Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Mike Campbell of Los Angeles

Mike Campbell shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Mike, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What are you chasing, and what would happen if you stopped?
First off, I always say don’t follow your dreams, chase them. I’m chasing the dream of being on stage. As a classically trained theatre actor, I’m always looking to get on stage and whatever eloquence the heart will call upon. Yes, when presented with the opportunity take on a film and/or TV project, based on the story told I’ll take it on however, the stage is where it’s at.! The goal isn’t to be famous, you don’t chase fame. You chase what you love doing and everything else will fall into place. There’s obviously a great sense of work ethic and discipline that has to go into doing what you love. If I were to stop, all that time and energy goes to waste and I have no plans on stopping anytime soon.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I grew up in Santa Monica California and was initially drawn to the theater, an area I remain fond of. I’ve always been a performer – I did performance sports growing up and I guess I really enjoyed that sort of pressure, with a deadline. Attending CSUN Theater, I really found my niche in drama and stage combat. It has that performance aspect and physical element, and I could draw from that athleticism.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
I’v always been one to give back I’m whatever way that I can with the platform that I have. I have established the Mike Campbell scholarship at my Alma mater. The scholarship is intended to provide support and an affirmation of the student’s right to immerse in actor training as an individual and is designed to offer time for self reflection, research and deepening understanding of cultural identity and authenticity in relation to training and their craft. I hope that this scholarship will be part of enabling students to thrive in authenticity. I hope it encourages other students to broaden their knowledge and embrace their cultural influence throughout their training and into their career. As a result, I hope this inspires generations of talent to come; seeing themselves represented throughout the industry.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Never, success is built on belief in oneself, consistent action and the discipline to overcome adversity. Like the great Denzel Washington always says “without commitment, you’ll never start, but more importantly, with consistency, you’ll never finish.”

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
Anything August Wilson. Mr. Wilson is America’s greatest playwright. I have read all of his century cycle plays. His work is amazing. I feel that Wilson’s plays capture the authentic voice of many peoples experiences with universal themes that connect.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I’d like to think so! (Laughs) hopefully through my art and what I project out to the world is one way of many to try and inspire others. Let my work serve as a way to see the opportunity to follow their own dreams, in whatever capacity, is available to them. I can at least try to use my platform and start this change through the art we see everyday.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/sirmikecampz