Helena's happy talk

1:37pm Thursday 19th June 2008

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HELENA Blackman, one of the stars of South Pacific, may have narrowly missed out on winning the part of Maria, but she has no regrets at all.

Having lost out to Connie Fisher in the final of How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?, Helena confesses that the overriding feeling was one of relief.

“There were aspects of the job I’d have loved, like appearing in the Diana Memorial Concert and on This Morning, but it was a good old long contract and I wonder how long I’d have wanted to be Maria before wanting to do other things,” she says. “I feel I was the lucky one.”

Helena has also avoided the high level of publicity for things unconnected with work that came with winning the show, and has been steadily attracting great reviews instead for her portrayal of Nellie Forbush in the current touring revival of South Pacific.

“I’m loving it,” she says. “I love the story and the journey it takes you on. And it’s very, very funny.

“Everyone has a laugh but, because the film was quite serious in places, that’s something audiences aren’t prepared for.”

Helena stars with musical theatre veteran Dave Willetts (Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers) in the classic story.

Rogers and Hammerstein’s unforgettable score includes the classic Some Enchanted Evening, There is Nothing Like a Dame, Happy Talk and I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair.

To book, call 01684 892277.