HOW DO YOU SOLVE A PROBLEM LIKE MARIA?

BBC, London
2006

When Scarlett Johansen's schedule proved incompatible with the timing of Andrew Lloyd Webber's 2006 revival of The Sound of Music, he opted to find his 'Maria' in a new way. Along with the BBC, he launched a talent search through a reality TV show - How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?

Thousands of contestants from around the United Kingdom auditioned for one of just ten spots in the live TV finals, with the prize of the leading role of Maria Von Trapp in The Sound of Music in London's West End.

John joined Andrew Lloyd Webber's co-producer David Ian and West End performer and vocal coach, Zoe Tyler on the panel of judges. Contestants were ousted each week as the result of viewer voting.

The winner, Connie Fisher, takes on the role of Maria at the London Palladium from November 2006.

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