INTERVIEW with LINDSEY BEIER : “Just to try to be happy, be kind to others, be respectful and to follow your goals!”
Lindsey Beier is an Irish and English actress who has trained as a performer in Ireland, UK and in the US. She has always been very passionate about acting since a young age. Lindsey also does modelling, writing, dance and is also now known as a producer for some upcoming projects.
Thank you so much for interviewing with us! Can you share your story on how did you get started in the film industry?
Thank you for having me. Yes of course, I started acting from a very young age doing theatre and plays. I loved the theatre, but I knew a part of me wanted to be a screen actress aswell. That is when I decided to get an agent, study performing arts for two years in Oxfordshire and to go for as many auditions as I could. I worked hard to expand my career and I was also in high hopes of one day being able to be in places like London and Los Angeles to work on my craft. I had managed to do so and I am grateful — specially for the opportunities that I have been given and also for the work that I have been offered in this industry.
Who are you grateful for your success and can you share a story about that?
I am grateful for my Grandparents. My Grandmother always supported me and so did my Grandfather. It is one of those industries that when you say when you are very young that you want to get into acting or singing — your parents may think maybe she’s dreaming — that’s what my father was like, although my Mother was very supportive. She was the one who enrolled me in the Dean Crowe Theatre when I was 9 years old.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began your career?
There have been so many, but I think one story that stays with me is when I was awarded a scholarship in Los Angeles representing Ireland in the World Championships of Performing Arts. I was surprised but so grateful and then going back there the following year at 17 years old on your own to do the scholarship, it was scary but also amazing.
What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far? How did you overcome it?
When I was dealing with quite bad anxiety at times i.e. when my self confidence went. For an example, at one point during my career I had injured my leg and I unfortunately was diagnosed with a condition called Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. I could barely walk for months which also led to depression and anxiety. I overcame this though but trying to stay positive, doing writing and engaging with a charity called Burning Nights which helped me so much. I now do volunteer work with them and try to help others in similar situations. I still to this day manage with the condition but it has made me stronger and more determined to work hard with my career.
What are your ‘‘5 things I do to prepare for the role” and are you able to share a story or example of each?
I try to use personal experiences, for example if a character I am playing is really happy — I think of a similar situation that I can relate to and I bring those emotions to the character. Having a bit of alone time right before filming is quite important in my opinion and keeping your phone off or on silent to avoid distractions. Another thing I do is If I am getting anxious right before being on set or doing any performance — I just count to 5 in my head and just do it. Also being prepared is extremely important as well as not overthinking too much. To act is to do, that is something I keep in mind.
What methods or techniques do you use to find truth in your character’s behaviour?
I use a mixture of Stanislavski and Alexander Techniques. Using past experiences to bring your character to life in that moment I find very helpful, being in the moment and in character and forgetting about everything else.
What are your top 3 tips for actors that are starting?
Headshots — make sure you have these. Some footage of you acting, even if it is of you doing a monologue or performing at a stage play, remember agents and industry professionals want to see what you can do. I also strongly agree with attending networking events to meet others in the industry, it does help in many ways — also with your confidence. Sometimes it is who you know in this industry and to get yourself out there.
What has been inspiring you lately?
I’ve always been a fan of Marilyn Monroe’s movies, but also reading her biography she has inspired me to, even in the hard parts in the industry and in life, to just keep going. My Grandmother in Ireland inspires me aswell. she is a fighter and has taught me not to care what people think. Just to try to be happy, be kind to others, be respectful and to follow your goals.
What movie would you recommend watching and why?
Almost Famous is one of my favourite films. I find it to be quite a powerful film and has a lot of iconic scenes to it. I would also say Breakfast at Tiffany’s — it is one of my favourite films.
What is one message you would give to your fans?
It is very kind when someone uses the word fan. I honestly think though of supporters and fans as friends. They seem to want to best for you and I am grateful — honestly thank you to everyone who has been so supportive of me throughout my career. I hope to inspire others to follow their goals and to encourage people that, even during rough times, you can achieve anything you want, as long as you believe in yourself and do not worry what others think.
