The West End star lands on the Vaudeville Theatre stage for a one-night only performance, as part of this latest tour celebrating her 25 years treading the boards. Guillermo Nazara chats with the artist, to learn more about this musical theatre must-see – guaranteed to give audiences memories to last for good.
How does it feel to be bringing this solo show to the London scene?
Very exciting! After the success of my last national tour, where we did almost 45 dates all around the UK, we wanted to bring it back. That’s why we thought it would be nice to include a London date, so we could celebrate what the show is really all about. It’s something quite different to the ones I usually do in this city. This is a very intimate version – I tell stories, sing a few songs, and engage with the audience. That’s something I’m really looking forward to.
Does this new season come with any changes in the show?
It will be predominantly quite similar to what we did last year. We have added some new songs, though. Over the last years, since the first version of the show happened, things have changed. There are other musicals I’ve been to, and that’s included in the repertoire. Since it’s only me and my MD, we can keep updating it. And this season will be no exception – it will be a bit different!
The repertoire is primarily a collection of showtunes. Will the songs be given some different approach in terms of style?
Definitely! It’s what I love to do. I like to put my own spin into shows that I’ve done. I also think that makes it more interesting. People who have seen those show are coming to the concert, so it’s important to add that difference. It will be a mixture of musical theatre repertoire with songs from my albums and from other gigs.
This concert is also a celebration of a career spanning for over 20 years over the boards. How would you describe that journey and legacy?
I’m very fortunate that I’ve had this longevity. That’s been very important to me. And I think that variety is what’s given me that longevity. It’s not been just big musicals and Broadway shows. It’s been concerts, and books, and podcasts, albums, etc. I like that. Variety keeps me interested and inspired. I’m always looking for different things to keep me excited. Because that’s actually what keeps me going. This show is actually something I’ve never done before, and I’m really enjoying this moment.
Any surprises in the concert you could hint?
I always like to get friends and new artists onstage, especially if they have that sparkle. I love to invite them to sing onstage with me. I like to share new talent and give people an opportunity and a space. I will be doing that on my tour too. It will be a mixture of people I’ve known and discovered as well as friends.
Why come see this concert?
I think it represents where I am now. I obviously look back on the last 25 years, but I’m always looking for new ways to perform – and this is my current position as an artist. I also think people will like the intimacy and hear stories they’ve never heard before!
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Queen of the West End will play at London’s Vaudeville Theatre for one night only on 21 April. Tickets are available on the following link.