Lincolnshire star’s West End show is celebration of showbiz icons.

When most people think of Lincolnshire, red carpets and showbiz superstars are the furthest things from their mind.


However, a decorated Hollywood actor and West End director from Lincolnshire is preparing for the opening night of his latest theatre project in London’s West End on Sunday. November 15

Colin McFarlane has lived in Lincolnshire for more than 25 years, and first moved to the county when his family moved with the RAF. He has appeared in many theatre roles opposite the likes of Clive Owen and Michael Sheen, and has had roles in Hollywood blockbusters The Dark Night and Batman Begins.

McFarlane’s latest project, Marilyn and Ella, sees him take a seat firmly in the director’s chair.

Written by author and playwright Bonnie Greer, the play follows the story of Marilyn Monroe and Ella Fitzgerald, exploring the unique friendship between the Hollywood starlet and jazz singer.

The role of Marilyn Monroe will be played by Suzie Kennedy, one of the world’s most celebrated Monroe homage-artists.

Ella Fitzgerald will be played by Hope Augustus from Nottingham. Hope usually works at Asda, but has taken a month’s holiday in order to fulfil her West End duties.

McFarlane described the play as a real, feel-good story between two US icons who share a fantastic partnership before the civil rights movement.

“People who have seen the play tend to cry about 15 minutes before the end,” he said.

“They can’t believe that what we are telling them is true. There’s a magic about the story, and we are hoping we can break through barriers, whether they be of gender, race or whatever.

“With Marilyn and Ella, we want to give people a real, theatrical experience.”

McFarlane said there was a lot of hidden talent waiting to be recognised in Lincolnshire.

He said: “There are lots of budding actors and musicians in Lincolnshire, but there’s no real focal point to bring them together.

“What they need is a resident theatre company where they can build a family and hone their talents.”

Writer Bonnie Greer first came across the unusual friendship between Monroe and Fitzgerald while watching a documentary on the Biography Channel in the US.

“As black singers were banned from the stage, Marilyn was taking a massive personal risk in seeking out this friendship,” she said.

“But she saw past the colour. To Marilyn, Ella was a great artist whom she worshipped from afar and finally needed desperately to meet.”

Marilyn and Ella will play at the Apollo Theatre in London on November 15, 22, and 29. For tickets, visit www.marilynandella.com