By Joy Tanner
Tell us about your award-winning role as narrator of the audiobook, Each Man’s Son.
Each Man’s Son, by Hugh MacLennan, is a novel set in a coal mining town in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, just before the First World War. During high school, it was a mandatory read for our English class. The idea of narrating this book excited me, despite being new to audiobook narration. To help overcome my fears, I sought out my ACTRA colleague and long-time friend, Raoul Bhaneja. Our conversation helped me understand the importance of text work, character differentiation, pace and stamina. I immersed myself in the text, tried my best to embrace the experience and to let go of the outcome. As my acting teacher Joel Miller used to say, “It’s about the process, not the performance.”
The Outstanding Performance award nominees and winners are decided by a jury comprised of ACTRA Toronto members. How does it feel to be honoured by a jury of your peers?
It’s such a humbling experience to be recognized for my work by a jury of my peers. It feels like a nod of approval from those who truly understand the craft in the community to which I belong. I can’t help but feel grateful for their acknowledgement, knowing that my fellow professionals have supported and encouraged me along the way. This kind of recognition is like a fuel that keeps me pushing to strive for greater excellence in my work. I’m inspired to keep diving in and to keep honing my skills.
What does it mean to you to be an ACTRA member?
Being an ACTRA member means that we’re not alone in this industry. We have a strong, unified voice that speaks for us. We’ve got a team, negotiating contracts and agreements on our behalf. They’re out there fighting for fair compensation and safe working conditions. ACTRA is also actively addressing issues like workplace harassment, safety concerns, fair treatment, and even promoting diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry. Being an ACTRA member means being part of a community that stands together, supports each other, and works towards making the industry better for us.
Do you have any advice for performers just getting started in the industry?
If you’re interested in acting, get a library card and borrow DVDs with director commentaries. It’s like attending a free film class. It’s crucial to focus on developing your skills, building your network and finding a support system. Be reliable, and respectful of everyone with whom you work. Stay persistent, resilient and committed, setbacks are common in this job. Suit up, show up and then when the audition is done, turn it over to the universe. Support your colleagues, co-workers, friends and acquaintances. Don’t compare your insides to others’ outsides. Don’t confuse how you’re feeling with how you’re doing. Don’t take yourself too seriously. Most importantly, keep flipping over rocks until you find what you need.
Can you share anything about any upcoming projects?
I am in the number one movie on Netflix, Bob Odenkirk’s Nobody, for the second consecutive week.
I wrote and starred in the short film Camp Tipsy, which is nearing the end of its festival run. I’m thrilled to share it has been selected for the Los Angeles Independent Film Festival. The story revolves around Ellie, a 14-year-old girl who is struggling with alcoholism. Her life takes a profound and transformative twist when she discovers Camp Tipsy, an extraordinary camp dedicated to helping teenagers recover from addiction. Recently, I completed writing the feature-length version of the film and I plan on shopping it around soon.
Also, I had the recent honour of being the first guest on the podcast Next, hosted by fellow ACTRA member Shawn Doyle.
Joy Tanner is the Editor of Performers Magazine. She has voiced Candy Kong in Donkey Kong.
