Killian Donnelly BIO
Donnelly has appeared in many different roles around Ireland and has also directed and written shows. His first theatre role was in 2005 where he featured in the chorus of The Wireman at the Gaiety Theatre, Dublin. He then continued to play Rod in Singin' in the Rain and Ethan in The Full Monty, both at the Olympia Theatre, Tony in West Side Story at the Solstice Theatre, Aladdin in Aladdin and Collins in Michael Collins: A Musical Drama, both at the Cork Opera House, Prince Charming in Cinderella at the Gaiety Theatre, Dublin and Chorus in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street at the Gate Theatre.
In 2008, he joined the West End production of Les Misérables as a swing and, as a member of the cast, was part of the Les Misérables concert with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra on the Isle of Wight. He became second cover Javert and Enjolras in the following season of 2009/10, during which time he also performed the lead role of Jean Valjean as an emergency cover multiple times. With the following cast change he was promoted to principal Enjolras and was officially listed (and performed) as third cover Valjean. He eventually finished in Les Misérables on 18 June 2011.
Donnelly's next role was Raoul in Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty's Theatre. During this time, he also featured in commercials for McDonald's and Jameson Whiskey, and appeared on such television shows as The Tudors, The Open House, The Late Late Show and Showbands. He later performed in You Should Be Dancing at the National Concert Hall.
On 3 October 2010, Donnelly played the role of Courfeyrac in the 25th Anniversary Concert of Les Misérables at The O2 Arena in London. He also played the role of Combeferre in the film of the show, released in 2012.
On 12 November 2012, Donnelly took over the role of Tony in Billy Elliot The Musical at the Victoria Palace Theatre.
On 20 August 2013, it was confirmed that Donnelly would originate the role of Deco in the West End Musical The Commitments from 21 September. The following year Donnelly began playing the role of Huey in Memphis from 9 October 2014 for which he was nominated as Best Actor in a Musical in the 2015 Olivier Awards
On 23 April 2015, it was announced that Donnelly would play Charlie in the West End production of the musical Kinky Boots, at the Adelphi Theatre. The first preview was on 21 August 2015. On 29 February 2016 Donnelly was nominated as Best Actor in a Musical at the 2016 Olivier Awards. He left the show on 13 August 2016 and moved back to Ireland to play Jackie Day in Donegal, a new play by Frank McGuinness.
On 6 December 2016, he made his Broadway debut, reprising the role of Charlie Price in Kinky Boots.
On 12 June 2017, Donnelly returned to the West End production of Les Misérables to play the lead role, Jean Valjean, subsequently reprising the role in the 2018 tour in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
On 29 February 2020, he returned to The Phantom of the Opera, this time playing The Phantom on the 2020 UK Tour. Due to the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, the tour was closed just a few weeks into its run at Curve, Leicester, ending Donnelly's run as the Phantom on tour.
On 4 December 2020, it was announced that Donnelly would reprise the role of The Phantom in the West End production of The Phantom of the Opera when it was scheduled to reopen in June 2021. After two and a half years in the role, Donnelly performed his last show as The Phantom on 3rd February 2023.
On 31 October 2023, Donnelly rejoined Les Misérables in the new West End production at the Sondheim Theatre reprising his role of Valjean for 15 weeks.
Donnelly is set to perform at the 10th-anniversary concert of the Made in Dagenham musical at the London Palladium in March 2024.
Killian Donnelly Photos
Adam Pearce and Killian DonnellyDate:01/18/2024
From: Photos: See New Production Images of LES MISERABLES in the West End
Katie Hall and Killian DonnellyDate:01/18/2024
From: Photos: See New Production Images of LES MISERABLES in the West End
Killian Donnelly and Stewart ClarkeDate:01/18/2024
From: Photos: See New Production Images of LES MISERABLES in the West End
Killian DonnellyDate:01/18/2024
From: Photos: See New Production Images of LES MISERABLES in the West End
Killian DonnellyDate:01/18/2024
From: Photos: See New Production Images of LES MISERABLES in the West End
Saori Oda, Rhys Whitfield, Killian Donnelly, Lucy St. LouisDate:10/12/2021
From: Photos: THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Celebrates 35th Anniversary in the UK!
Killian Donnelly and Lucy St. LouisDate:10/12/2021
From: Photos: THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Celebrates 35th Anniversary in the UK!
