Inspiring Conversations with Deanna Morris of Last Act Studio

Today we’d like to introduce you to Deanna Morris.

Hi Deanna, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Growing up in the Midwest, there weren’t a lot of opportunities within entertainment and the arts. I studied theatre in school and became a model muse in my teens, but I thought that and sports were the only things I was ever going to do. However, I received an opportunity of a lifetime and it was that opportunity that changed my life and helped me decipher what was to come next.

At the age of 27, I booked a show that was later released internationally in North Korea and Russia. I knew at that point that entertainment and film was for me. I always dreamed about being on tv or in the movies, but never dreamed it would actually come true. Being a single mother at the time and wanting better for my children, I decided to relocate to California. After years of struggle, failed businesses, health issues, and failed relationships; I finally overcame it all. With having performed in over fifty live stage shows, and appearing on BET, MTV, VH1, Investigation Discovery Channel, GSN, and commercials; I knew that was just my beginning. I also knew I wanted to give back; which led me to opening Last Act Studio located in Anaheim, CA.

It is the ultimate one stop shop for all future entertainers. There we provide professional training to youth and adults within the performing arts. We mentor and guide each student. We teach the importance of dedication and persistence and most importantly that dreams can come true. Due to the lack of finances within some communities, I decided to open a foundation called “Giving Hearts For The Arts Foundation, Inc.” This foundation will reward two seniors a year with a college scholarship and this foundation will also sponsor low income students within performing arts within their communities. My current focuses are being a mom, being a CEO, being an example for other young women, and being the best entertainer I can possibly be.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It was definitely not a smooth road. Initially, my family did not support my relocation to California. They felt I was chasing an unreal dream and therefore, they did not support it in the beginning. A few months after arriving in California, I encountered the biggest health scare of my life. I ended up hospitalized for six days in ICU due to a pulmonary embolism that was caused by birth control and flying. Even then, my family advised me to return back to Illinois, but I knew I relocated for a reason and I knew God had me covered; so I remained in California. Outside of the health issues and the loneliness I felt living 2000 miles away from home, I also encountered failed relationships and businesses. I can say it was my faith and my determination that helped me get to where I am today.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Last Act Studio is a performing arts studio located in Anaheim, CA. The studio caters specifically to acting, theater, vocals, and dance lessons. We also offer several other in house services such as: actor headshots, self-tape auditions, and custom scenes for an actor’s reel. Here at the studio we aim to educate, mentor, and develop each and every student within their crafts; all while encouraging verbal communication, self-confidence, and social interaction. They will learn how to be expressive in a safe and fun environment and have a better understanding/appreciation for themselves and others within the entertainment industry. This learning facility was created as an actor’s last stop; meaning, everything they would need to sell themselves to agents and the entertainment industry along with all the tools they would need to enhance their artistic abilities is provided behind our doors. An actor or performer would not have to look any further than Last Act Studio. Classes are led by industry professionals/educators and will provide students with comprehensive curriculum and programs. Our variety of instructors and class levels will meet the needs of aspiring beginners, as well as the seasoned actors and performers. We truly believe in promoting positivity and growth to our youth and also to our teens and adults. Here at Last Act Studio we believe each and every soul was created an artist and it is up to us to pick up the brush and paint our futures!

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
We are always looking to collaborate with other creatives. The best support anyone can give to Last Act Studio or Giving Hearts For The Arts Foundation, Inc. would be to spread the word. Tell others about us! Referrals, Referrals, and more Referrals!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.deannammorris.com, www.lastactstudio.com
• Instagram: @deannammorris; @lastactstudio
• Yelp: Last Act Studio

Image Credits
Photographers: Cameron Radice Photography & Michael DeRosa