For the Halloween night of Salisbury's fantastic Celebrate Voice festival, organiser Lynsey Docherty achieved a real coup by offering an intimate evening with one of the most famous leading ladies in British musical theatre history, Kerry Ellis.

Known by many as the First lady of the West End, Ellis has played some of the most highly coveted roles of the musical theatre genre, including Nancy in Oliver, Eliza Doolittle in My Fair lady and most recently Grizabella in Cats at the London Palladium. The character for which the singer is most acclaimed however, is that of the green witch Elphaba in the smash hit musical Wicked, both in the West End and on Broadway. Ellis was the first British Elphaba and won a prized What's on Stage award when she returned to the production last year.

With an audience made up of fans and locals alike, Kerry took to the stage in the glorious Medieval Hall which was adorned with candles and a grand piano for an impressive acoustic concert of classic songs from the musicals.

The performer, who at eight months pregnant was positively glowing, has a wonderful charisma and sings with a clarity and beauty for which few can compare. From the very first note of her opening song Diamonds are Forever, it was apparent just why the star is held in such high regard.

Along with a relaxing and mixed programme there was some really very comedic repartee while the gathered throng were treated to stories from the performers dazzling career.

For the Wicked fans, Kerry performed a medley of standards from the acclaimed musical which culminated in an onstage ensemble with six budding divas who had answered a call for volunteers.

This wasn't the only audience participation, as show goers were encouraged to sing along to refrains of the Carpenter's hit Top of the World, Elvis Presley's I Can't Help Falling in Love With You and the Queen Rock classic Somebody to Love, a song which Kerry has performed many times with her friend and mentor Brian May.

Other notable highlights included a heart warming rendition of Cilla Black's Alfie which was devoted to her son, and the exquisite Carole King hit Will you Still Love me Tomorrow.

Accompaniment was expertly provided by the West End virtuoso musical director Will Stuart and with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, the evening offered a true celebration of one of the country's best musical theatre voices.

Nicky Sweetland