Fan Interview 1
This was the first Fan Interview with Holly Shanahan. We would like to personally thank her for taking the time to answer some questions for us.
Fun Facts
- Fav Food: Japanese Food
- Fav Drink: Rooibos Tea
- Fav Color: Green
- Fav Song: Anything by Wilco
- Fav Movies: That is hard… I love "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind", "Sexy Beast", "Magnolia", "Me, You and Everyone We Know", "Once", "Anchorman" and pretty much any film with Bill Murray in it. I also LOVE Horror films, even though they scare me senseless.
- Fav Actors: Bill Murray, Daniel Day Lewis, Geoffrey Rush, Gael Garcia Bernal, Jeff Bridges, Brad Pitt, Ray Winstone, Kevin Spacey, Liam Neeson, Ryan O'Kane
- Fav Actresses: Julianne Moore, Toni Collette, Julia Louis-Dreyfuss, Kate Winslet, Geraldine Brophy, Natascha McElhone, Julia Roberts
- Fav Cartoon character: Dick Dastardly, Homer, Animaniacs, Tom and Jerry
- Fav Book: Captain Corelli's Mandolin
- Fav Game: 500 (card game)
- Pets name: Ringo (cat)
- Birthday: November 23
Holly on Power Rangers Jungle Fury
How did you hear about the role of Camille?
I was called to audition.
How did it feel to play this character?
So much fun!! The costume was very restrictive so I had to stand up very straight and the fight scenes were often quite difficult. I remember slipping over in a huge puddle one day doing a roundhouse kick for a fight scene!
Acting with Bede was a blast, and we especially loved working with Koichi on second unit, which pretty much became our home. It was great to play a strong character, Camille has a lot of pride and honour and is generally quite smart, but she does make silly mistakes sometimes and lets her emotions get to her. This gives you some good material to work with as an actress.
How long did it take you to get into costume?
I was usually called to make-up 1hr 45mins before I was due on set. The costume was very well designed so it only took around 10 minutes to get into, make-up and hair always took the longest! I was often dozing off in the make-up chair at 5:30am!
How did this role compare to your role as Leelee (PRMF)?
Very different, but in a way they are similar. Leelee was an only child who just wanted friends and some attention and respect from her mother. Camille is a strong warrior, but we see her soft side come through in her feelings for Dai Shi.
Holly on Power Rangers Mystic Force
How did you hear about the role of Leelee?
My agent.
How did it feel to play this character?
I was a little nervous as it was the first long term television role for me. The cast and crew made me feel very comfortable though, and Leelee was an interesting creature. Looking back I still think of things I could have done better, but she came across quite well by the end of the season I felt.
Holly on Power Rangers:
Did you watch Power Rangers before accepting these roles?
No, it does not screen in New Zealand, but I have a memory of it from when I was very young.
Did you get to spend time with any of the cast members?
Many of the cast members (from both seasons) are great friends of mine! Bede and I of course spent a lot of time on set together this season. He is a brilliant guy, with a wicked sense of humour! I had some of the funniest moments I have ever had on a film set with Bede. David de Lautour is one of my best friends in the universe. From Mystic Force, I have since worked with and still hang out with Antonia (Clare) , I lived in a flat with Nic Sampson (Chip) in Auckland, I see Kelson often, and I keep in touch with Richard Brancatisano (Xander) and Angia Diaz (Vida), I hope to visit them sometime soon!
How did the roles on Power Rangers compare to your other roles?
Very different, as these are characters that are based in a different reality. This makes them really fun to play!
Which role was your favorite?
Camille (if I am allowed to have a favourite!)
How would you compare yourself with your roles? Did any of them resemble your own personality?
Haha, not really... I am quite a content and often shy person at times. I love my close friends and family, summer and the outdoors, reading, writing, painting and creative things.
Acting:
How did you get in the acting career?
It was something I think I was always destined to do… I tried to go to university to do an academic degree but ended up studying theatre. From there I got an agent when I was about 20 and when I was 22 got my first professional theatre role. I have also directed, written and produced for the theatre. It is a great love of mine.
Do you prefer acting or voice acting?
I definitely prefer acting – however, I couldn't say whether I enjoy theatre or film more
Do you have any advice for inspiring actors?
Believe in yourself but don't be arrogant. Train, do as many technique courses you can to get good at auditions, this is the most important part of the entire process – you have to get the job! Most of all: TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS AND BE BOLD.
What is your favorite role that you have done?
Well, I had the most fun on the set of "Welcome to Paradise", a NZ television show I did in 2007, the cast and director were the best people and we had the funniest time making it. "Second Hand Wedding" was the best experience I have had acting-wise on a shoot, and the most rewarding. I also did a theatre show in Wellington called "Yours Truly" which won a bundle of awards in 2006. I played Mary Kelly, who was the final victim of Jack the Ripper. It was a wonderful play which I was very proud of.
What do you see yourself doing in 5 years?
No idea! I'd like to be doing feature films, but I have other aspirations also.
Are you currently working on any other projects?
I am currently on holiday in Europe!
This information came from http://www.hollyshanahan.net
