Emmerdale Star Jessie Elland Stuns Cast with New Theatre Role in Little Shop of Horrors
Former Emmerdale actress Jessie Elland has left her co-stars speechless after unveiling a very different role in a major theatre production. The star, best known for playing Chloe Harris in the ITV soap from 2021 to 2023, is set to take the stage in one of the new UK revivals of the classic musical Little Shop of Horrors.
From the Dales to the Stage: A Dramatic Career Shift
Jessie Elland rose to fame as Chloe Harris in Emmerdale, a character introduced in 2021 as the sister of Gemma Harris, a deceased teenager whose heart was transplanted into Sarah Sugden. Chloe's storyline was packed with drama, featuring a controlling father in prison and the shocking revelation that Kerry Wyatt was her secret mother. Her romantic entanglements with Noah Dingle, Jacob Gallagher, and Nate Robinson led to a gripping stalking plot, and she later had a baby with Mackenzie Boyd before leaving the village in a blackmail scheme on Boxing Day 2023.
Away from the soap, Elland has been expanding her creative horizons. Last year, she celebrated the release of her debut book, The Ladie Upstairs, and now she is embarking on this exciting theatrical venture. Taking to Instagram, she confirmed her involvement in Little Shop of Horrors, which will open at the Hope Mill Theatre in Manchester before transferring to the Liverpool Playhouse.
Star-Studded Cast and Production Details
The production features a talented ensemble cast. Former EastEnders star Maisie Smith will portray Audrey during the Manchester season, running from September 25th to November 29th, 2026. Jessie Elland will then take over the role for the Liverpool season from December 3rd, 2026, to January 9th, 2027. The cast also includes:
- Jed Berry as Seymour
- Marcus Ayton as the voice of Audrey II
- Benjamin Yates as Orin Scrivello
- Psalms-Nissi Myers-Reid as Crystal
- Gabrielle Davina Smith as Ronnette
- Rio Maye as Chiffon
Sharing a photo of the show's poster on Instagram, Elland wrote: "Going somewhere that's green this December, and I couldn't be more excited!!!" In another post, she was seen singing a rendition of Suddenly, Seymour alongside co-stars Maisie Smith and Jed Berry, showcasing her vocal talents.
Overwhelming Support from Co-Stars and Fans
Jessie's announcement has garnered enthusiastic responses from her former Emmerdale colleagues. Daisy Campbell, who plays Amelia Spencer, commented: "Yay! So proud of you." Lawrence Robb, who portrayed Mack, shared: "Shhhhhhtunning!!!" while Natalie Ann Jamieson, her on-screen sister Amy Barton, added: "Yes @jessieelland." A delighted Elland replied: "Eeek!!! Miss you, sis."
Fans have also expressed their excitement on social media. One person remarked: "@jessieelland is there anything you can't do? Amazing!" Another said: "Yessss @jessieelland - cannot wait to come and cheer you on!" A third fan noted: "Now this is exciting," with another praising: "Can't wait for Liverpool in December, @jessieelland, your voice and talent are exquisite, you shine like the brightest star."
This new role marks a significant step in Jessie Elland's career, transitioning from soap opera drama to the vibrant world of musical theatre. As she prepares for her stage debut, audiences eagerly anticipate her performance in this beloved production.
