Tune in at 16:00 London, 19:00 UAE
Live from Abu Dhabi Connect the World takes you on a journey across continents, investigating the stories that are changing our world.
Tuesday's Connector of the Day – Julie Andrews
She's an academy award winning actress and singer – Dame Julie Andrews is the archetypal musical theatre star, known for her role as the singing nun in “The Sound of Music” (1965). Still popular today, this was one of the biggest box office successes of all time and the highest grossing movie of its day.
[cnn-photo-caption image=http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2009/images/12/14/andrews.art.jpg caption="Julie Andrews celebrating over 50 years in musical theatre."]
Starting out on the vaudeville stage, Andrews was discovered as a child to have an incredibly rare range: able to sing four-octaves.
While she played the original Eliza Dolittle in the Broadway musical "My Fair Lady", Audrey Hepburn played the part in the movie My Fair Lady (1964). The studio executives did not want Andrews because she hadn't had any experience in film and thought Hepburn would be the better choice.
Meanwhile – that same year – Andrews accepted the role of Mary Poppins in the Disney film alongside Dick Van Dyk – for which she scooped a best actress academy award.
Sadly, an operation on her vocal chords left her voice badly damaged in 1998.
No longer able to take singing roles, Andrews went on to star in the Princess Diaries and Shrek, proving that even without her singing ability – she is one of the most loved actresses of her generation.
While co-authoring children's book 'Simeon's Gift' with her daughter Emma Walton Hamilton, Andrews has worked hard to recover her famous voice, and will return to the stage after 30 years absence with a comeback musical performance in May 2010.
The 74-year-old Oscar winner and five other performers will wend their way through some of the greatest musical theatre songs of the last 50 years, many of which Andrews made famous.
If you have any questions for Dame Julie Andrews – send them to her here and we’ll put a selection of them to her on Tuesday’s show.
On Twitter
Using Twitter is a terrific idea. But may I suggest that you use it for real news, like the BBC uses it Ticker Tape headline? Julie Andrews' upcoming appearance is not useful information.
Julie, considering that you have such a long and successful career, How do you think you will be remembered 50 or even 100 years from now?
Dear Dame Julie Andrews,
When I was 5 yrs old , I saw you for the first time in the Sound of Music in Persian & English .followed your career ever since . I'd like to know what has been your favorite role if you had to choose among all your movies?
Best of luck for your comeback in May 2010.
Dame Andrews,
Have you ever considered starring in a remake or second part of any of your popular movies?Mainly,"The Sound of Music" or "Mary Poppins"?You were such an inspiration to me while growing up that I believe you could once more be a wonderful role model to today's youth.And they need it so badly.There are no pure,wholesome figures of your talent in today's entertainment industry which is one of the reasons children and young adults have nothing to dream about.Your enthusiasm,voice and smile made me aspire to be someone like you when I grew up.With today's advances in special effects and cinematography,the remakes/second parts of these films could be a success comparable to the Harry Potter saga,but with a much more inspiring star:you.
Your forever admirer,
Tamara Oyarzabal
Dame Andrews, What ARE a few of your favorite things?
Question for Julie Andrews –
After being in the spotlight since you were a child, do you ever think about retiring or do the challenges from new roles keep you wanting more?
Thank you for all of the joy that you have brought to my family over the years.
Dame Andrews:
First of all, thank you for the years of entertainment you have given us and continue to give. You make this crazy world a much happier place. My question is: What (if any) was the defining moment in your career where you realized that you have "made it" – that you had crossed that line from obscurity to "being famous". And the second part of my question is: With all the songs you have sung over the years, have you ever forgotten the word(s) to a song you were performing or does it just become second nature to you?
Again, thank you for sharing your amazing gift with the world!
Dear Dame Julie Andrews,
My cousin and I are flying from the US to London just to see your show in May. Can't wait to see and hear you and are on a mission to find a way to meet you. We have been fans for a long time and have been to a performance of yours more than a few years ago in a venue just outside of Chicago, IL. That said, two questions, 1) If you had the opportunity to make the choice again about your unsuccessful vocal surgery in 1997, would you make the same choice? And, 2) What time and where do you want to meet for tea while in London? (we are delightful people, you don't want to pass this up!)
