20 Questions: Shoshana Bean – 'I never really wanted to be an actress'

1. Where did you grow up?
Olympia, WA and Portland, OR

2. What made you want to become an actor?
I just wanted to sing and perform, I never really wanted to be an actress it just kinda came with the territory.

3. If you hadn’t become an actor, what might you have done professionally?
Something in fashion, or maybe I would have taken over dad's business which is a hardware store.

4. First big break?
Hahahahaha still waiting for it! Everyone thinks it was Wicked because that's how the vast majority learned who I was. But I consider it to be my New York debut in the off-Broadway revival of Godspell. It was the greatest exposure and introduction to the city possible.

5. Career highlight(s) to date?
My two years in Hairspray, going on the Queen Latifah show, singing back up for Michael Jackson. I cant pick just one!!

6. Worst ever audition?
Oh there are too many to name. I've blocked them all out.

7. What was the first thing you saw on stage that had a big impact on you?
Well Cats was my first Broadway show, and I prepped for months beforehand and learned the entire soundtrack, so I suppose that started the love for musical theatre. Along with the Annie movie of course!

8. And the last?
I honestly don't even remember the last time I saw a show! For shame!

9. Who are your idols?
Grace Potter, Frank Sinatra, Jennifer Lopez, Aretha, Tina.

10. What's the best advice you've ever been given?
Be grateful and forgive all the rest.

11. Tell us more about your show.
It will be an experience! With a great variety of styles so as to please everyone who's expecting anything specific from me! Also I like to create a show that will be enjoyable and memorable even for the person who has no idea who I am and was dragged by their friend. I want that person to leave feeling moved and glad they came.

12. Why did you want to bring your show to London?
First of all I love the city so incredibly much. Beyond that the amount of love and support Londoners show me is so fulfilling and exciting. You guys appreciate music and live performance in a way that makes it such a treat and a pleasure to be there performing.

13. Favourite moment/line in the show?
Well I can't give surprises away!

14. Any funny stories from being on the road?
Hahahaha nah not really.

15. What do you enjoy most about acting?
I guess being able to bring my personal experience to the table. Knowing all I've been through is never in vain because I'm always able to draw from it and share it in characters and through song.

16. And least?
Nothing.

17. If you could go back in time and see a single production, what would it be?
Probably the original West Side Story or Sweet Charity.

18. How do you unwind?
In bed watching Hulu and Netflix! Also I recently picked up the ukulele and playing it has become very therapeutic.

19. If you could swap places with anyone for a day, who would it be?
Beyoncé.

20. What's next?
Working on Beaches right now and a fourth album.

Shoshana – Back in London takes place on 3, 4 and 5 June at the Hippodrome Casino, Leicester Square. For more information and to book tickets click here.