I am a graduate of Northwestern State University 08 in Liberal Arts. I am a Mother, full time Actress and Full Figured Model here in Atlanta Ga. I have been in the entertainment industry for over 10 years, and each year the industry gets better and better. I have always been inspired to perform, and with the approval of my family I have been bless to be able to do film, television and stage. I am the Founder of SJV Productionz out of Atlanta Ga, and I am the former TV host of “Paranormal Experience aka P.E and former Co Host of Juice Radio on Blog Talk.” I recently had the honor to be a part of Role Play Radio 1100am out of Atlanta Ga. My goals/are to bring back a style that has been long forgotten for AA Actress- to TV, Film, and Stage. I feel “Women” of all shapes, colors, sizes an ages are beautiful inside and out. It is my hope that the entertainment industry will see it as well…
My first time I am proud to say where featured extras in “Waking Madison” starring Elizabeth Shue. Another Ft part was with 50 Cent and Val Kilmore I played the mother with the baby “former title” Streets of Blood. Which led to my speaking part “In Stranger Within” staring Stan McDonald. Which led to me landing my first commercial for Casino Paragon just to name a few.
Senay Jackson
Did you study acting
I studied in Grambling State University Theater in 1986, but it wouldn’t be until 2004-2008 that I studied Liberal Arts at Northwestern State University. I knew at a young age that I wanted to explore the wonderful world of TV/Film and Stage. When I younger, I was told by my parents that it was all just a pipe dream, and that I needed to be practical. However, no matter what doubts I may have had. Whenever I could I auditioned for every gig that I could,with the hopes of learning and working with the best. One of my best and most inspirational Mentors/teachers was Mr. Perry Morgan. Who is an outstanding musician and excellent teacher, being that I was the oldest in my class. I often would have doubts, and he would look at me and say; “Is this what you want to do – yes, Is this where you want to be- yes! Then stop doubting yourself and stop worrying about your damn age. An learn what You need to in order to be the best that you can be!”
What acting technique do you use
My favorite for Film/TV is Lee Strasberg’s Method: His “method,” derived from Stanislavski, encourages actors magnify and intensify their connection to the material by creating their characters’ emotional experiences in their own lives. Another favorite for Theatre and Stage is Stanislavski’s System: His approach incorporates spiritual realism, emotional memory, dramatic and self-analysis, and disciplined practice.
What wrong impressions do actors hold about acting
That anyone can do this- FALSE! It is not as EASY as it looks!!! It’s a gift that needs to be nurtured and developed by studying and working with fellow actors. Who understands the need to be the best that YOU can be. They will be just as driven as YOU are, and will eat, sleep and dream this world. While making sure to never lose focus or give up! Some actors will be hired on the spot based on their looks, talent or their presence. Others will be considered a character actor like myself…Who might be rejected more than accepted. When this happen don’t give up…Keep moving forward and no matter what don’t stop working towards your goals… All dreams are possible if YOU believe in Yourself!
Do you take courses to improve your craft
Dewayne Boyd and Any and all Improve classes I can sign up for. As well as connect with Talent Managers Wendy Wright and Amy Jo Berman and other Talent Scouts. When money is funny You can also try Youtube which offers tons of acting classes, improve classes and lectures form the best of the best. As well as ways to better improve your acting techniques
What acting books do you read
Contemporary American Monologues for Women by Todd London, The Ultimate Audition Book: 222 Monologues 2 Minutes and Under Irene Ziegler, One on One, Audition: Everything an Actor Needs to Know to Get the Part to name a few.
Watch me @senayj368 on Fatal Attraction and online at Tv One..The Jerry Logan Story pic.twitter.com/CXe3E6Cnjo
— ActressSenay Jackson (@senayj368) December 6, 2013
How do you keep fit as an actor
I take on roles that stretches me and my abilities to become that character. I am open to parts that allows me to step out of my comfort zone. As an Actress sometimes you have to make sure that the character you play doesn’t become a part of you, and You end up losing yourself in the process. You have to move outside the box and never become too comfortable or you become stuck! I am constantly working, acting out scenes or mentoring with other actors to help me stay focus.
