It’s a wonderful day when you wake up to the news that Bianca Del Rio is returning to Everybody’s Talking About Jamie! The production announced today that Preeya Kalidas and Roy Haylock – aka the fantastic Bianca Del Rio – will be joining the cast at the Apollo Theatre this winter.
International drag superstar Bianca Del Rio was the winner of season 6 of RuPaul’s Drag Race. As Bianca, Roy Haylock has gone on MTV’s Mardi Gras With Britney Spears and Joan Rivers’ In Bed With Joan and a Christmas special called Not Today Bianca. He has also starred in various theatre shows including Rent, Cabaret and Gypsy and is currently finishing his fourth solo stand-up tour.
RuPaul’s Drag Race winner, performer & comedian Bianca Del Rio
Roy Haylock/ Bianca Del Rio reprises his West End debut role of Hugo and his redhead bombshell drag queen alter-ego Loco Chanelle from 9 December.
Roy said:
“I’m so thrilled and excited to be re-joining the cast of Everybody’s Talking About Jamie in the West End! I had such a blast playing Hugo/Loco Chanelle earlier this year. I’m honored and beyond grateful to have the opportunity to work with such an incredibly talented cast and crew once again!”
Roy Haylock as Hugo
Preeya Kalidas will join the cast as Miss Hedge from 17 November. She’s perhaps best known for playing Amira Masood in EastEnders, but you might also recognise her from both the film and musical of Bend it Like Beckham. She originated the role of Pinky in the musical, and was nominated for the Olivier Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Preeya has a long list of TV and film accolades, including Four Lions, East Is East, Britz and Bodies. She also hosts her own radio show on BBC Asian Network.
Preeya said:
“I fell in love with Everybody’s Talking About Jamie from the first time I saw it. The music is contagious, the diversity of talent being represented on a West End stage is incredible.
So to be joining the cast as Miss Hedge, I am extremely excited to be part of a show that makes the audience feel so elated, and reminds us all that being unafraid to do and be whoever you want to be can be extremely powerful.”
Actor, singer and radio host Preeya Kalidas
Nica Burns, Producer of Everybody’s Talking About Jamie said:
“As Everybody’s Talking About Jamie starts its third fabulous year in the West End, we are delighted to welcome back the equally fabulous Roy Haylock/Bianca Del Rio as Hugo /Loco Chanelle and the much-loved musical theatre and TV star Preeya Kalidas as Miss Hedge.
“Roy was a huge hit with audiences when he performed the role earlier this year and Preeya always brings a star performance to every show she is in.”