Photography by Robyn Von Swank
We had the wonderful opportunity to speak with Gloria Garayua about her role in the mini-series “Reckoning.” Check out the interview below.
Hi, Gloria! Thank you for granting the interview. Congrats on your role in the new mini-series “Reckoning.” We know you can’t discuss the series, so let’s chat about your career. ? What inspired you to become an actress?
I was inspired to become an actress based on my childhood dream of becoming a doctor. Don’t know how they’re related? They both help people. As a kid, I was always on the science track thinking that I was going to become a veterinarian or a pediatrician. But when it came time to pick a major in college, I couldn’t see myself pursuing a life
of science. I asked myself, “What am I good at, enjoy doing, and can do to still provide help to others?” I immediately knew it was acting! The arts are a way to influence people to open their eyes to a different perspective on a variety of subjects. It can be used to be educational but it can also be used to be therapeutic. Knowing that I could help brighten someone’s day or change someone’s mind on a subject through this medium, allowed me to feel like I was on the right track to do what I was destined to do.
You played several wonderful roles, like Detective Brianna Davis in “How to Get Away with Murder.” Is there a role you haven’t played that you have your eye on?
Yes, I’ve yet to play a romantic lead and I would really like to. You know, this industry tends to paint beauty in a very specific light. But in 2019, it’s time to realize that beauty comes in many shapes, shades, heights, weights, etc. There’s no reason why this 5’2” Puerto Rican from the Bronx can’t portray the lead in a Rom-Com. That’s definitely on the top of my list!
What has been your most memorable role?
In 2016, I booked a leading role in an ABC multi-cam comedy as the wife of the famous stand-up comedian Gabriel Iglesias. Few people know about this because it was not picked up. But I can honestly say that I lived the dream when I played this role. I started the audition process in early January of that year, booked it in February, did several table reads, and rehearsals all the way through April, shot it, and then waited for the upfronts in May. When it was announced that it was not going to be picked up, I had to grieve the role. She lived in me for months and it was hard to let her go especially because I visualized a future of playing her. Oh well. These things happen. But I loved everything about working on a comedy, working with Gabriel, and the entire creative team of that show!
What do you look for in a script?
Emotional connection. As much as I love comedy, I’m a sucker for drama! If I can read a script and be moved by the written word, I know that I can get on my feet and bring life to it as well. When possible, I also try to accept roles that I have never played before. It’s so fun to play something new! Even though there is value to routine, human beings are complex and we need to be challenged in order to grow. That’s why it’s important to me to pursue roles that pique my interest, and playing a character I have never played before would definitely do that!
Have you considered directing a film project?
Yes! It makes me a little nervous but I don’t see why not. Many actors grow into directing. It’s nice to be behind the camera sometimes. I have directed scenes for actors to present in a live setting to industry professionals. It’s fun to help actors bring characters to life. I love answering actors’ questions in regards to their characters’ development. After all, I speak “actor”! I know directing isn’t easy, and can be stressful. But I imagine that directing a project is definitely part of my life‘s journey.
The industry is always changing. How do you stay current in your field?
That’s easy, I teach Acting! So my students continue to challenge me! They look to me to have answers so I try to stay on top of the industry as best as I can. Also, they
inspire me! So often, I come across very talented actors of all ages. This only serves to inspire me to continue to be the best actress that I can possibly be! Also, some of my students are younger than me so they keep me up-to-date simply by using their vernacular! And being an acting coach helps to keep me current with what’s being cast because I’m constantly helping students with their auditions. I love what I do!
What is your favorite hobby?
Dancing! I love to dance! I try to take a dance class at least once a week. When I’m on my game, I take jazz class four times a week! If I am free at night, I’ll treat myself to salsa dancing! I particularly love partnered dancing. In the past, I have attempted tango and ballroom, but they require a lot of rehearsal time which I simply don’t have. But I can go out and dance salsa any night of the week when I’m free and just let go and have fun! And nowadays, Zumba is so popular that it’s being offered at most fitness gyms, so I can get my fill there too!
Do you have anything else you would like to share about your career?
Yes, even though I’m happy and proud of what I have achieved so far, I still feel like I am a work in progress. Every day, I strive to be a better human, which I believe will have a direct correlation to my acting skills. I’m still hustling. Audition after audition, I’m still trying to book work just like every other actor in town. I’ve discovered that some people think that the hustle stops once you’ve achieved a certain amount of success. If that’s true, then I haven’t reached it yet. I’m still hungry, and frankly, that’s something I never want to lose!
Featured Image Credit: Robyn Von Swank.
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