Today we’d like to introduce you to Briana Starks.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I have always been a performer. Throughout high school, I was on the cheerleading squad and dance team. I became interested in acting in high school as well. I auditioned for our school’s production of Grease the musical. The process was so much fun and new to me. However, I didn’t get the part. I am not a great singer. lol. As I got older and moved back to Atlanta, I wanted to begin to really take acting seriously, so I went and found a class to take. I started at Nick Conti’s Professional Actors Studio in Buckhead. I remember vividly having déjà vu when I audited his class. I have been at it ever since. Over the years, I have added writer, producer, director to my resume, and though I love those parts of me I am an actor first. lol.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has most definitely not been a smooth road. I honestly don’t know if it ever will be smooth and I’m okay with that because if you don’t have obstacles to overcome, how do you grow and elevate? So, the ride isn’t smooth all the time. The way I try to overcome obstacles and challenges is by remaining positive and focused. If it’s something that may be a challenge and I’ve exhausted all possibilities of overcoming it, I let it go. There’s no need to stress over the things I can’t control. Obstacles are apart of life and I am growing better at my self-talk when there is a challenge in front of me, or something doesn’t go my way. I believe that we can be our biggest obstacle, we get in our own way. So, I’ve been changing the way I speak when things don’t happen how I thought it would. After my self pep talk, I jump back in there.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am an actor, writer, director, and producer. I love what I do. There isn’t anything I else I want to do. I am still in the early stages of my career and my future is bright. I’ve done quite a few independent films in here in Atlanta. Some of which are doing film festival run. I was in a film called Bessie starring Queen Latifah and Mo’Nique. That was a really great experience. Recently, I have been creating my own content and getting behind the camera. My short film One And Only is on YouTube. I wrote and directed that. Then, there is my other, longer, short film Har’lem that I wrote, produced and starred in. I have been submitting that film into festivals and recently just had a few screenings for it. Right now, I am just continuing to build my resume and make my mark.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I believe it’s God. I’m sure it’s some “luck” involved but it’s all from God. If it’s good or bad. For me, God plays a huge part, also being prepared for whatever opportunity may come my way. “Faith without work is dead”. So, do the work, stay ready, and adjust yourself if you aren’t prepared for what may come your way.
Contact Info:
- Email: starbristudios@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/starbri/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/briana.starks.587
Image Credit:
Justin Toulon, The Iris Photo, Created By Keenan, Erika Colemen Whaley, Still from Upcoming short Tequila Sunrise By The ArtHouse TV
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