S5 Ep15: Shem Omari James, Caladar in Vanara & CC in Dreamgirls

Shem is currently starring as Caladar in the world premiere of Vanara.

Following its workshop performances and concept album, Vanara is being staged at the Hackney Empire. The musical is written by Tony Cucchiara, Gianluca Cucchiara, Andrew James Whelan and Michael Conley. This production is directed by Adam Lenson and Eleesha Drennan, who also serve as dramaturg and choreographer respectively.

Later this year, Shem will star as CC in the first ever UK tour of Dreamgirls which kicks off at the Liverpool Empire on 14th December.

Having graduated from Arts Ed during the pandemic, Shem made his professional debut alongside Cedric Neal, Rachel Tucker, Rachel John & Ramin Karimloo in the digital production of Songs For A New World by Jason Robert Brown. He reprised his performance when the musical was staged at the London Palladium and was due to continue with the show for its run at the Vaudeville Theatre, which was sadly cancelled due to a lockdown.   

He also appeared in The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber at Leicester Curve directed by Nikolai Foster.   

Vanara runs at the Hackney Empire until Sunday 31st October 2021 before embarking on a UK tour in 2022.

Hosted by Andrew Tomlins.
@Andrew_Tomlins

Thanks for listening!

Email: andrew@westendframe.co.uk
Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts.