Rising Stars: Meet Shanlie Phillips of Redondo Beach

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shanlie Phillips.

Hi Shanlie , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started singing when I was really little and I always really enjoyed it. Then as I got a little bit older, I had the opportunity to”play” in a few little shows in elementary school and that’s where I fell in love with acting. On the ride home the day after I got to put on my last performance, I told my mom that acting was what I wanted to do with my life. I’m
sure she was terrified but I’ve been chasing that dream ever since.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’d say the struggles started at birth but that’s too long of a story so the short version is…I was born half deaf in my right ear, I was adopted and grew up as one of the only people of color in my tiny town. While that was an adventure in and of itself I believe it’s what gives me a unique perspective on the world. In acting it helps me come into my body and be present because it’s something I have to do in everyday life. We all have a story it’s how you use your story to inspire others that matters. I hope that I can be that inspiration for even just one person. That’s why I keep going…after rejection, after heartbreak, during the hard times. Because sometimes that’s all you need. Inspiration and the belief that someone out there sees you too.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Honestly the thing I’m most proud of is my resilience. I’ve worked with some really cool people and had some AMAZING experiences. But they might not be what some would call mainstream success. I love performing and I think I’m just super happy I haven’t lost that love while trying to work in this industry. I preform because I love it because I love to make the audience feel something that maybe they haven’t felt before. See someone in a way they’ve never been open to before. That’s why I do it. What sets me apart is ME I’ve experienced things people couldn’t imagine in their wildest dreams, and I carry that confidence and knowledge with me into everything.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
Ahhhhh LA
Coming from a small town of about 3000 people moving here was a culture shock but honestly I love it now. The weather, the people, the food, the ability to find something to do ANY night of the week. I didn’t have that growing up and it’s something I didn’t know I needed.

Now LA traffic….thats what I dislike. growing up I HAD to drive 30 miles to the nearest Walmart, which isn’t that bad when it’s only going to take 30 minutes. Here 30
miles takes 3 business days get to where you’re going.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shanlie_p?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Image Credits
Jimmy cannon (red photo)

Julia Hynous (cover photo and stripped shirt photo)

Ilya Ratman (headshot photos) (deceased)