Emily Roman loves to do it all! Starting out as a dancer, she has transitioned into an actress, writer, producer, and director. She is constantly pushing herself to be the best version she can be and learning as much as she can about all aspects of the industry. Emily’s love of performing is evident in every project she does. Thank you Emily, for taking a break from your busy schedule for this interview.
Tell us about your current projects.
Currently I’m very excited to be working on my next short film I will be directing, as well as my first feature script that I am drafting and refining which is very exciting! I am also continuing to audition here in LA.
Why do you think it is important as an actor to work both in front and behind the camera?
Experience both in front and behind the camera really complement each other. They both provide necessary perspectives that enable the actor or the director/writer/producer to see the project in a new creative light. Since this industry is fueled on collaboration, the more knowledge you can consume from every job or position can elevate your skills as an actor. From my directing experience, I’ve learned so much about what I need from an actor on set, and I’m able to apply that to my own acting when being directed.
If you could work with anyone in the industry, who would it be and why?
I would love to work with Damien Chazelle as he is one of my favorite directors. The way he portrays story through cinematography, color, and music is so beautiful, and I am so greatly inspired by his style of storytelling that it would be a dream to be a part of his work!
Of all the awards you have won for performing which one has meant the most to you and why?
The most meaningful award I’ve received so far would be the bronze medal at the International Dance Organization World Competition in Germany. I was the highest awarded Canadian soloist which meant a lot to me. Dance has allowed me to travel around the world doing what I love, and being surrounded by such incredible international talent was so inspiring and beautiful! But to get cheesy, the real award is the privilege to perform onstage in the first place. Every chance I got to perform was a gift, and is the true reason I started dance and fell in love with performing in the first place. When the pandemic took my last years of competitive dance away, I was heartbroken, but I was able to translate my love of performing into acting and filmmaking, because at the heart of it, my love for performing lies deeper than any specific artistic industry. I just love the beauty of storytelling in whatever shape or form.
Photo Credit: Vita Cooper
What is your favorite form of dance?
Growing up I learned practically all styles of dance, and I really do love them all, but my favorite would have to be contemporary. It is such a broad category of movement nowadays that it’s almost like every dancer has their own distinct style of contemporary movement. I love contemporary when I can incorporate my athleticism and strength into the graceful and effortless flow of modern movement. I always love doing flips and tricks in my dancing so any time I can add some flare I will!
What do you like to do in your downtime?
I love being outside, especially by the beach, so if I have time off it would most likely be out by the water. I feel so at peace and grounded by the ocean, it’s a great reset tool when my life’s gets kind of crazy. I also love to cook, play guitar, and read books.
Where can we follow you on social media?
My Instagram is @emilyroman, my YouTube is Emily Roman, my Tik Tok is @emilyromann, and my website is www.emilyroman.com
Photo Credit: Vita Cooper