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Connie Fisher

Connie Fisher
Born: 1983
Place of Birth: Belfast, N Ireland
School: Haycastle Junior School & Sir Thomas Picton School
 

Famous For: TV talent show winner who is making her TV debut in a new film for ITV 1 as an Elvis Presley-obsessed parking warden in 'Caught in a Trap'.

Trivia: Connie appeared as Mabel in The Pirates of Penzance while a member of the Haverfordwest Operatic Society.

Biography:

Connie Fisher is to rejoin 'The Sound of Music' stage show as it embarks on a national tour.

The 25-year-old won the part in the West End production in the BBC talent show How Do You Solve Problem Like Maria? in 2006.

The former call centre worker from Pembrokeshire will open with the musical at Cardiff's Millennium Centre in August 2009.

The Andrew Lloyd Webber production will then tour theatres around the UK.

In June 2008 Connie landed her first stage role since starring as Maria in' The Sound Of Music'.

It was revealed that she will star alongside popular impressionist Alistair McGowan in 'They're Playing Our Song'.

Of course Connie won international recognition and a new legion of fans after she won the BBC One talent show 'How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?', scooping two million votes in the 2006 final.

Connie triumphed to win the role of singing nun Maria von Trapp in Andrew Lloyd Webber's new West End stage version of the story and is making her film debut for ITV 1 as an Elvis Presley-obsessed parking warden in 'Caught in a Trap' - discover more about it here.

Connie was the bookmakers' favourite for much of the contest. "I look forward to every performance that I give you. Thank you for making my dreams come true," she told the viewers and studio audience on the big night.

The daughter of an officer, Connie was born in Belfast and lived in Dorset until age six, at which point her family moved to Hayscastle in Pembrokeshire. Connie attended the local junior school and from there went to Sir Thomas Picton School, later graduating with a first class degree from London's Mountview Theatre School.

During her days at Mountview, Connie appeared in "Annie Get Your Gun", and played Julie Jordan in Carousel at the Bridewell Theatre.

A regular on the Eisteddfod circuit, Connie was also a member of Haverfordwest Operatic Society and Cor Newyddion Da. In her teens she joined the National Youth Theatre and appeared in "Star For A Night" when just 16. Some may also recall her appearances on the BBC Wales TV talent show 'Just Up Your Street', and BBC Children in Need.

Connie's first professional theatre appearance was at Milford Haven's Torch Theatre, in the role of Princess Samina. She also took the coveted Gower Trophy in the final of the 2006 Welsh Musical Theatre Young Singer of the Year Competition, held at Swansea's Grand Theatre.

Connie's "number one fans" are her mother and grandmother, Jan Fisher and Dorothy Pare - it was her grandmother who taught her songs when she was a youngster.

At one point Connie worked in media sales - an experience which she admits she did not enjoy - but that's all behind her now.

Friday 9 February 2007 capped a successful fortnight for Connie when she was named London newcomer of the year at the Theatregoers' Choice Awards, a week after winning a similar award from the London Critics' Circle.

Comment on this story

Lee Williams
It's really good things are going well..But we must not forget Mrs Painton for her dedication and the amazing prop builder - her husband..You were in a play in Haverfordwest College with my daughter Sophie...graced by Lord Gordon Parry...Great night had by one and all.
Tue May 27 14:27:00 2008

Liz Pickup Bicester Oxfordshire.
I voted for Connie she was the best without a doubt, and being welsh myself bread and born in Haverfordwest. I went to see Connie in Sound Of Music at the London Palladium in December 2007 she was fantastic made me feel proud to be welsh. I will see you again at The New Theatre Oxford in June really looking forward to seeing you again. Love you X
Fri Jan 11 10:30:41 2008