When you’re offered a role, what do you do next
I read the script over and over and start practicing my scenes. While trying to develop strong emotions and thoughts that would help me to become my character. Today’s audience are serious critics that can spot when You’re acting. So I try never to act. I am Her and I want the audience to know it, believe it and see it!
How do you take a character in a script to a honest, believable and breathing person
I try to develop a back story for her- if one is provided I add to it. I usually ask to be called that character. So as to better tap into the Role I’m trying to build. In order to do this I need to make sure there is nothing of Senay Jackson left in the role I am allowed to play.
Senay Jackson as ‘Cynthia Anderson’ on Fatal Attraction @ TV One
How do you stay fresh on set
I never drop my Role. I just try and stay focus but always friendly and professional while on set. I respond as my character, and I won’t come out of my role until the Director yells Cut!
Describe a memorable character you played
Fatal Attraction: “The Jerry Logan Story.” I was allowed as a plus size actress to play a vixen by the name of Cynthia. Who enjoyed the power she had over two Younger Men. I had to stretch myself being as there were some close to nude scenes- that I have never had to do before. An being a full size woman still trying to learn to be comfortable within my OWN body. It was a stretch to show what I have always believed of Plus Size women. We are beautiful inside and out.
Explain one creative choice you took on set
Usually the Director will tell You their idea of how the character will respond or act when certain things happen in the scene. Then they turn to you and say… “Now make it happen and believable.” So I take what they show me and I give it (Her) “my character” true interpretation on how she would act or what she would say and feel. While still trying to stick as close as possible to the Directors thoughts and ideas.
What do you want most from a director
To allow me the ability to go outside the lines while not losing sight of my character true state. I want them to let me show them the vision I see when I become my character. It’s a learning choice to help me better walk in her shoes.
What actors do you long to work with
Pam Grier, Will Smith, Robert Townsend, and so many more.
Why
Pam Grier is the true inspiration of all my Acting Dreams. I have thanked her many times in my mind for opening the doors for AA Women. As well as for being a powerful, strong, beautiful Woman and Actress that allowed us to show Hollywood we have the right stuff needed. To work and connect with the best.
What advice would you give to actors
Don’t give up and never stop trying to connect with Talent Agents, Talent Managers and Acting Coaches. You never know what lies ahead and having a great support system is key in this industry trust me.
Briefly write about your career
– Harlem Special Blend-09: Ms.Carlton Supporting Power House Prod.
– Taboo- 10: Ms. Gregory Supporting Umoja Unlimited Films
– Today’s Tomorrow- 10: Mrs. Peterson Supporting Independent
– Meet the Browns- 09: Mourner Featured Tyler Perry Studios
– Reiprocity-09: Mrs. Gloria Supporting Umoja Unlimited Films
– Single in the ATL-09:Nurse Joyce Supporting Angelo Production
– Judgment Day- 08: Angel Supporting Independent Film
– Checkmate- 11-Wanda Supporting Prime Factor Films
– Ancient Book of Krawlz-12- Mother Boyd Supporting/Reoccurring Prime Factor Films
– Black Cain-12 Joann(mother) Supporting Phi Mu Entertainment
Television
– Harlem Special Blend-09: Ms.Carlton Supporting Power House Prod.
– Taboo- 10: Ms. Gregory Supporting Umoja Unlimited Films
– Today’s Tomorrow- 10: Mrs. Peterson Supporting Independent
– Meet the Browns- 09: Mourner Featured Tyler Perry Studios
– Reiprocity-09: Mrs. Gloria Supporting Umoja Unlimited Films
– Single in the ATL-09:Nurse Joyce Supporting Angelo Production
– Judgment Day- 08: Angel Supporting Independent Film
– Checkmate- 11-Wanda Supporting Prime Factor Films
– Ancient Book of Krawlz-12- Mother Boyd Supporting/Reoccurring Prime Factor Films
– Black Cain-12 Joann(mother) Supporting Phi Mu Entertainment
