I began with dance, doing ballet at 3, then tap, jazz, modern. Then I sang in church choirs, learned how to play clarinet and drums, sang with rock bands and only then did I get into musical theatre.

I want to make smart choices.

It's one of those dreams I thought would be unattainable for someone like me, who came from nowhere.

When I was a 7-year-old girl, in my bedroom, on my karaoke machine, I would sing 'On My Own' or do a one-woman version of 'Les Miserables.'

I like to scare myself and throw myself off the deep end.

I've learned that I've got to keep level-headed.

The day you stop learning and creating must be the most boring day.