SPOTLIGHT ON BEST PERFORMERS: SARAH BARRIOS
STARCAST: How long have you been acting, and what inspired you to become an actor?
SARAH: Well, I when I was in 6th grade I stumbled upon my first musical (Suessical the Musical) and auditioned with absolutely no experience what so ever and I landed a role as a tapping cadet by accident! After being complimented on learning on how to pick up such a difficult type of dance without any experience, I realized that this was something I really wanted to do. I stopped acting for a few years and did some voice over commercials and then, after seeing the Hunger Games ( I know I sound like every girl out there) I was really inspired by Josh Hutcherson’s acting abilities and after watching a few of his movies, I wanted to be able to push myself to become as natural and as fluid of an actor as he is.
STARCAST: How did you prepare for your StarCast scene? What informed your performance?
SARAH: I definitely practiced a lot, trying different ways to deliver the lines, and I realized that I just sounded robotic. I then sat down and told myself “what would you do if your boyfriend broke up with you for other girls?” and I just let it flow from my heart. It felt so real and so right and I knew that even if others did not like it, I had spoken my true feelings.
STARCAST: What kind of acting gigs have you had thus far, if any?
SARAH: I’ve done three plays, Suessical the Musical, Peter Pan, and Pride and Prejudice.
STARCAST: We know you’ve fantasized about an awards acceptance speech. How does the opening line go?
SARAH: First of all, it is an honor to be accepting this award in front of all of you tonight. I’d like to thank my family and the people who have helped push me to do my best and have helped me achieve my dreams and goals….
STARCAST: Have you had any notable successes or setbacks you think other actors could learn from?
SARAH: At first, accidently being cast to dance tap was a major setback. I didn’t dance at all, but my mom told me to just try it out. Its worth a risk, and so I did and I ended up doing so well! I don’t really think any rejections or feedback is really a setback. I believe that even if you don’t get the part, there’s something you can work on to better your performance, and after getting feedback on my first StarCast scene, I worked hard to use all the tips I was given and they definitely paid off!
STARCAST: Have you had any acting training, and can you speak a little bit to the importance of drama programs or acting classes?
SARAH: When I was younger, I took one acting class, and I think it definitely helped me. It was my first play with a lead role and my first play that wasn’t a musical. I learned how to memorize lines and how to convey emotions through your body movements. I would definitely encourage other young actors to look into the classes. You can learn a lot to better yourself.
STARCAST: What’s your dream role, and do you have a favorite actor or actress?
SARAH: I would definitely love to play a girl next door kind of role, who falls in love with someone unexpected. I’ve always been a sucker for those types of movies, but I also wouldn’t mind playing a action role, those are pretty neat too! My favorite actor would have to be Josh Hutcherson, and no it’s not because of his looks, he really embodies the character, even if he doesn’t like it or he’s not comfortable with it, he soaks up their emotions and then portrays them so perfectly, you tend to forget he’s playing a role. I strive for that kind of flawlessness.
STARCAST: What are your short term acting goals?
SARAH: Definitely the keep working hard on how I want to portray myself, but also to be noticed. Even if it’s by two people who enjoy my performances, just to know someone enjoys my hard work is something I really appreciate.
STARCAST: The biz can be tough. What motivates you to keep at it?
SARAH: My friends and family definitely keep me motivated and to keep me striving for whatever my goals are for myself. I also think watching new movies of watching new success stories, and just knowing and believing in myself that I have the strength and the courage to keep moving forward, I think that really helps me continue to work towards the acting business. Thinking of if I can work hard to achieve my dreams, I can help so many people around the world achieve theirs or have someone to look up to. I think that’s really important.
STARCAST: Do you have any special or funny skills we should know about?
SARAH: I just finished high school as the only senior on our varsity dance team so I am a dancer and pretty quick on my feet. I’m also a singer, I play a little guitar and I write my own music. I’ve been told I’m pretty funny and quirky, but I think that’s just personal opinion. I think the one skill I’m really proud of is that I’m a people person. I really enjoy interacting with others and I enjoy making others smile. That’s way I think this business is right for me because I strive to be a role model and a kind person for others. I want to brighten a person’s day, whether it’s with music or acting or just hanging out, making people happy and giving them something and someone to connect to is key.
STARCAST: Do you have any audition tips for your fellow actors out there?
SARAH: Don’t take any feedback or tips as bad criticisms, these are helpful hints on how to improve your skill! and work hard! If you want something, go for it. Don’t let anything stop you from reaching your dreams. you can to whatever you set your mind to as my dad always says!
STARCAST: Do you have a website, YouTube channel or reel you would like us to post? And do you have a Twitter or other social media handle where you would like people to follow you?
SARAH: Twitter: @SarahElizB
Facebook: Sarah Elizabeth Barrios
Thanks, SARAH! You can view Sarah’s performance at www.starcastauditions.com/best-performances. If you don’t see her video, switch the sort function from “Most Recent” to “All.”
