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Ben collects
award for his Hairspray role
SCARBOROUGH'S West End performer Ben Ellis is dancing on air after winning a top award for his role in the hit musical Hairspray.
Ben, 19, scooped the best supporting musical actor gong at the What’s on Stage Theatregoers’ Choice Awards, which were voted for by the public.
Speaking to the Evening News about his win, Ben said: “It’s just an honour to be even considered for a nomination at such a prestigious event and to win the award has topped an amazing year.
“Thank you to the fans and everyone who voted.”
He will collect the award tomorrow at a star-studded ceremony and concert at the Lyric Theatre in London, where he will also perform.
His mum Joanne Ellis, of Scalby Road, will be at the ceremony with his dad Chris.
Mrs Ellis said: “It means so much to Ben as it’s voted for by the theatregoers themselves.
“After an amazing year this is the icing on the cake. Ben would like to thank all of his fans, friends and family who have voted and continually supported him.
“We are all so proud of Ben. What a year it’s been, but his hard work and determination to succeed have paid off.”
Ben, who made his name as a contestant on TV talent show Any Dream Will Do, plays heart-throb Link Larkin in the musical.
Hairspray won a record seven Theatregoers’ Choice awards including best musical actor for Michael Ball and best musical actress for Leanne Jones.
The stage production’s other wins were Tracie Bennett for best supporting musical actress, Jack O’Brien for best director, Jerry Mitchell for best choreographer and best new musical.
The musical recently broke another awards record when it received 11 nominations for the Laurence Olivier Awards, which will be revealed next month.
Hairspray, at the Shaftesbury Theatre, is based on the 1988 John Waters movie.
It is the story of Tracy Turnblad, “a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart” and her dreams of fame.
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Weather for Scarborough
Thursday 09 February 2012
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