Lucie Jones: A Musical Journey at the London Palladium

Lucie Jones is set to perform her biggest solo concert at the London Palladium, a venue she regards as the pinnacle of musical theatre. In crafting her setlist, Jones emphasizes the personal nature of this concert, which reflects her life experiences, particularly her journey as a pregnant performer. She plans to include multiple songs from the musical *Waitress*, drawing parallels between her character Jenna and her own experiences as an expectant mother. Jones aims to engage with the audience in a more intimate manner than in previous performances, marking a significant evolution in her artistic expression.

‘I was on stage and she started kicking! ’: Lucie Jones on Les Mis, performing pregnant and defying gravity at Glastonbury

Jones recently made headlines by performing at Glastonbury, a festival not typically associated with musical theatre. She expressed confidence in the appeal of musicals, stating, “Musicals are cool!” and noted the excitement of the audience, which included around 5,000 attendees trying to enter a tent designed for 3,000. This performance was a testament to the growing acceptance and enthusiasm for musical theatre in diverse settings, challenging the notion that such performances are out of place in a festival environment.

‘I was on stage and she started kicking! ’: Lucie Jones on Les Mis, performing pregnant and defying gravity at Glastonbury

Having played Cosette in 2010, Jones is now taking on the role of Fantine in *Les Misérables*, marking her sixth appearance in the production. She reflects on the emotional depth of her character, who fights for her child, and how her own pregnancy has influenced her portrayal. The production team has been supportive, ensuring her comfort during performances that involve intense physicality. A memorable moment for Jones occurred during the Epilogue, where she felt her daughter kicking in response to the emotional weight of the performance, further deepening her connection to the role.

‘I was on stage and she started kicking! ’: Lucie Jones on Les Mis, performing pregnant and defying gravity at Glastonbury

Jones has articulated her excitement about the evolving perception of musicals, particularly in non-traditional venues like Glastonbury. She believes that the audience's enthusiasm signifies a shift in cultural attitudes towards musical theatre. Additionally, she has praised the collaborative efforts of the *Les Misérables* team in accommodating her needs as a pregnant performer, highlighting the supportive environment within the production.

‘I was on stage and she started kicking! ’: Lucie Jones on Les Mis, performing pregnant and defying gravity at Glastonbury

While Jones has received positive feedback for her performances, some traditionalists may still question the appropriateness of musical theatre in festival settings. However, Jones counters this by emphasizing the growing acceptance of musicals and their ability to resonate with broader audiences.

‘I was on stage and she started kicking! ’: Lucie Jones on Les Mis, performing pregnant and defying gravity at Glastonbury

• “I’m going to talk to the audience in a different way to how I have before.” — Lucie Jones, Performer

‘I was on stage and she started kicking! ’: Lucie Jones on Les Mis, performing pregnant and defying gravity at Glastonbury

• “Having her there with me, in the thick of it all, has changed the way that I do the role.” — Lucie Jones, Performer

‘I was on stage and she started kicking! ’: Lucie Jones on Les Mis, performing pregnant and defying gravity at Glastonbury

Through her performances, Lucie Jones continues to redefine the boundaries of musical theatre, embracing her personal journey while engaging with audiences in innovative ways.

‘I was on stage and she started kicking! ’: Lucie Jones on Les Mis, performing pregnant and defying gravity at Glastonbury