Alysia Livingston spent one semester with Tisch through the Spring at Tisch program. She focused on acting and was part of the Open Arts Studio during her time in the program. Originally from Texas, Alysia is now a working actor based in Los Angeles and has been a part of many feature films. She recently took time to share her experience training at Tisch and what she's been up to lately.
Alysia Livingston
You were part of Spring at Tisch in 2009 and then went back to Trinity University. How did Spring at Tisch influence the rest of your academic career?
It clarified for me what I wanted and my true passion. I decided to pursue graduate acting studies and promised myself if I didn’t do a graduate program I would pursue my acting career in Los Angeles. NYU waitlisted me #20. I was disappointed, but it was not bad for over 800 candidates. I moved home to Houston, saved money, and bought a car. Then I road tripped from Texas to L.A. with my dad.
Were there any surprising or unexpected teaching moments during your time studying at Tisch?
I think most of my learning happened outside the classroom. It was first living in New York, a very different place than Texas, which is where I was going to school. I saw as many plays and Broadway shows as I could afford and just soaked in the creative inspiration that is New York City.
Also, Nathan (Flower)'s movement class taught me a lot about commitment and adjusted my attitudes towards pain. He said once if you can’t endure the pain of a deep stretch how can you endure the pain of heartbreak on stage. I kept up my stretching for a year or more after working with him.
What could you share from your experience in the Spring at Tisch acting program that really prepared you professionally?
Be on time. Angela (Pietropinto) would dock us if we were even five minutes late. We would be running from the subway in the cold. It seems like an easy lesson, but once you go pro being even five minutes late can set a production an entire day back. I think Equity shows can fine the actor for being late as well. Plus, if you’re late you’re flustered and don’t have time to settle before beginning your work. SO many things are out of control of the actor. Being on time and giving yourself time and what you need to be at your best is something the actor can control. Utilize it.
Please describe the current projects you're working on.
I just wrapped a wonderful feature film called Bullitt County with Richard Riehle. Google him. He’s been in a million things. In the film I play a young woman coming terms with unexpected change in my life. It is set in the '70s and we shot on location in rural Indiana. I’m so proud of our work. The whole experience was a wonderfully enriching, creative adventure. The director and producer are hoping to premiere the film at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2017.
I also worked on a great dark comedy thriller called Tuesday Crowd. Completely different world and role. I had so much fun accessing the more abrasive part of myself. The art direction in the film is amazing. I can’t wait to see it all come together.
What elements of your training in the Open Arts Studio have you incorporated into your craft?
Alexander Technique. I use it every single day. It helps me stay grounded and connected.
Your first role was Juliet in Romeo and Juliet. Given the opportunity, would you return to stage acting, or is screen acting your first love?
Theatre is my first love by far. It’s my birthplace as an artist. I always dreamed of working in film though. I think many actors' initial inspiration comes from watching people they admire on TV. I think film offers an opportunity to have a wider impact and reach more people. The collective experience of the theatre is irreplaceable and so deeply moving. If given the opportunity to work on a great play I would jump at it. I definitely see New York theatre in my future.
What advice would you have for a student considering the Spring at Tisch program?
Develop relationships with your teachers. Go to as many shows as possible. Support your colleagues and make memories with them. Enjoy the city!
What's on the horizon for you in 2017?
Growth. Personally and professionally.
Spring at Tisch is a full-time, semester-long program open to matriculated sophomores, juniors, and seniors from other colleges and universities. Visit the Spring at Tisch website for more information and to apply.