Olivier Award-winning actress Ruthie Henshall will join the cast of West End hit Billy Elliot The Musical in May, taking on the role of Billy’s dance teacher Mrs Wilkinson.
The musical theatre performer, who picked up one of London theatre’s most prestigious accolades for her performance in 1995’s She Loves Me, will join the cast of the Olivier Award-winning production from 12 May, when the musical celebrates its ninth birthday at the Victoria Palace Theatre.
Henshall’s forthcoming appearance in the show follows performances in West End hits Chicago, Les Misérables, Oliver!, Cats and Miss Saigon. She was last seen on the London stage in Thea Sharrock’s 2011 revival of Blithe Spirit at the Apollo Theatre.
Henshall joins fellow new cast members Chris Grahamson as Billy’s brother Tony, Claudia Bradley, David Muscat and Barnaby Meredith, who returns to the production to play Older Billy. They join a cast that also includes Deka Walmsley, Ann Emery and Howard Crossley.
Based on the Oscar nominated film, Billy Elliot The Musical tells the inspirational tale of a young boy who goes against his family’s wishes to pursue his dream of becoming a ballet dancer.
Featuring a book and lyrics by Lee Hall and music by Elton John, Stephen Daldry’s production opened at the Victoria Palace Theatre in May 2005 where it is currently booking until 16 May 2015.
Billy Elliot The Musical won the BBC Radio 2 Audience Award at the Olivier Awards with MasterCard in 2013. Consequently, the show is not eligible for the prize at this year’s ceremony. However, to vote for the long-running show you’d like to see follow in its footsteps visit the Olivier Awards website by 4 March.