Rising Stars: Meet Lenique Vincent of New York

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lenique Vincent.

Hi Lenique, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I began my journey as a performer when my parents placed me in a faith based pageant when I was three years old. The second time I competed at five years old, I won! A judge told my mom that I did so well on stage, she thought I’d be great on TV. The timing was perfect because admiring Mary- Kate and Ashley and Keshia Knight Pulliam during Nick At Nite made me want to be on TV. I knew I could do it and my parents believed in me. My headshot was sent to about five agents. One responded and it was off from there! A plus to growing up in New York City is the wide range of preforming arts schools the city has to offer. By the time I became a middle school Drama major, I had been playing Isa the Iguana on Nickelodeon’s Dora the Explorer since I was eight; and a Daytime Emmy nominee later on as a middle school drama major. Lately, I’m auditioning and working across all mediums: theatre, film, and TV.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road isn’t always smooth and it’s been a very long walk. Most people don’t cling to the same dream they’ve had since they were a child, especially without a plan B. In my pursuit, I’ve had to overcome a lot on my own because my childhood was very unique. My work and play were one. In addition to natural childhood challenges that come with maturing and life’s transitions, I was facing lots of rejections. It was tough seeing projects air that I auditioned for and wanted to be apart of. It was tougher being isolated by my peers in a way that made me understand why Hannah Montana lived a double life. The more I booked, the closer I felt to accomplishing my dream of becoming an “A- List” actor and philanthropist. The less I booked, the more I had to stretch my faith in God and myself. It isn’t easy to walk by faith instead of sight. I’m still learning how to do so everyday. The road is smoothest when I remember how much I’ve accomplished already and how much great work is being created currently. I’m encouraged to continue perfecting my craft while living a full, well rounded life because of the opportunities that found me and continue to find me. While I’m not too keen on creating my own work yet, I love collaborating with others and making visions of advocacy, empathy, and passion come to life.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m an NYU Tisch trained Actor and Writer. Since my training under the Stella Adler Studio of Acting and Stonestreet Studios, I’ve become quite the pro at film and stage acting. I enjoy spending time on WE Audition where I’m able to share my experience with other actors as their reader and/or coach. When it comes to performing, I love both dramas and comedies, and I can cold read and improv like nobody’s business. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Nickelodeon, PBS Kids, ABC, Peacock, and more! I’m most proud of the artist I am. I approach roles with authenticity and care to represent people I see everyday on the subway, in passing while walking in SoHo, and/or members of my community. My craft is a love letter to everyone who has ever caught my eye. I’m so interested in people and the experiences that they’re made of. Upon close observation, I realize we aren’t all that different after all. The more we see that, the more we’re able to empathize with each other. I’m looking forward to telling stories that make people feel seen and understood, capturing feelings that withstand time… and AI.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
God gets all the credit for who I am and where I’m going. My family are my biggest cheerleaders and motivators. Everyone has put in time to keep the dream alive, always making sure I have a soft place to land while facing an industry that can be intense and inconsistent. My parents encourage my artistry and always left room for creativity and self expression. My mom made it her priority to understand the acting industry to ensure I had a place in it with help from my agent who has been with me since I began my acting journey. I’ve been blessed, to say the least.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lenique.inc?igsh=MmJ0NDFyazB6bXRq&utm_source=qr
• Other: https://theknockturnal.com/author/lenique/