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 chatted to Jon Tsouras who is currently starring in the ensemble of Evita and understudies the roles of Che and Juan Perón. Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber‘s legendary musical returns to the West End, reimagined by the visionary award-winning director Jamie Lloyd.
1. My route into theatre was…
I grew up in Winnipeg, Canada and there isn’t really the equivalent college system that operates over here. I was a bit of a late starter, but I took singing lessons and dance classes. When I graduated high school, around 18 years old, I packed my things and set off for the glittering lights of Toronto. I was lucky enough to bag a great agent and started working. The rest is history!
2. My West End idol is…
My husband may be reading this… so the incomparable John Partridge! He’s my idol, now and forever…
3. My colleagues would describe me as…
Quietly confident, professional, good sense of humour, and kind… you’re not going to ask any of them are you?!
4. My favourite show is…
I was lucky enough to see Giant recently and it really blew my mind. To get to see John Lithgow in the flesh was extraordinary.
5. The career moment I’m most proud of is…
Probably that I’ve been blessed to have been able to sustain a career for the last 25 years doing something I love. This business is rough, it is seriously no joke. I’m proud that I’ve been able to do something I love.
6. The hardest part about my job is…
This production of Evita is incredibly physical, … now you don’t see that many 43 year old athletes out there! We have an amazing physio with us in rehearsals and you have to take care of yourself, but it takes a little longer to recover these days!
7. If I wasn’t an actor, I would be…
Well that’s the million dollar question! Anyone that’s worked in this industry for a time I’m sure has pondered this… I could see myself happy operating a cool little coffee shop – collaborating with local artists and DJs.
8. Something people don’t know about me is…
I am a citizen of the world! I am a Canadian, Greek, and British citizen.
9. The best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is…
You’ve got two ears and a mouth for a reason. Say less and listen more.
10. The one thing I wish I could tell my younger self is…
You are going to get to live out your dreams young Jonathan. Don’t be in a rush to grow up. Be kind to yourself and know that when you are able feel the most comfortable in your skin is when you will be the most successful.
