In our profile series Tell Us In Ten, we ask cast members and creatives of top London shows to tell us all about themselves in just 10 questions. From the best part of their jobs to the hardest, we want to know it all!
This week we’re chatting to Evelyn Hoskins, who stars as Portia in Something Rotten! In Concert, playing at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane on 5 and 6 August.
1. My route into theatre was…
I auditioned for the transfer from Broadway of Spring Awakening when I was 19. It was back in the day, pre-email, so I posted my headshot and CV to casting director Pippa Ailion and they brought me in. I booked the job and it all just went from there! I feel so lucky to still be working 15 years later.
2. My West End idol is…
Clare Burt, who also happens to be my best friend! She’s so good, I’ve learned everything I know from her.
3. My colleagues would describe me as…
I’d hope they’d say I was consistent on stage. I’m also usually the social secretary on a job, I love organising company meals and extra curricular activities!
4. My favourite show (that isn’t one I star in/work on) is…
It’s a fairly new one, but I saw Kimberly Akimbo on Broadway last year and ended up revisiting it, which I rarely do. It’s just so uplifting, life affirming and the music is beautiful.
5. The career moment I’m most proud of is…
Producing and starring in the Spring Awakening 15th Anniversary Concert earlier this year. Bringing everyone back together and getting to perform that incredible show again with the original cast, band and crew – the whole night was absolutely electric.
The cast of Spring Awakening 15th Anniversary Concert 2024. Photo by Danny Kaan.
6. The hardest part about my job is…
Having a healthy work/life balance. I think because I enjoy what I do so much I sometimes forget it’s work – so I’m trying to create a life I love outside of that.
7. If I wasn’t an actor, I would be…
A midwife.
8. Something people don’t know about me is…
I grew up in the countryside, in Somerset. I’m really proud of where I’m from but I lost my accent when I was younger.
9. The best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is…
Bagels and donuts: you can be a donut but the panel you’re auditioning for just fancy a bagel that day. You can’t take it personally and they’re both great, but people have different tastes and needs.
10. The one thing I wish I could tell my younger self is…
You can only be you so don’t compare yourself to others. And trust your gut.
Something Rotten! is a hilarious mash-up of sixteenth century Shakespeare and twenty-first century musical theatre that delighted Broadway audiences for nearly two years. With its hit score performed by the London Musical Theatre Orchestra in full swing, this outrageous and hysterical show plays at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane for three performances only. Book your tickets on the Official London Theatre website.