My acting career began when I auditioned for Beautiful – The Carole King Musical. I had no plans to work in theatre, but after losing my deal at Island Records, a friend mentioned he was auditioning for a new West End show. I didn’t have an agent at the time, so I emailed the casting director, who squeezed me into a cancelled slot. After multiple rounds of auditions, I was cast as Janelle, alongside that dear friend. That year was incredible and a huge learning curve.

Despite growing up just a short train ride from central London, I’d seen fewer than a handful of shows. But on that job, I was lucky enough to work with some incredible talent who, above all, loved acting. Watching their process inspired me to delve in myself. So I started researching, reading, and attending acting classes and workshops.

I’m not what people would call a born performer. I started training relatively late, was fairly shy, and although I loved singing, acting and dancing, the idea of being watched terrified me. After college, I thought accounting was my future. I even started a 9 to 5, but it just didn’t fit. So I pivoted, enrolled in a short dance course, and made a conscious choice to work through my nerves. I used every free learning resource I could find.

Though this might not be everyone’s experience, the performers around me have always been a huge source of support, especially other women, often up for the same kinds of roles. It hasn’t always been easy. I’ve regularly had to realign with my creative goals and reconnect with what I love about this industry, instead of chasing what others define as success. Every job I’ve taken, I’ve felt slightly under-qualified. But I thrive in that space. I love learning on the job, and hopefully finish each one a better artist. You’ll never know everything in this industry, and that’s exciting.

My advice? If something doesn’t serve you, learn the joy of ‘no’. Keep growing, and stay open, you’ll constantly surprise yourself and maybe others too. Don’t let fear – or this career – define your worth.

CV: Tanisha Spring

Age: Undisclosed
Training: Various London and NYC-based acting classes and workshops
Theatre includes: Moulin Rouge!; Groundhog Day; The Prince of Egypt; Little Shop of Horrors; Shuck ’n’ Jive; Caroline, Or Change; Beautiful – The Carole King Musical
TV/radio includes: Rocketman
Other credits: Kitchen Party (Island Records)
Agent: Denton Brierley