INTERVIEW: ARIA BROOKS – Reignland
How did you get started in acting?
“When I was younger, my parents put me in musical theatre and drama. I started to take it more seriously and decided I wanted to pursue on-camera acting at the age of 10. From there, my mom and I hustled to get auditions until I was signed with an agency.”
Aria is making her mark on the industry as the newest series regular cast member in the reboot of the widely popular Nickelodeon series All That.
“First, I had to submit a self-tape, performing my own sketch characters and a provided script. Then I had to fly out to California for a callback. I had to do the same thing, but this time it was in front of the All That producers. Then they flew me out for a screen test. I did the same thing, but for the Nickelodeon executives. I found out right after the test that I booked the job.”
How does it feel to be a part of such an iconic brand?
“I have grown up watching Nickelodeon and it has been a dream of mine to be a part of a show. It’s even better than I imagined. I’ve met so many amazing people, I’ve tried new things, and most importantly, inspired people.”
photography by Byron Brown Photography
What was the first time on set like meeting all the old and new cast?
“When I met the original cast members for the first time, was star struck. Watching them is one thing but getting to know them is another and they are all so nice. Meeting the new cast was also incredible. They were very welcoming. We are literally best friends now.”
You’ve also guest-starred in the Netflix original Dolly Parton’s ‘Heartstrings’. How was it being a part of that story?
“It was an amazing opportunity. I got to meet so many amazing people and it really stretched me as an actor. It was really cool to see the meaning behind her song/story. Being a part of it was amazing and I was honored.”
Did you get to meet the iconic singer and if so, how was it?
“I did! She was so sweet and absolutely beautiful. She was filming another episode at the time of our table read, but she still went out of her way to greet each one of us.”
The cast was star studded I see. Who were you dying to meet and how did it go?
“I was excited to meet Dolly Parton. I’ve heard her music, and she is a legend. I didn’t really know who the cast was before booking the job, but, once I found out, I was really excited to work alongside Rochelle Aytes, Sarah Shari, Jessica Collins, and Tammy Lynn Michaels.”
photography by Byron Brown Photography
How has the virus affected actresses like yourself?
“Well for one, production on sets has been suspended. We also don’t really know when things will resume, so it’s hard to make any big decisions right now. On a more positive note, I’ve been able to take some time for myself and just enjoy being a kid. I’ve had the opportunity to spend quality time with my family. And I’ve been using this time to be more creative.”
What is your dream role?
“My dream role is the lead dynamic character. I would want to be the one who undergoes the most mental and/or emotional change during a film. I would love to be able to tap into characters like that.”
What advice do you have for new actresses and actors?
“My advice is to take risks, especially in auditions. Casting directors go through so many, so if yours doesn’t stand out, then they could skip past you. Also, have fun!
