As an actor, every job you do, you make a new family. There is something special about theatre and its ability to bring people together in a way that is unlike any other. I have made so many amazing friends throughout my career, and many of them share my love of books and literature. Since theatre brings stories to life, I thought I would feature some of my favorite performers (my fabulous friends and castmates) and see what their bookshelves look like! Welcome to my Broadway Book Chat!
Ben Bogen
Currently performing in Broadway’s Frozen!
instagram: @benmbogen
What are you currently reading?
The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
What is your favorite book series?
The Hunger Games by Suanne Collins
Who is your favorite author?
Lemony Snicket
What book inspires you and why?
Too Much Is Not Enough and Without You– Andrew Rannell’s autobiography and Anthony Rapp’s autobiography. Both really inspired me because they both started out as young gay men struggling to make it in this industry. I found it very relatable. It’s a reminder that everyone starts somewhere before they become the “successful” people everyone knows about.
Which literary character would you like to play?
One day when I am in my late 30’s/early 40’s I would like to play Harry Potter in Cursed Child more than anything in the whole world.
If you could be friends with any of the characters you have played, who would it be 
and why?
I think to be friends with Pepper in Mamma Mia would be a total blast because he’s energetic like me haha
What book would you like to see made into a musical/play/movie?
I think A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket would be a really cool musical, and I think Call Me By Your Name André Aciman would be a beautiful straight play.
What is the next book on your reading list?
I’ve been wanting to read Tina Fey’s book for a while, so I think maybe that next? I’m really into autobiographies lately. I also have been wanting to read Wild, the book that inspired the Reese Witherspoon movie.
Have you ever thought about writing yourself?
I try to journal a lot, but I constantly judge my writing when I actually do write. I used to write scripts for kid theatre camp shows back home and I always enjoyed it though.
What show are you currently in?
I’m currently in Frozen on Broadway in the ensemble understudying Olaf and Duke Weselton.
What is your favorite show you’ve been a part of and why?
My favorite show I’ve ever been a part of is Jersey Boys because I got to go on for Frankie Valli almost 50 times which was the first time I ever had to carry an entire show before. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done and the most satisfying marathon of a role I’ll probably ever play.
I feature a new performer every month, so check back for our next guest! I would really love some suggestions for new questions you would like to ask, or things you want to know. Leave them in the comments and I will add them to future interviews! Shout out to my friend Ben for sharing with us 🙂
Reading In The Wings 
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