Culture

Faye Brookes to celebrate her birthday in Cardiff during Burlesque run at Wales Millennium Centre

22 Aug 2026 4 minute read

Burlesque the Musical. Image: Rosie Moore

Nation Cymru staff

Former Coronation Street star Faye Brookes says there is nowhere she’d rather celebrate her birthday than in Wales as she brings the spectacular new musical Burlesque to Wales Millennium Centre this September.

The actress, who stars as Tess in the first UK tour of the hit musical based on the iconic film starring Cher and Christina Aguilera, revealed that performing in Cardiff during her birthday week makes the visit even more special.

“It’s actually my birthday that week, so Cardiff is going to be a real celebration,” said Faye. “I can’t wait to be back.”

Wales has become a second home for the actress, who is married to Welsh actor and theatre director Iwan Lewis. The couple first met while appearing in Legally Blonde, touring to Cardiff together before eventually falling in love years later.

“I am very proud to be married to a Welshman,” she said. “Wales has always held a special place in our hearts.”

Faye fondly remembers spending time in Cardiff while touring and visiting Iwan’s family in West Wales, describing the country as somewhere she always looks forward to returning.

Their love story began as friends at drama school before they reunited years later. After attending the wedding of mutual friends together, their relationship blossomed, with Iwan proposing just four months later.

“My mum always said, ‘It’s always been you,'” Faye recalled. “On our wedding day she gave me a photograph of us together from the Legally Blonde press night in Cardiff and wrote on the back, ‘We knew he’d get you in the end.'”

Faye Brookes in Burlesque the Musical. Image: Rosie Moore

Now, the couple will be back in Wales as Faye takes centre stage in one of the year’s biggest musicals.

Based on Steven Antin’s Golden Globe-winning and Oscar-nominated film, Burlesque follows Ali, an aspiring singer played by Gracie O’Brien, who discovers a dazzling underground world of music, dance and acceptance at a glamorous Los Angeles nightclub run by Tess.

While fans of the film will recognise many of its iconic moments, Faye says the stage version offers something entirely new.

“It’s not just a musical – it’s a spectacle,” she said. “The costumes, choreography and music are on another level. It’s glamorous, exciting and full of heart.”

Rather than trying to imitate Cher’s unforgettable screen performance, Faye has created her own interpretation of Tess with the support of the show’s writer and director.

“I’ve been given the freedom to make Tess my own. It’s inspired by the film but it’s definitely our version.”
Joining Faye Brookes is a talented cast led by Gracie O’Brien as Ali, alongside Paul Jacob French, George Maguire, Asha Parker Wallace, Todrick Hall, Alicia Belgarde, Jess Folley and Jaz Ellington.

Based on Steven Antin’s iconic Golden Globe-winning and Best Picture-nominated film starring Christina Aguilera and Cher, Burlesque the Musical is a glittering, high-voltage theatrical event packed with powerhouse vocals, jaw-dropping choreography and outrageous glamour.

Featuring songs by Christina Aguilera, Sia, Diane Warren, Jess Folley, Todrick Hall and Steven Antin, the musical is a scintillating celebration of self-discovery, empowerment and unapologetic fabulousness.

The creative team is led by Producer, Writer and Creative Director Steven Antin. The production is directed by Racky Plews, with choreography by Robin Antin, creator of The Pussycat Dolls. Producers are Christina Aguilera, Adam Paulden, Jason

Haigh-Ellery, Steven Antin, Clint Culpepper and In Fine Company, with Toby Brewe as Associate Producer.

Known to millions as Kate Connor in Coronation Street, Faye says stepping into the world of musical theatre again has been an exhilarating experience.

“I loved my years on Coronation Street, but this role has reminded me why I fell in love with theatre. Every night feels like a celebration.”

Burlesque the Musical runs at Wales Millennium Centre from 1–5 September, with Faye Brookes celebrating her birthday during the Cardiff engagement, making the Welsh stop one of the most personal dates on the UK tour. More info and tickets here.

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