Gemma Collins has been causing quite a stir on social media and in Sunderland after it was announced that she will join the cast of Chicago for its run at the Empire.
Gemma, famous for being in all manner of shows, from TOWIE to Celebrity Big Brothe r and I'm A Celebrity to Dancing on Ice, will have her opening night on Wearside as she takes over the role of Mama Morton from May 31. The part has been played by a host of actresses over the years, from Queen Latifah in the Oscar winning film version to Pamela Anderson, who was recently announced as having the role on Broadway. Other big names to take it on over the years include Kelly Osbourne and X Factor winner Sam Bailey.
After beginning her stint in Chicago at the Sunderland Empire, Gemma, who is set to bring her one woman show to Newcastle City Hall next week, will tour with the cast, also including Dancing on Ice and Coronation Street star Faye Brookes as Roxie Hart, to Cardiff, Blackpool, Sheffield, Norwich and Oxford.
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Producer David Ian said they were "were completely stunned" by her audition. "She's an undeniable force both on and off stage, and we can't wait to see her portrayal of Mama Morton on tour," he added. "Audiences across the country are in for a treat."
While producer David is delighted to have Gemma on board, the reaction online and in Sunderland has been mixed to stay the least. Sunderland Empire were met by a wave of comments on their Facebook page after they posted about her casting.
One follower commented: "Stunt casting at its worst. I'll pass thankyou. Many hundreds of trained musical theatre performers have spent the best part of 2 years unable to work. Now the few jobs that are available are taken from them by untalented fame chasers."
Equally unimpressed, a second reacted: "Wow. What a way to ruin a fantastic show. This is not a panto you know," with a third posting: "Well that's just stopped me from booking tickets shame as I was looking forward to seeing it."
However, amongst the many others who tagged their friends urging them to get tickets, others suggested we all give Gemma a chance, particularly given that Chicago is a show known for 'stunt' castings. One more diplomatic follower wrote: "’ve never heard her sing or act. Behind the persona there might be some talent. You just never know until you have seen her. I once went to see a west end show that had a tv actor in the cast, one that I could take or leave, and I was blown away by his theatre performance. It completely changed my opinion of him."
Also, being more open minded to Gemma being in Chicago, a second replied: "Chicago is known for stunt casting to get seats filled. Pamela Anderson is on as Roxie on Broadway just now. If you don’t like it don’t go! It’s all a bit of fun! And actually the entire show is about having no talent and exploiting opportunities for fame. Well cast."
Chicago is on at Sunderland Empire from May 31-June 4, with tickets available from ATG.