Killian Donnelly attends Disney's Aladdin West End 2nd Anniversary party at the Century Club, London. Picture date Wednesday 20th June 2018.Date:06/21/2018
From: Photo Flash: ALADDIN Celebrates Two Years on the West End
Taylor Louderman, J. Harrison Ghee, Killian Donnelly, Shannon O'BoyleDate:04/04/2017
From: Photo Coverage: KINKY BOOTS Celebrates Four, Fabulous Years on Broadway!
J. Harrison Ghee, Killian DonnellyDate:04/04/2017
From: Photo Coverage: KINKY BOOTS Celebrates Four, Fabulous Years on Broadway!
J. Harrison Ghee, Killian DonnellyDate:04/04/2017
From: Photo Coverage: KINKY BOOTS Celebrates Four, Fabulous Years on Broadway!
J. Harrison Ghee, Killian DonnellyDate:04/04/2017
From: Photo Coverage: KINKY BOOTS Celebrates Four, Fabulous Years on Broadway!
J. Harrison Ghee, Killian DonnellyDate:03/21/2017
From: Photo Coverage: Say Yeah! Original KINKY BOOTS Cast Reunites at the TDF Honors
Killian DonnellyDate:01/30/2017
From:
Taylor Louderman and Killian DonnellyDate:01/30/2017
From:
Matt Henry and Killian DonnellyDate:09/14/2015
From: Photo Flash: First Look at the West End Premiere of KINKY BOOTS - Killian Donnelly, Matt Henry and More!
Killian Donnelly and Matt HenryDate:09/14/2015
From: Photo Flash: First Look at the West End Premiere of KINKY BOOTS - Killian Donnelly, Matt Henry and More!
Killian Donnelly and Amy LennoxDate:09/14/2015
From: Photo Flash: First Look at the West End Premiere of KINKY BOOTS - Killian Donnelly, Matt Henry and More!
Amy Lennox and Killian DonnellyDate:09/14/2015
From: Photo Flash: First Look at the West End Premiere of KINKY BOOTS - Killian Donnelly, Matt Henry and More!
Killian Donnelly, Rolan BellDate:10/17/2014
From:
Killian Donnelly, Beverley KnightDate:10/17/2014
From:
Killian DonnellyDate:10/17/2014
From:
Killian Donnelly, Sharon Hick, Meagan and Amy Horsewood, Deka Walmsley and Jane HorsewoodDate:04/12/2013
From: Photo Flash: BILLY ELLIOT Welcomes its 4 Millionth Audience Member in London!
Ann Emery (Grandma), Deka Walmsley (Dad), Killian Donnelly (Tony)Date:02/06/2013
From: Photo Coverage: Latest Cast of BILLY ELLIOT!
Deka Walmsley (Dad) and Killian Donnelly (Tony) and castDate:02/06/2013
From: Photo Coverage: Latest Cast of BILLY ELLIOT!
Ann Emery, Deka Walmsley, Killian DonnellyDate:12/21/2012
From: Photo Flash: First Look at BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL - Full Christmas Schedule Announced!
Killian DonnellyDate:10/01/2012
From: Photo Flash: Killian Donnelly and More Join West End's BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL
Killian Donnelly - Enjolras (Original Production) and Courfeyrac (O2)Date:10/01/2010
From: Photo Flash: Christine Jimenez Presents 25th Anniversary LES MIZ Artwork!
