ROSALIND Fountain speaks to another Southampton success story, singer and dancer Sarah Skeet...

Q) You were recently the support act for Motown legend Martha Reeves. That must have been an amazing experience?

A) "Yes, I was so excited to sing on the same stage as such an iconic star. I’ve always loved singing Dancing In The Street, although I didn’t sing it on the night! It was a real honour, not only to perform, but to actually meet Martha and chat to her. She is a real inspiration."

Q) Take us back to the beginning, when did your interest in singing start?

A) "When I was ten years old I joined the school choir and discovered my love of group harmony singing. Later I attended Wyvern Technology College in Fair Oak, then Barton Peveril College in Eastleigh, and I began taking singing lessons, leading to a Higher Diploma in vocals at the Academy of Contemporary Music."

Q) You are also an accomplished dancer. What are some of your dance achievements?

A) "I trained in ten styles, including Irish, Freestyle and ballroom, before becoming a qualified Freestyle dance teacher. When I was 18 I achieved fourth place at the Freestyle World Championships in Blackpool. In 2014 and 2015 I participated in the Great Britain Championships in Irish Dance, and was part of the Irish dance show Essence Of Ireland."

Q) You must have some great memories of your many performance highlights.

A) "I’ve been lucky to perform at the Royal Albert Hall, Portsmouth Guildhall, Ocean Cruise terminal, Talking Heads, Concorde Club and Southampton’s Music in the City Festival. And of course, the one I’ll never forget was the night I met Martha Reeves."

Q) Who has influenced you over the years?

A) "Growing up in the ‘90s I was inspired by Michael Jackson’s exciting stage presence and range, and by female singers such as Christina Aguilera. Soul singer Heather Small encouraged me to pursue my dreams, and was very interested to hear about my love for soul music."

Q) You probably don’t have much leisure time, so how do you unwind and relax?

A) "I enjoy long walks in the country or by the sea. Dancing is always a great way to unwind, as well as a good way to keep fit."

Q) What are you doing at the moment?

A) "Some time ago I joined the entertainments team at Haven Holidays as cast singer/team leader. Then earlier this year I was offered the opportunity to move up to the next step in the industry as entertainments manager, guiding and teaching a team of talented performers. I also sing and perform in the production shows, which I love doing. Southampton is home, so I will always be happy to perform in local festivals and venues when I’m back."