Joshua Bassett: "I wish I could dance!"

Aged just 19, Joshua Bassett has already established himself as one of Disney's brightest young things. 

The star of (deep breath) High School Musical: The Musical: The Series recently released the single Common Sense with an EP to follow.

Judging by his favourite song – the mournful masterpiece of a certain Scouse insect – the kid has taste to match his talent.

You can find out more in the interview below.  

Life

What upcoming project(s) are you most excited about?

Everything. Filming season two of HSMTMTS, recording and finishing my first studio album, and some other secret stuff in the works! Lot’s to look forward to and a whole lot of work to do!

What is your proudest professional accomplishment?

I have the great privilege of being able to act, sing, and songwrite all under one roof with my show! I am so grateful for all that Disney and Tim Federle (EP/creator) have contributed to bring High School Musical (the musical the series) to life!

If you could change one thing about your career, what would it be?

I wish I could dance! I’m not quite at a place where I feel totally comfortable dancing. I always envy and admire those who do!

What do you hope to achieve that you haven’t yet?

A hidden passion of mine is to write/direct! I’m trying to soak up as much knowledge and experience as I can while I’m filming. Maybe someday!

Outside of your family, who is / was your biggest inspiration?

For music, it’s Ed Sheeran for sure. The man is an absolute legend. A true singer-songwriter who captivated the world with only his wit and his guitar. (And ginger hair of course...)

Tell us something nobody knows about you…

One time me, all five of my sisters, my mom and dad (and even my dog!) were in a community theatre production of Annie. It was actually pretty impressive!

Lockdown

How are you finding lockdown?

It’s a rollercoaster for sure. Taking it one day at a time. It’s a devastating and lonely time for a lot of people, but good art can be incredibly therapeutic. As long as I cling to that, I’ll get through it!

Best thing about lockdown?

I am enjoying the time to really reinvent myself. I’m meditating and working through some tough stuff I never really had time to process. It’s a massive reset and a good time for self-reflection.

Worst thing about lockdown?

There’s such a thing as too much self-reflection… I miss seeing my friends, family, and second family (i.e. the cast of HSMTMTS). Human connection is priceless, and growing up in a big family makes self isolation especially tough.

Top tip for surviving lockdown?

Go outside just a little bit each day! The days where I take a break and walk outside for a beat really help keep me sane. I try to change things up a little bit every day.

If you could be locked down with one person, alive or dead, who would it be?

Probably Paul McCartney? He seems like he would be equal parts legendary/full of stories, and down to earth/chill. Also Yesterday is my favourite song of all time so it just makes sense.

What are you most looking forward to doing once lockdown is over?

Going to the beach! Seeing a movie with friends! Sitting down in restaurants!! Seemingly normal things you don’t realize are important until they’re taken away.