Amber Davies will soon be returning to the Wales Millennium Centre as Elle Woods in Legally Blonde. The actress from Denbigh first gained fame winning Love Island in 2017, but has since built a successful stage and screen career, including finishing as runner-up on Strictly Come Dancing in 2025.
Returning to Home Turf
Amber has played leads in musicals like 9 to 5, The Great Gatsby, Back to the Future, and Pretty Woman. Now she is returning to Wales to take on the iconic role of Elle Woods in Legally Blonde, which arrives at the Wales Millennium Centre on Tuesday, June 16. She previously performed there as Vivian Ward in Pretty Woman and has been eagerly counting down the days to return.
"I highlight in my calendar 'Wales Millennium Centre' because I'm on home turf. For me this is my land, and it's like Christmas Day. It's a different vibe, I feel a pride that I can't even explain," she said.
Keeping It Welsh
Among the audience will be her boyfriend Ben Joyce's family. Amber met Ben, from Swansea, while performing together in Back to the Future on the West End in 2022. Dolly Parton, star of the original 9 to 5 film, once advised Amber: "You don't need a man in general." But Amber says, "I've ended up with a Welsh boy, and my grandparents would be so happy. We're keeping it Welsh."
Dream Role Manifested
Amber always dreamed of playing Elle Woods, even singing her songs while training at the Urdang Academy. "I used to sing Elle's material all the time in lessons. I feel like I manifested it," she said. "It's one of the hardest musical theatre roles for a female, but it's come at the perfect time. I've got experience, and after Strictly, my stamina is at its best."
She finds similarities between herself and Elle: "I always want to keep characters relatable. I find a little bit of Amber within the roles."
Strictly and Health Challenges
Amber joined Strictly just days before the show, replacing Dani Dyer. She made it to the final, finishing runner-up to Karen Carney. The demanding schedule took a toll on her health, leading to time off and media criticism. She used the experience to advocate for performers: "If you are ill or injured, you're not a robot. Take the time you need. I want to minimise the guilt people feel in this industry when they are unwell."