Killian Donnelly with LES MISERABLES CompanyDate:08/23/2010
From: Photo Coverage: Norm Lewis Leads LES MISERABLES in London
Alistair Brammer and Killian Donnelly with LES MISERABLES CompanyDate:08/23/2010
From: Photo Coverage: Norm Lewis Leads LES MISERABLES in London
Killian Donnelly STAGE CREDITS
Les Miserables
[West End]
West End Revival, 2021
Jean Valjean [Replacement]
The Phantom of the Opera
[West End]
Original London Production, 2021
Raoul [Replacement]
The Phantom [Replacement]
Kinky Boots
[West End]
West End, 2015
Charlie Price
Memphis
[West End]
West End Premiere Production, 2014
Huey Calhoun
The Commitments
[West End]
West End Original Production, 2013
Deco
Kinky Boots
[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 2013
Charlie Price [Replacement]
Billy Elliot
[West End]
Original London Production, 2005
Tony [Replacement]
Les Miserables
[West End]
Original London Production, 1985
Jean Valjean [Replacement]
Killian Donnelly Awards and Nominations
Olivier Awards - 2016 - Best Actor in a Musical
Killian DonnellyKinky Boots
Evening Standard Awards - 2015 - Best Musical Performance
Killian DonnellyKinky Boots
Olivier Awards - 2015 - Best Actor in a Musical
Killian DonnellyMemphis The Musical
Killian Donnelly Videos
Video: Behind the Scenes of MADE IN DAGENHAM, Starring Pixie Lott, Killian Donnelly and Bonnie Langford
by Stephi Wild - Feb 12, 2024
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Oct 8, 2021
VIDEO: THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Takes First Bows in West End Return
by Nicole Rosky - Aug 4, 2021
VIDEO: Go Inside Rehearsals for THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA in London
by Nicole Rosky - Jun 28, 2021
VIDEO: Killian Donnelly Performs 'The Music of the Night' From THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
by Stephi Wild - Jan 4, 2021
VIDEO: LES MISERABLES, MARY POPPINS, and THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Perform on BRITAIN'S GOT TALENT
by Stephi Wild - Oct 10, 2020
STAGE TUBE: Killian Donnelly and Matt Henry React To KINKY BOOTS Olivier Nods!
by Carrie Dunn - Mar 1, 2016
STAGE TUBE: SAY YEAH! KINKY BOOTS Cast Performs on BBC One's Children in Need
by Sally Henry Fuller - Nov 14, 2015
STAGE TUBE: Go Inside of KINKY BOOTS' West End Opening Night!
by Nicole Rosky - Sep 18, 2015
Photo Flash: KINKY BOOTS Takes First Bows in London!
by Nicole Rosky - Sep 16, 2015
STAGE TUBE: Killian Donnelly And The Cast of LES MIS - 'Together We Can Make It'
by Carrie Dunn - Dec 22, 2014
STAGE TUBE: First Look at Highlights from MEMPHIS in the West End!
by Stage Tube - Oct 21, 2014
TV: Memphis Lives in Them! In Rehearsal with the West End Company of MEMPHIS
by TV - On the Road - Oct 8, 2014
by Robert Diamond - Feb 25, 2013
STAGE TUBE: John vs. Killian - PHANTOM Guitar Hero!
by Kelsey Denette - Nov 26, 2011
STAGE TUBE: John vs. Killian - PHANTOM Twister Challenge!
by Lauren Wolman - Nov 21, 2011
More Video
Killian Donnelly News
West End Star Bradley Jaden Makes His US Debut Live In Concert At Sony Hall In June
West End star Bradley Jaden makes his US debut at Sony Hall on June 3rd, with special guest Shoshana Bean, a two-time Tony Award and Grammy nominee.
Interview: Bradley Jaden on His U.S. Concert Debut and More!
West End starBradleyJaden is gearing up to make his US debuton Monday June 3rdat Sony Hall! I had the opportunity to chat with Bradley about his upcoming concerts, working with Shoshana Bean, Les Miserables, and more.
West End Star Bradley Jaden Makes His US Debut At Sony Hall This June
West End's Bradley Jaden makes his US debut at Sony Hall on June 3rd with a special guest, a three-time Tony Award winner.
Bradley Jaden Sells Out Cadogan Hall and Adds Second Date
Due to demand, West End Superstar Bradley Jaden has added a second London date to his first ever international solo concert tour. The new performance is on 15 June.
Bradley Jaden Will Perform in Concert at Cadogan Hall
West End Superstar Bradley Jaden will play a very special London concert at Cadogan Hall on Friday 14 June as part of his first ever international solo concert tour, BRADLEY JADEN LIVE IN CONCERT.
London Theatre Week - See over 50 Award-Winning Musicals and Plays with Tickets from £15, £25 or £35
London Theatre Week is the West End’s biggest promotion, giving you the chance to see over 50 amazing award-winning musicals and stunning plays with tickets from £15, £25 or £35
Peter Duncan Joins Pixie Lott and Bonnie Langford in MADE IN DAGENHAM Concert; Full Cast Revealed!
Full casting has been announced for the 10th Anniversary Concert of MADE IN DAGENHAM at the London Palladium on Saturday 16 March 2024.