SIMON SMITH WILLENHALL
Absolutely wonderful. The best-acted, sung and produced show I have ever seen. Connie, you were the perfect choice we all voted for you and know we voted right - the perfect Maria.
Wed Nov 14 11:48:07 2007

sophie white form leicester
I love you Connie. Ur amazing! I saw your show and I'm going again soon - it's that good. Ur voice is amazing lovee yooo and good luck in everything else you do, you deserve it.
Thu Aug 9 09:40:46 2007

Lauren Shields - Cardiff
Connie is sensational! I went to see the show after booking six months ago and was completely wowed by connie's talents. I was lucky enough to meet her after the show and she had plenty of time to spend with people that appreciate her which is so nice to see! She didn't at all mind us asking for photos etc. She was amazing and I wish her all the luck for the future, I know that she's going to be a big star for many years to come and have many fans following her progress! She has a gorgeous voice and she is definitely destined for stardom!
Mon Jul 23 10:53:08 2007

paula lloyd-james
Hadn't forgot your birthday Connie sent you a card. hope you had a great one, glad you're well again. Would love to see you again one day. You rock!
Fri Jun 22 14:52:52 2007

ross aldridge
I saw you last night having cried through almost every song.Your energy and stage presence was so professional. Your autograph stands proudly in the loo!good luck
Fri May 4 11:48:44 2007

Alex Pope (orig Haverfordwest)
Connie, Went to STP with you (in your form & welsh lessons!!)... voted every week, came to see you in Feb but you weren't there - mum and I cried our eyes out but really hoping to see you again. Well done, you're making us Pemby folk proud (even tho am in Cambridge now!). Nice one Girly xx
Sun Apr 29 16:04:36 2007

Paula Lloyd-James
Sorry you have been ill Con, but managed to change tickets for 10th April see you then. Take care and look after yourself, you are very special.
Tue Apr 10 10:53:52 2007

Sarah Hodyard
I love Connie so much...I voted for her so many times I lost count! I've been to see her in SOM and she was AMAZING! Seriously...go Connie I LOVE YOU!
Mon Mar 19 15:23:06 2007

B Harris, England
After waiting since December to come and see you I was absolutely gutted that you were not playing Maria on 17/02/07. When I got home that night my sister and I were upset. I still think you are the best Maria ever. The best of luck for the rest of your shows Connie.
Mon Feb 26 14:10:08 2007

John Clinton
After waiting so long to come and see you as maria I was gutted when I arrived at the Palladium on 10th Feb to find out you would not be on because you were unwell. Even more dissapointed to see Leslie Garret was'nt on either, even though she was advertised in the foyer. The show was still brilliant, but it is dissapointing not to see the end product after all that voting. Delighted to find out you have extended your contract until Feb next year so I am going to go again later in the year,and I will double check to make sure you are on. The Clinton family still love you Connie.
Mon Feb 19 09:16:11 2007

Sue Roberts,Northampton
Connie hope your feeling much better. Must be one of the most unlucky people who have been to see TSOM. Been twice now once for my birthday and you havent been on. Absolutely so upset. Voted everytime for you. Your fantastic as are your CDs. Hope I can afford to get to see you.Very best wishes Connie. Enjoy your success.
Fri Feb 16 08:55:19 2007

Madden - Co Derry
Went over to London especially to see the show on Feb 1. . absolutely brilliant. You were sensational Connie, (very talented) so well done to you and all your fellow actors/actresses. Wish I could see it again. Good luck in the future. Any chance of coming to N Ireland please?
Mon Feb 12 09:43:11 2007

Sam Spinks, Norfolk
The show was fantastic, best ever, we will go as many times as we can, we met Connie after the show and she was so pleasent and charming, signed autographs and we had our pictures taken with her, nothing was too much trouble,she is truely a star in every way and she made our day.
Fri Feb 2 08:48:03 2007

Andrew, Hudspith, London
I watched you in 'How do you Solve a Problem like Maria' and always knew that you would win. Saw you on 17/01/07 and thought that you we brilliant and that the whole show was amazing. Well done!!
Fri Jan 19 11:47:52 2007

