Matt Willis has taken on a significant role in the West End, portraying the iconic Emcee in the musical Cabaret at London’s Kit Kat Club. This role marks a notable achievement for the musician and actor, known for his two decades with the band Busted.
Matt Willis: A Transformative Performance
At 42, Willis is stepping into his most ambitious challenge yet. His portrayal of the Emcee, a character historically played by stars like Eddie Redmayne and Alan Cumming, comes with its pressures. “It was intimidating. It was scary,” he admits, revealing that nerves often kick in during his eight performances each week.
Training and Theatrical Experience
Although he is widely recognized for his music career, Willis has a strong foundation in theater. He attended the Sylvia Young Theatre School and has performed in various productions like Flashdance and Footloose. He emphasizes his passion for theater, stating, “I trained to be in theatre, that’s what I always wanted to do.”
Importance of Family and Representation
Willis expressed the significance of his son watching his performance, citing that it helps convey vital cultural messages. “This show puts a middle finger up to toxic masculinity,” he states. “There’s a whole world of people embracing differences and all different parts of culture and humanity. That’s what the Kit Kat Club does.”
Balancing Work and Family Life
Despite the demands of his theater schedule, Willis treasures time with his family, including his wife, Emma, and their three children—Isabelle, Trixie, and Ace. “I’m constantly blown away that my kids want to hang out with me,” he reflects. He also highlights the importance of maintaining connections with Emma, often communicating throughout the day and sharing both challenges and triumphs.
The Success of Cabaret
Cabaret has surpassed its 1,500th performance, establishing itself as the longest-running version of the show in West End history. Willis is committed to his role until May 23, 2026, demonstrating relentless dedication to delivering a powerful performance each night.
- Role: Emcee in Cabaret
- Location: Kit Kat Club, London
- Performance Dates: Until May 23, 2026
- Notable Previous Performers: Alan Cumming, Eddie Redmayne
- Significance: Longest-running Cabaret in West End history (1,500+ performances)
Matt Willis’s journey in the role of Emcee exemplifies the intertwining of personal experiences, familial love, and the transformative power of theater. His commitment to both family and craft continues to resonate with audiences and create meaningful connections.
