Interview: Ntombizodwa Ndlovu on playing Marie Knight in MARIE & ROSETTA at @sohoplace

Discover the historical musical heroines Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Marie Knight this spring in Marie & Rosetta, playing a limited run at @sohoplace. Featuring a wealth of rock and gospel hits, the show stars Beverley Knight as Rosetta and Ntombizodwa Ndlovu as Marie, both reprising their roles from the 2025 run at the Rose Theatre. We spoke to Ndlovu to find out more.

How are you feeling about making your West End debut in Marie & Rosetta?

I’m buzzing. I’m overwhelmed (in the best way).A little in awe. It’s a privilege and responsibility to honour Marie and Sister Rosetta in this way and to also be sharing the stage with a powerhouse like Beverley [Knight] and working with such a sick creative team is a gift.

Can you tell us a little about how you’ve developed your version of Marie?

Developing my version of Marie has been about finding freedom in a world that needed her to shrink. I was also really interested in the tension she carried between her deep devotion to the church and love of traditional gospel music, and then this magnetic partnership with Rosetta that begins to stretch her thinking and her sound. It’s been less about imitation and more about honouring her spirit - allowing her to slowly step into her power over the course of the play through movement and voice and, of course tons of research and listening to her recordings, especially The Gospel Truth Live and understanding the social climate she was navigating.

What do you think makes Marie & Rosetta such a remarkable duo?

It’s the coming together of opposites. Rosetta is electric and bold and Marie is more reserved, rooted in tradition; but both give the other space to be great in their own right. They aren’t afraid to be vulnerable and know what the other needs. It’s their sisterhood that feels real and tangible two Black women carving space for themselves in a time that offered them few resources…There’s also the fact that they’re incredibly talented.

Why do you think it’s important to tell this story?

Because their impact deserves to be seen and remembered. They made some of the biggest contributions to music yet most barely know their names. And I also think it’s important to celebrate black women’s artistry and perseverance because some of “the greats” wouldn’t exist if Sister Rosetta hadn’t picked up her guitar. Telling this story feels like reclaiming space.

Are there any other historical figures you’d love to embody on stage?

Gosh - there are so many interesting stories and interesting stories to tell. Nina Simone or Queen Nandi.

What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see Marie & Rosetta?

I’d tell them not to waste time – book immediately!

Marie & Rosetta plays at London’s @sohoplace from 28 Feb - 11 April, with tickets available here.