Home / Arts and Entertainment / Alexandra Burke: Chaka Khan Role is a 'Massive Privilege'
Alexandra Burke: Chaka Khan Role is a 'Massive Privilege'
24 Mar
Summary
- Alexandra Burke felt sick but excited about performing.
- She finds playing Chaka Khan empowering and direct.
- National Lottery funding significantly boosts arts in Manchester.
Alexandra Burke, a former X Factor contestant, shared her feelings about taking part in The National Lottery's Big Night Of Musicals. She described an initial sense of sickness due to nerves but embraced the event as a significant privilege, emphasizing how it reignited her passion for performing. Burke is set to perform in 'I'm Every Woman: The Chaka Khan Musical,' a role she finds deeply meaningful.
She admires Chaka Khan's straightforward nature, noting that the iconic singer "doesn't have time to muck around" and "doesn't sugarcoat anything." Burke's own career was significantly influenced by her mother, who encouraged her to audition for The X Factor, leading to her breakthrough. The upcoming performance at the AO Arena in Manchester is particularly special as it's a city she loves.
Burke underscored the vital importance of National Lottery funding for the arts, citing that Manchester alone has received £700 million since 1994. She believes theatre offers an essential escape and brings joy, connecting people universally through music. Burke's journey, from being a fan of musicals like The Lion King to now starring in one, demonstrates the transformative power of the performing arts.
