Actress dashes 150 miles to save performance after two stars fall ill

Jan 08, 2024

An actress travelled more than 150 miles to ensure a performance of Evita the musical went ahead.

Jessica Daley travelled from her home in Middlesbrough to the Curve theatre in Leicester to step into the starring role of Eva Peron after both the leading lady and her understudy were too unwell to perform.

The theatre had spent the day trying to find a replacement and Ms Daley responded to the call, arriving to sing the demanding role from the side of the stage while the rest of the cast performed.

Luckily, the performer was already familiar with the role, having led the international tour of Evita to “high acclaim” in 2019.

She has also performed in stage versions of Billy Elliot, An Officer And A Gentleman and The Music Of Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Audiences stood on their feet at the end of Ms Daley’s performance, with the theatre sharing a picture of the actress taking a bow.

“She is a diamond – a huge round of applause for Jessica Daley!” the theatre wrote on X.

“@jessicacaca7 joined us this evening to perform as Eva Peron, meaning our production of Evita could go ahead.

“Here she is receiving a well-deserved standing ovation from our loyal and supportive audiences.”

One of those who thanked Ms Daley was Sir Tim Rice, who co-wrote the musical about the life of Argentine political leader Eva Peron in 1978.

The hit musical was then turned into a film in 1996 with Madonna in the title role.

“Many congratulations Jessica! Just as important, many thanks,” Sir Tim wrote.

“Show was going great guns anyway but hats off to all the company supporting your brilliance superbly when 2 terrific Evas were unwell. @Jessicacaca7 @CurveLeicester.

“Friends said it was an unforgettable performance.”

Ms Daley replied: “Lord above thank you boss!!! An absolute honour to sing your wonderful words again.”

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