Interview of the Month – Charlene Gleeson (Class of 2005) of ‘Dracula Untold’
Tuesday, October 7th, 2014 at 10:30 am | News & Events
Charlene Gleeson graduated from the Full Time Professional Actor Training course at the school in 2005. She is currently starring in ‘Dracula Untold’ on general release around the country, alongside fellow GSA grad Diarmaid Murtagh (Class of 2007). She is also starring in a short Film ‘The American Dream’, directed by Jason Barry and it’s currently appearing in various film festivals globally including the Louisiana Short Film Festival.
1. Did you always want to work in the film/acting business?
No. I got my first taste of acting when I was hired as a Ballroom Dance Choreographer for the Orsen Wells TV movie ‘The Magnificent Ambersons’. I was fascinated by the world of film and what it took to be an actor. I wanted to learn more, so I decided to train in the Gaiety School of Acting after that summer. I still remember getting accepted into the Gaiety School, it was such a great feeling.
2. How did you start off in the business?
I started off in the business working on a short film ‘The Draft’, directed by Gary Shore. I was then very lucky to land a leading role on the RTE production ‘Trouble in Paradise’. I learned so much on this shoot nothing better than a baptismal of fire!
3. Any tips for aspiring actors/film makers?
Stay focused when times get hard and you. Question yourself…Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day! There are no rules to this game so just be yourself… everybody else is taken. Try create …only good can come with creating your own work and always support fellow actor friends.
4. What did you like most about being at The Gaiety School of Acting?
I loved my class. My teachers including Maureen White, Cathal Quinn and Liam Halligan. I still draw on the wide variety of knowledge that they taught me to this very day. I always enjoy bumping into Patrick out and about! It beats trying to avoid him in the mornings when I was running late!
5. Favourite actor?
Elisabeth Moss she plays ‘Peggy’ from Mad Men and of course, Goldie Hawn 🙂
6. Favourite writer?
Roddy Doyle. I was very lucky to work with him in the Abbey Theatre on his version of ‘The Playboy of the Western World’. I grew up enjoying his work … ‘The Snapper’ is Irish Gold!
7. Favourite film?
My favourite film would have to be ‘This is England’, directed by Shane Meadows. The TV show is unreal too. The Actors performances are all amazing. It should be shown in class.
8. Who has been the most influential person in your life so far?
My Hubby Glen Barry. He is also in the Business.
9. Earliest memory?
My earliest memory would be dancing around the sitting room with my Mam and Dad to the Eastender’s theme tune … I’d be passed around to my brother’s airplane style! Fun House!
10. What would be your idea of the perfect day?
My ideal day would be spent with family and friends. I love a good barbecue we got to have loads this year!