Best wishes and look forward to seeing you in May!
Diane
Thank you so very much for the Sound of Music. Together with many kids of my age, I remember this movie with fond memories. I am from Malaysia and watched the film there and knew the music by heart. I am married to a Swiss and living in Switzerland now but hardly anyone here has heard of the Sound of Music, let alone the von Trapp family. Why is that? I had to buy a DVD so that my husband could watch it.......then again, no one knows about Marry Poppins or the King and I or Chitty Chitty Bang Bang! It is sad to think that they have missed out on such classic movies which were very much of my childhood days.
Dear mrs Andrews,
To my opinion you are a unique individual in many ways. Your looks are different than mainstream acrtresses, your ways and you acting is different.
Different, but unique and excellent!
Did you have female role models when you were young?
What were your worst fears?
If you wouldn't have become this huge (after a youth in acting) what would you have want to become? (besides a singer of actress)
Kind regards and utmost respect!
Dear Ms. Andrews–Thanks for all your great work over the years. Apart from the usual suspects, I am a big fan of your work in "S.O.B" and "The Princess Diaries". One light question: What are YOUR favorite things?
Happy Christmas to you!
I had "always" been a big fan ("always"), until I watched an interview shortly after you had undergoner throat medical procedures. During that interview you were asked if you could carry the same range of notes you sang prior to your medical procudure. Your response went something like this (obviously paraphrased): I don't have the same range as I did before, but it's as good as any jazz singer, or someone like that. Your comment was meant to be pejorative and denegrating of jazz singers. You obviously have never hears some of our great females jazz singers.
OMG - allow me to squeal like a girl...I LOVE Julie Andrews, Sound of Music is my favorite movie EVER and I had the chance of seeing her on Broadway in "Victor/Victoria" back in 1996 (still have the Playbill),
Having said that, my questions are: Will you be making a Broadway comeback and/or more 'specials' with Carol Burnett?? Also, in a perfect world (and if you had your druthers), what is the ONE role you would like to play on the stage/screen??
Dame Andrews:
The specials you have done in the past with Carol Burnett have been fun to watch and in some instances, timeless. Will the two of you ever do another special again?
couple of questions.
1. Do you think you would have been the better choice for My Fair Lady film ?
2. How old were you when you did the film Sound of Music ?
3. Your best film in your career ?
What ever you answer is, I am still your biggest fan. Pramok
I don't have a question but just wanted to say thanks for being a part of my childhood and now my daughter's childhood. My daughter Vanida is only 2 and she loves watching Mary Poppins more than anything.
Sincerely,
Thomas Bird
Ratchaburi, Thailand
Hello Dame Andrews!
Greetings from the Philippines! I love Sound of Music, especially the part where Maria and Captain Von Trapp were singing 'Something Good.' Please do tell us - what's the naughtiest thing you did as a kid?
Take care always. 🙂
Dame Andrews,
I am a fairly new singer and I would like to know if at the beginning of your career you ever got nervous up on stage? I would love to hear how you got through those first few times. I am fine until I get up on stage and my knees start to shake. I loved the Sound of Music and sang "My Favorite Things" at my recital.
Thank you for being such an inspiration to the world of music. I am so glad to hear of your comeback in May of 2010. Best of luck to you and always.
A simple Q for Dame Andrews:
Who do you think is the next Julie Andrews?
Dame Andrews,
Thank you for the joys that you have given to both the young and old generation through your wonderful singing and acting. As a young woman and now that I am in my early fifities, I still enjoy your movies 'The Sound of Music and Mary Poppins". You were wonderful in your roles and can you guess how times I've seen the two movies? I can remember. More than 10 times. Can you belive it?
My question is "what kind of role are you acting in your next comeback? "
Happy Christmas and all the best.
Longtime fan,
Tebwea Ann
I'm thrilled to hear of your musical comeback! Your voice is such a treasure!
One question: Of all the songs you have recorded in the past, and of all the songs you plan to sing this May, which has had the most personal meaning for you?
