Daily Inspiration: Meet Maryann Marselles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Maryann Marselles

Hi Maryann, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was always interested in acting and performing ever since I was a child. I was part of a children’s theater group in my teens, and that really helped with my introverted personality and gave me more confidence to come out of my shell. I originally moved to NY for acting, and that’s where I got all my training, including completing a two-year conservatory in the Meisner technique. Admittedly though, I was still wondering whether this career and industry was really possible for me. After experiencing the loss of my best friend, however, that really opened my eyes to how short life is and that tomorrow is not guaranteed. This motivated me to step it up and to not be so hesitant about pursuing this as a career, so I continued with my training in NY and started submitting myself for as much work as possible. That was where I first got set experience and really started to learn about the industry. I then moved out to LA where I continued working in tv, film and commercials. It was in LA where I also got more training in the business side of acting and learned how to develop my package with headshots and scenes to show off who I am as an actor and where I fit in the industry. This has enabled me to grab the attention of filmmakers, directors and other industry professionals who I have been collaborating with on several new projects.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely was not a smooth road. There were a lot of struggles, doubts and setbacks along the way. Disappointment was and still is a big part of my journey. Struggles include not feeling “ good enough,” wondering when and if the next job opportunity will ever come, and feeling like I’m a disappointment to my friends and family if I never actually end up being a success. I had people in my life comment that they thought I’d have more success by now, or that I need a “real job” and I’m somehow not good enough for not having a high-paying 9-5 job. Also, finding confidence in myself, trying not to compare myself to others, and finding value in myself outside of the acting industry are all things I’m still working on.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m an actor and filmmaker. I do mostly on-camera work in TV, film and commercials. I’ve also written, produced and directed my own short films, collaborating with fellow creatives, many of whom I’m pleased to call my friends. I’m most proud of the fact that I forged this path for myself; I had a goal and dream and I went out there and through hard work, made it a reality, and that reality is still evolving and changing along with myself. What sets me apart from others is all the qualities that make me unique, such as my voice and my personality. I’ve been called “weird” before in my younger years, but now that weirdness and quirkiness is how I’m remembered. I’ve gotten the most notice in this industry from my voice and my type, and although my voice was something I wished was a little different when I was younger, I’ve learned it is now one of my assets that adds nuance and depth to my performances.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I live in LA. What I like best about the city is the diversity, both with the people and with the different industries here. Each neighborhood and area is unique. Obviously, there’s a lot of opportunity with the film industry, but there’s also opportunities for other professionals too. The thing I’d say I like least about the city is just how vast and spread out it is- people have to work to hang out and see each other here, and just getting across town can be a challenge. You have to make a conscious effort to connect with people here.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.maryannmarselles.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryann_marselles
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maryann.marselles
• Other: https://resumes.actorsaccess.com/maryannmarselles

Image Credits
Nogen Beck