About two million viewers voted for Connie Fisher Enlarge Image

"I'll definitely be under the watchful eye of the audience, but apparently The Sound of Music never has good reviews so that's a relief," she said.

Fisher won the lead part after competing in BBC talent search show How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?

The 23-year-old from Pembrokeshire in west Wales added she is not nervous.

'100% supportive'

"I'm most looking forward to the curtain going up on the opening night. I believe every musical star has their show and I do believe this is my show. I feel confident in this role," she said.

I can't believe it. It's amazing. Somebody pinch me Connie Fisher

But she did admit that her confidence wavered slightly when she first met the cast.

"It was extremely nerve-wrecking on the first day of rehearsals but everyone has been so accepting and welcoming.

"The casting was controversial, I was expecting some people to worry about the way I was cast but no-one seems less than 100% supportive."

The news that she won the part is still sinking in. "I can't believe it. It's amazing. Somebody pinch me," said the actress.

Connie Fisher has won a six month contract to play Maria von Trapp

"It's mad. It's like a massive dream, it's almost like someone is going to burst my bubble anytime soon."

Last month the BBC talent show which helped find the new Maria was accused of manipulating the result.

Lord Lloyd-Webber defended the show and is now considering legal action.

"We had no idea who was going to win it," said the composer.

"I don't see how you could fix it," he added. "I didn't know until three minutes before the end of the show."