and self expressive world of music. She can no longer hide behind a character, acting out a role. She now has to expose her soul and reveal Kerry Ellis the artist and that she does triumphantly, her personality, energy and enthusiasm shining through on stage.
Kerry Ellis is an extraordinary vocal powerhouse and Brian May is a living legend. The bond this pair share on stage is unique. Anthems: The Concert is an empowering rock symphonic spectacular, it’s star, the phenomenal rising star, Kerry Ellis! A stellar performance packed full of “Royal Albert” Anthems! *
*The shows at the Royal Albert Hall were special performances which helped to raise money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Research charity. Special guests that night included Broadway star Adam Pascal and violin virtuosos “Escala.”
You can catch Kerry Ellis and Brian May as they continue on the Anthems Tour.
Book your tickets here:
Ticketmaster: http://bit.ly/i3zpnK
Ticketline: http://bit.ly/f62bot
Kerry’s debut album, “Anthems” is available to buy:
For more information on Kerry visit her official website:
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Visit her artist page on Facebook: www.facebook.com/officialkerryellis
