Rachel John is one of the West End’s most versatile performers and has been appearing in successful productions in the West End for the last 17 years. She made her West End debut in Disney’s The Lion King in 2005 and has gone on to play major roles in We Will Rock You, Sister Act, Memphis, The Bodyguard and The Girl from The North Country.

In December 2017, Rachel opened as Angelica Schuyler in the original West End cast of Hamilton, a role for which she received critical acclaim. She went onto be nominated for an Olivier Award for her performance.

Born in 1980 in Hackney, North London, Rachel grew up in nearby Walthamstow. As a child, her parents took her to the New Testament Assembly Church in Leyton where she joined the youth choir. It was here, in church, that she discovered her gift for and love of singing. She continued singing in church, at school and at family functions.

Rachel didn’t have any formal drama training, in fact she started her career as a secretary but on seeing a production of the The Lion King, she felt something change and realised that maybe there was a place for her on stage. The same show presented her with her West End debut some years later. Rachel most recently played the Ghost of Christmas Present in the Old Vic’s production of A Christmas Carol opposite Stephen Mangan.

Rachel is thrilled to be releasing her debut album in April 2022. The gospel album was recorded at the New Testament Assembly Church in Tooting. Entitled From My Lips To God’s Ear, the album showcases Rachel’s stunning voice singing some of her favourite hymns. It is a joyous and uplifting album which celebrates both Rachel’s love for gospel music and her faith.