acting

Name: Kayla Vera

Hometown: Brooklyn, NY

Current Location: Brooklyn, NY

TrunkSpace: When did you know that you wanted to act for a living?
Vera: Growing up, I had a very strict upbringing. I had to be home by 10 pm, I couldn’t wear any makeup or paint my nails in bright colors… and so I had always dreamt of escaping to some new place and being someone else, living someone else’s life even if only for an hour. And now as an actor, I have that opportunity. I can be a bad girl, a dangerous one or an evil one. I can be a lawyer, a mom or a femme fatale. I step into the souls of these new people and I can be them even if only for an hour. It’s fascinating. I’m a good girl deep down, so it is a lot of fun for me to be bad sometimes!

TrunkSpace: Was there a particular performance or actor/actress from your childhood that you remember being drawn to and inspired by?
Vera: I absolutely love and adore Nicole Kidman. I have been following her career for a while now and I get inspired by everything she does, especially the new HBO show she is in called “Big Little Lies.”

TrunkSpace: How did you decide to approach your career as an actor? Did you formulate a plan of how you wanted to attack what is known for being a hard industry to crack?
Vera: I’m not so much worried about “making it” in everyone’s eyes anymore as much I’m trying to enjoy my journey as an actor and constantly strive to become better. We all have a different concept of success and happiness and I feel that it’s more important to enjoy what you do, and be the best that you can be at it instead of trying to please everyone around you. Breathe, smile, keep learning and have fun!

TrunkSpace: When did you decide to move away from your home and pursue acting as a career? How old were you at the time?
Vera: I used to sing before. I traveled and performed live in front of large audiences, and had an amazing time exploring that passion of mine. A few years ago I decided to pursue acting. I joined SAG and have been studying at various acting schools in NY and LA. Sometimes when I take a break from school, I take on an indie project and it gives me an opportunity to test what I had learned in class, and master my own “style” of acting.

TrunkSpace: Was that move an easy transition for you initially? How long did it take you to feel at home and find a good support group of friends and peers?
Vera: For me transitioning from music into acting was relatively easy. I was already used to performing in front of live audiences, sometimes small and sometimes quite large ones. I was also used to the camera from filming a multitude of music videos where you have to create a character according to the song lyrics. It is just not as deep as the character work you would have to do for a film, but it is similar.

TrunkSpace: What has been been your biggest break in terms of a particular role or project thus far?
Vera: I haven’t had my “big break” just yet, but I’m working on it! 2017 is my year!

TrunkSpace: Is there a specific type of role you’d like to take on or a specific genre that you feel more at home in?
Vera: I’m very interested in modern drama. I would love to do theater… that is what I’m training for, but at the same time I’m open to other genres as well.

TrunkSpace: What would you say is the greatest strength an actor/actress can have outside of acting ability itself?
Vera: You have to really know yourself. Acting is so much more than technique. You have to feel every character you play on a very deep level so that you almost become a vessel of that energy, and then when it comes through in your performance, that’s when magic happens.

TrunkSpace: What is your ultimate dream when it comes to your acting career? Where would you like your path to lead?
Vera: I’m grateful having met some big people in the industry and also having had the opportunity to be mentored by a few of them. That alone to me is an accomplishment. I continue to grow as an actor and I feel that when the time is right, it will all fall into place for me. I’m in it to win it.

TrunkSpace: What advice would you give another young aspiring actor/actress who is considering moving away from home to pursue their dream?
Vera: My advice is… don’t let other people’s opinions dim the light that you have inside of you. That light is what makes you you! You have to protect it and develop it and let it shine bright, like a star in the night sky.

TrunkSpace: Where can people (and casting directors) learn more about you?
Vera:
My website www.kaylavera.com
My Instagram www.instagram.com/kaylavera.official

Name: Tim Drier

Hometown: St. Louis, Missouri

Current Location: Los Angeles, California

TrunkSpace: When did you know that you wanted to act for a living?
Drier: I fought this question for a long time. I still do. I’ll say this, a friend of mine once told me, “Sometimes the hardest thing to do on this journey is accept that you ARE an artist.” I believe this to be true, especially today. Now, every day, I take steps to accept what I believe I was created to do. Work in progress!

TrunkSpace: Was there a particular performance or actor/actress from your childhood that you remember being drawn to and inspired by?
Drier: Jim Carrey and Robin Williams. Both are always so exciting to watch! I was always so entertained. I try to carry that same energy into my own performances whenever possible.

TrunkSpace: How did you decide to approach your career as an actor? Did you formulate a plan of how you wanted to attack what is known for being a hard industry to crack?
Drier: One step at a time! I just started doing something. Classes first, advice from other actors, online research. Being proactive. This industry is too unpredictable for a plan.

TrunkSpace: When did you decide to move away from your home and pursue acting as a career? How old were you at the time?
Drier: I was doing a play back in St. Louis, venting to the woman playing my mother in the show, Anita Lipman, about my dreams of acting, adventure and a possible move to a bigger city. I had been throwing the idea around for quite a while. She said one thing after my rant. “What are you waiting for?” I had no answer. I left for LA two weeks after the run of that show. I was 24.

