My Top 5 Showtunes: Lucy St. Louis

Lucy St. Louis is currently playing Diana Ross in the UK premiere of Motown The Musical.

Her previous credits include Beautiful – The Carole King Musical (Aldwych), The Book of Mormon (Prince of Wales) and Ragtime (Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre). She also stars as Debutante in Disney's forthcoming live-action fantasy film Beauty and the Beast.

We caught up with Lucy and asked her: "If you were stranded on a desert island, which five showtunes could you not live without?"

1. "Aquarius (Let The Sunshine In)" from Hair

I love the joy, freedom and positivity from the music of Galt McDermot and the lyrics of James Rado/Gerome Ragni. They create a perfect happiness where you can be one with yourself without judgement or prejudice. It’s so exhilarating when the entire company unites to sing "Let The Sunshine In"!

2. "Hello Dolly" from Hello Dolly

Barbra Streisand has been one of my icons since I was a child. I used to watch all the old classic movie musicals with my grandma and became mesmerised by Streisand in performance and presence on screen. This score is full of greats, however the scene in Harmonia Gardens where she is greeted by Louis Armstrong singing the title song "Hello Dolly" is sheer class.

3. "Daddy's Song" from Ragtime

This show, and song in particular, holds a dear place in my heart, as it was the first job I ever got out of college covering Sarah at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Hearing such a soaring sound in that incredible space is pure magic. The melody captivates you from the very start.

My first introduction to "Daddy’s Song" was through the incredible vocals of Audra McDonald. She inspires me to be the best and most diverse actress I can possibly be.

4. "Don't Rain on my Parade" from Funny Girl

Another Streisand favourite! There are so many epic numbers: "My Man","People" and of course, "Don’t Rain On My Parade". These are songs I often find myself singing around my flat or in the shower. I recently got engaged and had "Sadie, Sadie" on loop for days!

5. "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" from Motown the Musical

Motown was the sound of my childhood. I have always adored this song and I am blessed to perform this classic every night at the Shaftesbury Theatre – it gives me the biggest buzz. The iconic orchestrations are so uplifting and in the show, serve as the perfect set up for an emotional reunion of all the Motown greats. The perfect euphoric way to end our special production!

Motown The Musical is booking at the Shaftesbury Theatre until 18 February 2017.