Today we’d like to introduce you to Tamika Shannon.
So, before we jump into specific questions about what you do, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My journey to acting didn’t begin like most. From a young age, I wanted to be a Science Teacher. I’ve always had a fascination with human brain and behavior. Plus, I was so shy growing up; performing arts was the last thing on my mind. Even though I grew up in a family full of performers. One day, my grandmother was watching “The Wiz” and I remember being glued to the TV. I was so fascinated, and I’m pretty sure I memorized that entire film from beginning to end, songs, choreography, you name it. From there, whenever a show or musical film would come on television, I would watch it over and over, studying the characters behavior, dancing and singing along. I think my parents were tired of seeing “perform” in the living room so they entered me into pageants and talent shows.
In 3rd grade, the school’s drama club was casting for a play titled, “Captain Hero.” I didn’t have any theatre experience, but I figured I’d try it out. That audition was the worst, but thankfully, the drama teacher saw something in me and he cast me as a juror in the play. I had a small role, but I will never forget my one line, “Captain Hero, can I have your autograph!” The energy and feedback I received from the audience made me feel alive. It was different from singing or dancing, for me, I felt I connected with the audience and was able to tell a story from a character’s perspective (yes, from that one little line). From that moment, I knew that acting was my calling. From there, I became a member of the drama club throughout elementary and high school.
Once I got to college, my journey to acting ended temporarily. The theater troupe there was amazing. Self-doubt kicked in, and I felt I wasn’t talented enough to audition for a spot, so I eventually walked away from acting in general. Instead, I decided to major in Early Childhood Education to pursue my first dream of becoming a Science Teacher. I later changed my major to Psychology to concentrate more on human brain and behavior. I graduated, taught for a while, and eventually ended up taking grad classes, continuing my behavioral science studies. However, no matter how obsessed I was with the brain, I knew acting was what I should’ve been pursuing still. So, instead of focusing all my time in classes at school, I was more focused on theatre and vocal training… and here we are.
I’ve performed in several musical (and non-musical) theatre productions. Later, I transitioned to film/TV training and booked my first role on a hit YouTube series. Since then, I’ve worked on other successful YouTube series, TV shows, booked lead and supporting roles in independent films. One, which I am super excited about which is my first leading role in a feature film. It’s titled “NICOLE the movie” and should be releasing soon. I also signed with an amazing acting agency where I’ve been able to book commercials and a TV show. I also became the spokesperson for Wind Creek Casinos which has been quite an experience as well! I’m thankful.
There have definitely been struggles along away, but nothing that’s worth it comes easy! The first obstacle I had to tackle was my mind. I had to get out of my own way. With each audition I was rejected from I would question myself. I’d compare my journey with those I started within the industry who were booking… or I’d just tell myself I wasn’t good enough, I waited too late and I should have never quit acting once I graduated high school. I had to learn to stop comparing my loss to everyone else’s win and remind myself that what’s for me will be for ME. Honestly it’s still tough at times, but I am extremely grateful to be surrounded by people who understand and push me daily; reminding me of my strength.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Wow! So many people deserve credit for helping me along this acting journey; too many to list honestly.
My biggest support system is my family. They have always been there, cheering me on, no matter what. I could tell them I want to fly to the moon and they’d say, “How can we help?” I do personally want to shout out my friend’s mother (hey, Ms. Carnetta) for allowing me to “get my feet wet” in the acting world again, my acting coaches and fellow actors in and outside of class, for motivating me daily. I’m also thankful to have had a boss, and co-workers, who understood my goals as an actor and helped me along the way. My friends and loved one deserve credit as well, and the writers I’ve worked with in the past that always keeps me in mind for a specific role. Long story short, I am extremely blessed to have people who believe in me and continuously push me whenever I have moments of doubt. I’m not sure what I’ve done in my life to end up with so many amazing people in my corner, but I am FOREVER THANKFUL!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.tamikashannon.com
- Instagram: @tamikashannon_
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tamika.shannon.5
Image Credit:
NikoVizion, Christianwebbphoto, SlingshotsATL, Britt Sharer, James Schroeder, Jean-Pierre Chapoteau
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