Pukaar catches up for a chat with Jazz Ellington, ahead of his performance at Curve.
The Voice UK contestant will take on the role of ‘The Preacher’ in the West End cult sensation Bonnie and Clyde.
Why do you think people are so enamoured with the story of Bonnie and Clyde?
Most people will know Bonnie & Clyde as notorious outlaws who were dangerous but they were also a really loved up couple and although they were real people and part of American history, not everyone knows their full story.
Bonnie & Clyde were a bit like Romeo & Juliet of their time. They were two young kids with their whole lives ahead of
them who made choices that were devastating to both themselves and the people who loved them. This musical is brilliant in that it tells that story through a variety of thrilling, funny and touching moments.
How does it feel to be a part of this production and what can people expect from the show?
This is my first ever musical and I am so excited to get on stage in front of an audience!. This opportunity is exactly what I have been wanting to do for a long time – the music also really spoke to me when I first heard it and my role as the Preacher has some brilliant moments in the show.
The show itself is fast paced and exciting and really takes the audience on a thrilling journey … even if you already know the ending you will still love it!
I am also really proud to be part of a production that has won multiple awards in the West End after two successful runs and also a concert production. It has an incredible creative team led by academy award winner Don Black, Grammy nominee Frank Wildhorn and Emmy nominated writer Ivan Menchell, then just look at the cast too!
Tell us about your character and what he brings to the show? Do you have any big musical numbers?
The role of The Preacher is the voice of God and the voice of reason. He tries to steer all the characters in the show towards a better direction in their lives than they are heading in. He makes them question their actions, and prays that they see the light rather than the dark – that is a huge part of their story – but ultimately (as history shows) He doesn’t get through to all of them!
The Preacher is really passionate and strong which comes across in his songs, Gods Arms Are Always Open and Made in America which is an absolute show stopper …. I feel so lucky to be able to get to sing it!
What’s your favourite part about being in the show?
It has always been a long term ambition for me to perform in a musical so being offered the role of The Preacher was a dream come true for me.
I haven’t begun rehearsals yet but I met some of the cast in London and we all got on so well and they are all so talented! I am genuinely excited to get in the rehearsal room with them all and be able to sing through the show together. Its going to be incredible!
I am also really thrilled that I get to combine my love for music, my religion and my passion for musical theatre and tell a story – what a privilege!
Are you looking forward to coming to Leicester and performing at Curve?
Yes! I am definitely looking forward to coming to Leicester. I have never visited the city before but I have heard so much about how it has a thriving theatre and live music community.
I have also heard how incredible Curve theatre is. I am not sure how much time I will get but I am hoping that I might get a little bit of time to see some of the city outside of the theatre.
How would you describe the show and how will audiences feel by the end?
The show is fast paced, thrilling and sometimes quite dark but it’s also romantic and funny. Even if you think you already know the story of Bonnie & Clyde you will absolutely love it and it would honestly be a crime to miss it!
Catch Bonnie and Clyde between Thursday 22 and Saturday 24 February