Sarah Goodwell
Wow! I saw you on Tuesday and it was the best show I've ever seen. You were absolutely fantastic. I'm desperately trying to get more tickets to come and see the show again.
Thu Jan 18 09:02:17 2007

Paula Lloyd-James
Got my tickets for birthday pressie, see you on March 14th Connie , can't wait to see you and show.
Mon Jan 15 15:32:49 2007

Glenys Brown, Pembroke
Looking forward to seeing you in TSOM after following you on the TV programme How do you solve a problem like Maria. Wishing you good luck for your future career.
Fri Jan 12 08:52:30 2007

Mandy Taylor, Henderson, Nevada
Connie, you are a star! You are so amazingly talented. I think you should come to New York City to perform on Broadway! You are so much from voice to looks like Dame Julie Andrews and the way you put the energy into it was just like seeing her live. I too am a professional singer/actress/dancer and way to go girl. I am so proud of you...
Thu Jan 11 13:11:50 2007

Paula Lloyd-James
Will be a huge fan forever Connie. Am now saving like mad to see you on stage, have your cd. You so rock pretty lady.
Mon Jan 8 11:21:57 2007

Paula Lloyd-James
Connie you are fab, I voted for you every week even in hospital, and will support your career always. Love Paula.
Fri Jan 5 08:59:37 2007

Karen Ball, S Wales
What a thrill to have a Welsh girl to be Maria in the Sound of Music, lets put Wales on the map give it some promotion for the New Year. Well Done.
Wed Dec 20 09:56:12 2006

Andy Fenner Shrewsbury
Much sucess in your career Connie you deserve it. Have just bought cd of Sound of Music and hope to see you in Febuary at Palladium.
Fri Dec 15 12:08:05 2006

Jude Withers & Kay Dickinson, West Midlands
You were the winner from the start. We were totally moved by all your performances on 'Maria'. Coming to see the Sound of Music on 13th December, can't wait.
Tue Dec 5 09:30:14 2006

Jean Mason Port Talbot
Read marvelous reviews about the show, so I will make an effort to come to London to see the show although my husband and I are old age pensioners. Good Luck and best wishes for a long running show.
Mon Nov 27 11:17:15 2006

Maria (Haverfordwest)
Connie,You totally oozed something of star quality way back in the early days! Gwyn and I were right, we knew you'd go all the way! At the Torch you really lifted the roof- GREAT hand jive LOL if only I could do that !! Go gettum girl ! You should be dam proud !!! See ya in London !
Fri Nov 24 09:48:07 2006

Alvena-Lesley Barker
Went to see you last night. Completely bowled over. Loved every minute. Fully justified all those phone calls we made voting for you Connie. Well Done.
Thu Nov 23 11:20:23 2006

Jill Gratton - Devon
Connie - I remember when you joined Clare Harrison's singing group's choir for a couple of end of term performances in Pembrokeshire a few years ago (I was living there at the time and having singing lessons with Clare in Haverfordwest). Thought you were brilliant then (and an inspiration to us aspiring amateurs!) and wish you all the very best of luck - hope it leads on to a wonderful career. You deserve it!
Thu Nov 16 12:37:11 2006

Margie Daniells Dewsbury, West Yorks
Am a huge fan of Connie, voted each week on Maria for her. She was fantasic we have the makings of a huge star here. Saw her last week at Palladium on second night of preview. WOW!
Fri Nov 10 09:46:49 2006

Yamada Yokohama, Tokyo
While on our annual trip to England we saw the first program of "How do you solve a problem like Maria." and we loved you from day one. I had my mother tape the BBC program and send it to Japan each week so we could follow the program at a somewhat delayed speed. Although we couldn't vote for you we were still rooting for you the whole time and we were so glad you won. We are already looking forward to our next trip to England so that we can see you on the London stage. Good luck, break a leg and all the rest. From Sarah, Reina and Jena.
Thu Nov 9 16:16:43 2006

