“I AM thrilled to be reprising the role of Millie, having played it originally with CFAOS in March 2012.

I have done one show with BAOS before, 2013’s The Producers.

My original motivation for the role was one of my greatest inspirations in the world of professional Musical Theatre, Broadway legend Sutton Foster. It also has an incredible musical score which really does represent the Roaring Twenties! 

Getting in tune with the character and personality of Millie has been quite easy, as I can relate to her big dreams of visiting New York City and wanting to marry a rich man! She is headstrong, driven, tenacious and a little goofy at times, but also has a kind, generous soul and deep down, she just longs to be loved.

Millie requires stamina both physically and vocally as there are only two short scenes that Millie doesn’t appear in throughout the entire show (I’ll be busy doing a quick change during those two occasions though, so there will be no rest for the wicked!).

I have been working hard by taking lessons with a vocal coach, improving my tap skills and knuckling down with the dialogue.

A few people have asked if it all just ‘came back’ after the first time – which I thought it might – but it’s surprising that when surrounded by a new team of first class principals, a new production team and rehearsal space, how much it throws you, so you really do have to start from scratch.

Having taken a year out of performing to explore the world of choreography, I’m really excited to see all aspects of the finished spectacle come together.

Any moments when the cast are at a loose end at rehearsal are spent drilling and polishing dance numbers and running lines.

Having a similar work ethic myself, I feel that I fit in really well.”

See Dawn and the rest of the BAOS company in Thoroughly Modern Millie at The Haymarket from March 25-29. Tickets are available from the box office on 01256 844244 or online at anvilarts.org.uk.