FERLAND: I think when any actor plays any role that defines them, especially at a young age, it is difficult to break that stereotype. I have been fortunate to be able to explore so many different characters, genres and mediums in this business--from classical and children's theater to contemporary and period film and television. I can only hope that I continue to be given opportunities to create such diverse, challenging characters, and also to create those opportunities for myself.
TJ: How did you get your start in the business?
FERLAND: I love this story. I had an over-zealous dancing school teacher in Connecticut who saw some potential in me at the age of 10. My parents and I listened to her, thankfully. She had some connections with New York agents and introduced me to a few, which led to my acquiring one and beginning to audition. I was a commuter from a young age, as my family lived in Stratford, CT, and hour and a half train ride away from the city. Without the support and commitment of my parents, I never could have begun this career. Soon after, I began to be seen primarily for commercial and theater, and landed my first role in the off Broadway production of Sunday in the Park with George.
TJ: Did you attend school for acting?
FERLAND: I received a BFA in Acting from Tisch School of the Arts at New York University. I had a fabulous time in college, and at long last, I was living in New York City.
TJ: What's coming up next for you after Like Love?
FERLAND: I am in the process of recording some audio books, which I will continue to do after Like Love closes. Also, I will be hanging out with my son, my favorite thing to do.
TJ: Now let's continue on and find out some of your favorite things in life so we can learn a little more about you. First, FAVORITE ACTOR?
FERLAND: That's a tough one. There are so many! I would have to say Sir Ian McKellan right now, simply because I just saw him do King Lear at BAM. He was unbelievable. He is also a true chameleon, and amazes in any project, be it film or theater. And of course. He is Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings films. Does it get any better that that?!?
TJ: FAVORITE KIND OF MUSIC?
FERLAND: I listen to so many different artists, but if I had to pick one I kind of music I would say jazz , because it evokes the most emotion in me.
TJ: FAVORITE RESTAURANT?
FERLAND: Easy! Aquagrill in Soho. for many reasons; the food, ambiance, the numerous occasions I've celebrated there (birthdays, anniversaries, etc). GO!
TJ: FAVORITE TIME OF YEAR?
FERLAND: I love autumn especially those sunny days when the air is crisp, and the nights get a little cooler, and the beautiful leaves, of course, and the mosquitoes go away.
TJ: If you weren't an actor, what would your profession be?
FERLAND: A neurosurgeon, obviously
Well, that it's for now on Danielle Ferland and you should all go check out her show, LIKE LOVE which plays at the TBG Theatre, 312 West 36th Street (between 8th and 9th Ave.) on Thursday, September 20th at 8:00 p.m.; Friday, September 21st at 1:00 p.m.; Saturday, September 22nd at 4:30 p.m.; Sunday, September 23 at 4:30 p.m.; Wednesday, September 26th at 8:00 p.m.; Friday, September 28th at 8:00 p.m. and Wednesday, October 3rd at 4:30 p.m. Tickets for LIKE LOVE are $20.00 and can be purchased by calling (212) 352-2101 or visit www.nymf.org. For more information, please visit http://www.nymf.org/Show-701.html. LIKE LOVE plays September 20th – October 3rd at TBG Theatre, 312 West 36th Street, between 8th and 9th Ave. That's all for now folks. Ciao and remember, theatre is my life.