Beyond business

I Am…

Name: Lucy Blakeman

Age: 31

Nationality: British

Job: Actress and Producer, Popular Productions


With High School Musical 2 being staged in Dubai next month, what can audiences expect from the show? We wiped the slate clean and auditioned from scratch. This show is harder on a singing and dancing level. Some of last year's cast won their roles back, but we have new talent too. It's going to be sensational.

Why do you think HSM has generated such a cult following across the globe? In the same way the older generation look to Grease with such affection, I think HSM is an excellent representation of modern-day teenage life. It's been criticised by some for its squeaky-clean image, but we think a story about kids wanting to do something with their lives and the friendships they build should be celebrated.

What do you say about the dormant talent in Dubai? There is so much talent in Dubai and we're delighted to be giving the stars of the future a professional platform on which to perform. Every single time we hold auditions in the city, we find new talent. America has Broadway, London has the West End... there's no reason Dubai shouldn't have its own theatreland with its own talent.

Has recession affected the industry in any way? Theatre is extremely expensive to produce and at the moment, it is hard to make things work financially in Dubai with any production. What really needs to happen is increased support at a governmental level. The first thing you see on arrival at London Heathrow or New York's JFK airports is a presentation wall showing what's on where. Here too, we need more than information on properties for sale; we need to plug entertainment available to tourists.

If you could play one character in the show, it would be...? As a performer myself I think if I were 10 years younger I'd have been pigeonholed as Gabriella. But I'd have got most satisfaction playing Sharpay.

What are the show details? HSM 2 is being staged from July 8 until July 18 at the Dubai Community Theatre, Mall of the Emirates. Tickets cost Dh149 and Dh199. They're available on 04 341 4777.


I'm Listening To…

1. Signed, Sealed, Delivered by Stevie Wonder

2. Mama Do by Pixie Lott

3. Red by Daniel Merriweather

4. Neapolitan Dreams by Sara Mitchell

5. Don't Stop Me Now by Queen


I'm Reading…


That's Another Story: The Autobiography by Julie Walters

I am a huge fan of the comedian and actress. I find her a real inspiration.

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