Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Kiener.
Hi Amanda, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I will fight my excitement to stay on the path here. My experience as an actress has side quests, pivots, and pit stops.
I wear many hats serving our entertainment community here in Atlanta.
The opportunities that present themselves when we show up are surreal. I learned showing up is honoring our instincts. Incredible opportunities have met me along the way in the arts and entertainment. The chance to train and study the performing and fine arts have been among the greatest gifts in my life. A gift is how I got my start.
My single mother and grandparents enrolled me in lyrical dance classes and applied for a theatre program when I was in elementary school. I couldn’t write my name on the sign-in sheet. Instead, I would shout I’m here rushing past my family into class. I may not remember the exact start, but I have countless memories from my childhood and teenage years growing up in these art programs. Programs our communities desperately need. Especially for our BIPOC, Neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, and at-risk youth. Our kiddos are juggling unimaginable struggles while seeking opportunities for expression and connection.
Having no idea that I was neurodivergent, my family saw something clicking. I witnessed the toll of being a multi-generational family under one roof, a single parent striving to provide, and the expenses of a theatrical education. When I discovered a work-study program, everything changed. I could train and not worry if someone went without. Scholarships allowed me to continue formal training until I was eighteen thanks to conservatories and performing art schools: Dunedin Fine Art Center, Gladys Douglas School for the Arts, Pinellas County Center for the Arts, Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts. I wondered what I could do with all of this. While I banked experience working on stage, backstage, in front of the camera, and behind the scenes – I struggled daily. I approached things with a unique creative system. I juggled commuting, hardship, mental health, and symptoms of undiagnosed ADHD. It took me a long time to name and honor that unique system as valid. I was just happy to be in those rooms. I gained all of this experience but wondered what was next.
In the years that followed, I mourned loved ones, including my grandparents. My grieving met with deep love as I explored new ways to tell a story. I became a performer for Walt Disney World, married my best friend, and became a mother of two. I checked experiences off my bucket list while training for a physically demanding job. I worked side gigs as a fitness model, documenting bodybuilding progress on social media. I was scouted by WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) and trained at the WWE Performance Center. Soon after, I followed up with new friends on the independent wrestling scene and assisted with the broadcast side, gimmicks, and promos.
All of these adventures are my love persisting. Over the years the physical storytelling translated into performance capture, character performance into voice-over acting, and theatrical tools into bi-coastal on-camera training.
While working in film and television full-time, my peers recommended a coach who happened to be in the next neighborhood. I booked a session for my first Guest Star audition. Something clicked. We shared our hope for the local acting community, and he reminded me I had a voice in the room. That session launched career breakthroughs for me. That coach was Jordan Woods-Robinson. Jordan became my mentor. Five years later, I am honored to be in a teaching artist and coach position at Book from Tape Acting Studios. I Hold those doors as kiddos rush past me now. Telling each Actor – I’m happy you’re here. I remind those grown-up children, as well. I celebrate humans professionally.
At Book from Tape, we believe in sustainable artistry for the multi-hyphenate. We celebrate storytellers and creative rebels. The Atlanta studio is located in Roswell (4 minutes off the 400) with deep roots in the southeast market. Our flagship studio is located in Orlando, Florida. We are fortunate to work with actors globally through our virtual services. Jordan and his incredible wife (Julie Woods-Robinson) serve as mentors to not just me but countless actors. They kick open doors for our community.
I encourage our rich community here in Atlanta to bring more humanity than ever after this historic labor movement. I am one of the many that make up your local film and television community. Atlanta is the leader in culture, diversity, and inclusivity, and we persist unapologetically.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?The lack of mental health resources was a struggle. Creating environments that establish and uphold a culture that welcomes all to speak up is essential. Our resources begin with conversations, and then we collectively evolve that connection and acknowledgment into established programs and training for all fields.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I firmly believe we should create the industry we wish to participate in.
I hold space and provide resources, translate classical techniques to serve neurodivergent creators, and partner with multi-passionates to explore possibilities for our market.
What were you like growing up?
The kid with the camera. Headphones at the ready, notebooks shoved in my bag, covered in paint, always on the go. My grandparents welcomed me to paint whenever and wherever(including murals in the bathroom). We would treasure hunt in thrift stores and garage sales for boots and jackets to customize. My grandpa took me to local writing meetings with him. I wrote short stories, one-acts, and films for my friends. They were kind enough to include me and give feedback. It gave me the confidence to actualize my ideas and take my pursuits seriously. With so much confidence, I requested business cards at age eleven.
I knew then I wanted to write, direct, and produce media. Today, I am one of many multi-passionate Actors who call Atlanta home. Thankful to work alongside the trailblazers of our community.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.demoreel.com/amanda.kiener
- Instagram: @amanda.kiener
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/amandakienertobias
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandakiener
- Twitter: @amandakiener
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@amanda.kiener
- SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/amanda-kiener
- Other: www.bookfromtape.com/atlanta
Image Credits
Chase Anderson Photo, Jordan Woods-Robinson, Valcox Photography
