Kerry Ellis to return to ‘Wicked’ in London’s West End
By Sam Rigby
Kerry Ellis will return to the cast of Wicked in London’s West End in August.
The actress will reprise the role of Elphaba, which she played in the West End and on Broadway between 2006 and 2009.
Ellis has been confirmed as the replacement for current Elphaba actress Willemijn Verkaik, who has been forced to pull out of the production as she requires back surgery.
On rejoining the cast, Ellis said: “It is an absolute thrill for me to be returning to this amazing show and the incredible role of Elphaba that is so very special to me. I can’t wait to be green again and join this fantastic cast.”
Meanwhile, Verkaik commented: “To be given the chance to play Elphaba in four different countries is something I am incredibly grateful for. Now I have to cut my West End run short and it’s absolutely devastating to me.
“I’ve been fighting this injury for a few months but was determined not to let anything get in the way of my West End debut and certainly not wanting to disappoint the audiences. But I have to face the facts.”
Verkaik will make her final appearance in the show on July 19, before Ellis returns on August 4 for a 12-week run.
Wicked – which recently became the 10th longest-running West End show ever – plays at London’s Victoria Theatre.
Ellis auditioned for The Voice UK in 2012, but failed to make it past her Blind Audition as no coaches turned their chairs for her.
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