Today we’d like to introduce you to Tatyana Arrington.
Tatyana, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My career began when I landed my first job at six months old and was featured in Spiegel Magazine’s Christmas Catalog. Years later, we relocated to Atlanta, Georgia. After seeing the movie Annie, I continuously told my mom that I really want to act. In kindergarten, I performed in my first play, “A Christmas Without Santa”. I portrayed child #2 and I had one line haha. After that play, I was truly bitten by the acting bug. I continued acting throughout my elementary, middle, high and college years. After college, I was looking for a way to get involved with Atlanta Theatre so I sought out an apprenticeship. I auditioned for three apprenticeships and accepted an offer from “The Atlanta Shakespeare Tavern”. I graduated from the apprenticeship in 2017, which I am very grateful and humbled for that opportunity.
Has it been a smooth road?
Definitely not! I think of acting as a marathon, not a sprint. Every now and then you still have to win a race. The struggles along the way have been many, but with determination, I have pressed on seeking my journey as an actor. There have been times I felt as though I’m not good enough and wonder why am I not booking more auditions or getting roles. I have auditioned for several theatres in Atlanta and I have not received the opportunity to work with them yet. Instead of focusing on that aspect, I am focusing on how I can self-improve. I take acting classes, write, and remain inspired by attending phenomenal theatre shows. I realize that I am fortunate in other ways that some people are not. I have a huge support system. My family and friends are very supportive and they will not allow to me give up. They are always rooting for me even when I may doubt myself.
Please tell us about Tatyana Arrington.
My name is Tatyana (Taty as my friends call me) and I like to think of myself as a person of many talents with boundless energy and potential. I have been described as smart, silly, shy at times and I am definitely more of an introverted person. However, when I am performing I tap into an alter ego very much like one of my inspirations Beyonce.
I am a big sister for two siblings and I try to act as a role model to them. I work hard but I like to enjoy myself as well, enjoying the fruits of my labor. Though I would not be considered a morning person by any means, I’ve adapted and most mornings I am up by 7:00 a.m. ready to conquer the world.
I am a huge thrill seeker and daredevil. I have bungee jump, went skydiving and swam with dolphins just to name a few. I love adventure and traveling but most of all I like being at home with my family and spending time with my friends. Like most millennials, I enjoy going out and seeing the town. I am big fan of concerts and eating out haha. Acting. Acting is my passion and whenever I get the opportunity I am looking to see a play/film or audition for an acting role. It is my end goal and plays a part in who I am today. I hope to use my platform as a voice of positivity and hope.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
Diversity is here to stay! People of color are not well represented in the industry and there is room for everyone! More trans actors! More Asian actors! More actors with disabilities! I believe the new trend will be more people creating their own opportunities such as writing their own films, plays, television shows, web series, and etc. What I know for sure is that I am definitely not going to wait around for opportunities; instead, I will create some opportunities for myself!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.tatyanaarrington.com
- Email: tvarrington@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/xotatyana
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tatyana.arrington
Image Credit:
Witch’s Photo-Jeffrey Watkins, Mouth Open Gasp- Jeffrey Watkins, Pink Top-Shea Stephens, Lime Green Shoes- Gabe McClendon, Yellow Dress-Jeffrey Watkins, Denim Reebok- Kemet Alston
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Dr. Ernestine Barnes-Small
March 7, 2019 at 12:52 am
Beautiful story. Love the dedication, the perseverance, and humility you show and have shown over the years. This is missing in many who are interested in your field today.
You are so right: it’s not coming to you. You must go get it! Make it happen!
Keep up the good work! God bless you 😇🙏🏽💕