A WEST End star is coming to Chelmsford for a trip down memory lane looking back at her glittering career.

Ruthie Henshall will perform at the Civic Theatre, in Fairfield Road, on February 9 for what is being billed as an “intimate evening” of songs from her life on stage.

Having first hit the West End in the late 1980s, Henshall has appeared in top musicals including Cats, Les Miserables and Chicago.

Her show in Chelmsford will see her talk about her career singing in London and around the world along with music from some of the shows being played.

Henshall said: “I actually have a life at the moment as previously, doing eight shows a week in London meant I could do very little else. It’s also great to be doing something locally.

“I was very aware that my children were being brought up by a nanny as I was out six days a week and that just broke my heart.

“I figure when they’re 14 they won’t care whether I’m around or not but right now they need me.”

In 1995 the singer won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her portrayal of Amalia Balash in She Loves Me.

Along with starring in musicals, Henshall has also released three solo albums during her career.

Looking back on her career, Henshall said she has lots of fond memories and does has some favourite places to perform.

“My favourite venue is the Theatre Royal in Haymarket because it’s such a beautiful old-fashioned theatre and they make you feel so welcome,” she said.

“As for my favourite musical role, it would have to be when I played Polly in Crazy For You and my favourite song would be Someone To Watch Over Me.

“I was brought up watching the old MGM musicals and always felt I had been born in the wrong era, so when Crazy For You came along, it was an MGM musical on stage – boy meets girl, they fall in love and put on a show.”

Tickets are still available for the evening at a price of £22 for adults and £20 for concessions.

To book a ticket, visit www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres or call the box office on 01245 606505.