Today we’d like to introduce you to Chani Forde.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I have been performing since Elementary. I began in theater in the third grade when I played Annie in my school play. I had the red wig and everything. Since then my desire simply grew. I continued to perform on the stage throughout grade school and college.
After college, I began to teach high school English and realized everything I taught my students I related back to the stage or film. Then in 2016, I was invited to a conference to showcase my acting abilities, and at the end of the conference, I won the Actress of the Year Award. At that point, I knew I had to make performing and film more than just an occasional thing.
In 2017, I quit my job and moved to Atlanta where I met a very talented writer and cinematographer. He has involved me in a majority of his projects, and he has encouraged me to begin creating my own content. Since moving my love for acting has grown and I have acquired a love and respect for directing as well.
Today I have worked both in front of and behind the camera, and I have never been so happy. Everything is not perfect, but it is definitely worth it.
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 definitely not been a smooth road. Since moving, trying to find gigs has been hard and finding a sustaining job have been troubling.
I am kind of living the life of the starving artist. I say all the time that it is only by the grace of God that I have been able to remain here in the Atlanta Area. Acting jobs that pay, along with general jobs to pay the bills, have been hard to find but at this moment it is the sacrifice I have to make for my craft. I know that it is not forever.
All I am doing now is living my testimony. Until my time comes, I am creating content, working background on films and television, networking, and moving forward regardless.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I am my business. I am an actor and director. I love and specialize in both. By knowing both positions, I can cater to the director and their vision as the actor. I am best in dramatic and thrilling parts. I am learning and getting better with my abilities as an action actor. I direct action, thriller and dramatic films as well. Being both a director and Actor makes it easier to relate to the actors and translate what it is that I need and what it is that I am asking for.
At this moment I am most proud of the film One Too Many. It was my directing Debut, and it is currently making its way through the film festival circuit having been accepted to multiple. That movie taught me about myself, about the many people you may meet on a set and the multitasking a director must do.
What sets me apart from others is my attention to detail. From continuity to wardrobe and the look in an actors eyes when they deliver a line, I feel as if all of it is very important. When watching television, I look for those small aspects of a film or television show. I feel paying attention to those small things is what makes the repeat views of a piece of art amazing.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up I am sure I was annoying. I talked all the time, read out loud, required a reason for everything and was very literal. I was also convinced everyone could be my friend. My family moved from New York to Pennsylvania when I was nine, and I was friends with the neighbor’s kids by the end of the week. There was never a dull, or quiet, moment if I was around. If there was nothing to do, I began performing plays and acting out situations alone in my room.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 3366179229
- Email: Chanilouise16@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/black.female.creative/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Chani-Louise-238263740306616/
- Other: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ_qiHI9bEVZ9o6U-Bv8TKQ/featured
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