Video: Amazing proposal takes centre stage

FOR most men the thought of proposing to their girlfriends is a nerve racking prospect.

However, one Suffolk insurance broker decided to ask the intimate question on a West End stage.

James Peachey, 26, from Ipswich, did the deed in front of a packed audience, including cast and crew, at the Shaftesbury Theatre after a performance of Hairspray.

His unsuspecting girlfriend, Emma Dodd, who thankfully said yes, had just finished her last ever show in the cast of Hairspray.

James Peachey and Emma Dodd

James, who works for Willis in London, said: “I've known I wanted to propose for about a year now and I thought her last West End show would be the perfect opportunity.

“It was nerve racking to get down on one knee in front of all those people, but a few beers beforehand helped to steady my nerves.”

He even roped in comic Brian Conley, who now plays Edna Turnblad in the hit show, to play along.

After the show, which marked the end of Emma's ten year career on the West End, Brian was thanking Emma for her efforts before James walked on and got down on one knee.

Emma, 31, who grew up on Dryden Road, Ipswich, said: “I couldn't believe it when James walked on the stage. I was in shock. I'm totally over the moon.”

Emma has left the West End to pursue her own theatre school. For details visit www.emmadodd.com

n To see video of the proposal, visit www.eadt.co.uk