Cast

RIch alcock Jimmy RabbitTE / Elwood Blues

In 2003 Richard met former performing duo partner Ritchie in a wine bar in Colchester, where "Commited to the Blues Brothers" was born. They became one of the most popular and successful Blues Brothers duos in the country. After a taste of theatre life in 2014, Richard put together a band and a show, and at the Braintree Arts Centre 2017, 'The Ultimate Commitments and Blues Brothers Experience' began. In 2020, and after 17 years of performing together, Ritchie retired from the stage and a new performing partner was found in Shaun. In late 2022 the show was re-written, bigger and better, and after 20 years of playing Elwood Blues, Richard continues in the role he loves while also working on other theatre projects.

"I am proud of the show, and love to work with such taletned people that I call my family. I am looking forward to the years ahead of doing something I thoroughly enjoy."

Shaun Lee Deco CUFFE / Jake Blues

Shaun works as an Actor, Filmmaker and Mind Reader. Recently he has produced feature films for the NHS, worked alongside CBeebies legend Justin Fletcher on a UK tour and performs his mentalism show 'Mind Games' at Potters Resorts - Five Lakes where he works as an Entertainer.

"I'm having an absolute blast performing with these incredibly talented people! I've always loved both of these amazing cult films and the songs are so much fun to perform. John Belushi is a hero of mine and I'm a huge fan of his work on Saturday Night Live - the origin of the Blues Brothers characters. It's a pleasure to pay tribute to him every show."

Lisa Houghton Bernie / Mrs Murphy

Lisa is a vocalist, music producer, sound engineer and lecturer. Always busy, Lisa performs her teaching duties on weekdays at The Broadway Theatre, Barking, and then freelances as an entertainer, composer and producer on the weekends.

"I remember falling in love with The Commitments movie and soundtrack at a very young age. I played the soundtrack CD so much I had to replace it! The Blues Brothers soundtrack has followed me around since college, as I've always been given the belty soulful numbers to perform. You can't beat it. I love Rhythm & Blues and Soul music, so when the opportunity arrived to sing with this incredible band, I was just over the moon!"

Leah ringer Imelda / Blues b.V's

Leah has worked in the entertainment industry for over 15 years, starting her journey and first professional job as a vocalist at Ladram Bay Holiday Park. Since then Leah has performed at festivals, corporate events and weddings.


"The thing that I love most about this show is the joy it brings to people, it's high energy and a lot of fun! Nothing quite beats stepping on stage and seeing the audience enjoying themselves. Not forgetting the band, being able to sing with the most talented musicians and performers is a real treat!"

Emily kenneally Natalie / Blues B.V's

Emily is an Actor, Singer & Dancer and is currently working at Potters Resorts Five lakes as an Entertainer/Singer. Recently she graduated from the East 15 acting school with honours. 

“I absolutely love performing with these incredibly talented individuals, we have a blast. I look forward to every show, and can’t wait to see where we end up next.”

ian sanderson M.D / Trombone / Cornet

Ian has played the trombone and other instruments for over 40 years and is a post graduate with a BA in Performing Arts with first studies of Music, Trombone and Jazz.


He has worked diversely with people and groups such as Mick Hucknall, The Supremes, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and NYJO, has played in venues including the Royal Festival Hall, Shepherds Bush Empire and the House of Lords, and done so in locations across Europe and Cuba. He has also set up, run and directed his own bands. 


Ian has done numerous recordings one of which featured him as a soloist on Humphrey Lyttleton’s Radio 2 show Big Band Special.

As well as this show Ian currently plays, writes, arranges and records with an originals ska band Usual Players and plays in other groups including The Simply Swing Show.


In other work he teaches, works in music therapy, and is an examiner for UWL/LCM.


"From Joey The Lips, to Tom Bones Malone, I absolutely have a blast in this show, hope you enjoy it as much too!"

Taylan Oliver Guitar

Taylan has 20 years playing experience, and has performed in several different types of bands, including lead guitar in the Rock band ‘Mass Atom’ with the original Iron Maiden Drummer Ron Rebel Matthew’s.

"My favourite thing about playing in this band is the people, and how committed everyone is. Success in this industry is only made possible by both the people around you and the hard work and efforts of everyone involved."

George Addison-Atkinson drums

George is a professional session drummer. He is a strong reader who is comfortable in all musical styles. During the week he teaches drums and, on the weekends, he performs all over the place. Over Christmas he also plays in pantos. "Oh no he doesn't!"


""I love this show and everyone involved in it. I was so happy to be given the opportunity to join the team!"

Dave Denby Bass

Dave has been with the show since the very beginning, and provides the 'low end' on his bass guitar. When he's not performing with the band, he is a professional photographer and model maker. 


"I'd like to think that I've served my apprenticeship playing with bands in pubs and clubs and now getting to play on a big stage with a great bunch of musicians and performers is an absolute dream come true. Such a feel good show. I love it when the audience sing along and get up for a dance".


Steve Holgate trumpet

Steve has played trumpet with lots of different types of music groups through out his career.  big bands, dixieland,  brass bands, concert bands, oompah bands and orchestras to name but a few. You name a type of music ensemble and he has probably played in it!  


" I have always loved the Blues Brothers music since watching the film as a young man. Being able to be part of recreating some of their fantastic songs is such a blast.  Playing The Committments music is the icing on the cake for me".


jonathon chase keys

Jonathan has been a gigging musician for over 30 years, playing rhythm and blues clubs and festivals in both the UK and Europe, where he has supported artists such as The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Paul Jones, Paul Young and Luther Allison and released multiple albums along the way. 

"To be able to combine my love of rhythm and blues and soul with the theatre is a privilege. Working with amazing musicians and talented singers in this high energy show is a joy. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do playing in it!"

Keith Burnham saxophone

Keith has played and led many bands on saxophone over the years, covering soul & funk, gospel, jazz, cuban and rock. He has played alongside some notable names in popular music and continues to collaborate on other projects.


"I've always loved soul music and to be polaying such great songs with such brilliant musicians and singers is a huge privilege. It's a real buzz and always puts a smile on my face."

Jo burnham stage manager / superwoman

Jo has been involved in theatre all her life, initially as an actor but moving on to all areas backstage, including costume, props and sound & lighting technician. More recently she has acted as a stage manager for a range of shows.


"I'm the lucky one who gets to see the show every time it's perfromed - albiet with a restricted view from the sife of the stage! It's very easy to get distracted, singing along to all the brilliant numbers."