Donna, originally from Peterborough, says Lipa was her first college choice.
"I had been head girl at a grammar school, but thought it best to get a degree. "I got into Lipa with the required three
A-levels. The entrance exam included singing a song (Time Heals Everything from Mack And Mabel); a Shakespeare speech; an essay; a devised piece of theatre and a workshop.
"I am lucky that I can sing as well as act. In this show that's important. You have to be able to take the audience on a journey."
Thoroughly Modern Millie is derived from the sumptuous but overlong 1967 movie starring Julie Andrews, Mary Tyler Moore and James Fox .
The hit song remains Everything Today is Thoroughly Modern, but with much else added: "I'm certainly NOT Julie Andrews," says Donna.
The mood, however, remains true to the 1920s Charleston era of flappers and emerging jazz, with some additional 21st century humour, including henchmen who sing the Al Jolson hit My Mammy in Chinese.
Talking of which, Donna insists that Liverpool has the best Chinatown in the UK.
"I love my Chinese food, and I tour, so I can assure you of that. I can't wait to get back. Liverpool has become home from home for me, unlike like London, where no-one says boo to a goose." "As for the show, it's for everyone from kids to grannies. It's not Jerry Springer The Opera."
* Thoroughly Modern Millie, Empire theatre, September 6 to September 17.
