Cheryl makes her West End debut in Ghost Story: 2:22

Cheryl made her big West End debut at London’s Lyric Theater on Friday night in the production of Ghost Story: 2:22.

The 39-year-old hitmaker took the stage to begin her three-month engagement as the female lead of Jenny, having taken on the roles of the likes of Lily Allen and Laura Whitmore.

It comes as Cheryl hit back at reports the show was starting late due to rehearsals running overtime and ticket holders had to queue outside in the cold while they waited.

On stage: Cheryl made her West End debut on Friday night during her first performance of Ghost Story: 2:22

Cheryl took the stage, donning a burgundy dress with a white floral print, a high neck, and long sleeves.

Her auburn locks were gathered into an updo, leaving two sections to frame her face.

But when call time came, fans were said to have had to wait, while The Sun reported that guests had waited over 15 minutes for the late start.

However, a rep for Cheryl told MailOnline on Saturday: “The show started at 7.44pm and everyone was in their seats by that time.”

“It was delayed a bit as it’s the first preview and it was completely sold out, so a lot of people had to go to the theatre. The rehearsals didn’t overflow at all.’

Costume: Cheryl took the stage and donned a burgundy dress with a white floral print, a high collar and long sleeves

I’m waiting to see Cheryl! Crowds are pictured outside the venue ahead of the show

Doing her thing: Cheryl was snapped sitting on stage with a glass of wine and performing alongside a co-star

Waiting: When call time came, fans in Soho had to wait as the line stretched three blocks

After the performance, the singer and actress left the theater after taking a bow on stage.

She stepped out, making sure to dress up in a powder blue coat and looking elated after her performance.

The performance kicks off a three-month stint for the star and kicks off the new year with a bang.

Popular: Many performances are sold out

New venture: The performance kicks off a three-month stint for the star, kicking off the new year with a bang

It’s been claimed that Cheryl is hoping to “reinvent herself” with a big stage role after a three-year hiatus from the spotlight.

A source recounts! Magazine: “Cheryl wants to reinvent herself in 2023. She was on TV all the time, she was the nation’s sweetheart. But she stepped back for a while to focus on being a mom.

“She’s looking forward to coming back. Some things she’s tried have not worked in the past, but this is a very exciting time for her.”

New image: It has been claimed that Cheryl is hoping to ‘reinvent’ herself with a big stage role after a three-year hiatus from the spotlight.

paycheck! And Cheryl will reportedly pocket one of the biggest fees in West End history for her role in the play, with sources claiming she will earn £750,000 for four months of work

Celebrations: Cheryl beamed and waved to fans at the end of the debut performance

And Cheryl will reportedly pocket one of the biggest fees in West End history for her role in the play, with sources claiming she will earn £750,000 for four months of work.

A source told The Sun: “Producers know this will get everyone talking, but it will ruffle feathers.”

It was previously reported that Cheryl would earn at least £100,000 for her work in the play, although she faced criticism for her casting due to her lack of acting experience.

After signing up for 106 shows, The Sun reported earlier this week that a business book revealed: “Cheryl gets around £1,000 a show.

“The deal is £100,000 but will also be linked to ticket sales. So if she helps move about 80 percent of the seats, she’s entitled to more money.”

Just last month she was announced as the new leading lady in the popular play, taking on the role of Jenny.

Cheryl excitedly shared the news on Instagram, gushed that “it’s a whole new experience for me.”

New role: Just last month she was announced as the new leading lady in the popular play, taking on the role of Jenny