TrunkSpace: Was that move an easy transition for you initially? How long did it take you to feel at home and find a good support group of friends and peers?
Drier: It was like a dream. I loved the adventure aspect. The drive from home, exploring a new city, meeting new people. Quite different from Missouri, but I loved it! Then money started running low and it all got very real, but, I stuck it out, by the grace of God, and three years in I had a steady income, good people around me and found a good church. All I need.

TrunkSpace: What has been been your biggest break in terms of a particular role or project thus far?
Drier: Becoming a union actor sticks out. I had booked a nice costar role on an independent SAG pilot project, “Medicinally Approved,” and that put me in a SAG “Must Join” situation. Time to play in the big leagues!

TrunkSpace: Is there a specific type of role you’d like to take on or a specific genre that you feel more at home in?
Drier: I’d Love to work on a Christian Faith-based project. I’m really a fan of all genres and characters though!

TrunkSpace: What would you say is the greatest strength an actor/actress can have outside of acting ability itself?
Drier: Self-motivation. You gotta figure out your journey alone most of the time. Do something every day.

TrunkSpace: What is your ultimate dream when it comes to your acting career? Where would you like your path to lead?
Drier: I want to inspire the world! I’d like to be in a position of major influence. Where I can share my experiences and beliefs and tell stories that support these values.

TrunkSpace: What advice would you give another young aspiring actor/actress who is considering moving away from home to pursue their dream?
Drier: Save money. You gotta pay to play this game. Work hard developing your craft and business, and take time to live life! Travel, meet people, explore, fall in love 1000 times and even let your heart break.

TrunkSpace: Where can people (and casting directors) learn more about you?
Drier:
IMDB: www.imdb.me/timdrier
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCntJqHQJJHtRrnG32mT8zlA
FACKBOOK: www.facebook.com/timmybuilt
ACTORS ACCESS: http://resumes.actorsaccess.com/timdrier
LA CASTING: http://www.lacasting.com/timdrier

Name: Chelsea Mee

Hometown: Pickerington, Ohio (Just outside of Columbus)

Current Location: Los Angeles, California

TrunkSpace: When did you know that you wanted to act for a living?
Mee: I did theater as a kid, took some courses in my teens, and absolutely loved it, but I think I truly knew about two years ago. I did a gig for my friend Cody Carson and his band, Set It Off. We shot that music video for two or three days straight, barely ate anything or got much sleep, but I was absolutely in love with the job.

TrunkSpace: Was there a particular performance or actor/actress from your childhood that you remember being drawn to and inspired by?
Mee: I was always drawn to Leonardo DiCaprio, Heath Ledger, and Johnny Depp. Not only is their acting craft immaculate, but the fact that they can completely go into a third dimension and truly create their characters, it is a dream. Creating is the dream.

TrunkSpace: How did you decide to approach your career as an actor? Did you formulate a plan of how you wanted to attack what is known for being a hard industry to crack?
Mee: So, it’s tricky, because I’ve always known that I wanted to be an actor. I’ve been a musician my entire life, but acting was always a focus of mine. Unfortunately, acting and music had to take a back seat while I dealt with some personal life problems, that I now find important to talk about. In September, I’ll have five years sober, and I truly believe that it has taken a big part of where I am in my career today. After I shot that music video, I decided that acting was definitely what I wanted to do full time, forever. Then things, and people, started to just, kinda, show up in my life. Jessica Cameron showed up in my life, introducing me to my first agent, Ali Ferda with PCG Talent. From there, I started auditioning, doing the suggestions I was told to do, and then, boom. “Dog Eat Dog” happened. Then BOOM. I shot “Bring Me a Dream” down in Atlanta. Then BOOM, I shot “First Kill” in Columbus. I still honestly have no idea what I’m doing, but I’m taking suggestions as they come and just putting the work in every day.

TrunkSpace: When did you decide to move away from your home and pursue acting as a career? How old were you at the time?
Mee: I made the decision when filming “Bring Me a Dream” down in Atlanta. My friend Jesse Kove suggested it to me, and I think that’s when it truly became real in my mind that I needed to. It wasn’t so much of a want anymore. I was actually supposed to move here, to LA, last September, but I ended up getting a role in “First Kill,” so I held off for one more month, gladly. So I’ve been officially living here in LA for about seven months now! Flew right by.

TrunkSpace: Was that move an easy transition for you initially? How long did it take you to feel at home and find a good support group of friends and peers?
Mee: The move was scary, yes, but I’ve made a big move like this before. I lived in South Florida for a couple years while I was getting sober, so the move wasn’t as terrifying as the fear of failure. The transition was interesting. Traffic here is no joke, but I had some friends out here already, luckily, who helped me feel right at home.

TrunkSpace: What has been been your biggest break in terms of a particular role or project thus far?
Mee: I feel like they all been some sort of break for me. I mean, my first role in my first movie ever was with Nicolas Cage and Willem Dafoe! What?! Working for Paul Schrader?! Then another movie with Martin Kove?! Then another movie with Bruce Willis?! It still honestly doesn’t feel real to me, but I hope to continue on working and feeling more of this gratitude.

TrunkSpace: Is there a specific type of role you’d like to take on or a specific genre that you feel more at home in?
Mee: I find comfort in comedy, it feels more natural to me; but then again, I love being able to lose myself in a character, such as a drama. Tapping into those feelings, that in real life may make me feel uncomfortable at times. I think being able to show vulnerability is strength, acting or not.

