Roslayn Cooper first got bit by the acting bug in college where she took a drama class as an elective and loved it. Roslayn tried out for the University play and got the lead role. Roslayn Cooper also have been dancing since 5 years old ever since she first saw her dance teacher and told her Mom, ‘I want to do that’. Since then I always wanted to be on stage and entertain people.
Did you study acting?
Roslayn Cooper (RC): The feedback I received from me acting in my first play was so positive and inspirational. That I knew this is what my life calling is and acting makes me very happy! So I enrolled in classes, workshops, and I study movies and TV shows to see the actors’ techniques.
What acting technique do you use?
Roslayn Cooper (RC): I use a lot of Improv acting. Going word from word is not always the best things to do. Don’t go totally of script but I see a lot of directors and casting directors like when you throw unexpected things in there.
What wrong impressions do actors hold about acting?
Roslayn Cooper (RC): The main wrong impression is thinking after doing your first play or being an extra in a movie then the fame will come and you don’t have to work hard anymore. I am here to tell you it’s a constant grind and there is no simple solutions to be a great actor. It takes hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. Get ready to work for it!
Do you take courses to improve your craft?
Roslayn Cooper (RC): Yes I love Workshops with casting directors and agents so that I can get feedback from people who know what it takes to be successful in this business. Classes are fun too so you can get feedback from peers and have a support system.
What acting books do you read?
Roslayn Cooper (RC): Acting in film by Michael Caine. Very informative book.
How do you keep fit as an actor?
Roslayn Cooper (RC): I do a lot of walking and I study scripts from workshops and auditions so I can keep my mind’s sharp with memorization.
When you’re offered a role, what do you do next?
Roslayn Cooper (RC): I read over it and practice twice a day. Get family involved to read the other person’s part so I can get a feel for my character.
How do you take a character in a script to a honest, believable and breathing person?
Roslayn Cooper (RC): I had to play a Villainous woman so I imagine how a very wicked person can be and try to bring that to life
How do you stay fresh on set?
Roslayn Cooper (RC): I read over my script and I keep my character in mind at all times so I can switch it back on when needed.
Describe a memorable character you played?
Roslayn Cooper (RC): Queen from Queenate in 2006.
Explain one creative choice you took on set?
Roslayn Cooper (RC): I had to play a gold digger and that is totally opposite of me so she told me not to care about the man’s feelings so I just took it and went with it and was a bitch to everybody! Lol
What do you want most from a director?
Roslayn Cooper (RC): To give the best direction and to tell me what I am doing wrong and what I can do to make it better.
What actors do you long to work with?
Roslayn Cooper (RC): Angela Bassett
Why?
Roslayn Cooper (RC): She is a phenomenal actress who I can definitely learn from and she would definitely give me inspiration for being on set.
What advice would you give to actors?
Roslayn Cooper (RC): To keep going and don’t let people’s opinions about this industry get you down.
Briefly write about your career?
Roslayn Cooper (RC): I have been in three theatrical production: ‘Queenate’, ‘American Issue’s, ‘When a Man wants to do right’. I have been a background actress in a movie and two TV shows.
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ACTOR INTERVIEWS
Hi Roslayn, the first few opportunities that are handed to one early are crucial, and attitude will set the pace towards the career that will make or break anyone. Keep your head up. It is a great start you have set forth
I haven’t read Michael Caine’s book yet, but now that you too have brought it up, I will pick up a copy from Amazon, maybe we can chat over a few ideas in the book.