Dear Dame Andrews,
Thanks to you, my childhood was full of music and happy memories. My question is: Was there any career that you seemed to be attracted to, apart from singing, that made you think "I can do this and do this well, if I was not in the entertainment industry"? If so, what would have been your "alternative" career choice?
Thank and I wish you the best in your May 2010 performance!
Julie,
What has been some of the biggest highlights in your career? What has been some of the hardest things in you career? What is one piece of advice you would give a young actress?
Dame Andrews:
You have had a diverse number of roles and activities in your lifetime. Who are some of your favorite actors currently working on stage/film that remind you of yourself at various parts of your life?
Thank you for inspiring people around the world with your choice of roles in positive, uplifting performances. You are a rare talent.
40 years ago I saw my first Sound of Music with my parents. 18 years later, I was still on it at least once a year. I bought a Betamax and VHS copy. Then I had a 2-CD version (borrowed and got lost 🙁 ).
I agree with Tamara. Perhaps you can help the youth of this world by being their role model. Please?
And Dame Andrews? THANK YOU VERY MUCH for everything you and your choice of movie to appear in. You have and will always be an inspiration.
Dame Julie, will the same incredible singers that toured with you in "The Gift of Music" be with you at the O2?
I remember SOB as such a funny movie. Was it as fun to make as it was to watch?
The Sound of Music and Mary Poppins were two of my most favorite movies as a child. Today, my kids watch these movies. When Mary Poppins was rereleased in ~1981, I was a little disappointed seeing it as an adult because I expected something magical. Since then, I've seen it a few times and the magic has returned. By the way, The Sound of Music has and always will be magical.
I know that living in the past isn't the most healthy way to live, but it's important to learn from it. It would be fantastic to see you and Dick VanDyke do a sequel to Mary Poppins. How about it?
Dame Julie Andrews,
My question is: Would you ever consider going back to Broadway, if you found the right play?
Thank you for the joy you have provided to me over the years!
Dear Dame Julie Andrews,
I have been madly in love with the roles you have played since I was a child. Now as an adult, I am very impressed with how, no matter the circumstance, you have always remained gracious and composed.
Are you aware of your living-icon status? Do you know you are to acting what Frank Sinatra was to singing?.... but then again, your voice is also one of my favorite things
Hello Julie,
At age 58 I remember you well, what a wonderful, wholesome experience it was to watch you. You filled me with hope and wonder and the sense that anything was possible and the world was beautiful. Thank you for making a comeback. Would you consider making a promotional tour for projects that better the world? We have one to change neighborhoods that is making a real difference! Thank you for all you have done and will do. God bless you.
Dear Julie – Loved your movies when I was a child...very inspirational, fantastic music, !! – Did you ever desire to play the leading role in a Love Story style of film? All the best!
Dear Julie you are a world treasure! I live and have a company in the philippines.I am an avid hiker and travel to remote places in asia. The people and especially the kids are facinated by a white face. I feel a need to do something to entertain them so I sing. And the two favorite songs I sing and teach to the kids are Lets go fly a kite and a spoon full of sugar. I thought youd appreciate the fact that many children in asia are singing your songs that Ive taught them in my humble way!
Dear Dame Andrews,
I were a teenager when you starred in "The sound of music ". Your voice and your natural beauty/personality inspired millions of teenager,boy and girl to try to learn to sing with a musical notes.It may be a common way that you learn to sing in the western countries as it is in your educational system,but it was not that way in many underdeveloped countries.Your" Do-Re -Me-Fa "way of learning and the simpliflied songs has inspired me to love singing that express love and joy for oneself and others.Thank you and may God bless you at the end of this wicked and loveless world.
Dear Dame Andrews ~
I recall that you suffered an injury or damage to your vocal chords. Have you fully recovered? Is there any chance of hearing you sing again? I relish the memories of you in the Sound of Music and Victor Victoria, and can not think of another contemporary performer with your incredible talent.
You were such an important role model for young women when I was growing up in the 70s; who do you believe are the up-and-coming role models for young girls today? What advice would you give them?
Many thanks and Happy Holidays!
I have been a great fan of yours ever since sound of musicHowever; was sad to learn that you lost your voice. will be glad to hear you sing again. My question is are the children you acted with in sound of music still alife and if so what are they doing as per now and are you still attached to them?
