Jessica Henwick won the role of Bo in CBBC’s TV series ‘Spirit Warriors‘ after several months of auditions and since then has become a member of the National Youth Theatre, made bases in both London and LA, signed with a top UK agent and continues to work for film, TV and theatre. Phew! Jessica answered a few questions in between a hectic schedule…
So, tell us about about how you got into acting and your first ever professional acting job. When did you get the acting ‘bug’?
I started acting during secondary school; I took part in plays at my local theatre, joined drama clubs, and also did LAMDA examinations up until Medallion (under the old system). I even remember starting a “film club” with some of my school friends, and trying to recreate famous film scenes. The footage is hilarious!
My first ever professional job was playing Bo in the BBC series ‘Spirit Warriors‘. It was such a fantastic experience working with the cast and crew. I learned so much in those four months!
From your experience of auditions, what tips would you give to make a good impression?
Each audition is a completely unique experience. The best piece of advice I could give, is just to enjoy it! Go prepared – read the script and be willing to take direction. And always be yourself!
Do you have any memorable auditions?
I have been to some crazy auditions! I was auditioning for a project in LA last year, and after we’d read the script they asked me to dance for five minutes. Thankfully I’d worn really stretchy trousers – the guy after me split his jeans open during his audition! I’ve also had to mimic riding a bicycle, and talking to imaginary rabbits.
How was your experience of getting an agent?
My first agent was through my drama school. I auditioned for them with one of my favourite monologues, which I still use now! Once you’ve found a monologue that works, make sure you practise it regularly, because you never know when you’ll need to use it!
Which actor or actress inspires you the most?
I’m more inspired by the characters that the actors play, and their approach to the role. However, my favourite actress is Meryl Streep. She never ceases to amaze me!
What’s the best memory you’re going to take away from your acting experiences so far?
That’s hard to choose! I have some great memories from the National Youth Theatre. I also have wonderful memories from ‘Spirit Warriors’ – we were working in a studio for the majority of the time, and every few weeks they would do something amazing to the set, like cover it in fake snow!
Who is your dream character to play in the future?
I’d love to take on a historical role, based on a real person.
Which play or book would you recommend – are there any must haves for aspiring actors?
‘Secrets of Screen Acting‘ by Patrick Tucker. [Click here to check it out on Amazon!] Try and make a point of reading a new script every week, or every other week. And try and mix it up: film scripts, plays, classics, modern pieces.
Which direction would you like to see your acting career heading in the next couple of years?
There are lots of directors that I would love to work with, and I’d love to go back to the stage at some point… Who knows? That’s what I love about acting, you never know what will happen next!
Thanks you so much Jessica for taking the time to answer our questions. Best of luck with your up coming projects and we’ll keep our eyes peeled for what’s coming up next!
Published on Straight From School.org 25th April 2011. Headshots © Deidhra Fahey, Spirit Warrior Image © BBC 2011.