Star Ellie is Clued up for stage show

STRICTLY champion and former soap star Ellie Leach will be heading to a Darlington stage for the world premier UK tour of Cluedo 2.

Starring Casualty’s Jason Durr as Colonel Mustard and Ellie – the reigning Strictly Come Dancing champion – as Miss Scarlett, Cluedo 2 is based on the classic Hasbro board game, which celebrates its 75th anniversary this year.

Ellie won the hearts of the nation as she waltzed her way to victory with dance partner Vito to win the Strictly Come Dancing Glitterball Trophy in December.

She is also known to millions of viewers as Faye Windass in Coronation Street. During her 13 years on the soap, Ellie was involved in various memorable storylines and nominated for numerous acting awards.

West End actor and TV favourite Jason Durr was most recently seen as David Hide in BBC One’s Casualty, and audiences will also recognise him from his numerous other roles, including policeman Mike Bradley from ITV’s Heartbeat.

Ellie said: “I’ve really enjoyed bringing Miss Scarlett to life on stage. It’s so much fun to perform this iconic character and to see audiences of all ages having such a good time.”

Jason said: “I’m delighted to be continuing as Colonel Mustard in Cluedo 2. The audience reaction during our first few weeks of performances has been fantastic.”

The cast is completed by Jack Bennett (Wadsworth), Hannah Boyce (Mrs Peacock), Dawn Buckland (Mrs White), Liam Horrigan (Mr Black), Edward Howells (Professor Plum), Tiwai Muza (PC Silver) and Gabriel Paul (Reverend Green) with Kara Alberts-Turner, Audrey Anderson and Henry Lawes.

Cluedo 2 runs at Darlington Hippodrome from October 8-12.

Visit darlingtonhippo drome.co.uk or call the box office on 01325 405405.