God bless you.
Thank you Ma'am for using your God-given talent to bless so many children all over the world – I grew up on the Sound of Music in Nigeria... children love you all over the world! God bless you!
Dear Ms Andrews,
Out of all the great songs you have sung in film and on stage , which of the songs do you still find yourself humming while in the bath tub?
Thank you
Hello Dame Julie Andrews,
You are a multi-talented entertainer.
Which talent did you prefer – acting or singing?
You would have excelled in "My Fair Lady". Is it too late to remake this movie with you acting in it?
Sandesh Savant
India
Please perform with Lea Salonga! It would be a treat to your Asian fans to see you perform with the Tony Winning star of Miss Saigon.
You obviously knew Rock Hudson was gay when you starred with him in Darling Lili, which incidentally, was one of your all time great movies, but rarely mentioned. Your singing, especially the song which starts "Often I think this sad old world has given up for good" we play over and over again. You are an inspiration to the world Dame Julie.
Dame Andrews,
I would like to know your favorite memory of your time in Austria (my home) while filming the wonderful movie The sound of music.
Merry Xmas from Austria.
You and your work are an incredible blessing. "The bells of Christmas are ringing" indeed. Thank you!
Hi, my question to Julie Andrews is:
Marry Poppins is an unsurpassed, genuine film. I enjoy it as an adult as I enjoyed it as a child.
How do you perceive the quality of movies made for kids today?
For example: The female lead in Marry Poppins is an emancipated strong character, whereas in later Disney productions female characters tend to have cliche or submissive roles.
Dear Dame Andrews,
Since i could speak till date, i feel an inexplicable sensation when i watch your movies, especially The Sound of Music (which i will watch till i am grey!). God bless you for being such an inspiration!
Have you considered setting up a music school or music museum for classics like yours? Would be a place to visit...
Dearest Andrews,
I have always admired your personality and strong will to carry on in your desired profession. Have you ever had any challenging and trying experience that made you regret ever being in the spotlight?
YOU ARE ONE OF THE GREATEST OF ALL TIME, I WILL BE WAITING FOR YOUR RETURN, I WISH YOU THE VERY BEST, YOU LOOK PRETTY AS ALWAYS. A GREAT VOICE AND A GREST ACTRESS. WELLCOME BACK JULIE.
madam julie andrews
i always loved your films especially sound of music. do you have any latest news from the cast of sound of music aside from christopher plummer?
Love all your films, but Victor/Victoria is my favorite, Have you ever really broken a glass by voice?
Dear Julie,
I am one of your fans. I just want to tell you how mush l love and respect you since l saw your film Sound Of Music.
You are one the important persons of our generation please, make year 2010 an important year for me by replying my mail to you.
Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year to you and yours.
Your fan & friend
Elizabeth
I would just like to start by saying that I live in France, have a daughter and two sons between the ages of 8 and 4, and one of the ways I like to transmit my culture is thru musicals. Two of their favorite musicals are Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music!
Are you planning on taking the new musical on the road?
Best regards...
Dear Ms Julie Andrews,
When I was young, about 10years old, my parents took me to the cinema, together with my 5 sisters and brother, to watch Mary Poppins, since then I became your fan. I went and watched every movie you took part in, including Victor Victoria. Also, I once found an address, and I sent you few letters, and you replied 'I like Maltese stamps' – Have you ever thought of visiting Malta? I heard the bad news with regards your vocial cords, while being operated – did you sue them? It is with great sympathy, to you, but I do beleive they took away 'great part of you' – But I believe you are very courages, and a surviver – Good Luck for the performance, wish to be there, but financially I cannot make it.
Ms Phyllis Curmi
Date of Birth 21/10/56
Looveeeeeeee from Maltaaaaaaaaaaaa
Hello Ms. Andrews,
I still remember all the words to all the songs from Mary Poppins! What is your favorite of the many wonderful songs in the movie?
Thank you,
Laura Hess
Santa Barbara, California
Dear Ms. Andrews
I saw most of your movies since I was a child..
In your movies, and least in the ones I saw, there is alwayes a happy ending..
As a child, and a teen, you, with your movies make me believe that there is alwayes a happy ending in our lives..
