In the spotlight

Hampshire Now meets local Locks Heath girl Helena Blackman, to find out how the rising West End star’s life has changed since appearing in the popular 2006 Andrew Lloyd Webber talent show, How to solve a problem like Maria.

Why did you want to become a performer?

I always had dance lessons as a kid and played the clarinet, but I don’t think I thought seriously about it until I had drama and singing lessons. This was all around the time I started secondary school and where I also had an amazing drama teacher, Mike O’Brien, who was my inspiration.

It just so happened that I had some success quite young in school shows. Mike believed in my ability, which made me believe, and I never looked back. He cast me as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz at the King’s Theatre. My dad remembers sitting there just hoping that when I walked out on to the stage I wouldn’t break down with stage fright and run off.  To his surprise, when I opened my mouth sound did come out!

Tell us about your Hampshire County Scholarship and how that came about?

My music teacher heard about Hampshire County Scholarships. When I was 16 she felt she had taken me as far as she could and that it would be good for me to experience someone new. I also wanted to complete my grades with the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music. This scholarship would not only mean free tuition from 16-18 years but meant I’d be paired with another highly skilled teacher. I was also asked if I’d be part of the Hampshire County Youth Choir, which I was.

How has your life changed since appearing on How to solve a problem like Maria?

Tremendously. It was utterly life changing because it was an experience very few people have and one that you’ve no idea how to deal with or plan for. I think it helped me gain experience as a performer and enabled me to work with amazing people and do amazing work. I’ve been very lucky.

What do you most like about Hampshire and what is special about the county for you?

The countryside. I went to Swanmore Secondary school, near Bishop’s Waltham, which wasn’t a local school for a Locks Heath girl, but being able to study in the middle of the countryside was a treat. I’ve very happy memories of travelling there each morning with my dad and sister, doing the school run and listening to Classic FM.  

What would be your perfect day out in Hampshire?

Going out in the car towards Wickham, near Fareham, and the places surrounding Swanmore. Finding a lovely country pub, eating a traditional English meal and sipping wine with my family as the sun sets on the countryside. Peeeeerrrrfect.

It always surprises me how quiet it is at home – so different to the craziness of London town.

Do you have any advice for our younger readers who are keen to get into performing arts?

Really explore the options and look at what’s available in the local area. Get involved in your school shows, that’s where I started. If you don’t know who to go to, find your local dance shop, pop in and ask about local dance schools, as it’s where schools advertise.  

What roles would you most like to play?

Eliza Doolittle in My fair lady. It’s just one of those shows that I’ve wanted to be in since I was a little girl. It’s an absolute classic.

What does the future hold and what can we expect to see you in next?

Goodness knows, that’s what is both exciting and daunting. Watch this space!