**Shoshana Bean Reflects on Her Journey to a 2026 Tony Nomination for ‘The Lost Boys’**
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Broadway actress Shoshana Bean has opened up about her experience in the musical adaptation of *The Lost Boys*, a role that has brought her a nomination for Best Featured Actress at the upcoming 2026 Tony Awards. Initially, Bean was hesitant to accept the character of Lucy Emerson, a recently divorced mother featured in the stage adaptation of the classic 1987 vampire film. The actress revealed that her instinct was to decline the offer, believing it to be a typecasting of her as a mother yet again.
Conversing with PEOPLE, Bean elaborated on her reluctance, stating, “Everything about this role made me want to run in the other direction.” She expressed her discomfort with the industry’s tendency to pigeonhole women, particularly over the age of 40, into maternal roles. “It’s just like, ‘Is that where we’re at? That’s all that’s left for women over 40? We’re just mums and nothing else?’” she said, explaining her initial resistance stemmed from a desire not to be defined by motherhood.
Despite not being a mother herself, Bean feels an innate maternal energy. “I don’t have children, but I know that my instinct is so maternal,” she shared. “I’ve been mothering long before (and even despite) not being a mum.” This duality in her identity contributed to her struggle with accepting the role, as she sought to explore more diverse narratives beyond motherhood.
However, Bean ultimately found that Lucy’s character offered far greater depth and complexity than she had initially perceived. Her perspective began to shift when she considered the creative team behind *The Lost Boys*. The opportunity to collaborate with acclaimed director Michael Arden, along with the supportive presence of longtime friends who were lead producers, reignited her interest. She recalled how a performance by L.J. Benet, who plays Lucy’s son, evoked strong emotions within her, compelling her to re-evaluate her initial reservations.
“I want to be in whatever room that kind of raw, authentic heart is moving through someone,” Bean remarked, reflecting on how her heart overruled her head in this decision. “I’m so glad that I listened to my heart,” she added, highlighting the importance of emotional intuition in her journey.
In her performance, Bean has consistently showcased her formidable vocal talent, particularly in the song “Wild”. Her portrayal of Lucy provides a poignant balance, providing both strength and vulnerability. The character’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment resonated with Bean on a personal level. She expressed, “I identify with her in terms of feeling that after you pass a certain phase of life, you’ve lost your ferocity or your fearlessness.”
This personal connection mirrors Bean’s own path over the last few years. An accomplished singer-songwriter, she has faced her challenges while exploring themes of self-rediscovery in her music. Her latest album, *Only Smoke*, delves into her experiences of healing through heartbreak, revealing her ongoing journey to reclaim her identity and strength. “I think anyone, regardless of age or circumstance, can relate to feeling like they’ve lost pieces of themselves,” Bean stated.
Through portraying Lucy, Bean has found a powerful intersection of their experiences, one that allows her to reclaim aspects of herself that had been overshadowed. “It’s not letting age or time or experience rob you of being the fullness of who you are,” she articulated, expressing gratitude for the new perspectives the role has afforded her.
Looking ahead, Bean finds herself once again at the forefront of Broadway with *The Lost Boys*, which she describes as one of the most significant experiences of her career, rivaling her time in *Hairspray*. With her third Tony nomination on the horizon, she feels a renewed sense of joy amid the awards season. “I think one of the major factors in that has just been the sheer joy of being a member of this particular company,” she said, acknowledging how this camaraderie has helped quiet her inner critic.
As the Tony Awards approach, Bean focuses not on perfection but on growth and connection. “My goal is always to just be better than I was the day before,” she said, emphasising her commitment to personal and artistic growth. With tickets for *The Lost Boys* now on sale, excitement builds for the 2026 Tony Awards, scheduled to take place at Radio City Music Hall on 7 June. The ceremony will be broadcast live on CBS, allowing fans to share in the celebrations of Broadway’s finest talents.