Helen is a theatre director, actor and acting teacher, who was born in England but has lived and worked in France and South Africa. She discusses her experiences of studying under legendary acting teacher Jacques Lecoq shortly before he died, growing up with mixed heritage, how the Black Eyed Peas helped her process the end of a relationship, and how she recently developed a love for Selena Gomez.

Listen along to Helen’s songs at this Spotify playlist. Discussions begin:

Simon and Garfunkel - Cecilia (01:31)

Joan Armatrading - Willow (06:24)

Goran Bregovic - Ederlezi (12:37)

Selena Gomez - Bad Liar (20:04)

Nina Simone - Wild is the Wind (24:20)

Black Eyed Peas - Shut Up (31:35)

Lalela Cape Town Choir - Senzeni Na (35:03)

Billie Eilish - Bury a Friend - (38:35)

Ismael Lo - La Femme Sans Haine (40:59)

You can find Helen on Instagram @frescotraining

Resources/Links:

• Visit Helen’s website.
• If you are affected by any of the issues in this episode, please go to the NHS website, and the website of the charity Mind. For emergency support over the phone, you can call The Samaritans free on 116 123.
• For men who want to talk to others in a private and safe space, visit Talk Club - founded by two Music To Survive By guests Ben Akers and Gavin Thorpe. Check out their episodes for more info about the initiative for male mental fitness.