Olly Alexander, acclaimed singer and actor, has announced a new West End role, coinciding with his recent departure from his record label, a transition he describes as entering “a different space in my life.”
Alexander will join the National Theatre’s production of *The Importance of Being Earnest* upon its September transfer to the West End.
This marks his return to acting since his critically acclaimed performance in Channel 4’s 2021 drama, *It’s A Sin*, for which he received a Bafta nomination. His acting hiatus followed the completion of his record contract, offering him the flexibility to pursue diverse projects.
“I’d been wanting to act again,” Alexander shared with BBC News. “Completing my record contract gave me the breathing room to explore different avenues without the pressure of album deadlines.”
He will succeed *Doctor Who* star Ncuti Gatwa in the role of Algernon at the Noel Coward Theatre, a collaboration with Sonia Friedman Productions.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Alexander stated, “What’s not to love? It’s Oscar Wilde’s masterpiece. I saw the National Theatre production and was captivated. This opportunity was irresistible.”
Alexander rose to prominence with Years & Years, winning the BBC Sound of 2015 and achieving chart success with hits like “King” and “Shine,” along with a number-one album.
He later pursued a solo career while continuing with Years & Years, releasing another top-charting album in 2021. His career highlights include collaborations with Sir Elton John and Kylie Minogue, and representing the UK in Eurovision last year.
Following the release of his February album, *Polari* (which reached number 17), Alexander announced his amicable departure from his record label. He clarified that his contract wasn’t terminated, but simply not renewed, adding, “It’s time for something new.”
Reflecting on his decade-long pop career, Alexander told the BBC, “The intensity of music—album releases, promotion, touring—I want to ease off that pace.”
While he continues to create music at his own pace, he prioritizes acting, stating, “I do what feels right. I’m fortunate to explore this avenue.”
Alexander emphasizes lessons learned during his musical journey, highlighting the outdated industry model that struggles to keep up with the direct artist-fan connection facilitated by social media.
He observes the shift in the music industry, noting the reduced financial investment from labels and the challenges, yet also excitement, this presents for artists.
He concludes, “My future music will be driven by enjoyment, not performance metrics. That’s my ideal, though the industry pressures can create tension.”
For now, his focus remains firmly on acting.
First performed in 1895, *The Importance of Being Earnest* follows two friends who create alter egos, resulting in a farcical comedy of mistaken identities and witty wordplay.
“Essentially, it’s a comedy about two ridiculous men leading double lives to escape social obligations, inventing the alias ‘Ernest’ to pursue romance,” Alexander explains. “It satirizes societal expectations, class, and prescribed roles.”
Gatwa’s production garnered critical acclaim. The Guardian’s Arifa Akbar awarded it four stars, praising its “elegant, mischievous wit.”
The Daily Mail’s Patrick Marmion gave it five stars, calling it a “witty reboot” of a “national treasure.”
The Telegraph’s Dominic Cavendish offered a three-star review, describing it as “bold and playful,” though questioning its additions to the original.
Alexander humorously notes the impossibility of maintaining the play’s central deception in the age of smartphones, highlighting the timeless themes that transcend the era.
Alexander’s previous West End appearance was in 2013, before his music career, in a smaller role alongside Dame Judi Dench.
His 2024 Eurovision participation resulted in an 18th-place finish, a year marked by controversy surrounding Israel’s entry. He expressed admiration for this year’s UK entrants, Remember Monday, hoping to connect with them.
Alexander anticipates the stability of a single-venue performance run in the West End, a welcome change after years of touring. He values the comfort of a London home with his partner and pets, and the simple pleasure of a consistent theatre routine.
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