Chaka Khan wows crowds at press night for her I’m Every Woman musical

By Carla Feric, Press Association Entertainment Reporter

US singer-songwriter Chaka Khan wowed crowds as she strutted across the red carpet during the press night for her new biographical musical.

I’m Every Woman – The Chaka Khan Musical follows the award-winner on her journey to stardom – which began in funk band Rufus in the 1970s before she launched her wildly successful solo career.

The musical showcases her greatest hits such as Ain’t Nobody, Higher Love and I’m Every Woman whilst detailing her passion for civil rights, fight against a toxic music industry, battle with addiction and the pressures she faced as a working mother.

It also celebrates her decades-long career, during which Khan has achieved one UK number one single, five top ten tracks, and won 10 Grammy Awards.

The star wowed crowds as she walked onto the red carpet at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre, wearing knee high, black leather boots which she paired with a loose-fitted black dress.

Her dark ensemble was brightened up with a colourful, bedazzled and embellished pattern strewn across the front of her dress.

The star, born Yvette Marie Stevens, wore her long brown hair down in loose curls and hid behind large brown sunglasses as she smiled and posed for photos.

Singer Alexandra Burke was also among those at the star-studded event on Tuesday, and looked glamorous in a black feathered dress which was brightened up with multicoloured details throughout.

The 37-year-old, who rose to fame after winning The X Factor in 2008, stars as Khan in the musical – and previously told the Press Association that it is a “privilege” to portray the “inspiring” story of the Queen of Funk.

Burke is no stranger to musical theatre and has previously made her mark on the West End stage starring in The Bodyguard, Sister Act, Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Chess and Chicago.

The star has also forged a successful music and theatre career since winning The X Factor, and has had three number one UK singles and a chart-topping album.

BBC Radio 1 DJ Clara Amfo was also among those posing for photos at the press night – wearing a chic double denim ensemble.

Olympic gold medallist Dame Denise Lewis opted for a pair of brown trousers and a black v-neck, and dressed down the smart-casual outfit with a cropped denim jacket.

Strictly Come Dancing professional Johannes Radebe was all smiles as he posed alongside his Kinky Boots The Musical co-star – former The X Factor winner Matt Cardle.

They both opted for a white shirt and trousers, while singer-songwriter John Galea chose a more colourful ensemble – a graphic jacket over a black shirt, paired with white trousers.

I’m Every Woman – The Chaka Khan Musical is currently playing at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre for a limited summer run until September 27th.