X Factor star Nikki Evans lands Hippodrome role

Sep 19 2008 By Emma McKinney

MIDLAND X Factor star Niki Evans is celebrating after landing her dream job starring in hit West End musical Blood Brothers.

The 35-year-old temporarily replaces veteran stage star Marti Webb in the lead role of Mrs Johnstone for two weeks in the touring version of the show at Birmingham Hippodrome from October 20.

Marti will then continue the tour while Niki will begin a six-month run in the role in the West End version of the show at the Phoenix Theatre.

Initially, Niki hoped to clinch a role in Chicago, but the former dinner lady said the part in Blood Brothers was too good to miss.

“The role in Chicago was Mama Morton, which wasn’t a lead, whereas the part in Blood Brothers is, which means I can’t turn down,” she said.

Niki, who made it down to the final four in last year’s X Factor, said: “I only found out I had the part on Monday, and I have just two-and-a-half-weeks to learn it.

“I had to learn songs quickly during the X Factor but now I’ve got 17 to learn – and the script as well.”

Niki, of Polesworth, near Tamworth, is also worried about her ability to ditch her Brummie twang for a Scouse accent for the part of Mrs Johnstone – a struggling single mum who gives away one of her twin children.

“I haven’t had an acting lesson in all my life,” she added.

For tickets, visit www.birminghamhippodrome.com or call 0844 338 5000.