A few weeks ago, Atlanta Film and TV had the opportunity to interview child actor, Aria Brooks. Aria played in the film Harriet which stars Cynthia Ervio. Harriet is “based on the inspirational life of an iconic American freedom fighter. Harriet tells the extraordinary tale of Harriet Tubman’s escape from slavery and transformation into one of America’s greatest heroes.” She was also recently cast in the reboot of Nickelodeon’s All That, "in reviving the show, the producers have injected 2019 pop culture onto the classic ‘All That’ framework, a 30-minute booster of joyful silliness that puts children in charge.”
1. Could you give our readers some background on who you are and what you do in the film and television industry?
I was raised in Atlanta. I have two sisters and both of my parents are educators. I started acting by taking musical theatre, and I eventually moved to on-camera acting. My well-known roles are playing Anger, Harriet’s niece in Harriet, and Nola in Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings. I am also the newest cast member on Nickelodeon’s All That.
2. When did you discover your love of acting?
When I was younger, I would always go to work with my parents. They both teach performing arts so eventually performing became a habit and a passion of mine as the years went on.
3. How did you get your start in the film and television business?
I started off taking some beginner classes and doing background work to get some experience. Then, I started doing shorts and independent films and series.
4. What is your experience like as a cast member on Nickelodeon’s All That?
It’s so much fun hanging out with the cast and being able to play all these wacky characters. The show is filmed in front of a live audience, and I love being able to feed off of the audience. When they laugh at a joke it makes you feel good, and my dream is to make people laugh.
5. Could you tell us about your role in the film Harriet?
I played Anger, Harriet’s niece and was a part of the group of people that Harriet went back to save.
6. How do you juggle school, friends, extra-curricular activities and an acting career?
It’s a lot easier than it may sound. I have school time on set, so when I’m not rehearsing, I’m schooling. I normally don’t talk to my friends back home in Atlanta until the weekend due to the time difference. I don’t have many extracurriculars besides acting and vocal lessons, so everything works itself out.
7. What piece of advice would you give someone your age, who desires a career in the Film and Television industry?
I would say to be humble and take what you can get. Even if it’s not what you had in mind, accept it lovingly and continue to strive for greatness.
Be sure to follow Aria Brooks on Instagram @itsariabrooks