TrunkSpace: What would you say is the greatest strength an actor/actress can have outside of acting ability itself?
Mee: Self-worth, absolutely. Without knowing your worth or loving yourself, this industry can make you quite miserable. Patience is another good thing to practice, because there tends to be a lot of waiting as well. Just keep your head in the game and do not give up. Hard work pays off.

I’m talking to myself as well. (Laughter)

TrunkSpace: What is your ultimate dream when it comes to your acting career? Where would you like your path to lead?
Mee: Obviously it would be nice to make this my only source of income, but that’s not the dream. The dream is to not only grow as an actor, but as a human. Each role, I’ve learned more about myself, and have been able to take a piece of each role with me.

TrunkSpace: What advice would you give another young aspiring actor/actress who is considering moving away from home to pursue their dream?
Mee: Man, that’s a tough one. This industry is SO full of many talented people, especially in Los Angeles. I’m in a HUGE pond, and I’m still a tiny minnow. There are a lot of No’s, an abundance of rejection, and even some heartbreak. Be able to be vulnerable, but have a smart mind, a good entrepreneur work-ethic, THICK skin, and low expectations. Makes it easier for me, that is. It’s a business. Learn the business. Be your own CEO and find good people to have in your corner. Don’t let the No’s turn you away from that Yes that’s waiting for you.

TrunkSpace: Where can people (and casting directors) learn more about you?
Mee: I’m pretty much everywhere, except for Tumblr, because I have no idea what it is.

Facebook- ChelseaMeeOfficial
Instagram- ChelseaMeeOfficial
Twitter- Chelsmeezy
Vimeo, Youtube, Soundcloud, Musical.ly, Snapchat, IMDb, Actors Access, LA Casting, Backstage

And I want to make it known, if you are out there struggling with drugs and alcohol, you don’t have to. Reach out to me, I will do my best to help you.
Email: [email protected]

Name: Juliette Audrey

Hometown: Hmm. Well, technically I was raised in Santa Monica, but my family moved up to Thousand Oaks when I was about seven… then I was in Malibu and LA every day working, so let’s just say the whole LA region.

Current Location: Los Angeles, CA

TrunkSpace: When did you know that you wanted to act for a living?
Audrey: I always love this question because I genuinely don’t have an answer. I’ve always known that this is what I was gonna do. Kinda weird maybe, but there has never been a moment in my life where I thought “Hmm, what other career choices do I have?”

TrunkSpace: Was there a particular performance or actor/actress from your childhood that you remember being drawn to and inspired by?
Audrey: Well, what’s interesting is my family has always been in this industry, so I’m not sure if it was seeing my aunt in one of her movies that first inspired me or just watching TV as a kid and knowing that would be me one day. Cliche, I know.

TrunkSpace: How did you decide to approach your career as an actor? Did you formulate a plan of how you wanted to attack what is known for being a hard industry to crack?
Audrey: As I mentioned before, I come from a family of actresses. With that being said, my mom was always hesitant to help me succeed in this industry at a young age because she knew how hard it was on kids. Because of this, I had to, for lack of better words, do all of the work by myself since the age of 11. I always knew how cutthroat this world is, even from a young age, but I had so much determination to land myself auditions and representation, I didn’t really care what it took. There was no plan, just kinda going with the flow and making sure something happened.

TrunkSpace: When did you decide to move away from your home and pursue acting as a career? How old were you at the time?
Audrey: (Laughter) When I was 15 I promised I was going to run away from home and go live in LA if my parents didn’t support me. Fortunately that didn’t happen, even though I think that would have been a crazy story to share. Thankfully I live so close to LA that moving out immediately was never a top concern. However, I do end up staying in Hollywood for weeks at a time depending on how many auditions or meetings I have! Pursuing acting seriously as a career I guess started when I was 16 and got my GED so I could be considered an adult in the industry. I did continue school until I graduated at 18, but started going on serious auditions my sophomore year of high school.

TrunkSpace: Was that move an easy transition for you initially? How long did it take you to feel at home and find a good support group of friends and peers?
Audrey: Growing up in Los Angeles someway or another, and being homeschooled towards the end of my high school life, I was able to meet friends in this industry and grow relationships while others were stuck in school. This kind of gave me a leg up when I became an “adult” and had to start seriously focusing on my career and transitioning my life into being more independent. The friends that I made and the friends I already had, are the best support system in the world.

TrunkSpace: What has been been your biggest break in terms of a particular role or project thus far?
Audrey: I’m actually currently filming a movie right now with an amazingly talented cast and I’m so excited! This is probably what I’m most proud of thus far. The feedback I had received from one of the producers and the director of the film when I first booked it, was some of the best I had ever gotten. Best part is, I booked the role I hadn’t initially gone in for and the character I play isn’t generally someone I’d be typecasted as. It’s been a lot of hard work and I am so, so, excited to see the finished product.

TrunkSpace: Is there a specific type of role you’d like to take on or a specific genre that you feel more at home in?
Audrey: I love a challenge. I love when I get sent in on an audition for a role that’s completely opposite of who I am as a person. Of course I’m grateful for any role I’d be considered for, but when it’s a character you know you would have to look deeply into, it makes your work even more of an adventure. As for genre, I love action. I would love to film as many projects that have a badass female lead. Generally with action as well you learn a lot about what your body can physically take on… stunts, etc.

