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| Photo by Pierre Gautreau |
Josette: I like to say I pretty much started acting at birth. Literally, the first photo of me I was already smiling at the camera. I always loved entertaining people, making them smile and watching films, specifically old Hollywood movies. When I was nine I finally put my little foot down and begged my parents to let me into acting. I said something like “I don't want a birthday party, or presents all I want to do is be on TV”. And they had to translate that into something attainable, so they brought me to my first agent and I’ve been working hard ever since.
2) What are your short term and long term career goals?
Josette: Short term and long term are both the same, doing what I love, hopefully succeeding at it and inspiring others to achieve their dreams as well.
3) What are the demands and not so difficult things about working with other actors, producers, directors etc. and being an actor in general?
Josette: Great question! This industry is extremely demanding. It requires hours upon hours of work for everyone involved. When we watch a show, film, etc. it all looks so effortless. But behind the curtain there is a talented group of individuals making sure every little facet of the production is perfect. They all go through a lot of personal sacrifice, missing birthdays, losing sleep for the sake of their art. Although it’s demanding, I think that it is also beautiful. It’s an incredible experience creating something new and interesting as a team and seeing that devotion translate to screen. It’s worth the demands that come with it, and for those that love what they do that sacrifice isn’t difficult.
4) What acting techniques have you studied so far and which one(s) do you prefer?
Josette: I’m actually, for the most part, self-taught.
5) How do you prepare for auditions prior to the audition and for acting roles prior to going on set?
Josette: Preparation is super important. Staying hydrated and getting enough sleep helps your mental alertness for both auditions and long days on set. Dependent on the role, I memorize first to create the bare bones of the scene and then add meat to it by finding the emotional pull.
6) What do you prefer theatre acting or film acting?
Josette: I've yet to experience any large scale theatre acting, so for now my answer is onscreen acting. I hope to try it one day. I love to watch theatre, especially Shakespeare productions.
7) What is your favourite and least favourite part about acting?
Josette: I could talk about my love of acting forever. Witnessing the process of it, its development from start to finish, is so rewarding. Also, it’s interesting being able to jump into other time periods and become different people you would have never been able to experience otherwise. And, of course, getting to collaborate with people who also share the same passion as you.
Least favourite? That I can’t clone myself like Tatiana Maslany in Orphan Black and be working in multiple places at the same time.
8) What is your worst and or best audition story?
Josette: Best Audition Story- I auditioned and booked a part in a Disney American Girl Film (Molly). It was with choreographer Amy Wright (who now choreographs and produces on The Next Step) and I got to tap dance! Dancing is one of my favourite things to do; I’ve been dancing on stage since I was 6. Being able to showcase two things I’m passionate about was a great experience.
Worst Audition Story- Right before an audition the power went out in all of Southern Ontario! I was really bummed because I wanted the role badly. The cameras ran on battery so it was okay in the end.
9) Any advice for aspiring actors or anyone who wants to try acting but doesn't know how to start or is afraid to go for it?
Josette: Regardless of what it is, acting or anything in life, if it’s your dream go for it and take the positive steps to make it a reality. It may not be easy, but the only person that stops you from taking that first step is you.
10) In your Twitter bio it says that you are a filmmaker and screenwriter. What do you like about these two crafts?
Josette: The two forms of expression work hand in hand. I think what I like is the way in which you can affect and move others through storytelling. I enjoy that aspect in all artistic mediums whether it’s filmmaking, writing, music, dance, art or drama.
11) If you could be in any show or movie what would it be, what role would you want to play and why?
Josette: I’d like to play roles that are complex, that have growth and are more than one thing. For example, the characters in Downton Abbey! were written so a character really felt human and familiar despite being from another time period. All of the characters were genuine, and had their own story arc even if it was a maid in the background.
Also, on the other side of the spectrum, I’d like to play a role model character for younger generations. I want to play a girl who’s imperfect, funny, smart and strong like a Lizzie McGuire.
12) How was your very first experience on a set and on stage? What are key lessons or advice that you have learned and took away from those experiences?
Josette: On Set: It was for a Care Bears commercial, my second audition ever. I got to film with two friends who are both working actors that I still keep in touch with today. Also, I got to keep a Care Bear! Mine was Wish Bear and I think that’s so relevant to the start of my career as it was my birthday wish to be in this industry.
On Stage: I did a ballet number when I was six to “Les Poissons” from The Little Mermaid. I had a chef’s hat, apron and a giant wooden spoon. I stirred an invisible pot on stage for a majority of the routine.
Advice: Bring positive energy and respect to all those around you!
Follow her on her socials at:
https://twitter.com/JosetteHalpert (@JosetteHalpert)
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2082118/
https://www.instagram.com/josettehalpert/
https://www.facebook.com/Josette-Halpert-912945135492602/
- Aisha and Alisha
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