Musical theatre graduate Carrie Sauce wins Welsh language version of The Voice

The latest winner of Y Llais – the Welsh language version of The Voice – first earned their stripes as a graduate of Music and Musical Theatre at the University of Chichester. 

Oliver Martin, who performed as their drag alter ego Carrie Sauce in Sir Bryn Terfel’s team, is believed to be the first ever Drag Queen to win The Voice across all territories since it started in 2010. 

Oliver said: “To go from watching Bryn Terfel play Sweeney Todd at the ENO as research for our own 2014 University of Chichester production, to winning The Voice after dueting with the man himself, is such an incredible and unbelievable journey. 

“I had such an amazing time during my studies at Chichester, and though I hadn’t begun my drag journey yet, I have no doubt my experience at the University heavily influenced the character of Carrie Sauce.” 

Reacting to the win, they said: “It feels incredible – I never in a million years expected to win, but it’s the best surprise I could’ve hoped for. I cannot wait to see what comes next. 

 “My journey’s been eclectic. Just looking at the song choices – it’s gone from Eurovision, to musicals, to Cher, to some beautiful Welsh language originals – it’s just been incredible!” 

Andrew Wright, Programme Leader for Musical Theatre Performance at the University of Chichester, said: “Oliver studied at Chichester Conservatoire from 2014–2017 on our BA (Hons) Music and Musical Theatre degree, during which time I was the programme leader. It is a pleasure to see how they have continued to develop not only their performance skills but also their strong sense of artistic identity and self-expression. 

“I’m delighted to hear of their recent success in winning Y Llais as their drag alter ego, Carrie Sauce – a wonderful reflection of their creativity and individuality.  

“During their time on the programme, Oliver performed leading roles in Sweeney Todd, The Producers, and Parade, consistently demonstrating both talent and commitment. We are immensely proud of everything they have achieved since graduating and wish them every continued success in the future.” 

As the winner of Y Llais, Carrie Sauce will now get the opportunity to record an original song with Amy Wadge, one of the world’s biggest songwriters who has worked with artists such as Pink, Sam Ryder and Ed Sheeran. 

All episodes of the series are available to watch on S4C Clic and BBC iPlayer. 

To find out more about Musical Theatre at Chichester, visit: https://www.chi.ac.uk/stage-and-screen/