Noa DiBerto is a fast-rising star to watch. Hailing from Toronto, Canada, Noa is a multifaceted talent with a background steeped in athleticism and a passion for performance. Noa’s journey into the limelight began during her formative years as a provincial artistic gymnast and competitive power tumbler where she was awarded numerous top rankings in the province. Noa’s breakout role came when she was cast as Rachel in the highly acclaimed ‘Backspot’, which had its world premiere at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival and most recently screened at the 2024 SXSW Film Festival. The film continued to showcase her versatility as an actor, earning her widespread recognition and praise. It will make its theatrical release in Canada on May 17th, 2024. We caught up to discuss her career, the film, and more!
Thank you for agreeing to catch up. Congratulations on your career to date. For readers unfamiliar with your background, you’re a gymnast, competitive cheerleader, model, and actress. Please tell us more about your introduction to these respective fields.
Since I was just 18 months old, gymnastics has been a cornerstone of my life, shaping not only my athleticism but also my character and perspective. The discipline instilled in me from a young age has been invaluable, teaching me essential life skills like time management, perseverance, and the unwavering determination never to give up. Transitioning from artistic gymnastics to power tumbling, I’ve come to understand the profound impact of confidence on one’s abilities, a lesson that continues to resonate with me both on and off the mat. As I entered university, my passion for athleticism persisted, leading me to join the national-level varsity coed Western cheerleading team. This journey into cheerleading further fueled my love for sport and performance, complementing my aspirations in acting and modeling.
In terms of cheerleading, joining the national-level varsity coed Western cheerleading team during university was a natural progression for me, given my lifelong dedication to athleticism and performance. Cheerleading offered me a unique outlet to express myself physically while contributing to a dynamic team environment. As an athlete, I’ve always thrived on the adrenaline rush of performing in front of a crowd, and cheerleading provided the perfect platform to showcase my skills. Whether executing stunts, tumbling routines, or cheering on teammates, the camaraderie and sense of achievement within the cheerleading community have been immensely rewarding. I take on all positions, such as base, middle, flyer, and tumbler, and I am so happy to be a part of this determined team.
As for modeling, my journey began in my early teens, serving as the youth ambassador and events model for Ivivva Canada, a division of Lululemon. This role allowed me to merge my passion for athleticism with visual storytelling, inspiring young athletes while promoting wellness and fitness. Over the years, I’ve represented various brands, from fitness-focused companies like Acro Yoga Academy and K Be You Brand to partnering with television series like ‘The Amazing Race Canada.’ Each modeling opportunity has been an opportunity to celebrate strength, resilience, and the beauty of athleticism while also engaging in creative collaborations with brands and photographers. I would love to do more fitness modeling and represent more brands in the future!
And finally acting. From my earliest childhood moments, the spark of passion for acting ignited within me. Whether it was starring in home videos or being captivated by performances on television and film, I knew that acting was my true calling. My journey into acting began during my formative years, with active involvement in drama clubs and theatrical productions. High school marked a period of significant growth and dedication as I was involved in drama classes and drama club performances. Supported by my mother, a former television actor, I pursued formal training and sought representation, ultimately leading to auditions and roles that affirmed my love for the craft. Landing the lead role as Ella Hopper in ‘Olympians at Heart’ was a dream come true, seamlessly blending my passions for acting and gymnastics. This pivotal moment solidified my commitment to acting and fueled my desire to continue pursuing roles that allow me to showcase my diverse talents and experiences.
Were you ever inclined to pursue other careers?
My #1 priority has always been acting and becoming a known actor. However, I do have other careers I am involved in as I navigate my acting journey. I love modeling and have had experience with fitness modeling for many years, but I would love to get more experience in that field, especially since I love health and working out! Outside of acting and modeling, I am a full-time student who studies business and psychology, pursuing a dual degree! Therefore, being a businesswoman and having my own practice in psychology would be another career that interests me. Overall, acting is the goal; however, I am involved in other career paths!
What was the emotional drive in you to become an actor?
