Edinburgh Fringe preview: Helen Shapiro – Walkin’ Back

The 1960s teenage singing sensation Helen Shapiro is the subject of a new musical show heading to Edinburgh Fringe this summer.

Starring 14-year-old Lily B Martin as young Helen, this premiere “has a talented young Scottish cast for award-winning Kingdom Theatre Company.

With original songs plus the hits of the day like You Don’t Know and Walkin’ Back To Happiness, this will whisk you back to the 1960s with authentic music.”

Where: Lime Studio at Greenside

When: 18-23 Aug

Ticket link: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/helen-shapiro-walkin-back

Lily was happy to chat further about herself and the show.

Congratulations on playing the lead in this new show! Does this era of music inspire you?

Hello and thank you!! This era of music does inspire me, and I just have a genuine love for it.

The music of Helen Shapiro is especially beautiful, and her voice is timeless to perform.

I had the opportunity to meet Helen last year, and though her musical style has changed, her voice is so reminiscent of that jazzy 60s charm that brought her fame.

What three words would you use to sell the show to an audience?

Nostalgic, memorable, delightful.

How did you make a start as a performer? And what would you like to do next?

I first became a pupil at Pirrie Performing Arts 7 years ago, joining a variety of classes including street dance, stage school and of course, musical theatre. I have also worked with various youth theatres, getting a variety of stage experience.

The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland was the next goal for me, hearing about it from my fellow cast member and good friend, Theo. I first did musical theatre Short Courses, and then I was invited to audition for RCS juniors.

After a successful application, I start my studying in musical theatre in September. I am so super excited for this new chapter, and I aim to study for a BA in musical theatre with RCS.

What are you looking forward to the most in Edinburgh?

I am most excited for the interaction with the audience afterwards, I love hearing what people think and breaking the barrier of performer to audience.

Last year, during the run of Walkin’ Back, I had a woman from America after the show speak kindly to me about my performance. She said that if my talent was nurtured properly, it may lead to a successful career. I couldn’t stop smiling.

Getting complimented, and especially by strangers is very uplifting and a sign I am progressing in my career.

EdFringe is a unique, wonderfully diverse festival which allows you to meet a variety of not only audiences, but a wide range of people who have had a varied experience in performing arts.

Where can we see your work after Fringe?

Hopefully we have a successful run at the Fringe with Walkin’ Back. The show can still be seen at later dates this year at local venues.

Aside from the Fringe, this year you can see me playing Taylor Mckessie in High School Musical in September, and The Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz in December.

In 2026, I hope to continue being a part of the Edinburgh Fringe.