We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Liaan Ferreira a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Liaan, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
As an actor, confidence and self-esteem are integral to embodying characters authentically and connecting with audiences. Developing these traits has been a journey marked by various experiences and methods.
Firstly, training and educational play by learning on the job is a pivotal role. Engaging in acting classes, workshops, and continuously honing my craft under skilled mentors on and off screen has bolstered my confidence. These settings not only provided valuable techniques but also fostered an environment encouraging risk-taking and self-expression.
Furthermore, every role I portray acts as a stepping stone. Stepping into diverse characters and delving into their emotions helped me understand different facets of human nature. Each successful portrayal affirmed my capabilities, gradually nurturing my self-assurance.
Adversity within the industry has also been a source of growth. Rejection and setbacks are inevitable. However, learning to persevere through auditions, rejections, and challenges has been crucial in strengthening my resilience and belief in my abilities.
Self-care is equally vital. Prioritizing mental health, staying grounded, and practicing mindfulness techniques allowed me to center myself amidst the demands of the profession. Cultivating a balance between work and personal life contributed significantly to my overall confidence and self-esteem.
Ultimately, confidence and self-esteem as an actor stem from a continual process of learning, growth, embracing vulnerability, and harnessing the power of storytelling to connect with others.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
In essence, my pursuit as an actor is centered on catching lightning in a bottle—embracing the alchemy of storytelling, chasing moments of raw, authentic connection, and crafting experiences that leave an indelible mark on the soul.
Acting is about capturing moments that feel real, raw, and genuine. Each character I take on allows me to delve into the complexities of human nature, much like James Dean did in his time. What excites me most is the challenge of creating those authentic moments, where emotions resonate with audiences long after the performance ends. It’s about stepping into the shoes of diverse characters and discovering what makes them tick, what drives their passions, fears, and dreams. My brand is all about chasing that authenticity, creating those ‘Rebel without a cause’ moments that James Dean was known for – moments that stay etched in memories, stirring emotions, and challenging perceptions.
As for what’s next, I’m exploring new projects that push boundaries and offer opportunities to delve into characters that challenge me creatively.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey as an actor, three crucial aspects stand out as impactful:
1. Emotional Intelligence and Empathy: Understanding and empathizing with diverse emotions, experiences, and perspectives are vital. To newcomers, I’d advise exploring emotions deeply, observing people in various situations, and delving into different characters’ backgrounds. Practice empathetic listening and observe human behavior to enhance your emotional range and connection with roles.
2.Adaptability and Versatility: The ability to adapt to different characters, genres, and styles is essential. Aspiring actors should embrace versatility by exploring diverse roles, studying various acting techniques, and constantly expanding their skill set. This includes learning different accents, body language, and methods to inhabit distinct characters authentically.
3.Continuous Learning and Resilience: Acting is a journey of perpetual growth. Being open to learning, seeking feedback, and refining one’s craft are crucial. Early on, focus on continuous improvement by attending acting workshops, classes, and engaging in self-study. Embrace rejection as part of the process, learning from setbacks, and staying resilient in pursuing your passion.
My advice to those starting their journey in acting is to immerse themselves in learning, observe the world around them, and be relentless in their pursuit of improvement. Consistent practice, dedication, and a willingness to embrace challenges will pave the way for growth and success in this demanding yet rewarding field.
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
It’s impossible to pick just one.
One book that significantly influenced my development as an actor is “An Actor Prepares” by Konstantin Stanislavski. This foundational book delves deep into the art of acting and the psychological processes behind creating authentic performances.
Within its pages, several impactful nuggets of wisdom resonated with me:
1.Emotional Truth: Stanislavski emphasizes the importance of finding emotional truth in performances. He discusses the significance of drawing from personal experiences to connect with characters, bringing genuine emotions to the forefront.
2.The Importance of Observation: Stanislavski stresses the significance of observing life and human behavior. Learning from real-life situations and people’s reactions helps in creating authentic portrayals and understanding the intricacies of human nature.
“Last Train to Memphis” is a biographical book by Peter Guralnick, chronicling the early life and rise to fame of Elvis Presley. It delves into the legendary musician’s journey from his humble beginnings in Tupelo, Mississippi, to becoming a global cultural icon.
Though not directly related to acting, this book provided me with insights into the life of a cultural figure who exuded charisma and stage presence. It highlighted the dedication, passion, and struggles that Elvis faced on his path to success. One key takeaway from Elvis’s story is the importance of staying true to oneself, embracing authenticity, and having an unwavering commitment to one’s craft—lessons that transcend the boundaries of any specific profession or field.
“The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry is a beloved novella that touches on themes of innocence, love, and the complexities of human relationships. Although not directly related to the world of acting, this book holds universal messages that resonate across various domains.
In the context of an actor’s perspective, “The Little Prince” offers poignant insights into the nature of imagination, exploration, and understanding oneself and others. Its themes of curiosity, the importance of seeing beyond appearances, and cherishing the essence of individuals align with the actor’s craft of delving into characters, seeking authenticity, and connecting with the emotional truths within stories.
While the book may not offer direct guidance for an actor’s techniques or practices, its timeless wisdom about the human experience can inspire introspection and a deeper appreciation for the complexities of portraying characters and storytelling.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://liaanferreira.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/liaanferreira?igshid=MTk0NTkyODZkYg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Image Credits
Justin Munitz
