Everyone has a different path to success in the biz. Eva Noblezada was launched to musical theater superstardom at age 17 when her performance at the National High School Musical Theatre Awards, a.k.a. the Jimmys, earned her the lead role in the West End revival of “Miss Saigon.” Before she could finish high school in North Carolina, Eva was navigating the joys—and high-pressure demands—of pursuing a childhood dream at the highest level. This candid interview includes plenty of advice for young and early-career artists: “I am very grateful to have had that inner voice that I listened to...I did know how to say no.”

Eva has received Tony Award nominations for leading actress in a musical for both her Broadway appearances: 2017’s “Miss Saigon” and 2019’s Grammy Award-winning “Hadestown.” She now stars, and sings, in writer-director Diane Paragas’ hit Sony Pictures film “Yellow Rose,” the story of an undocumented Filipina teen turning trauma into country music. This episode is brought to you by The UNC School of the Arts’ School of Drama: www.uncsa.edu/drama

Listen also to Christine McKenna-Tirella’s advice for young actors considering college, plus a round-up of casting listings. For a sample of the advice and resources listed in Backstage’s college guide, click here: https://bit.ly/2SAjyN5

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Backstage has been the #1 resource for actors and talent-seekers for 60 years. In the Envelope, Backstage’s podcast, features intimate, in-depth conversations with today’s most noteworthy film, television, and theater actors and creators. This is your guide to every aspect of acting, from voiceover and commercial work to casting directors, agents, and more. Full of both know-how and inspiration, In the Envelope airs weekly to cover everything from practical advice on navigating the industry, to how your favorite projects are made, to personal stories of success and failure alike. Join host Jack Smart, Awards Editor at Backstage, for this guide on how to live the creative life from those who are doing it every day: https://bit.ly/2OMryWQ

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Special thanks to...

- Host: Jack Smart

- Producer: Jamie Muffett

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- Design: Mark Stinson and Caitlin Watkins

- Additional Support: Kasey Howe, Samantha Sherlock, Oriella St. Louis