My emotional drive stems from the profound impact storytelling can have on audiences. As an actor, I have the privilege of transporting people to different worlds, evoking powerful emotions, and provoking thought through my performances. Even before becoming an actor, I would make up skits and bring joy through comedy. Knowing that my work resonates with people and leaves a lasting impression fills me with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. For me, acting is more than just a passion—it’s a calling. Stepping onto a set or into an audition room is where I find my truest expression and immerse myself fully in different characters and stories. Each moment spent with fellow actors and crew members fills me with joy and excitement, reminding me of the boundless possibilities of this art form. Acting has always been more than just the big moments; it’s about the shared laughter and the electric feeling of bringing a character to life before a captivated audience. Acting, to me, is everything—it’s where I belong, find purpose, and feel most alive.
As you mentioned, a significant milestone in your career was securing the lead role of Ella Hopper in the teen feature film Olympians at Heart. Please tell us more about your experience on this project and what you learned about the industry.
Securing the lead role of Ella Hopper in ‘Olympians at Heart’ was an amazing moment in my career, merging my lifelong passions for acting and gymnastics into a singular, exhilarating experience. Considering I have been doing gymnastics since I was 18 months old, it taught me a lot about resilience, while my involvement in soccer emphasized the importance of teamwork—a dynamic blend that helped me in the acting industry. When I got the audition for a gymnastics-themed film, it perfectly aligned with my athletic background and acting aspirations. Collaborating closely with my real-life sister, who stepped in to portray Ella’s twin sister, further enriched the experience, imbuing the film with authenticity and familial connection. Embodying Ella allowed me to showcase my athletic ability as I performed all my stunts and gymnastic routines. Additionally, contributing to the casting process by recommending fellow gymnasts as body doubles added another layer of personal investment to the project.
The production of ‘Olympians at Heart’ provided me with a platform to showcase my love for gymnastics and acting while introducing me to a community of talented individuals—actors, gymnasts, and dancers—who became cherished friends and mentors. The experience was magical, instilling a deep appreciation for filmmaking’s collaborative nature and storytelling’s power to inspire and unite. As I continue to navigate my career in acting, the lessons learned and memories forged during my time on ‘Olympians at Heart’ will forever hold a special place in my heart, propelling me forward with renewed passion and purpose.
Do you have a particular methodology or approach to working on projects?
When it comes to preparing for auditions, I like to dive right in as soon as I get the script. I spend about an hour really immersing myself in the storyline and characters, envisioning how my character fits into the narrative. My background in psychology helps me step into their shoes and understand their emotions and reactions. Once I’ve got a good grasp on the role, I practice my lines out loud and sometimes record myself to see how they come across. Before falling asleep, I run through the lines several times to ensure they’re firmly lodged in my memory. On the day of the audition, I make sure to slate in a different outfit from what I’ll be wearing for the scenes. This gives casting directors a variety of looks to consider, showcasing my versatility. If I am on set after booking a role, I make sure that I understand the Director’s vision so I can prepare for the role to the best of my abilities. I take a couple of moments to envision in my head how I am going to portray my character and her feelings, and then I go for it and fix any given corrections. Also, When approaching projects, my methodology is taken from personal experiences and observations, mainly drawing from the world of competitive athletics and the resilience required to navigate its challenges. Reflecting on the determination of athletes to overcome obstacles like stress, anxiety, and injury, I empathize with the characters’ emotions, striving for authenticity in portraying their reactions. Collaboration with the director and fellow cast members is essential, fostering creativity and ensuring alignment with the film’s vision. Through immersion in the character’s psyche and leveraging my athletic background, I bring depth and authenticity to performances, enriching the storytelling process. Additionally, my experiences as a gymnast underscore the importance of resilience and perseverance, which I infuse into my character’s journeys. By integrating personal experiences and collaborating closely with the creative team, I contribute to the cohesive vision of the film, aiming to create a memorable cinematic experience for audiences.
We know the industry is tough and very competitive. What is your advice to budding actors?
Firstly, I believe having an idol is invaluable advice for aspiring actors. For instance, I greatly admire Rachel McAdams for her versatility in portraying a wide range of characters, from a mean girl in “Mean Girls” to an emotional role in “The Notebook.” Looking up to such idols not only provides motivation but also helps in shaping the types of roles one aspires to play. Secondly, aspiring actors must grasp the competitive nature of the industry and not be disheartened by setbacks. Understanding that casting decisions are often beyond one’s control is essential for navigating the highs and lows of auditions. The way I think about competitiveness is that if you do not land a role, then the role was not meant for you; instead, the perfect role meant for you is around the corner.
