By Joy Tanner
(2-minute read)
Tell us about your award-winning role in Let’s Go, Bananas! and what inspired you about playing Apple.
Apple Banana is spunky and mischievous, and she loves her dads a lot. She really loves music and adventure and has a kind heart. She is always willing to try something new, even if she’s scared.
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 is pretty amazing! People who I’ve never met voted for me! I met so many ACTRA members at the awards ceremony and they were so cool, fun and supportive, and that made me even prouder.
The ACTRA Awards in Toronto celebrate and applaud the outstanding performances, achievements, and artistic accomplishments and contributions of unionized performers. What does being a member of a professional performers’ union mean to you and why is it important to honour union performers?
I’ve been an ACTRA member since I was seven years old. Being part of ACTRA means you are professional and good at what you do. It means that, as a kid, there are people looking after me on sets and in the studio while I’m working. It means a lot to me and my family to be a union actor.
Do you have any advice for performers just getting started in the industry?
I think it is important to be confident in every audition you do. You never know what can happen, so you should keep being brave even if it feels hard.
What is the most significant role you have ever had and how has it impacted your life or career?
Apple Banana was my first big role! I spent a lot of time in the recording studio, and I learned how much work it takes to put together a TV show.
Have you ever had a specific challenge with a role and how did you work to overcome it?
It was a challenge learning new music very quickly on Let’s Go, Bananas! but I loved it. Also, I’m a kid, so I caught lots of colds and it made me sad when I had to miss and reschedule.
Can you share anything about any upcoming projects?
I have something very exciting coming up, but I am sworn to secrecy! All I can say is that it is an iconic cartoon character and I’m so excited to play her!
