Elaine C Smith started her career singing in nightclubs before entering the RSAMD to train as a drama teacher. Since leaving teaching she has worked non-stop in theatre, radio and television.
Her first professional engagement was in 1981 with Scottish 7:84’s Clydebuilt series. She moved quickly to Wildcat Stage Productions, appearing in all the company’s productions between 1981 and 1985. She has also worked extensively with many other companies such as the Royal Lyceum and Dundee Repertory Theatre.
One of Elaine’s most prominent theatre performances was the original creation of the character Dolly in ‘The Steamie‘ and her solo performance as ‘Shirley Valentine’ which was toured and produced by RPM Arts, her own production company.
TV:
Elaine is well known for her TV work. She has appeared in a number of dramas but she is never far away from her comedy roots. She is probably best known for her superb performance of Mary Doll, the long suffering wife of Rab C Nesbit.
In 2013 Elaine C Smith appeared on a new BBC sitcom “Two Doors Down“. Ten years later, it is now in it’s 7th Series with Elaine playing the part of Christine. The show has attracted a huge audience and looks to continue for for some time. The part of Christine also saw Elaine win a Scottish BAFTA for Best Actress in 2018.
Elaine became a bit of a legend and has never really had time to stop working. She is constantly touring, acting, and has numerous TV projects on the go. 2011 saw Elaine star in a the musical, I Dreamed a Dream which was based on the life of Susan Boyle.
Her work in pantomime is legendary. Elaine has played Glasgow’s Kings Theatre for 13 years and also 8 years at His Majesty’s Theatre in Aberdeen. In 2018 she won an award as “Best Fairy” in the British Pantomime Awards in London. Elaine C Smith is patron and supporter of a number of Scottish Charities.
Elaine’s autobiography “Nothing like a Dame” was published in 2009.
2015 saw Elaine C Smith back on our screens with Elaine C Smith’s Burdz Eye View taking her on a tour of well known Scottish seaside resorts, where after taking in the sights and sounds finished with a sell-out performance of her one woman show in the local theatre.
Elaine was on tour in 2016. This time, playing the part of Miss Hannigan in the stage musical “Annie“. Elaine’s role of Miss Hannigan is set to be reprised in 2023.
Adding to the many strings in Elaine C Smith’s bow, she is also an experienced and popular after dinner speaker and awards host. She may even sing a song or two.