TrunkSpace: What would you say is the greatest strength an actor/actress can have outside of acting ability itself?
Audrey: 100 percent I think every actor and actress needs to be self-reliant and have a strong back. If not, there’s no way you can survive in this industry. Hollywood is hard and many people don’t realize that until they step into this world where everyone is trying to make it. Everyone is an actor when you come to LA. But what makes you different than the waiter serving you at the restaurant who’s waiting for their big break? The amount of times you hear ‘No’ is ridiculous. If you aren’t able to take every “No” as inclination for you to keep pushing for the “Yes” it’ll be hard to get where you want to go.

TrunkSpace: What is your ultimate dream when it comes to your acting career? Where would you like your path to lead?
Audrey: Ahhh, so many things. My absolute dream would be knowing I had become an actress that younger girls say they want to be like. I want to be able to change people’s lives for the better through film. I want to be able to put messages out about love and kindness through doing what I love most in the world. Again, cliché, but truly that would be incredible.

TrunkSpace: What advice would you give another young aspiring actor/actress who is considering moving away from home to pursue their dream?
Audrey: DO IT. Don’t take no for an answer… but be respectful to authority. (Laughter) If this is what you love more than anything in the world, you deserve to make it happen. Everyone should be doing what they love for the rest of their life. The first step in making that happen is taking the initiative to make it happen. Just stay as strong as possible and never doubt yourself. If you think as positive as you can about yourself and your life, I promise you will get there! The universe doesn’t conspire against you.

TrunkSpace: Where can people (and casting directors) learn more about you?
Audrey:
[email protected]
IMBD–imdb.me/julietteaudrey
OR even better, talk to me!

Name: Dean Sharpe

Hometown: Lanett, Alabama

Current Location: Los Angeles, CA

TrunkSpace: When did you know that you wanted to act for a living?
Sharpe: As a kid I dreamed of being an actor, but it was a distant reality. When I moved to California and began to pursue acting is when I caught the “bug” and decided that acting is what I want to do.

TrunkSpace: Was there a particular performance or actor/actress from your childhood that you remember being drawn to and inspired by?
Sharpe: Not a particular performance, but I would get sucked into the world of any movie and get so close to the characters. I remember not being able to watch dramas as a kid because I would cry my eyeballs out and mourn over characters. That’s when I was only allowed to watch comedy.

TrunkSpace: How did you decide to approach your career as an actor? Did you formulate a plan of how you wanted to attack what is known for being a hard industry to crack?
Sharpe: At the beginning, I knew that gathering information was important. I would gather information then check it out online. Even though some people would tell me negative things about a certain agency, company, or class, I would still check them out to make my own assessment. Performing as much as possible on any platform not only to get better, but to get comfortable in front of people as well.

TrunkSpace: When did you decide to move away from your home and pursue acting as a career? How old were you at the time?
Sharpe: At the age of 25 I decided to pack up my car and move to California. I had recently gave up football and dreams of playing for the NFL and began working an office job. That’s when I started to make my five year plan and was not happy with where my life was going.

TrunkSpace: Was that move an easy transition for you initially? How long did it take you to feel at home and find a good support group of friends and peers?
Sharpe: Moving to LA five years ago was an easy transition because I was happy and excited about the unknown, I also knew I had things somewhat sorted for when I moved there thanks to my thorough research into the various Manhattan Beach real estate agent options I could choose from. It was easier knowing I could settle right into my own property as soon as I entered the city. Before getting there, the only thing I knew about going to California is that I would meet people. I’ve met a lot of people, but not all productive to my career path. Within the last two years through improv I’ve found a good support group. It takes time, but well worth the wait.

TrunkSpace: What has been been your biggest break in terms of a particular role or project thus far?
Sharpe: Last year I was cast in a very popular national Samsung commercial that had over 20 million views on YouTube. Personally I’m looking forward to a role that I played in a few episodes of the highly anticipated return of “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”

TrunkSpace: Is there a specific type of role you’d like to take on or a specific genre that you feel more at home in?
Sharpe: I’m still young in the industry but I’m always looking for new challenges so I can actually learn what I do like or don’t like. Naturally I joke around and like to make people laugh, so it seems that the timing of comedy comes more naturally.

TrunkSpace: What would you say is the greatest strength an actor/actress can have outside of acting ability itself?
Sharpe: Being a great person. Sometimes it boils down to who would you like to spend three to six months or a few seasons of a series with.

TrunkSpace: What is your ultimate dream when it comes to your acting career? Where would you like your path to lead?
Sharpe: I would like to work on a successful TV series for four to five years, establishing experience and a fanbase and then convert to films and establish my place in that industry while creating content that can be displayed on both platforms.

TrunkSpace: What advice would you give another young aspiring actor/actress who is considering moving away from home to pursue their dream?
Sharpe: Don’t be afraid to make sacrifices, moving away from your family is a big one but there will be many more to come and we have to decide what sacrifices we are willing to make.