Constance Kampfner
Good Luck!!!!!!! I am sure I will come and watch you at the London Paladium. My sister Alex has been in lots of plays and says its great!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wed Nov 8 08:53:22 2006

Marlene Athoe
Well Done Connie! I voted for you every week you were on, now we are coming to see you on the 25th November that night is my birthday so am extra thrilled, I know you will be brilliant no matter what the critics say!!!
Tue Nov 7 16:18:28 2006

Grace Reynolds from Bridgend
Well Done Connie I voted for you 5 times on 'How do you solve a problem like Maria' on one night and that was the final show. I am going to see you on the 18th of January and I'm looking forward to it.
Tue Nov 7 09:24:30 2006

Kevin Wright - Kent
Go for it Connie! - you were truly 'Something Good' - Can't wait to see you on 16th December - You will be fab!!! - Good Luck
Mon Nov 6 15:59:17 2006

Jean David, Pembrokeshire
I saw you at the Torch and thought you were fantastic. Loads of good wishes for opening night you deserve all the success.
Mon Nov 6 09:30:14 2006

Jean Baldock - London
Congratulations Connie, My sister and I voted for you all the way. We have tickets for 19th December, cant wait. Best of luck for opening night, sure you will be fine.
Wed Nov 1 14:25:57 2006

Janet & David Jenkins..Fishguard
Well Done Connie!! You deserved to win. We've got your C.D.too, it's great..(especially "No Matter What")... All the best for "Maria", and all your future shows. Hope to get to see you in London... complete with autograph book! Good Luck & God Bless.
Fri Oct 27 09:41:58 2006

Eryl Roberts, Leicester
Llongyfarchiadau, talent ardderchog wedi cael ei ddarganfod, fedra i ddim disgwyl i weld y sioe, pob lwc a mwy na dim mwynhau dy hun a byw dy freuddwyd.
(South West Web Team - Congratulations, an excellent talent has been discovered, I can't wait to see the show, good luck and above all enjoy yourself and live your dreams.)

Wed Oct 25 10:04:08 2006

Alex McGee, Porto (orig. Haverfordwest)
No question Connie was the best. Well done!!
Thu Oct 12 13:09:13 2006

Davies, Swansea
Connie, well done to you, go and enjoy yourself, the old saying, work hard and play hard, again a local Welsh Girl does us proud, will see you at your show, Wales is with you all the way, Charles Davies, Swansea.
Wed Oct 11 09:03:47 2006

John Fox, Manchester
Well done Connie. As someone else has said before you were easily the best all the way through the competition. But I didn't think you'd win through given the vagaries of a public vote! I'm very pleased that you did though, and I'm sure TSOM is going to be such a success - for you as much as for Sir Andrew! Go for it!
Wed Oct 11 09:01:50 2006

Greg Johnson Newport Gwent
Good Luck Connie!! Well done on winning the competition,we were rooting for you.You deserved to win. Will be buying your CD as well.
Wed Oct 11 08:55:58 2006

Vers Neale. Tenby Pembrokeshire
We watched the show all the way and new from the start you where the winner. Shall be thinking about you on the opening night, but guess what, we, that is eight of us will be in the Palaidium on the 17th. Would be nice to meet you then. GOOD LUCK AND GOD BLESS.
Wed Oct 11 08:47:56 2006

Wullie Fae Bonnie Scotland
All the best lass you will walk it you are a star in the making. Just relax and enjoy yourself..........
Tue Oct 10 18:39:34 2006

Dave Best-Potters Bar
Connie you were head and shoulders above everyone else and there could only be one result and they always gave you the toughest songs to learn as well!!
Tue Oct 10 16:53:44 2006

Mark, Pullen, West Yorkshire
Just bought the album and now I can listen to that wonderful voice whenever I want.
Tue Oct 10 15:23:40 2006

