Q & A with actor Charles Brice
A proud Actors Studio Drama School alumnus, Charles Brice is an actor who can be seen in popular television series including the critically-acclaimed HBO shows The Night Of and Show Me a Hero. Recently he starred in the indie rom-com, How to Tell You're a Douchebag, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year.
Brice’s hometown is Baltimore, MD, aka Charm City. The charm of the city is evident in Brice as he took time from his hectic schedule to talk with the Dyson Digital Digest about his life and career.
When did you know you wanted to be an actor?
I was the kind of kid who played sports, any sport, then would come inside and make an oil painting. Art has always been a part of my life. I studied acting in college because I wanted to be more than proficient at the craft. I went to Shenandoah University in Virginia for my BFA in acting, and I became so hooked that I pursued an MFA at the Actors Studio Drama School.
How did your family respond when you told them you wanted to be an actor?
In her younger days, my mother was an aspiring actress herself. When I explained to her that I wanted to be an actor she wasn't exactly thrilled, but once I proved to her that I was serious she became my biggest supporter, and critic.
Acting is a very competitive career path. Is it full of highs and lows? What keeps you going?
The truth is, the lows can be really low. Most of the time, especially at the beginning of one’s career, there are plenty of lows. There are moments when your perseverance is truly tested. What keeps me going is the fact that I love what I do, and I have confidence in myself and in my training.
You’ve played a variety of roles, most recently a leading man in a romantic comedy. What’s your dream role?
My dream role would be to play a superhero along the lines of Marvel’s The Avengers. I think there is a real possibility that could happen.
What is something about the set that a regular person may be surprised to learn?
There is a lot of waiting. There are set changes and a whole slew of other things that go into making the show. Those things can take time, and that time is especially noticeable when you're waiting in a honey wagon.
What’s a honey wagon?
A honey wagon is set lingo for a trailer with three or four very small dressing rooms and stairs leading off of them. It's usually used for actors that have smaller roles, such as co-stars.
Who are your role models and why?
My role model is my mom because she is the hardest working, most selfless person I have ever met. She's always said to me "where there's a will, there's a way" and "nothing beats a failure like a try.” In ways, those have become my mantras.
When you’re not working, how do you spend your free time?
In my free time I like to be active, play sports, go to movies, and just be with friends and loved ones. Family is very important to me.
Anything else you’d like our readers to know?
Being talented will take you far, but being easy to work with will take you farther.