Elaine Paige
Elaine Paige is an English singer and actress, best known for her work in musical theatre. She is known as 'The First Lady of Musical Theatre' due to her major contribution to the modern musical.
Stage Actress
March 5, 1948
77
Elaine Paige, born Elaine Jill Bickerstaff on March 5, 1948, is a renowned English singer and actress recognized for her significant contributions to musical theatre. Growing up in Barnet, Hertfordshire, she attended the Aida Foster Theatre School and made her professional stage debut at just 16 years old. Often referred to as “The First Lady of Musical Theatre,” Paige has had a lasting impact on the genre.
Her most iconic role was Eva Peron in the original London production of “Evita,” which garnered her widespread critical acclaim. Paige has also starred in other prominent productions such as “Cats,” “Chess,” “Anything Goes,” “Piaf,” and “Follies.” Alongside her stage career, she has released multiple albums and hosted her own radio show on BBC Radio 2.
An interesting tidbit about Paige is that she became the first British singer to perform at the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City in 1986, an event that is highly viewed in the United States.
With a career spanning several decades and numerous successful productions, Elaine Paige is a celebrated and accomplished figure in the world of musical theatre.