Interview by Carol Wright | Photos Courtesy of Shane Marriott
We got to chat with actor Shane Marriott about his role in The Porter and the advice he has for aspiring actors.
Was there a television show or movie that initially sparked your interest in acting?
Yes, the three most influential television shows were; The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Martin, and In Living Colour. There were a lot of great movies that influenced me from the 90’s as well but; Bad Boys, The Nutty Professor, Wesley Snipes movies and Denzel Movies were my go to!
Throughout high school and college, you were involved in community theatre. How did that early work help prepare you for the television and film work you do now?
It gave me an idea of the amount of work I had to put in to keep getting better and to make the dream a reality. My first play at York was directed by a theatre major and she pushed me to the point where I had to ask myself if it was something that I really wanted to do. Sticking it out, keeping an open mind and taking the craft seriously was proof enough to make me realize how much I love to act. I wasn’t getting paid for my time or rehearsals, I just did what I loved and it motivated me to keep trying and take classes where I could find time.
What about The Porter interested you and made you want to be involved?
I’ve always loved period pieces and biopics. When I read the breakdown and discovered that this was based on true events in the 1920’s, I wanted to do the best I could for a chance to be in an inspirational and revolutionary show. This is the type of show I’ve always wanted to be a part of and I’m glad I was given the opportunity to do this project with this cast and crew.
Tell our readers about your character Sticks. How did you prepare for the role?
He’s a man who has been through and seen it all growing up, loyal and abides by the ‘laws of the game’ but he’s also one not to be messed with. A man of few words but his presence alone means business. Sticks takes care of the dirty work for Queenie all while running an illegal gambling organization but his story plot thickens when he starts to realize and question who he can really trust. A lot of research was done for the prep; articles, videos, interviews, novels, anything I could pretty much get my hands on that would give me an insight to particular mannerisms, style and the world during this period overall. Also after reading all of the episodes I had a better understanding of who Sticks was and his purpose to the story.
Did you feel as though you got to stretch yourself as an actor playing Sticks?
Most definitely, he is a challenging yet fun character. There’s a lot going on internally with Sticks but he’s also a man of a few words. This is the first time I have ever played a complex character like this where I was able to internalize all these thoughts and feelings while trying to intimidate those around me. The confidence this man exudes is untouchable.
What advice do you have for aspiring actors?
If you don’t love it, don’t do it. It is not easy and it is not going to go how you plan, especially if you do not have tough skin for it. Every role isn’t for you so get used to the word “No.” Your acting career is a journey, you have to enjoy every moment from no auditions, to being placed on hold, to bookings. Take classes, keep a positive mind and do not compare your path to anybody else. Focus on what you can control which will include reading, studying film, other actors work and experiencing life because that’s where the real acting lessons occur. Everything you do from here on out will contribute to your art so approach each day like that and continue to be a sponge, soaking up all of life’s lessons.