Queen of the West End, Kerry Ellis took to The Regal stage recently with her sold-out show, “Coming Home,” which marked the start of her influential support for The Regal Theatre, Stowmarket.
Kerry has a special connection to The Regal. Growing up in Stowmarket, she first performed on their stage at 4 years old, and her return in 2025 was a nostalgic experience for her but also for some audience members who fondly remembered her childhood connections to Stowmarket. Performing in Stowmarket offered a special chance for local friends and family to witness Kerry’s talent in an intimate, meaningful setting, whilst it allowed Kerry’s Suffolk-based fans to enjoy this special show.
Arriving a few hours ahead of her performance, Kerry took the opportunity to re-explore The Regal, meeting with General Manager Bethany Couch, “It was an honour to have Kerry Ellis, Queen of the West End, back to perform on the Regal stage. She was so kind and only had nice things to say about The Regal as a venue. You can tell that both the Regal and Stowmarket hold a special place in Kerry’s heart, and it was so special for the audience to be able to hear Kerry talk about their local town so fondly. We are so thankful to Kerry for agreeing to be a patron here and performing on our stage.”
During her show, the audience were amazed by her incredible performances of familiar songs ‘Over the Rainbow’, ‘I Dreamed a Dream’, ‘We Will Rock You Medley’, ‘Defying Gravity’, and even a special virtual appearance from Brian May for a duet of ‘Love of my Life’. In between the performances, she shared fond memories of her upbringing in the area, including attending Stowmarket High School, participating in local dance classes, and taking part in the Stowmarket Carnival.
During the evening, Kerry invited two local young talents, Layla Peckford and Bella Ross, to sing with her on stage. Layla sang ‘No One But You’ from We Will Rock You, and Bella sang ‘Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man’ from Showboat and an original song. Both wowed the crowd with their talent. This was a remarkable moment not just for Layla and Bella, but also a reflection of Kerry’s journey and a showcase of the artistic talent in and around our town! Kerry spoke a lot about the opportunities she received and her desire to offer those same opportunities where she can. Kerry also invited high school friend Bobby to sing ‘I Know Him So Well’ on stage with her, which was a very special moment for all.
Reflecting on Saturday night, Kerry had some kind words to say: “I’m proud to be reunited with the place that started my journey into the arts! The Regal is such a wonderful place and real part of Stowmarket’s community. It was a place I loved to be in when I was younger and since retuning recently with my ‘Coming Home’ show I feel it’s a place of my future too…I hope that more and more people find it too”.
Kerry’s support means the world to The Regal and the arts and cultural community in Stowmarket. Her patronage is beneficial not only for the theatre but also reflects the strong community support in Stowmarket, showcasing its talent and ambition.
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