Jason, Southend-on-Sea, Essex
As a pembrokeshire man in exile it was so good to see you win. Well Done, you have made us all so proud!! Just shows what an amazing county Pembs is!!
Tue Oct 10 13:44:16 2006

Karen Pettitt
Loving your work Connie! As a musical theatre performer myself, I knew you had to get that role! You stood out a mile from the other contestants! Keep it up girl and I will see you in January!
Tue Oct 10 09:54:10 2006

Nick
Connie
See you got a album coming out well lets say me and my mum will be buying it. You were mine and my mum fav all the way through and when u sung that big ballad on the final I went cold. Your voice is amazing I voted for u over 20 times, the other girls were no match on u at all you are perfect for maria I think your a babe. I'll be buying tickets and I'll be screaming when u come on stage. xxxxxxx
Good luck connie

Mon Oct 9 09:21:41 2006

Nienke
Good job, I live in Holland and we saw all the shows in our student home!! You are the best! We really want to go to London to see you!
Tue Oct 3 09:03:47 2006

John Clinton, Wigan
Well done Connie. You were easily the best and I voted for you every week. I can't wait to come and see you as Maria on 10th Feb 2007. Good luck for the Sound of Music and the rest of your career.
Mon Oct 2 13:08:47 2006

H.Guymer
Glad you won, nice to see someone in our area win something.
Fri Sep 29 15:24:27 2006

Lars Tankmar - Spain
Have booked for The Sound of Music on Friday 26 January 2007 at 7.30. Please make sure 'you are on' at that performance, Connie. My wife and I come to London here from Spain especially to see you! Good luck with the show!
Thu Sep 28 09:06:15 2006

Brian Goodwin Sheffield
Thrilled that you won.Voted for you every week. An excellent performance.Glad to see your commitment and hard work realise your ambition. Best wishes for the sound of Music and your future career.
Tue Sep 26 16:11:06 2006

Liz Devenish
Well done Connie - I missed the last show as I was on holiday in Turkey and due to an extended delay with the plane we were in an hotel near the airport but I couldn't wait to get home to see if you had won.
Tue Sep 26 16:10:40 2006

Kay Rowlands Swansea
Well done Connie!!! I missed the last show as I was on holiday in Turkey. I was so thrilled to read in the newspaper that she`d won----she stood out from the start!!
Tue Sep 26 08:58:55 2006

Pat Gillespie
I thought she was perfect from the start. Glad to see local talet go far. Good Luck. Hope to see her on stage, if we can get the tickets.
Mon Sep 25 09:03:05 2006

Kate Field - Nottingham
Good on you Connie! I've supported you all the way!!!
Mon Sep 25 09:02:05 2006

Charles Thomas. Tumble Llanelli
Cyfarchiuon cynnes Connie. You gave us a great deal of pleasure with your wonderful singing. May you go from strength to strength - good luck.
Mon Sep 25 09:00:26 2006

Betty Jones, Swansea
My family voted for Connie not just because she's Welsh but because she was the very best in the show. Good luck Connie in the West End, I hear the tickets are selling like hot cakes!
Mon Sep 25 08:55:04 2006

Tom Storm
LLongafrachiadau Connie our thoughts and blessings are with you.
Wed Sep 20 09:01:55 2006

Jackie Sisley - Ceredigion
My family and I voted for Connie as she was by far the best person for the role of "Maria". We wish her all the best for a sparkling career, and a big thank you to her Nan for guiding her in the right direction!
Tue Sep 19 09:04:34 2006

Goddard
How thrilled we were to see a fellow Welsh lady win the competition. There was no doubt that she was by far the best in the competition, she is so versatile and so very talented. It was so nice to see her mother and nana's delight in her success. Connie seems a very level headed young lady and we wish her all the luck in the world. We look forward to seeing her at the Palladium as Maria. Pwb Lwc Connie CYMRU AM BYTH
Tue Sep 19 09:00:41 2006



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