Kerry Ellis - new Nancy in Oliver! from 29 March 2010

It has now been officially confirmed that Kerry Ellis will take over the role of 'Nancy' in Oliver!, from 29 March 2010 at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane.

Jodie Prenger leaves the show on Saturday 27 March 2010 at the end of her contract.

Cameron Mackintosh said "I'm really delighted that Kerry Ellis will take over the role of 'Nancy' when Jodie leaves Oliver! after a triumphant 15 month run. Kerry has become one of London's favourite leading ladies and recently enjoyed a huge success in "Wicked". I have had the pleasure of seeing Kerry's career grow through roles in my productions of "My Fair Lady", "Miss Saigon" and "Les Misérables" - where she was an outstanding 'Fantine'. The part of 'Nancy' is one of the most heart-warming and tragic in any musical, so it is wonderful that the role attracts some great talents".

Kerry Ellis played Elphaba in "Wicked" at the Apollo Victoria between in 2007 and 2009. She also played the role on Broadway. Her other West End credits include Fantine in Les Miserables at the Queen's in 2005; Meat in "We Will Rock You" at the Dominion in 2002.

Oliver!, opened at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane on 14 Jan 2009, following previews from 12 Dec 2008 to reasonably good notices from the popular press: THE DAILY TELEGRAPH says, "A cracking night of tuneful entertainment." MICHAEL COVENEY for THE INDEPENDENT says, "A masterpiece is restored, but not in its fullest glory." THE TIMES says, "Oliver! remains as good and revivable as anything he [Bart] wrote." THE EVENING STANDARD says, "I felt director Rupert Goold, came up with a traditional, unadventurous Oliver."

It is directed by Rupert Goold & Matthew Bourne, designed by Anthony Ward, lighting by Paule Constable , choreography by Matthew Bourne, sound by Paul Groothuis, Orchestrations by William D Brohn and musical supervision by Martin Koch. Produced by Cameron Mackintosh in association with the Southbrook Group Limited.

Songs including Food Glorious Food, Consider Yourself, You've Got to Pick-a-Pocket or Two, I'd Do Anything, Oom Pah Pah, As Long As He Needs Me and many more.

Oliver!, is currently taking bookings to 26 Feb 2011.