Singer Beverley Knight has described her portrayal of suffragette leader Emmeline Pankhurst as a “gift of a role” ahead of the premiere of Sylvia the Musical at the Birmingham Hippodrome. The Wolverhampton-born artist hopes the production will leave audiences feeling empowered and convinced that their own voices can drive change.
The musical chronicles the life of Sylvia Pankhurst and the profound family rift that emerged from the campaign for women’s voting rights. Knight, known for soul hits such as Shoulda Woulda Coulda and Get Up, plays Sylvia’s mother, Emmeline, a position she eagerly embraced. “It’s an absolutely killer story, and the best thing is it’s true,” Knight told BBC Radio WM, adding that she wants attendees to exit the theatre with a sense of joy despite the narrative’s heartbreaking elements.
Narrating British history from 1903 to 1928, the show highlights the ideological clash between Emmeline and her middle daughter. While Emmeline focused on securing voting rights for wealthy property-owning women—a privilege already held by men—Sylvia advocated for universal suffrage. These divergent goals placed both women on a collision course with the government.
Naomi Katiyo stars alongside Knight as Sylvia Pankhurst. Knight characterized the production as a “hip-hop musical,” noting that its soundtrack blends R&B, funk, soul, garage, gospel, and house influences. Describing the music as the engine of the show, she clarified that while much of the dialogue is spoken or rapped, her performance is primarily vocal. “Of course, I’m doing mostly singing because I ain’t rapping anything,” she said.
Beyond the Pankhurst family drama, Knight emphasized the personal relevance of the story for modern viewers. She noted that many audience members may have grandmothers or great-grandmothers who participated in the suffragette movement. “I want everybody to leave like, let’s go, oh my god, that feeling of I can effect change, I can use my voice and effect change. I feel empowered,” she said.
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