Rebel Wilson to make West End debut as Miss Adelaide in Guys and Dolls

Wilson will join the cast for eight weeks from 28 June until 21 August

Rebel Wilson is best known for her film work but claims theatre has 'influenced her life'

Rebel Wilson is set to make her West End debut in classic musical Guys and Dolls this summer.

The Australian actress, best known for comedy films Pitch Perfect and Bridesmaids, will play flirtatious showgirl Miss Adelaide at the Phoneix Theatre for eight weeks only from 28 June until 21 August.

Wilson, 36, excitedly announced the news on Twitter, with choreographer Andrew later confirming her casting.

“A lot of people who know me from my more recent film work have no idea how much theatre has influenced my life,” she said. “I saw my first musical at age 14, a show called 42nd Street, after one of my family’s dogs had unsuccessfully auditioned to be in it. It blew me away and I’ve loved musical theatre ever since.”

Wilson went on to write and perform in her own productions before being “snapped up to do screen work”. “To be playing such an iconic role as Miss Adelaide is truly an honour,” she continued. “Hopefully I crush it, but you’ll have to come and see me to find out.”

The cast of classic musical Guys and Dolls (Paul Coltas)

Wilson will replace the Olivier Award-winning Samantha Spiro and star alongside Oliver Tompsett as Sky Masterson, Richard Kind as Nathan Detroit and Siubhan Harrison as Sarah Brown.

Guys and Dolls first premiered on Broadway in 1950 and includes hit songs such as “Luck Be a Lady” and “Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat”. Wilson will perform a variety of numbers as Miss Adelaide, including “A Bushel and a Peck”, “Adelaide’s Lament”, “Sue Me” and “Marry the Man Today”.

Booking for Guys and Dolls has been extended until 7 January 2017.