From the world of Billy Elliot to the glitter of Strictly Come Dancing, Layton Williams has spent almost two decades giving audiences something to talk about. Now, the singer, dancer and actor is bringing those experiences together for a new touring show, with two Welsh dates firmly on the calendar.
LAYTON LIVE arrives next year at Theatr Clwyd in Mold on Wednesday 24th March, followed by Cardiff’s New Theatre on Tuesday 30th March. For Welsh fans, it is a chance to see the performer step into the spotlight as himself, sharing the music, movement and stories behind a remarkably varied career.
And there is more to come here, too. In our interview, Layton talks about his love of Wales, his early days, the productions that have shaped him and what audiences can expect when this latest adventure reaches the stage.
A Career Worth Celebrating
Marking the approaching 20th anniversary of his professional stage debut, LAYTON LIVE promises an evening that brings together the different sides of a performer equally comfortable delivering a musical theatre number, commanding a dance floor or making television audiences laugh.
His journey began with the title role in Billy Elliot, an extraordinary introduction to professional theatre for a boy from Bury, Greater Manchester. Since then, his credits have taken him through Hairspray, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, Cabaret and Titanique, alongside television work including Bad Education.
That range gives this tour plenty of material. Audiences can expect a musical journey through the productions and performances that have defined his career, with stories offering a glimpse of life beyond the curtain.
Supported by a company of performers, Layton will combine vocals and choreography with personal storytelling. The appeal is in seeing those elements come together: the discipline of a dancer, the instincts of an actor and the personality viewers have come to recognise on screen.
Two Chances to See Him in Wales
For audiences in North Wales, Theatr Clwyd’s performance on 24th March offers the opportunity to experience the show in Mold before the tour continues towards its final stretch.
Then, on 30th March, Cardiff’s New Theatre welcomes Layton for the second Welsh stop. For fans across Cardiff, Newport, the Valleys and beyond, it’s definitely a date to put in the diary.
Both performances form part of a UK tour running from 23rd February to 4th April 2027, culminating at London’s Adelphi Theatre.
Whether you first encountered Layton through musical theatre, his television comedy work or the Strictly ballroom, the show offers a chance to explore the connections between those chapters.
It also creates an introduction for anyone who knows one part of his career and wants to discover the rest. Behind the familiar television face is a substantial theatre CV, spanning contrasting characters, demanding choreography and very different musical worlds.
Five Things You Might Not Know About Layton
1. He became a West End leading performer at just 12.
Layton began his professional career playing Billy in Billy Elliot. Taking on the title role required acting, singing and considerable dance ability, setting the foundations for everything that followed.
2. His dance work includes Matthew Bourne productions.
Alongside his musical theatre roles, Layton’s credits include The Car Man and Lord of the Flies, demonstrating a performance background that extends into storytelling through movement.
3. He helps young performers develop their skills.
Layton is director of Pros From The Shows, which offers performing arts experiences for young people. Its “Slay Clubs” give aspiring performers opportunities to learn from professionals.
4. His theatre work has earned an Olivier Award.
His performance in Titanique brought him one of British theatre’s most prestigious honours. His wider awards collection also includes a WhatsOnStage Award and three Black British Theatre Awards.
5. His stage credits include Shakespeare-inspired musical comedy.
Among the productions on his CV is Kiss Me, Kate at Sheffield’s Crucible, adding another musical theatre classic to a career encompassing contemporary hits, dance productions and West End favourites.
The Stories Behind the Spotlight
Perhaps the most intriguing part of LAYTON LIVE is the opportunity to hear what connects those experiences. A list of credits can tell us where somebody has performed; an evening like this has room to reveal what those moments meant.
The announced format promises humour, behind-the-scenes recollections and musical highlights, with Layton’s own personality at its centre.
Our forthcoming interview will explore that journey further, including his affection for Wales and his preparations for the tour. Look out for the conversation here as we discover more about the early ambitions, memorable roles and experiences behind the performer.
For tour information and booking links for both Welsh performances, visit HERE.
