ANNA STADLER

Actress on the Rise

Interview by Teresa B. Howell

Teresa B. Howell: Tell us a little bit about yourself?

Anna Stadler: I recently graduated high school Summa Cum Laude and I am currently taking online college business courses, along with continuing to take acting classes. I am passionate about animal rescue and volunteer at several local shelters, and am a foster for animals that need extra care or when there isn’t space left at our shelter for them.

TBH: How long have you been involved in the film industry?

AS: I’ve been involved in performing since before starting school, but found passion specifically in acting during elementary school and decided in high school that my true love was in film/tv and not stage/live performances. I’ve been acting professionally for about two and a half years now.

TBH: What made you decide to be serious about film production?

AS: During a session with my acting coach, I shared that although I enjoyed stage acting and musical theatre, I wanted to be a professional actress for TV and film. He pushed me to research the top talent agencies in our region and encouraged me to attend an open call for new talent. I was asked to sign with them that night and the rest has been a wonderful ride with many opportunities.

TBH: Which people or books have had the most influence on your career and why?

AS: A lot of Kevins- lol! Firstly, Kevin Jones, my acting coach, was extremely influential in building my confidence and pushing me to take the shot at going from theatre actor to professional actress. Outside of my family, which has all been beyond supportive from the start, he was the first person professionally that truly believed in me and my ability. He definitely helped me believe in myself. Secondly, Kevin Cornell Kellum has been an influence. He’s my talent manager, but also so much more. He always genuinely has my best interest at heart and can always be counted on to give me straight forward advice. He’s also pushed me beyond acting and is encouraging me to take my talents behind the camera in producing, as well. He’s an industry professional, but also has become a trusted friend.

TBH: What advice can you give other individuals who want to follow in your footsteps?

AS: Go after your dreams! Research talent agencies in your area and attend open call events. Surround yourself with 40 THE HEAT SEEKERS MAGAZINE friends in the industry. It’s a great way to both give and get support and can also be a great connection for casting. I’m thankful to have already made so many lifelong friendships with industry professionals. Join several professional casting sites, but make sure they are ones that don’t only focus on background acting. Most importantly, take advantage of opportunities. Take student film roles, no pay jobs and anything that helps you build a resume in the beginning in order to get experience.

TBH: What’s an average day like on set for you? Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of acting?

AS: I’ve learned to bring something to read onset. Most major productions don’t like electronics on set so having hardcopies of scripts you’re studying or a book keeps me busy in between takes/scenes. Hobbywise, I enjoy shopping and love nothing better than finding a good deal or repurposing something found in a thrift store or vintage shop. I love hiking, spending time with my friends and watching movies, especially musicals.

TBH: Who are your major film and acting influences?

AS: I have such respect for James McAvoy! I’ve watched SPLIT many times and am continually amazed that he can convincingly play so many contrasting characters in one movie. He and Gillian Anderson. Joey is one of the hardest working people I’ve ever seen. She literally didn’t stop while on set. She is also producing the feature film, so when she was literally everywhere at the same time. She’s even more adorable in person too. Gillian is not only an amazing actress, but she’s one of the kindest and most hilarious people I’ve ever met. She kept us laughing non-stop and seemed to genuinely care about everyone on the project.

TBH: Out of all the movies you have filmed in, which is your favorite and why??

AS: I realize this sounds cliche, but I can’t pick a favorite. I have favorite aspects about each one of them. I will say that my favorite thing about all the projects I’ve been involved in though is that you become a family on set. The friendships made are invaluable and are my favorite takeaway about this industry, by far.

TBH: What would you say is the #1 key to success in the film industry?

AS: Perseverance and professionalism are paramount. You hear far more no than yes and you have to take the disappointments in stride and use them to fuel your next audition. Every role I didn’t get, has pushed me to do better in the next one. You have to show your best in every facet. Everything is public these days, so post social media responsibility, behave responsibly and don’t give anyone a reason not to want to work with you. Work hard, meet deadlines and be easy to work with. This industry is hard and I always try to be the person that people want to work with again. Prepare, prepare, prepare. Always come into the job or even an audition knowing all you can ahead of time.

TBH: Are you involved with any big projects coming up?

AS: Yes, I have several great supporting roles in both TV and feature films coming up along with a couple lead roles that should begin filming soon. I also am involved in producing on several projects, so I am excited to have new opportunities both in front of and behind the camera.

TBH: Please list your website and/or your social media platforms.

AS: IMDb profile page: IMdb.me/annastadler Instagram: @officialAnnaStadler Facebook: Anna Stadler Website: Under Construction, but Coming Soon.

TBH: Is there anything else you’d like us to know about you?

AS: I can’t think of any. Thank you for the great questions and for the opportunity to share my experiences.