TrunkSpace: Where can people (and casting directors) learn more about you?
Sharpe: You can find my work and bio on:
about.me/deansharpe
backstage.com/deansharpe
imdb.com/name/nm6032530/

Name: Jessica Velle

Hometown: Los Angeles, CA

Current Location: Los Angeles, CA

TrunkSpace: When did you know that you wanted to act for a living?
Velle: When I watched “The Little Mermaid” for the first time when I was about four. My babysitter used to teach an after school program and I’d come along with her and always ask to perform Little Mermaid monologues for the class.

TrunkSpace: Was there a particular performance or actor/actress from your childhood that you remember being drawn to and inspired by?
Velle: Yes, Lucille Ball. She wasn’t afraid to be silly. She’d take risks on making a complete fool of herself and didn’t care. I always wanted to be that brave, where I wasn’t afraid to embrace a character fully without worrying what it would look like on screen.

TrunkSpace: How did you decide to approach your career as an actor? Did you formulate a plan of how you wanted to attack what is known for being a hard industry to crack?
Velle: My mom was very persistent at me pursuing acting and modeling at such a young age. She would see how involved and committed I was in plays or how I would prank call people and create the most strangest characters over the phone and I’d really run with it. It got me grounded a lot, but she really saw how much I loved to perform and really believed I was meant to be on TV and in film. I was really shy as a child at first and I could make a room laugh, but the minute I’d be in front of a camera (with me knowing) I’d get really nervous and freeze up. In the beginning it made it really hard for me in the audition room. Casting directors loved me but would in the end say, “She’s not ready.” After a couple years I started getting involved in acting workshops and worked with different acting teachers and it broke me out of my shell. I learned to love the camera.

TrunkSpace: When did you decide to move away from your home and pursue acting as a career? How old were you at the time?
Velle: I’m very lucky to grow up in Los Angeles. City of Dreams. LA Native, there’s not many of us.

TrunkSpace: What has been been your biggest break in terms of a particular role or project thus far?
Velle: I’ve been really lucky to work with some amazing projects, but I think the one that’s been most effective for me is the role I’ve been creating for myself. This industry can be cutthroat and sometimes you find yourself chasing roles that don’t really fit and I wanted to see my career grow in a direction that would make me take leaps and bounds. So I wrote my first comedy two years ago called “It’s Not Me, It’s You” and it really got a lot of attention and people started labeling me as a comedian and wanted to see more of my writing and acting.

TrunkSpace: Is there a specific type of role you’d like to take on or a specific genre that you feel more at home in?
Velle: I’m definitely more of a method actress… I can transition into anything. Lately, I’ve been really interested in some more fun action sequences and projects.

TrunkSpace: What would you say is the greatest strength an actor/actress can have outside of acting ability itself?
Velle: Having dignity and self respect. Be a good human. Do to others as you have them do to you.

TrunkSpace: What is your ultimate dream when it comes to your acting career? Where would you like your path to lead?
Velle: I just want to tell really great stories and work with actors, writers and directors who have inspired me along my journey and in the end inspire someone who needs inspiration.

TrunkSpace: What advice would you give another young aspiring actor/actress who is considering moving away from home to pursue their dream?
Velle: Know yourself. Know your worth. Know what you want. Keep your emotions in the audition room and invest in a back brace, you’ll need a strong back bone to survive.

TrunkSpace: Where can people (and casting directors) learn more about you?
Velle: My website is www.jessicavelle.com. All Twitter and Instagram is under @jessicavelle
IMDB: www.imdb.com/Jessicavelle

Name: Larry Ulrich

Hometown: La Marque, TX

Current Location: Los Angeles, CA

TrunkSpace: When did you know that you wanted to act for a living?
Ulrich: I knew I wanted to be an actor when I was watching the Oscars at the age of four. I would always tell my mother that one day she will see me winning an award on the same stage. From there, I’ve always positioned myself to be the best actor I can possibly be.

TrunkSpace: Was there a particular performance or actor/actress from your childhood that you remember being drawn to and inspired by?
Ulrich: I was always drawn to Laurence Fishburne. I enjoyed his performance in “School Daze” and later, “Boyz n the Hood.” From there, I’ve supported his films throughout. One of my goals is to study under him as I continue to earn leading roles.

TrunkSpace: How did you decide to approach your career as an actor? Did you formulate a plan of how you wanted to attack what is known for being a hard industry to crack?
Ulrich: A.) I decided to approach my career by staying consistent with placing myself in environments where I can always network with people who are in positions to help me. B.) I did not have a plan formulated. I believe that if something is meant to happen, it will happen. All we can do is stay current and place ourselves in positions to be at the right place at the right time.

TrunkSpace: When did you decide to move away from your home and pursue acting as a career? How old were you at the time?
Ulrich: I moved from Texas to Los Angeles when I was 27 years old, back in 2007. I have been here 10 years.

TrunkSpace: Was that move an easy transition for you initially? How long did it take you to feel at home and find a good support group of friends and peers?
Ulrich: The initial move was an easy transition. It took years for me to feel at home due to financial hardships and living under various roofs. The struggling actor “stereotype” is factual. Later, I decided to work full-time and earn my master’s degree from Pepperdine University. Now as acting as my first priority, I can finally label myself as comfortable.

