Great Question. I was 12 years old and cast as the wicked stepmother in the Cinderella drama. I was so anxious yet excited and received a standing ovation as a result. I felt amazing and been in love with that feeling ever since. The next day I was overcome with emotion and too ill to attend school. That experience taught me how to channel anxiety and allow it fuel your performance rather than stifle you.
How did you become an actor
I continued to pursue acting throughout my high school years. I had a great drama teacher named Julia Maynard who really encouraged me to continue. Upon graduation I was awarded an outstanding trophy for my performances. Immediately after high school I relocated to New York City from the small town of Macon, GA to attend the Neighborhood Playhouse School of Theatre .I trained under the Meisner Technique. Of 30 students 15 were asked to return for the second year. I was one of the students asked to return, but unable to due to finances. However; I never stopped pursuing my craft.
What acting technique do you use
I studied under the Sanford Mesiner Technique. It’s the reality of doing what you would normally do in a real life circumstance. It involves repetition, careful listening and honesty. Reacting they way you would normally with your emotions attached.
What wrong impressions do actors hold about acting
That OVERACTING is acting. Actors should know that less is more. Allow yourself to embrace all of the complexities that are woven into your own unique character. Dream, Imagine, and draw upon all of these when it’s time to come alive and perform. This is what a moving performance consists of. Most of all, in addition to all of the studying required – Simply TRUST yourself!
Do you take courses to improve your craft
I currently attend the following, MONOLODGE – which is a forum for actors to work on Improv and Monolgues. I’m also a member of ActorsOneonOneNYC where you are able to network with legit agents and casting directors in television, film, commercial and voiceovers. I also attend The Times Square Playwrights where authors go to select actors to stretch their cold reading skills. Its considered gym class for actors. I will be partnering with John Pallotta acting coach recently featured in Backstage and nominated for Best acting Coach in NYC. He’s amazing and has been a great support to my career.
Adrienne R. Williams with Dr. OZ
What acting books do you read
Uta Hagen’s “Respect for Acting” She provides in-depth detail about having respect for your craft. An overall well written read that provides exercises to help the actor stretch imagination and skill.
How do you keep fit as an actor
Mental and emotional health is very important for the actor. It is imperative to find ways to bring you to a place of calm and peace. I exercise regularly, promote a healthy diet, enjoy fine wines, and I travel and challenge myself to learn something new daily. I surround myself with healthy favorable rewarding relationships. Healthy friendships are always encouraged and being in love is always a plus. Look for as many POSITIVE things along this journey called life that makes it colorful. I’m also a fan of Bikram yoga
How do you prepare for a role when you get it
I read the script until there’s a connection. Sometimes that means reading it several times. I also read the character until it doesn’t sound like Adrienne’s voice any more but rather the character.
How do you create a character from a script into a person
You have to make the character relatable. You must research the role and work extensively with the author in order to bring their words to life. Its the best when the director trusts the actual actor, it means they are trusting your vision with their words. I incorporate what I would do in real life experiences through the voice of THAT character.
How do you stay fresh on set
I remain focused on the character. I always drink water on set and I stay in the mind of the character and not the mind of Adrienne. If I become frustrated I may take a few moments to sit in silence if it’s permitted. I simply remember why I’m there and I challenge myself to be the best I can be in THAT moment.
Adrienne Williams on the Good Morning America with Robin Roberts
Describe a memorable character you played
I played the role of Lexus in a highly reviewed play called “Bruised But not Broken” 2016 (4) shows total and possible road tour. Lexus was relatable because of her genuine yet simplistic way of life. She was a mother whom loved her son and wanted the best in life, however it took a vacation long trip to discover what was actually lying beneath this individual and her painfully hidden secret.
Explain one creative choice you took on set
In my current play my character is similar to Rose from the Golden Girls. Very sweet yet naïve in many aspects. I chose to speak in a very nasal voice completely opposite of my regular deeper register and it translated very well with the audience. The director Lisa Evans-Graham was equally pleased because of the stretch and how it blended well on stage.
What do you want most from a director
Support, trust and clear direction. It is difficult for an actor to bring your vision to life if it’s not clearly discussed.
What actors do you long to work with
This is very difficult because it’s more than one – Morgan Freeman, Samuel Jackson, Tom Hanks.
Why
I have never watched a film with the above mentioned and not be moved by their performances.
What advice would you give to actors
Keep going! Never give up on all that you have to contribute to the world of ARTS. Practice your craft and respect it enough to give your best ALL the time.
Briefly write about your career
My background primarily consists of television and film. I have played various roles spanning from a resident in a poor neighborhood in “American Gangster” to a naïve young mother with sister all named after cars in gospel musical play. I was recently featured on Good Morning America with host Robin Roberts, as well The Dr. Oz. Show and the current television show Bull with Michael Weatherly… I’m also a proud member of SAG-AFTRA. Who is Adrienne R. Williams overall? Someone who hails from a small city in Georgia called Macon, that decided to relocate at 17 years old to peruse her craft. When I’m not acting I enjoy learning as I have a M.S all of which relates to my craft. I’m pleased with life and excited about the future. Not bad for a girl who started out with only $60 in her pocket upon arrival to NY and a hotel origin….. I hope to leave someone inspired.
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