Jenna Lee-James has captivated audiences with her remarkable talent and resilience, performing in iconic productions around the world. But her journey from a young girl in Glasgow to a West End star didn’t happen overnight. With the guidance of Bronia Buchanan and her team at BBA Management, Jenna has found herself in roles she only dreamed of. Now, as she takes on the iconic role of Elsa in Frozen, her career is reaching new heights.
Early Days in Glasgow
Jenna’s love for performing began early. From dance lessons at the age of three to singing competitions during family holidays, Jenna was destined for the stage. Growing up in Glasgow, she was surrounded by a vibrant arts scene that fuelled her dreams. Her first professional job came at just 16 in Bobby Davro’s Rock With Laughter. The experience ignited her passion for the theatre, and she knew her goal was to one day perform on the West End.
Her journey wasn’t without its challenges. “I’ve had more knock-backs than I’ve had jobs,” Jenna recalls, reflecting on the realities of building a career in theatre. But these obstacles only made her more resilient, teaching her that talent, perseverance, and a bit of luck are crucial in this industry.
Making Her Mark on the West End
Jenna’s hard work and determination paid off, eventually leading her to roles in hit West End shows. Her breakthrough came when she joined the cast of We Will Rock You, where she played Scaramouche, her first lead role. Over the years, she’s played iconic characters, including Grizabella in Cats and Donna in Mamma Mia!. However, her latest role as Elsa in Disney’s Frozen is particularly meaningful, as it represents a new chapter in her career and a childhood dream fulfilled.
Joining Frozen was a “bit of a shock” for Jenna, who auditioned for the role during a Bank Holiday weekend. The decision was swift, and she found herself in rehearsals within weeks. “It’s probably the most exhilarating character and show I’ve ever been part of,” Jenna says, describing the thrill of performing in one of London’s top productions.
The Role of Bronia Buchanan and BBA Management
Though Jenna’s path to success was marked by hard work, her relationship with Bronia Buchanan and BBA Management has been instrumental in her career’s recent success. Jenna initially joined BBA Management during the Covid-19 pandemic, a time of uncertainty for many performers. Her previous agent’s departure left her searching for a new team, and Bronia Buchanan was at the top of her list. “We’ve got lots of mutual connections. Lots of Bronia’s clients are friends of mine,” Jenna explains.
Jenna was immediately drawn to Bronia’s approach, describing her as “strong, protective, and incredibly understanding.” BBA Management’s collaborative environment has allowed Jenna to feel fully supported in her creative pursuits. Unlike agencies where clients might work with just one representative, BBA provides a full team effort, with each agent specialising in different areas of the entertainment industry. This team-based approach has been invaluable for Jenna, giving her the flexibility to explore different roles and creative projects with confidence.
“Bronia really understands what I do and what’s a priority,” Jenna says, highlighting the support she’s received for her debut album, On the Edge, which she recorded at the iconic Abbey Road Studio. For Jenna, the album was a personal project that she funded herself, inspired by her parents’ unwavering support.
Memorable Moments with BBA Management
As part of her journey with BBA Management, Jenna has enjoyed some unforgettable career highlights, particularly her time on Hugh Jackman’s world tour, The Man. The Music. The Show. As Jackman’s featured vocalist, she had the rare opportunity to perform in venues like Madison Square Garden, Hollywood Bowl, and The O2 in London. Yet, perhaps her most cherished memory is from their Glasgow show. Performing in her hometown was not only a personal milestone but a moment that fulfilled a long-held dream of her father’s.
Hugh Jackman himself played a part in making that night unforgettable, encouraging Jenna to perform a solo on stage in tribute to her father. “I will never forget that, and my dad will never forget that for the rest of his life,” Jenna reflects, emphasising the impact of BBA’s support in moments like these.
Playing Elsa and Embracing the Magic of Disney
Jenna’s role as Elsa comes with unique challenges and rewards. “My heart literally pounds from the moment that music starts,” she says, describing the thrill of singing “Let It Go” to an audience of thousands. Her portrayal of Elsa is her own, a blend of her interpretation with the legacy of previous actors who’ve brought the character to life.
One of the most iconic moments for both Jenna and the audience is Elsa’s dress reveal — a technically challenging yet exhilarating part of the show. Wearing one of the heaviest costumes she’s ever performed in, Jenna revels in the moment, which lights up the entire theatre. “That’s the magic,” she says. “It’s the first moment that the audience gets to see Elsa in her ice gown.”
What’s Next for Jenna?
As she continues to grow her career, Jenna is excited to explore new roles and creative avenues, with the full support of BBA Management behind her. With dreams of playing Elphaba in Wicked or Eva Perón in Evita, Jenna is far from finished, and her relationship with Bronia Buchanan will undoubtedly play a vital role in her future success.
For aspiring actors, Jenna’s advice is simple yet powerful: “Walk into a room, embrace who you are, and be true to yourself.” With the right guidance, support, and belief in one’s potential, even the most daunting dreams can become a reality.