Additionally, it’s vital to recognize that actors have a voice and can contribute ideas to directors and other collaborators. Speaking up about discomfort or offering suggestions demonstrates assertiveness and ensures a safe and collaborative working environment. It’s important for actors to realize their agency and advocate for themselves in the industry. Lastly, I firmly believe that everyone has the potential to uncover their own spark of magic and pursue their dreams with unwavering determination. By embracing a positive mindset—what I like to call the “power of positive thinking” or POPT—we can navigate life’s twists and turns with grace and resilience. Even when faced with setbacks, investing in ourselves and staying true to our aspirations can lead to extraordinary achievements when the time is right. To truly succeed in the acting industry, it’s crucial to continually seek opportunities for growth and development. This means asking questions, conducting thorough research, and actively investing in classes, workshops, and experiences that expand your skill set and knowledge base. Whether it’s honing your craft through acting classes, gaining valuable on-set experience, or working with a publicist to enhance your visibility, each investment contributes to your overall growth and success as an actor.
Additionally, I’ve come to understand the significance of embracing diverse experiences within the industry. From auditioning for different roles to working on various projects, each opportunity offers valuable insights and lessons that contribute to a deeper understanding of the industry as a whole. By immersing oneself in different aspects of the acting world, one can gain invaluable experience and insights that ultimately pave the way for long-term success. Although it may seem hard to invest initially, you need to think about the future and how badly you want to become a famous actor. For myself, I am 100% certain that this is what I want to do with my life, and it is my number one priority. Therefore, when thinking about the future, I understand that I need to put money, time, and effort into this wholeheartedly to succeed.
Please tell us more about the film Backspot, your role, and what audiences can expect.
This film emphasizes breaking stereotypes and showing the real essence of cheerleading. It highlights that cheerleading isn’t just about pom-poms and bubbly girls; it’s demanding and requires dedication. The movie beautifully captures both the thrill of being accepted into a new team and its challenges. The film teaches valuable lessons such as resilience and teamwork.
In the film, I play Rachel, a comical, uplifting character who wants to make her friends laugh and be there for them. I perform all of my stunts, and in the film, I am seen as a spirited cheerleader with a gymnastics background. It’s been such a joy to embody Rachel in the film, bringing her positive energy and comic relief as she navigates the competitive cheer world alongside Riley and Amanda, showcasing athleticism and resilience. I’m beyond excited for audiences to see it!
Rachel goes through a rollercoaster of emotions throughout the film, and it’s truly fascinating. I can’t wait for people to see how she expresses, or sometimes holds back, her feelings and what she shares about her inner struggles.
What I admire most about Rachel is how she reveals the complexity of human nature, showing that it’s perfectly okay not to always be cheerful. My character highlights the importance of reaching out for support when needed, even though she’s seen as the upbeat friend. The movie beautifully captures this aspect, particularly through Rachel’s journey, and I’m thrilled for audiences to connect with Rachel and find resonance in her story.
Despite Rachel’s outward persona as the comedic relief, her journey unveils a profound struggle beneath the surface, challenging perceptions and prompting introspection. The film doesn’t just challenge cheerleading stereotypes; it shatters them, offering a fresh perspective on the sport and its athletes
What projects are you currently working on?
After ‘Backspot,’ I’m thrilled to continue my journey in acting and modeling and my passion for sports and fitness. I aim to inspire others, especially young girls and women, by promoting strength and well-being. Landing global acting roles in thrilling genres like horror and suspense is my dream while motivating athletes and those with multiple passions to pursue their dreams wholeheartedly. Additionally, I’m honored to be in the running for a Ms. Health and Fitness Cover shoot for the Muscle and Fitness HERS magazine! This opportunity resonates deeply with my health and fitness values, and I’m incredibly grateful to be in the running! I have also partnered with Natasha Nastova Photography and Le Désir Magazine and will be featured in the January Edition. Additionally, I will be featured in 6X Magazine Fashion and Beauty Volume 262 from the same photoshoot.
Where can we find out more about you?
Instagram: @noa.diberto
Tiktok: @noadiberto
IMDB: Noa DiBerto
I LOVE meeting new people through social media and expanding my friend groups. I would love to meet fellow people in the industry in person and through my social media! I love answering people and engaging online, so message me on my platforms to learn more about me!
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