British actress Andrea Ware soars into the spotlight with her bold live-action turn as Burnheart in ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ (2025). Standing at 6′2″ and commanding the screen as a fierce Viking warrior, Andrea embraces physicality, presence, and power in a way that feels both liberating and groundbreaking. In this Women in Showbiz exclusive, she reflects on audience reactions, the magic of the premiere, and the empowering journey behind the role.
Since the theatrical release of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’, how have audiences responded to your performance?
The overall response to the movie has been incredible; it was pretty cool to say, “I’m in the best movie in the world!” The response to my personal performance has also been amazing—very positive, very exciting—both among old friends and people who are seeing me on screen for the first time. It’s always great to get good feedback.
What was it like attending the Los Angeles premiere of the film?
It was so dreamy! I flew out of London with my baby for a very quick visit—it was a fairytale from start to finish. From working with my stylist to select the right look, to walking the red carpet, talking to the press, and standing beside my amazing castmates, director, and producers—it was literally a childhood dream come true. This movie is so special to so many people, and that is the best part—that’s the heart of it.
You appeared as one of the Vikings in How to Train Your Dragon and have a background in combat training—can you tell us more about that experience?
One of my favourite things about playing a Viking is that I got to use all my strength and power—my physicality, my height, my voice, my presence—all were celebrated in this role, and that was very liberating.
“I’ve played many roles that required a degree of physicality; I love stepping into my power—mind, body, and soul.”
“Women are very powerful. Female Viking warriors were not that common; typically, it was the men who went to battle. There is a wild woman in all of us, waiting to be set free. There is certainly a warrior within us all. Staying strong and agile serves you well in life and especially as an actor. Every role requires a physical performance on some level, but playing a Viking—we could really go big! I’m not about playing small in any area of my life—if I’m too tall for you, no problem; keep it moving.
What advice would you give to other women hoping to succeed as actresses? Were there any specific tips or lessons that helped you the most along the way?
To decide to become an actor, there must have been a moment when you were on stage, or watching a play or your favourite movie, and your heart fluttered with nerves or excitement or joy or love.”
“A fire ignites within you, and I don’t think it ever burns out. It’s about how you channel this energy.”
“Develop your knowledge and skills—study the craft, study the greats, immerse yourself in the community. Work on short films and fringe theatre; learn about the role of the casting director, the cinematography. Slowly but surely, your dream will become your reality. Stay focused.
What are your hopes for future projects? Is there anything upcoming you’re especially excited about?
My hope for future projects is to collaborate with brilliant artists and share powerful stories. I love film—I love the feeling it gives me: the excitement and anticipation, the world you’re pulled into. I love theatre too—nothing compares to the moment you walk on stage in front of a packed, silent audience. Wow—talk about energy exchange. My dream is to keep doing what I love: keep learning, keep growing as an artist, and discovering stories… and I’m hoping to get a call about a certain story featuring a dragon and a Viking…!