Congratulations on your recent role in The Perfect Match! Can you tell us about that experience and that role?
It was incredibly educational. I am fairly new to being involved in the film industry, and any roles that I have booked in the past left me feeling that I wish I had more time on set and in front of the camera so that I could do my job well without being a nervous wreck. In Perfect Match, I very much felt a part of the team. John Barnard our director, invested a lot of care and time with me, and I was able to get to know the whole crew and feel comfortable, and have a fun time, which made things a lot easier when it came to getting grounded and being playful with the character. I felt very very fortunate to be there and still do feel very grateful I was given that opportunity.
When did you become an ACTRA member, and what was your first union gig?
My first union gig was on Todd and the Book of Pure Evil, I played “Bra Stuffing Girl” a very fine moment in my career, a clip I’ll use on my reel for the rest of my days. The director and the crew were very kind to me, which helped immensely in a terrifying, unfamiliar territory. I became an ACTRA member in 2012, shortly after joining CAEA.
How has being a member of ACTRA benefited you?
Well, it has definitely encouraged me to continue auditioning for film, and it has made me feel protected as an employee in the film industry. I never have any qualms when voicing concerns or asking questions to our reps. I feel very cared for in this union and I am very thankful for the opportunities that we have here in Winnipeg by being part of ACTRA. We have a massive, amazing talent pool, and the industry just keeps growing, so it’s a very comforting feeling to know we’re being supported.
What has been your favourite or most memorable role thus far?
In addition to “Bra Stuffing Girl” I was one of “Jimmy’s dancers” in the musical episode of Todd and the Book of Pure Evil. I do not think I will have an experience like that ever again. But I will also say, I loved being Shar in Perfect Match. She was a real good time. (that’s two, I cheated.)
How do you stay sharp? Do you have any training suggestions?
Coaches. Get instructors/actors you trust to work on scenes with you. ACTRA provides free Actor’s Gyms. Dissect the crap out of movies and television! What’s working ? What’s not working? WHY is it not working? SUBMIT for EVERYTHING, get those auditions so you have things to work on, expand your comfort zone, and practice, practice, practice.
Do you have any advice for other actors out there?
Work your butt off for your passions, that way no matter which way things unfold, it will always be worth it.
Make time to enrich your own life in as many ways as possible. More real life human experience and interaction, means more real life human colour to your characters.
And most importantly, (some every kind of person advice) when you’re ready to lose it on someone, eat something first, then decide if you’d like to follow through.
November 2017