Alfie Boe and Killian Donnelly will share the role of Jean Valjean and Michael Ball and Bradley Jaden will share the role of Javert in the UK, leading a cast and orchestra of over 65 in the forthcoming World Tour of LES MISÉRABLES THE ARENA SPECTACULAR. Learn more about the tour here including more about the cast, tour dates and more!
Video: Behind the Scenes of MADE IN DAGENHAM, Starring Pixie Lott, Killian Donnelly and Bonnie Langford
Pixie Lott, Killian Donnelly and Bonnie Langford leadthe cast of the 10th Anniversary Concert of Made in Dagenham.In an all new video, get a first look as the cast meet for the first time.
Peter Joback and Milan van Waardenburg to Join LES MISERABLES at the Sondheim Theatre
New casting has been announced forLES MISÉRABLESat theSondheim Theatre,with Swedish star,Peter Jöbackand Dutch leading artist,Milan van Waardenburgtaking on the role of Jean Valjean respectively in the critically acclaimed production.
Bonnie Langford Joins MADE IN DAGENHAM Concert
Stage and screen legend Bonnie Langford will play ‘Barbara Castle’ in the 10th Anniversary Concert of Made in Dagenham at the London Palladium on Saturday 16 March 2024. She joins the previously announced Pixie Lott and Killian Donnelly in this highly anticipated one-off show, directed by Shaun Kerrison. Further casting will be announced at a later date.
Photos: See New Production Images of LES MISERABLES in the West End
Check out new production photos of Les Miserables in the West End!
MY FAVORITE THINGS Concert, Featuring Audra McDonald, Julian Ovenden, Aaron Tveit, and More, Will Come to Cinemas This February
CinemaLive has announced a new season of musical events to play in 475 cinemas across the UK and Ireland in 2024, including My Favorite Things, starring Audra McDonald, Julian Ovenden, Aaron Tveit, and more. Check out the full slate here!
Pixie Lott and Killian Donnelly Will Lead 10th Anniversary Concert of MADE IN DAGENHAM
Pixie Lott and Killian Donnelly will lead the cast of the 10th Anniversary Concert of MADE IN DAGENHAM at the London Palladium on Saturday 16 March 2024. Learn more about the concert and how to get tickets here!
Killian Donnelly to Return to LES MISERABLES as Jean Valjean For 15 Weeks Only
Killian Donnelly will return to LES MISÉRABLES as Jean Valjean in the production at the Sondheim Theatre. Learn how to purchase tickets!
BroadwayHD is delivering a variety of titles this June for viewers to stream featuring themes of acceptance, individuality, family dynamics, censorship, freedom of expression, and LGBTQ+ issues
London Theatre Week: Tickets from £35 for THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
London Theatre Week: Tickets from £35 forThe Phantom of the OperaAndrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera has returned to its home, Her Majesty’s Theatre London.
Interview: Jon Robyns and David Thaxton of LES MISERABLES Discuss Singing the Wrong Lines, Cast Camaraderie and the Show's Evolution
BroadwayWorld UK had the chance to interview David Thaxton and Jon Robyns, who currently play Javert and Jean Valjean respectively, in the iconic show Les Misérables. On a Zoom meeting from their dressing room, the two actors talked about their years of playing a variety of roles, their struggles with muscle memory, and what Les Mis means to them.
Photos: THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERAExtends Booking; Releases All New Photos!
THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERAat Her Majesty’s Theatre has announced a booking extension untilSaturday 30 September 2023and released new production photos.
DJ And Producer Supermini Releases Brand New Remix of 'THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA'
A brand new remix of The Phantom of the Opera, the title song from Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera, one of the most successful and spectacular productions of all time, has been released on streaming platforms.
More News
Killian Donnelly FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How many Broadway shows has Killian Donnelly been in?
Killian Donnelly has appeared on Broadway in 1 shows.
How many West End shows has Killian Donnelly been in?
Killian Donnelly has appeared on London's West End in 8 shows.
What was Killian Donnelly's first West End show?
Killian Donnelly's first West End show was Les Miserables which opened in 1985
What awards has Killian Donnelly been nominated for?
Killian Donnelly has been nominated for several awards, including Best Actor in a Musical at the Olivier Awards for "Kinky Boots" and "Memphis The Musical," as well as Best Musical Performance at the Evening Standard Awards for "Kinky Boots."