In a heartfelt interview, Alexandra Burke, famed for her role in “The X Factor,” shares her journey of overcoming stage fright. As the star of the upcoming “I’m Every Woman: The Chaka Khan Musical,” she speaks of the influence her late mother had on her career and her approach to performing.
Overcoming Stage Fright with Mother’s Words
Burke recently took the stage at The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals, held at Manchester’s AO Arena. Performing before an audience of 12,000, she was initially overwhelmed with nerves. However, she recalled her mother’s wisdom: being nervous demonstrates a passion for the performance.
The Magic of Musical Theatre
The Big Night of Musicals celebrates the National Lottery’s significant contributions to the arts, amounting to £1.4 billion. The event featured a variety of performances from prominent West End shows, showcasing the vibrant musical landscape of the UK.
- Notable performances included:
- Exclusive preview of Sam Ryder as Jesus in “Jesus Christ Superstar”
- Dynamic interpretation of “Annie” featuring La Voix
- Burke’s debut as Chaka Khan
Burke’s Personal Journey
Burke’s connection to Chaka Khan runs deep. She credits her mother, Melissa Bell, for encouraging her to pursue a singing career despite past setbacks with auditions. Their duet audition experience for “The X Factor” turned the tide for Burke, leading her to stardom.
Reflecting on her role as Khan, Burke expresses both excitement and the accompanying pressure. “I care about every role I’ve played,” she states, acknowledging the responsibility of portraying a real person in her latest project.
The Importance of The Arts
Burke emphasizes the profound impact of the National Lottery’s support for the arts, highlighting that over £700 million has been invested in Manchester’s cultural sector since 1994. She encourages everyone to embrace the performing arts, noting that theatre offers a unique escape from daily life.
“The magic that theatre holds brings joy and community, allowing people to disconnect and immerse themselves in the experience,” she explains.
As Burke gears up for her role in “I’m Every Woman: The Chaka Khan Musical,” she remains profoundly inspired by her mother’s legacy and the magic of performing for her audience.
