My Theatre Firsts: Helen Baxendale
© Helen Warner
Helen Baxendale returns to the London stage this evening, starring in Deborah Bruce's new play The Distance at the Orange Tree Theatre in Richmond.
Baxendale, who is joined in the cast by Emma Beattie and Clare Lawrence-Moody, has been away from the stage for five years. Previous theatre roles include After Miss Julie (Donmar Warehouse); The Woman Before (Royal Court) and Swimming with Sharks (Vaudeville)
We caught up with Helen to find out a few of her Theatre Firsts.
1. What was the first show you went to?
My Dad was a school"s inspector in Walsall in the 70's, the RSC used to do tours to schools in the Midlands and I saw Daniel Day Lewis and Amanda Root playing Romeo and Juliet in the school Gym at Willenhall Comprehensive School. That or Terry Scott in Puss in Boots.
2. When did you first decide to become an actor?
When I realised I'd never be a ballet dancer.
3. Who was the first actor you were inspired by?
Judy Garland / Gene Kelly.
4. What was your first professional role?
Understudying Toyah Wilcox in a national tour of Amadeus.
5. How did you react to your first review?
I sent it to my Uncle Barry.
6. What was the first piece of advice you were given in your acting career?
Calm down.
7. Which is the first word that comes to your head when I say theatre?
Leg ache.
8. If you were directing The Distance, who is the first person you would think of to cast in your role?
9. What is the first thing you will do when your run in The Distance comes to an end?
Watch the tele again.
10. If you could choose any role that you would like to take on next, what is the first that comes to mind?
Something life affirming, or highly political.
