BWW INTERVIEWS: SATURDAY NIGHT Star Helena Blackman

Helena Blackman first came to the UK public's attention when she finished as runner-up to Connie Fisher in How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?  Since then, she's starred in shows including South Pacific, Seven Brides For Seven Brothers, and now the new production of Saturday Night, currently running at the Arts Theatre.  I caught up with her to find out how she's finding West End life.

Saturday Night is one of Sondheim's least-performed shows - why do you think your production of it has done so well?

One of the reasons is that I think it's so different to a lot of musicals that are on in town and touring at the moment. It's been described as a play with songs and a musical comedy - it's completely up to the audeence to make up its mind on this. It appeals to Sondheim fans who loyally will see it anyway and to those who are curious. Knowing that it's rare, seldom done and on for a limited run also encourages people to come along. Plus it has that lovely Rodgers and Hammerstein feel to a lot of the music which is so nice on the ears and leaves you smiling and in this present climate that's exactly what you want...sometimes the less realistic the better!

What's it like working in an actor-musician cast?

It's an absolute pleasure, they are all so talented and it's never been distracting but is subtle and they are all very sensitive to the other actors on the stage, it really works as a format and means we can have a live band which is always a treat.

Are there any changes to the show now you've transferred from when you were at the Jermyn Street Theatre?

Inevitably yes, we are working in a much bigger space which is less intimate and more exposing in some respects. We have double the amount of entrances and exits and although the changes are minor it feels more significant beacause you're so used to doing the show a certain way. Thankfully we are very collaborative as a company and extremely supportive.

Do you resent always being linked with the 'Maria' series?

No, never. It was life changing and is fascinating to people. It also means you are remembered and everyone likes that - although I do look back on my performances and cringe a little because I'm so much more of a complete performer now and have a lot more experience under my belt. So if people offer me work I would rather it was based on my current projects which are a more accurate reflection of me as a performer.

You've done quite a varied range of work since 'Maria' - are you glad you didn't win now?

Every time I do something new I'm pleased I didn't win. I've had such a varied career working with exciting performers and I'm so pleased I've had the opportunity to learn my craft.

Saturday Night runs at the Arts Theatre until April 11.

 

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