School & Family Magazine Newstand Northwest ISD Winter 2017-18 | Page 19

Hulu and Netflix are global, which allow amazing shows
to be viewed in parts of the world that do not have access
to network TV or movie theaters. It’s amazing when you
realize people from all over the world are watching the same
shows and connecting at the same time. You hosted an event at Cinemark in Roanoke last year to
benefit children with special needs, where they were able
to watch a movie with special settings to make the sensory
experience tailored to their light and sound sensibilities.
What gave you the idea for that event?
Are there any actors or directors you hope to work with
one day? The Autism Society has promoted Sensory Friendly Films
for a number of years, but there were so few theaters
participating. We were able to work with AMC Cinemark
locations in Dallas and Fort Worth to starting hosting these
events and bring awareness to the area. It was amazing to see
so many families who had never been to a movie share that
experience for the first time. “Stranger Things” created an
opportunity for me to connect with so many amazing people
that I wanted to make sure that I was using the platform to
bring attention to something that was important to me.
Where do I start? There are so many talented people in the
industry that I have been a fan of for years just getting the
opportunity to work with any of them would be a dream
come true. Director would have to be Tim Burton who has
so many iconic movies. Keanu Reeves is someone I have
looked up to for both his acting abilities and how authentic
and generous of a person he is. I am also going to have to
add Dan Harmon to the mix and would love to do anything
with him, since I am such a fan of “Rick and Morty.”
Since shooting can take place almost anywhere, how do
you stay in touch with friends and family when you’re
away from home?
Again technology is so amazing and helps me keep in touch
with everyone no matter where I am. The tricky part is
adjusting to different time zones and shooting schedules.
When I am filming at night, we get lunch around 3 a.m. and
I just return their calls then and wake them up for fun.
What advice would you give to any students considering
careers in acting?
Honestly, I think the advice I have is important to every
student considering any career: You have to love what you
do and work extremely hard to make it happen. Nothing is
going to be handed to you, and there will be times that you
will struggle, but stay focused and never give up. School is
very important, but you also have to make an effort to learn
outside of school. Learn everything about something and
something about everything and you will go far. n
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