TrunkSpace: What has been been your biggest break in terms of a particular role or project thus far?
Ulrich: My biggest role was earning the lead in the Nollywood film “Ijé: The Journey.” I played Jalen Turner, a lawyer who was responsible for dismissing a first-degree murder charge for a woman who killed her abusive husband. This role gave me the confidence that I have the leading man talent.

TrunkSpace: Is there a specific type of role you’d like to take on or a specific genre that you feel more at home in?
Ulrich: I always enjoy the genre of drama. I believe that drama stretches the actor’s range to make the character believable. I always thrive on challenges.

TrunkSpace: What would you say is the greatest strength an actor/actress can have outside of acting ability itself?
Ulrich: The greatest strength is the ability to be professional and transparent to work with. I pride myself upon “easy to work with” because we never know what a director, cinematographer or producer’s tomorrow may be. People will always recommend or refer you to other projects when you are likable.

TrunkSpace: What is your ultimate dream when it comes to your acting career? Where would you like your path to lead?
Ulrich: My ultimate dream is to have a consistent film acting career to where I’m financially and emotionally stable. I would like my path to be a path of inspiration and motivation for new up and coming actors.

TrunkSpace: What advice would you give another young aspiring actor/actress who is considering moving away from home to pursue their dream?
Ulrich: Do it. Don’t hesitate because it’s your dream and you are responsible for making it reality. Additionally, I would advise younger actors to create their own content. There are many platforms where creators can broadcast their talent. Creating your own content benefits the actor in many ways, such as learning the producing business through trial and error, establishing new connections and feeling the emotions of being in charge. Never give up and continue going after it.

TrunkSpace: Where can people (and casting directors) learn more about you?
Ulrich: Below are my manager’s information along with my social media handles:

Shakir Entertainment Management
Shaun Cairo (Talent Manager)
P.O. Box 274
New York, NY 10019
[email protected]
347-305-2881

www.larryulrichproductions.com
https://www.facebook.com/larryjulrich
https://www.instagram.com/larryulrichproductioncompany/?hl=en
https://twitter.com/larryjulrich
https://www.linkedin.com/in/larry-ulrich-ma-9b86198b/

Name: Jenna Lex

Hometown: Guilford, CT

Current Location: Los Angeles, CA

TrunkSpace: When did you know that you wanted to act for a living?
Lex: A similar cliché to most: I was in 4^th grade and we were putting on a show about the planets. I did not want to be a planet… I wanted to be the narrator because they stayed “onstage” the whole time. My teacher told my mom to get me into acting after that.

TrunkSpace: Was there a particular performance or actor/actress from your childhood that you remember being drawn to and inspired by?
Lex: My family was very limiting on being allowed to watch TV or movies, so I actually was never inspired by anyone until I became a teenager (and could sneak TV on my computer).

TrunkSpace: How did you decide to approach your career as an actor? Did you formulate a plan of how you wanted to attack what is known for being a hard industry to crack?
Lex: I turned 16 and had no idea what I was doing but I remember sending headshots and resumes to a laundry list of casting. It was not until I moved to LA that I truly understood how to attack it. I only ever knew the kind of acting I craved to do.

TrunkSpace: When did you decide to move away from your home and pursue acting as a career? How old were you at the time?
Lex: I asked to move away when I was 13, but it took ’til I was 19 when I went to college in NYC and just never returned home.

TrunkSpace: Was that move an easy transition for you initially? How long did it take you to feel at home and find a good support group of friends and peers?
Lex: I never truly felt at home in NYC. I think it was because I always knew it was a stepping stone to Los Angeles. The move to Los Angeles was surprisingly easy. It just felt right.

TrunkSpace: What has been been your biggest break in terms of a particular role or project thus far?
Lex: Ironically it was not in the medium I am working towards. However, I had booked a musical at Long Wharf Theatre a few years back. It was booking that completely on my own merit and in a medium that I am not as confident in that I realized what I was put on this planet to do.

TrunkSpace: Is there a specific type of role you’d like to take on or a specific genre that you feel more at home in?
Lex: Of course we all have that niche that we know we can rock the best, that we feel most comfortable in. You’d have to imagine Reese Witherspoon circa early 2000s for that image. But I look forward to the challenges of acting. Finding those roles that require you to be vulnerable, to tap into a part of you that you maybe shy away from in real life or don’t get the opportunity to explore. That’s the incredible part about acting. The opportunity to experience multiple lives. It is such a gift to be an actor. But I’m ranting now.

TrunkSpace: What would you say is the greatest strength an actor/actress can have outside of acting ability itself?
Lex: Drive. You have to want it. It’s that simple.

TrunkSpace: What is your ultimate dream when it comes to your acting career? Where would you like your path to lead?
Lex: I have always said to sitcom work. Mainly because making people laugh is vital, especially the way our world is shaping currently. However, the ultimate dream is the freedom. The level where you are able to jump around from TV and film, from comedy to drama to action or more. Where you aren’t boxed in so you feel you have the freedom to explore any aspect of the medium that you could possibly dream of.

TrunkSpace: What advice would you give another young aspiring actor/actress who is considering moving away from home to pursue their dream?
Lex: Do it. Do it now. Not later, not when you feel financially stable enough, not when where you’re living becomes too small. Because at the end of the day, you can always move again. So do it. Now. Now now now.

