Life & Work with Samara Brown

Today we’d like to introduce you to Samara Brown.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I originally saw myself doing computer science because where I’m from most people pursue tech jobs because they provide a level of financial security. I went to a science and technology high school and everything, but I found my true passion my senior year. They were putting on my favorite musical for the spring, “Hairspray”, and I just wanted to audition for every single role.

I ended up getting the lead and realized this is what I was supposed to be doing. I even remember the director asking me “Where have you been this whole time?” From there, I realized that I would always be successful and happy in my life by pursuing what actually brought me joy, and this was it. I went on to get a full performing arts scholarship for Theatre in college which challenged me to the fullest and gave me so much discipline for the arts and my craft.

Along the way, I was able to develop more of my skills in the hair and makeup department. Which inspired and grew my freelance business. Once I graduated, I realized that I was more interested in the craft of TV and Film, as it requires more attention to detail and for me, eliminated the distance of the storytelling.

I traveled to Atlanta, took classes online, etc. Trying to learn as much as I could about filmmaking. I took the leap of faith at 23 and decided to move to LA, where I knew I could make my dream come to fruition, and I was blessed enough to be able to do so. Finally, in October of last year, I was signed to Authentic Management company, which, for me, was where the hard work truly began.

Now, I am auditioning for major network roles and films, and learning the balancing act of what it means to be an artist. I am always a student, and I have learned the importance of patience, not only for my process but for myself. I have developed a deep level of respect for those who are in this industry.

I consider what we do to be the “Emotional Olympics”. I am constantly training; I don’t think the training ever stops. But the journey is so worth it.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I would say one of the hardest things for me throughout my process as an artist would be the effect of the pandemic. During that time, I felt so creatively stuck.

Classes weren’t happening and auditions were slow, as it was hard to see a way out. Right in the middle of the pandemic, I moved to Atlanta and was fortunate enough to train at a great studio and get those actor muscles working again, but a Covid surge stopped me in my tracks.

I would say trying to find a way to “be in the room” and continue flexing that artistic muscle was what I was constantly searching for and was hard to find. I learned other ways of studying the craft, through watching movies and TV; creating my own content in my room.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Overall, I would say that I am an artist.

I am an actor, a singer, a writer, a dancer, a hairstylist, and a makeup artist. I think that what sets me apart from others is that not only do I perform, but I do the behind-the-scenes work of hair and makeup.

I think I am most proud of my ability to be malleable and not rely on any one avenue. Although I am most focused on my acting, I am constantly developing my other skills as well. That makes me proud.

What would you say has been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Patience is key in this industry. Patience with yourself, and being able to nurture yourself are so important.

Everyone thinks they are going to get that one big break role or opportunity, but in reality, you have to take the great ones as they come, and give room for small wins as well. Every audition is an opportunity to learn and to share your best fruits.

Nurturing yourself and doing what brings you joy and keeps you balanced is so key in this process because you want the craft to not feel forced. I hate to feel like I’m working, I’m just doing what I love. I’m sharing what I have.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.styleseat.com/m/v/samarabrown
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/samara__brown?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/c/SamaraBrown
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/track/4yteVsvQRN7c0uVql4gpSB?si=bQ81pHNhTpWncmBe0VGViQ

Image Credits
Dezmen Alexander @dezmen.alexander