- Congratulations on your feature-film debut! How does it feel to see yourself starring in a movie that will be released in theaters nationwide?
It feels unreal, honestly. I have dreamed about being in a movie since I was a little kid. Now my dreams are coming true. It’s been the most exciting thing ever!
2. You play Terri, a young woman navigating the transition from homeschooling to public high school. What did you enjoy most about bringing Terri’s character to life?
Being able to tell the story of a real person was a big responsibility. It was such an honor to portray Terri in Rise and Shine. I really enjoyed showing how Terri accomplished her goals even when other people didn’t think she could.
3. Since you and Terri share some personal experiences, did you find it easier to connect with her character? What was that experience like for you?
I did find it easy to connect with Terri because like her I have cerebral palsy and a developmental disability. Also, like her I wanted to spread joy and positivity.
4. You star alongside Rachel Bay Jones and Danny Burstein. What was it like working with such talented and experienced actors?
I felt so lucky to have Rachel and Danny to act with. They were both amazing scene partners because they were patient and kind and helped me to become a better actor. Rachel was very nurturing. The mother/daughter relationship is the heart of the movie, and Rachel was the perfect movie mom to bring it to life. Danny is not only an incredible actor, but also one of the nicest people you will ever meet.
5. What was your favorite moment on set, and is there a particular memory from filming that you will always cherish?
One of my favorite moments on set was hanging out at the mall arcade with Analesa Fisher who plays Terri’s best friend. I laughed more during those scenes than any other. It felt real and “Fish” and I are close friends in real life now. Terri wanted to go to prom so badly. Her movie prom was better than my own senior prom. It was magical and I will always remember it.
6. Authentic disability representation in film is important to you. What do you hope audiences will learn or understand after watching Rise and Shine?
After seeing the movie, I hope audiences will understand that Terri was just a girl trying to figure out who she was, what dreams she hoped to accomplish, and that she tried her best every day, just like everyone else. Terri was successful in making some of her dreams come true even though it was not easy. I feel like the world needs to see more authentic representation from actors with disabilities because our experience is important and our voices should be heard.
7. What do you wish more people understood about actors with cerebral palsy and developmental disabilities?
I wish people could see us for more than just our disabilities. We are capable people and should have the chance to play characters who are not defined by their challenges, but by their ability to overcome our challenges.
8. As you make your feature-film debut, what has this experience taught you about yourself as an actress?
From my very first day on set there was so much I didn’t know. I had to use my calming technique to stay focused whenever there was a camera up in my face, which happened, like, a lot of times every single day. I had to learn to trust myself and the crew, especially my director, Laura Somers. She told me don’t fake Terri’s disability, just be myself. She said that and the clouds went away from my brain.
9. What advice would you give to other young people with disabilities who dream of becoming actors or pursuing careers in entertainment?
My number one piece of advice is to follow your heart. If you are passionate about something, never give up on it. Never quit. Even when the haters try to bring you down don’t listen to them. Believe in yourself.
10. With Rise and Shine arriving in theaters on October 23, what are you most excited for audiences to see, and what do you hope they take away from the film?
I am really excited for people to see what life is like when you decide not to let something like a disability stop you. Having a disability can be challenging and heartbreaking, but it can also be beautiful because you can push through heartbreak and challenges and let your light shine through. Like Terri and me.
