Imelda Staunton, graced the set of BBC’s The One Show to share her excitement about portraying the iconic character Dolly Levi in the upcoming production of “Hello, Dolly!” at the prestigious London Palladium this summer. Staunton’s appearance on the show sparked waves of anticipation among theatre enthusiasts, eager to witness her captivating performance in one of Broadway’s most beloved musicals.

Watch their chat on iPlayer here:

As the cameras rolled and the studio audience leaned in with bated breath, Staunton, with her signature charm, exuded a palpable enthusiasm for the role. With her infectious energy, she delved into the intricacies of Dolly Levi, a character renowned for her wit, charm, and indomitable spirit. Staunton’s deep understanding of the character and her commitment to bringing Dolly to life on stage shone through as she discussed the nuances of her portrayal.

For Staunton, stepping into the shoes of Dolly Levi is both a thrilling challenge and a labour of love. With a career spanning decades and a plethora of accolades to her name, including Olivier and BAFTA awards, Staunton is no stranger to the spotlight. Yet, taking on such an iconic role presents its own set of hurdles, which Staunton approaches with humility and dedication. She spoke candidly about the pressure of living up to the legacy of previous performers who have graced the role, including the legendary Carol Channing and Barbra Streisand.

However, it is Staunton’s unique interpretation of Dolly Levi that promises to captivate audiences and breathe new life into the character. With her unparalleled talent for infusing depth and authenticity into every role she undertakes, Staunton is poised to deliver a performance that will leave an indelible mark on the West End stage.

The anticipation surrounding “Hello, Dolly!” at the London Palladium is palpable, with theatre enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the opportunity to experience the magic of this timeless musical. Directed by Dominic Cooke, with choreography by Bill Deamer, and featuring a stellar cast, including Jenna Russell and Andy Nyman, this production promises to be an unforgettable theatrical extravaganza.