What’s your newest project?

I recently just finished filming a proof of concept for a 80’s slasher titled “Time and Place”. I’m working on many other projects and I’m so excited to share with everyone once they are ready to come  out. 

Can you tell us about your character?

My character’s name is Danny. She is a 21 year old traditional goth 80’s courageous, expressive and overall a complete badass. 

2. Creative Process

What was the process for getting into character?

There were a few things I did to prepare to get into character. First I did a deep dive on the script and really made sure I got to know the relationship between Danny and the rest of the characters. I then went to online library archives and looked up actual footage from the 80’s from goths in that time period. I wanted to understand the culture and everything that came with their lifestyle. 

I have always been a music lover, I created a playlist for Danny and put myself in her shoes and how life would be like in the 80’s if I was in her shoes when these songs came on the radio. 

What is your process for learning your lines?

Learning lines is still a bit frightening for me. It requires a leap of faith with yourself that sometimes can be hard to achieve. With the right preparation it makes it all 100 times easier. I read through the script multiple times. I did this with different intentions, for example, looking for my character’s lines and how she interacts with other characters and then learning the flow of all the characters together. I use a paper script and highlight my lines or use an ipad and do the same. 

Was there a moment during the filming that you knew this project was special?

Throughout the entire process I knew it was a special project by the amount of passion that everyone brought to set.  I had  the pleasure of working with the very talented including but not limited to Armani Ferreira, Makenzie McClure, Payton Sullivan, Ami Babia, Kristyn Geraci and the amazing team at Rampaige Entertainment and Director Jordan Paige. I appreciated the balance of professionalism, fun and energy that was brought to work. I’m excited to see how the rest of the process will continue. This project is the first that I have been part of the beginning stages of it all, I fully believe that the vision for this film should be seen. I appreciate the director’s vision and how much inclusivity we had. I knew that this was extra special because of the connection I had with Danny. I never understood why some actors said that they were sad when a job ended but I fully understand now. Danny changed me in so many ways and for this I will be eternally grateful. I can’t wait to work on the next steps and make a full version of the film. 

3. Artistic Vision

What message or emotion do you hope viewers take away from this?

I hope the message that is taken from the proof of concept is that everyone can be in horror movies and in movies period. I have fought tooth and nail for more body diversity in the industry for myself and for others. My hope is that viewers see that making your dreams come true is possible and don’t let anyone tell you, you can’t do it. I have many resources including my podcast “Bella Backstage” and I’m also involved with a new non profit that is fighting to bring back fresh stories and fresh faces to the entertainment industry. It’s called “The starters Block”, the founders being Taylor Tookes and Victoria Pousada. We are coming in hot with resources and opportunities on our website, instagram and so much more. Follow us on instagram @thestartersblock

How does this role reflect your growth or evolution as an artist?

This role reflects my growth and evolution as an artist for many reasons. For starters I was playing a character that some might find difficult to play. Another reason being my personality and Dannys are very different in so many ways. It has been a dream to be in horror ever since I was 13 and I’m so glad I was able to be part of this experience. 

Are there any unique elements you incorporated into this role?

I think the amount of research I did helped so much with this role. I remember being on set with my earbuds and just listening to music in my giant Danny shoes stomping around and getting into character. The videos of archival footage were such a cool thing to see and incorporate into danny. 

Were there any challenges or breakthroughs during the exploration of this character?

The biggest breakthrough for me was when I first started putting on dannys wardrobe and makeup and feeling like Danny. Danny definitely gave me a sense of confidence.

5. Looking Ahead

What’s next for you after this role?

Coming up, there’s so many fun things going on! I’m officially going to be part of SAG-AFTRA! I’m so excited for the next chapter in my personal and professional life. 

Are you working on more projects?

I’m currently working on a script to write my own short film. The process has been exciting, and also a learning experience. 

What do you hope this project does for your career?

I hope this project is able to get picked up and we are able to make the full thing. I think it’s very important to see diversity not only in the industry as well as the horror genre. Overall no matter the outcome, I have had the most fun experience with playing Danny. 

6. Fun & Personality

If this role were a color, what would it be and why?

If this role were a color it would be purple or black. I feel like Danny radiates purple energy, even more so with her fun eyeshadow being purple. 

What’s currently on your playlist? Who are you listening to right now?

My playlist is a giant 15 hour long playlist of all the liked songs I rotate through daily. I am always listening to music everywhere I go or no matter what I do. I have been listening to a lot of jazz recently. Some of my favorites right now are Hozier, Cuco, The Marias and so many more artists and bands. 

What’s one thing fans would be surprised to learn about you?

One thing people might be surprised to learn about me is that I am an Eagle scout.