Aspiring actress Mairi Houston cannot believe her luck at being given her first break in the West End.

On Saturday, March 4, the 26-year-old, who is from Wood Green, will take on the lead role in Naked Truth, at the Leicester Square Theatre, in Leicester Place.

She will play Alice, a young girl who is persuaded by television producers to appear on a reality television show called Celebrity Fly on the Wall, where she is forced to disclose details of her relationship with a boy who proposed marriage to her whilst they were at school together.

His treatment of Alice after she accepted his proposal led to fatal consequences that changed her life forever.

Mairi, who studied acting and creative industries at Bird College, in Sidcup, Kent, explains why she was instantly moved by the shock factor of the play…

How does it feel to be given your West End break?

I am delighted and relieved to be given the opportunity to perform at The Leicester Square Theatre, in the heart of the West End. The performing industry is saturated with talent so it's an extremely competitive career I have chosen. I feel like I'm on my way now!

How have rehearsals been?

Naked Truth is a dark comedy so rehearsals have made me laugh. It wasn't until we had a full cast reading the script that I realised how funny the play was. It's really nice to bounce off of the other cast members.

Can you tell readers more about the role you play?

I play the role of Alice, a sweet and innocent young lady who has a skeleton in her closet which she is forced to reveal.

Why did you want to get involved in this particular show?

I was sent the monologue when I was first invited to audition and I was instantly interested. It's a fast moving play and definitely has the shock factor at times, which is good fun to play.

Where did your passion for performing begin?

I've been performing since I was of the tender age of two. I started with dance lessons and then started acting and singing around the age of nine.

Does anyone else in your family act or just you?

Apart from the occasional homemade video, no! However, my Dad is very musical and my Grandfather was a wonderful dancer, so I reckon I get my creativity from my Dad's side.

What other shows have you appeared in the past?

I have been in many shows throughout college like Electra, Merrily we roll along and many more. Since graduating, I have been mainly involved with short film projects and love acting in both theatre and film.

How did you start performing?

I've always been performing. At school shows, stage school, college and now as my profession. It has always been a part of my life.

What are your plans for after this show?

Yes, I am very excited to be a part of a new play called Trash by Daniella Disilva. It is a very challenging role and can't wait to get my teeth stuck in. It will be on at The Courtyard Theatre in Hoxton from May 23 to 29 and then at Theatre N16 in Balham, but the dates are yet to be confirmed.

What advice would you give other aspiring performers hoping to break into the West End?

As long as you love it, never give up. Enjoy the journey and visualise your goals. I am constantly updating my goals, as I am only at the start of my journey and have a long way to go.

The Naked Truth will premiere at The Leicester Square Theatre, Leicester Place, WC2H 7BX, Saturday, March 4, 3pm, details: leicestersquaretheatre.com