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 how they got their start in the industry to their favourite shows, we want to know everything!
This week we caught up with Nadine Benjamin, currently performing as Mimi in La Bohème in English National Opera’s production, playing at the London Coliseum from 26 September.
1. My route into theatre was…
My journey into theatre has been somewhat unconventional. Rather than following a traditional path, I gained my experience by jumping in – attending summer schools while actively performing. Each performance taught me valuable lessons about what worked and what didn’t, and I made adjustments as I went – and I continue to do it to this day. I was fortunate enough to have the courage to ask people to mentor me, so I was surrounded by incredible mentors who generously shared their own experiences, which played a pivotal role for me. And then in 2017, I became a Harewood Artist with English National Opera, a significant milestone in my career.
2. My West End idol is…
Nica Burns is an incredible inspiration – a woman who has kept theatre thriving, which I absolutely admire. I can only imagine the challenges she must have faced to remain so strong and steadfast in her role. I recently completed an Executive MBA in Arts Innovation, inspired by women like Nica who have shown me the importance of not only having artistic vision, but also a sharp business mindset to navigate the industry.
3. My colleagues would describe me as…
I didn’t wish to do anyone’s thinking for them, so I asked and this was the reply: Innovative, entrepreneurial, focused, loving, determined, generous and intuitive.
4. My favourite show is…
I love The Mousetrap, Wicked and The Phantom Of The Opera. I really need to make more time to catch up on what’s currently showing in the West End. It can be tough to find the time with all the travel, but I’ve promised to take my niece to a show, so I’ll have to make it happen!
5. The career moment I’m most proud of is…
Two moments: standing in the Houses of Parliament recently making the welcome address on “Music Education for the Well-being of Children”, and winning “Best Performer in Opera” at the Black British Theatre Awards 2023 for my performance in Blue at the ENO.
6. The hardest part about my job is…
It’s definitely the administration – the daily emails and messages. An artist’s job has become 80% admin! I’m neurodivergent with dyspraxia and Tourette’s which affects my executive function, movement and balance. So I have to be very switched on and organised. I’ve been a mind coach for the last 22 years and as a result I have so many tools in the box which help me stay positive. And I enjoy having the confidence to ask for support when I need it!
7. If I wasn’t a singer, I would be…
I already do the two things I love – singing and being a mind coach/mentor. But if there was one more thing – I love interviewing people for TV, radio and podcasts.
8. Something people don’t know about me is…
I collect Wonder Woman comics and I have her outfit in my size at home.
9. The best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is…
You won’t always know all the answers but be willing to go and find it.
10. The one thing I wish I could tell my younger self is…
No just means not yet.