TrunkSpace: Where can people (and casting directors) learn more about you?
Lex: My handy dandy website www.jenna-lex.com and pretty soon you can come grab a drink and watch me perform with some improv comedy friends at iO West in Hollywood.

Also, because I am technically a millennial: my instragram is @jenna.lex

If you’ve been hesitant about booking Truthful Acting classes, visit the website now and get them booked! If you’ve been worried about going to an audition, go for it – what do you have to lose! If you’re passionate about your acting then you should go for it! Today’s guest is a perfect example of following her passions and how putting them first can allow you to succeed.

Name: Sarah Schodrof

Hometown: I was born in Tinley Park, Illinois but I moved shortly after and moved a lot. I grew up between Illinois, North Carolina, Utah, Iowa, and Florida.

Current Location: Los Angeles, CA

TrunkSpace: When did you know that you wanted to act for a living?
Schodrof: I’m not sure exactly when I knew I wanted to act for a living. I started acting classes when I was eight, after asking my mom to sign me up, and it never occurred to me to stop since I always loved it. Acting for a living was just the next logical step for me I guess, because of course you eventually want to get paid for your work once you get older and realize that’s an option. Once I auditioned for and accepted my admission into USC’s BFA Acting program is when I made the commitment to pursue acting for the long haul though. I would have continued acting regardless, but committing yourself to a four year degree in acting is a big deal, especially when you could spend your time and money on a more “practical” degree. But I went for my passion and didn’t make a backup plan so I think that’s when I knew, and definitely when the people around me knew, that I was serious about making acting a career for myself.

TrunkSpace: Was there a particular performance or actor/actress from your childhood that you remember being drawn to and inspired by?
Schodrof: The only performance I remember really being affected by at a young age was when I went on a school field trip to see a play about Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad. I think this might have been what propelled me to ask my mom to sign me up for acting classes. I just remember telling one of the actors that she did a “really good job” on the way out of the theater, which was a big moment for me because I was shy but I felt it was important to tell this adult stranger that she was a good actor. If you count high school as childhood, I was also obsessed with all the performances in the film version of “Doubt” when it came out. Meryl Streep, Viola Davis, and Amy Adams were powerhouses and so interesting. I continue to watch their careers.

TrunkSpace: How did you decide to approach your career as an actor? Did you formulate a plan of how you wanted to attack what is known for being a hard industry to crack?
Schodrof: There was no plan I made for myself except for to keep going. Take classes, prepare, audition, network, make your own work… you have to do what you know is good for yourself as an actor. Whatever keeps you interested and engaged. There is no one way into the industry so you just have to make a habit out of doing good work and putting yourself out there and every once in awhile something will stick.

TrunkSpace: When did you decide to move away from your home and pursue acting as a career? How old were you at the time?
Schodrof: I moved to Los Angeles for a pilot season with my mom when I was 16, but that was during the writer’s strike so I only had a handful of auditions before we had to go back to Florida where I finished high school. I finally moved to Los Angeles full time to get my acting degree at USC when I was 18. I graduated when I was 22 and was able to audition a lot more then.

TrunkSpace: Was that move an easy transition for you initially? How long did it take you to feel at home and find a good support group of friends and peers?
Schodrof: Since I made the move for college I think it was easier for me than it is for a lot of people. It’s a lot easier to make friends in school, everyone lives walking distance from one another and you spend so much time together in class and play rehearsals. So I made a couple close friends very quickly, which is usually all I need. It’s harder now that I’m out of school though. The city is so spread out, there’s a ton of traffic and everyone has unique schedules so seeing friends is a real effort. Keeping in touch with friends, making an effort to meet new people and doing acting classes or other group activities makes it easier though. It helps keep a sense of community in a city that can be isolating.

TrunkSpace: What has been been your biggest break in terms of a particular role or project thus far?
Schodrof: I just shot a commercial for Toyota last month and that will be the most recognizable thing I’ve done once it comes out. As far as TV goes, I was written into a sitcom pilot by my friend George Khouri whom I met when we acted together in a production of “Cinderella.” We shot his show, “Black Coffee,” last year and it premiered late last year in Beverly Hills. It’s currently being pitched so you never know what could come of that. George is a great networker and we have a talented cast on that. In terms of theater, I was really excited to work with playwright/novelist/director Timothy Allen Smith in the last staging of “Captive,” a dramatic play about a school shooting.

I’ve yet to have a big break. Honestly though I am hoping for my next small “break” to come from a short film I am currently writing with a friend from an old acting class. We’re going to produce and act in it together and we hope to make an appearance on the short film festival circuit.

TrunkSpace: Is there a specific type of role you’d like to take on or a specific genre that you feel more at home in?
Schodrof: I just want to play roles that interest me and are three dimensional, but those can be all kinds of characters. The genres that I feel most at home in (though I enjoy all) have to be drama and then neurotic characters in comedies.

TrunkSpace: What would you say is the greatest strength an actor/actress can have outside of acting ability itself?
Schodrof: Curiosity. You have to be interested in the story and each character you’re playing with. It can be the difference between watching an actor perform versus watching someone really try to deal with something and figure something out.

TrunkSpace: What is your ultimate dream when it comes to your acting career? Where would you like your path to lead?
Schodrof: My dream is to make acting my full time job and to have the projects I work on be fulfilling and provocative projects that have something to say.

