What’s it like to be an actor for the big screen? NC Acting students found out on November 20 with a chance to meet virtually with Kari Matchett.
Known for roles in Cube²: Hypercube (2002), Maudie (2016) and Code 8 (2019), Matchett shared valuable advice and information with NC students on the afternoon of November 20 as part of the program’s Upc Close and Personal Series, which has gone virtual for Fall term.
“Our guest was very generous with her time and shared invaluable information with the students that directly relates to the learning and training they’re receiving in the acting program at Niagara College,” said program faculty member Barbara Mantini.
Faculty member Lori Ravensborg, who is a close friend of Matchett’s, noted that she addressed a variety of topics with the students. She spoke of her time in National Theatre School and studying in Chekhov, Russia; and the lifelong odyssey of growth and adaptation for the film and television industry. She also discussed the importance of actors living a balanced life, and staying healthy and strong – both physically and mentally – in order to handle the demands of 14-hour days.
“She hit on the importance of preparation in a role in order to be able to be a great scene partner during shooting who is present; mind, body, and soul in the moment,” said Ravensborg. “‘Being an actor is a compassionate journey, to which she expanded into taking great care in understanding the depths of the personhood you are portraying, where and when they are, and decisions in the kinds of traits what make them truly themselves, which comes from the script, research and asking questions.”
Second-year student Ashton Kelly valued the opportunity to meet with Matchett. He appreciated her detailed responses to student questions, as well as hearing about her personal experiences.
“One thing I valued about the meeting was that she didn’t beat around the bush,” said Kelly, noting that he appreciated her clear and concise responses about both the good and more challenging aspects of the industry.
“She told us how difficult and chaotic her life can be because of her chosen career path, but she also let us know about how passionate she was about it and why she wanted to become an actor.
“She made me really excited about my future in the industry.”
In October, students also had a chance to participate in a virtual roundtable with actress and producer Rishma Malik as part of the Up Close and Personal Series.
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