Interview by Carol Wright | Photographer: Dean Foreman
We got to chat with actress Celina Smith about what sparked her interest in acting and playing the title role in Annie Live!
Was there a television show or movie that initially sparked your interest in acting?
Well the first show that ever caught my interest was The Fresh Beat Band believe it or not! It’s one of the first shows that I ever loved, if you don’t count Sesame Street. I loved the music.
Did working on the Lion King help you prepare for your role in Annie Live!?
Yes, they’re both musicals. A lot of the things that came with Lion King, the live audience, especially, helped prepare me for Annie Live!
What was the audition process like for Annie Live!?
Long! There were auditions for the acting, the singing and the dancing.
For Annie Live! You’re acting alongside Taraji P. Hansen, Harry Connick Jr., and Nicole Scherzinger. Did any of your co-stars give you advice or words of encouragement ahead of the live show?
Mr. Titus told me once that I have nothing to prove, only to share. He also made a word for me because I get nervous, “Care-vous” it’s not really nerves, it’s just that I care so much about giving my best. And Ms. Taraji said to use that feeling as fuel for your performance.
Tell our readers about the charity you work with called Saving Our Daughters. How can people get involved?
Saving Our Daughter helps girls deal with self-esteem and challenges like bullying. It was co-founded by Keke Palmer. I really love it because I get to encourage little girls that look like me. You can find out more about Saving Our Daughters at savingourdaughters.org.
What advice do you have for aspiring actors?
Always keep pursuing your dream – really commit to it and don’t quit when you get a “no.”