TrunkSpace: What advice would you give another young aspiring actor/actress who is considering moving away from home to pursue their dream?
Schodrof: I think I would tell them to really decide what specifically they want to do and why because I’ve found being clear with yourself really gives you a sense of direction. After that, I would say do your research about the logistics of moving, the city and getting started in the new acting scene. Google and ask friends with experience. When you get to the new city, make sure you take acting classes that are inspiring to you and also reputable so that local managers and agents will know you have good training before they sign you. Once you have begun training and gotten representation in the new city, then you just keep going. Do good work and put yourself out there.

TrunkSpace: Where can people (and casting directors) learn more about you?
Schodrof: www.SarahSchodrof.com

Name: Francesco Martino

Hometown: Rome

Current Location: Los Angeles

TrunkSpace: When did you know that you wanted to act for a living?
Martino: Quite soon, when I was about 13. I was such an introverted and rebellious kid, so upset with everything and everybody. I just wanted to escape reality. Then I started doing theater. When I was on a stage, everything magically disappeared. I was able to be someone else. I never found anything else I was so passionate about.

TrunkSpace: Was there a particular performance or actor/actress from your childhood that you remember being drawn to and inspired by?
Martino: Man, the answer is such a classic one. James Dean. The scene when he tries to hug his father, screaming and crying at the same time, in “East of Eden,” is just breathtaking. I also liked River Phoenix a lot. I’ve just re-watched “My Own Private Idaho.” He was so talented, so interesting in everything he did.

TrunkSpace: How did you decide to approach your career as an actor? Did you formulate a plan of how you wanted to attack what is known for being a hard industry to crack?
Martino: The plan is not to attack it and not trying to crack it. I’m just gonna work at improving myself as an actor every single day, and aim to deliver the best possible performance every chance I get. I’m confident this will attract the right people and the right projects.

TrunkSpace: When did you decide to move away from your home and pursue acting as a career? How old were you at the time?
Martino: 18. My mother is still crying. (Laughter)

TrunkSpace: Was that move an easy transition for you initially? How long did it take you to feel at home and find a good support group of friends and peers?
Martino: It wasn’t easy at all. Let’s face it, when you’re in your teens and your 20s, your social skills are not at their best. It takes a long time to feel you belong somewhere. And now that I’m spending more and more time in LA, it’s like starting everything from scratch again. But I’m stronger now. I guess at a certain point you kind of understand that home is where you are. You leave the door open, and know that the support group will arrive at a certain point. It’s so important to have reliable friends in this industry, and people you can really trust. You’re never gonna make it alone.

TrunkSpace: What has been been your biggest break in terms of a particular role or project thus far?
Martino: There’s this great Italian theater actor, Roberto Herlitzka, which I always loved. I saw almost all of his shows, I always thought he was just the best. A few years ago, I was called to share the lead character of a movie with him. Basically, I was playing the same role at a younger age. It was such a gift, I almost couldn’t believe it.

TrunkSpace: Is there a specific type of role you’d like to take on or a specific genre that you feel more at home in?
Martino: I always liked restless characters, huge emotions, big dramatic scenes. I guess that’s always been the kind of character I’ve been cast and recognized for. But lately something is changing… I feel more and more at ease in comedy. The truth is comedy comes from an even darker place than drama. It’s fun for the audience, not for you as an actor! But hearing someone laughing about your issues, is such a great relief! I love it.

TrunkSpace: What would you say is the greatest strength an actor/actress can have outside of acting ability itself?
Martino: This is maybe one of the most important lessons I’ve learned lately. Great actors are people who own their issues. They know what they are, they don’t judge them, and they use them as burning energy for their performance. Actually, they overcome them in every performance. Most of the people tend to become victims of their own stories and issues, they let them drive their lives. Great actors know that those are just the things that let them create amazing art.

TrunkSpace: What is your ultimate dream when it comes to your acting career? Where would you like your path to lead?
Martino: That’s a tricky one. I want to do the kind of projects that inspire people. Movies were such a great help for me when I was a kid. They empowered me and helped me understand what I wanted, and I was able to do something good with my life. I want to give that back to someone else. Obviously I want to be in great projects, I like validation and money is definitely not a secondary issue. But the moment I receive a letter from someone saying I inspired them to overcome something in their life… that’s the best prize for me. It just empowers me so much.

TrunkSpace: What advice would you give another young aspiring actor/actress who is considering moving away from home to pursue their dream?
Martino: Be honest. Ask yourself what’s the thing that really motivates you, what’s the thing you need to communicate to the world. Be specific. Stay connected to your real urgency. Know what you want, what you really dream of. It’s not about what you should dream of, it’s about what you (and just you) really dream of. If this urgency is honest, just go for it. Just be prepared to overcome a lot of obstacles. And be aware that there’s never a real satisfaction. Being an actor is an endless journey… and that’s what’s most beautiful about being one.

TrunkSpace: Where can people (and casting directors) learn more about you?
Martino: I’m usually not a big fan of reels, but this friend of mine edited one I really like. I think you can somehow get a sense of who I am through these brief scenes. It’s here, you’re welcome to take a look.

Instagram: @franzmartino