We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Lian Ben Porat. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Lian below.
Lian, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?
SECOND NATURE is my debut one-woman show, and it’s as personal as it gets. I wrote it to tell the story of a young girl—inspired by my own journey—fighting to take back control of her life. She dances through every obstacle, stumbles, laughs, cries, and somehow finds her strength. I wanted to create something for anyone who’s ever felt stuck or scared to take the next step, because I’ve been there too. Writing and performing this show has been both terrifying and freeing. it’s my way of saying, “You keep going, cause that’s what life is all about.” It’s funny, raw, heartfelt, and full of dance, and I promise it’s a ride you won’t forget.
Lian, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I’m an actress, dancer, and singer, and honestly, I’ve been doing this for as long as I can remember. I’ve worked on stage in plays and musicals, in front of the camera, toured as a professional dancer—you name it. I also write, and I’m especially passionate about creating my own original projects. For me, performing isn’t just a job; it’s who I am. I’ve always known this is what I’m meant to be doing, and I feel the most “me” when I’m on stage or on set. My goal with everything I create is to spark hope in people, whether that’s through a laugh, a powerful story, or a moment that makes them feel seen. I love collaborating with other artists, and I think what sets me apart is how much of myself I put into the work—it’s personal and it’s always about connection.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
Absolutely. For me, art has always been this beautiful pause button on life—a way to step out of the chaos and just be in the moment, whether you’re the one performing or the one watching. It’s that feeling when the world stops for a little while, and you’re completely caught up in a story, a song, or a dance. That’s what art did for me—it inspired me, it gave me hope, and in some ways, it even changed my life. My purpose as an artist is to give that same gift to others. If someone leaves one of my shows feeling lighter, braver, or more inspired to take the next step in their own life, then I’ve done my job.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
This question actually makes me think about Lisa Kudrow’s 2010 commencement address at Vassar (you can watch the full speech on YouTube)—she’s someone I’ve admired for years, both as an actress and as a person. In that speech, she reminded everyone that everything happens for a reason, that the timing of things matters, and that sometimes when one door closes, it’s only making room for a better one to open. I try to carry that with me in my own career: never stop, because your perfect opportunity might be just one turn away. She’s so inspiring to me, not just for her talent, but for the grace and honesty she brings to her work and her life.
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Image Credits
Lian Headshot- Theo&Juliet Photography