I did grow up hoping that..
I am a mature woman now, no happy endings in the horizon..
What can you tell to me, and others like me, to whom you brought us joy and hope among your amazing pictures..
Thanks
Dear Julie,
What do you think of today's music, more importantly, big productions associated with musical entertainment, such as "High School Musical" and the "Pussycat Dolls", you know....that whole thing.
Personally, I think it should have already happened mid-90's, but I'd like your take on it. Also, unecessary, but I have to tell you, I really dislike the whole new-age "hipster" look. Figure I'd throw that out there.
Thanks!
OH MY GOODNESS!!!!!!!!!!!! What I wouldn't give to be in the audience to witness your comeback! Sound of Music is one of my very favorite movies! From the day I heard about the loss of your singing voice I have prayed that you would be able to sing again! I am so happy that you are coming back! Many good blessings to you!
Hello, Julie Andrews!
Thank you for scheduling your London concert. I'm looking forward to it! It may be a bit nerve-wracking for you, but everyone in the audience will be there not just to see you, but to support you!
Here's my question: Watching you and Carol Burnett together has always been a delight. Since both of you have a flair for writing, have you ever thought about writing a movie that the two of you would star in together?
See you in May!
All the best,
Laura
Dame Andrews,
Thank you for sharing your beautiful talents with the world.
I'm curious who your favorite actress was when you first started acting and why? Also did you ever imagine that your career would be as successful as it has been?
Regards,
Mazama
Hi Julie!
The first time that I ever saw you perform was on TV back in the 50's as you were playing "Cinderella". At that time I was going to college on the GI Bill as a Korean War Veteran. I have been a fan ever since. I will never forgive Hollywood for not using your talents in "Camelot" and "My Fair Lady". I have recently purchased a DVD of "Cinderella" and have played it for my family who agreed that your performance was the things that stars are made of. To me there are two films that you appear in that show great talent. "Star" shows a Julie Andrews as something other than Sugar & Spice and "Thoroughly Modern Millie" shows a great comedic part of you. Which of your musical films did you have the most fun when you were doing them? John @ 76 in Milwaukee, WI.
Thank you for interviewing Julie Andrews. I missed seeing her on the movies.
I love her voice & all of her movies. She is one of the greatest entertainer of all times. Good luck on her next show in May 2010.
V/R,
Lydia
Dame Jools,
First of all, let me cheesily tell you that you're one of my favorite things. Now for some questions:
1. Would you ever consider doing another movie like Duet for One, where you play a seriously suffering character? I'd love to see some gritty roles again, though things like The Princess Diaries are great as well.
2. Have you ever regretted not taking a film role? Are there any of your roles that you wish you hadn't done?
3. Can you write more books like The Great American Mousical? It was fabulous!
4. Who is your favorite composer?
5. If you could play any role, at any age, what would it be?
6. Will you star in my to-be-written play? 😀
7. Will you give me a hug?
All my love,
Katie from Phoenix
Dear Dame Julie,
When I was a young nun in the 50's one record we had in my small convent that was not a 'holy' one was before you came to the U.S. It contained English songs, one at least with your father..one I loved was about "London Town" (is a flower that's sweet). None of the hymns touched me like your voice. I have never seen the record since and loved it above all that followed. Saw you in concert in Minneapolis years ago. There is nothing like your precious gift of music. Thank you. Where can I find that early recording? Best wishes on your return!
Dear Mrs. Andrews.
First thanks for all the lovely entertainment you have given us over the years. I am so looking forward to visiting London when you give your concert in May next year. I have been a fan since Mary Poppins but maybe esp. Sound of Music and followed your carreer ever since.
Three questions:
1. Are you optimistic about this new tecnique that you have considered for your voice? Good luck!!! – maybe there will be more concerts.
2. I loved seeing you in serious movies as well such as "Emily", "A Duet for One". "That´s Life" Someone sent me a taped version of TV´s "On Golden Pond". I think you are a terrific dramatic actress.Do you contemplate to take on more parts of that kind?
3. And I think many of us would so love a "Home 2"? Any chance?
I admire your energy and the way you never give up. All the best,
Bente M Hiul. Denmark