Mary co-stars as Katie Watson, mother of Claire, a high functioning autistic teen who seems to be communicating with spirits. Mary artfully portrays concern and determination to help her struggling daughter. Despite objections from husband Mark, Katie hires Dr. Leigh Fisher to uncover the truth about Claire’s behavior.
Tell me a little about yourself
I am a Philadelphia native, raising 3 boys with my supportive and loving husband Evan. I worked as a Commercial Interior Designer for over 15 years designing beautiful commercial interiors before changing careers later in life. Many thought I was crazy, others called what I was doing a hobby. It takes a great deal of dedication, training and hard work but most of all passion. Passion is my driving force. Coming from an artistic background, I found that acting is just another way of expressing myself. I also work as a commercial actor and model which I enjoy tremendously.
How did you get involved with In Your Afterglow?
Rich Henkels who plays the role of Alan mentioned the casting to me and encouraged me to submit for the part of Katie. We train at the same acting studio and always support and help one another in getting acting work.
What was your favorite experience working on the film?
Meeting and working with Trish who is so incredibly talented in so many ways was definitely the highlight for me. She gave a relatively unknown actor a chance and it has meant the world to me. (aww gee that was really sweet Mary)
What skills improved with your participation in the film?
Listening, an actor must listen to their scene partner and respond truthfully in that moment. It’s not about just saying your lines.
What other projects have you worked on?
After working on “In Your Afterglow” I worked on a feature film called “The Impact Factor” written by Ken McArthur. I was fortunate enough to work together with a very good friend and I believe this made our scene feel more connected. I have also worked on several commercials this past year including Pfizer Pharmaceutical Commercial, Live Nation, and Reputation Defender which is currently running nationally on CNN, CNBC and Fox news channels. I work regularly on air at QVC as one of their beauty and fashion models. A highlight from this past year that I am so honored to be a part of was landing a major Beauty Campaign for the International (UK) Beauty Company No 7.
How did you prepare for your role in the film?
I read the entire script front to back many times. It is important to learn not only the essence of one’s own character but the others as well. Running my lines with my scene partner before I stepped onto the set was important. As actors, learning our lines and being prepared is our job. If you are not prepared it affects everyone.
What is your favorite scene from the film and why?
I don’t want to spoil anything but at the end of the movie there is a sweet moment I share with actor Philippe Kane who plays my husband. For the majority of the film we are at odds with one another.
What was your biggest challenge when filming?
There was one scene with 6 actors in it. It was challenging because everyone needed to hit their mark.
What parts of your character could you most relate to?
I play a mother which is not a big stretch, lol! I have many close to me who have children with Autism. I see first-hand the struggles they face in raising their children. Their fears of who will take care of them if they are gone. Dealing with bullies in school or ignorant people outside of school. Bringing awareness to Autism is so important. This world needs more kindness and compassion.
Who are some of the biggest influences in your life and how did they influence you?
My first first job out of college, I started working for a Commercial Interior Design Firm, Styer & Associates. It is owned and run by Amy Styer Tahtabrounian. It was my first interview after graduation. She hired me became my mentor. I have learned so much from this amazing woman. Having a strong female role model in my life has been a blessing. When I decided I wanted to pursue acting and modeling I was hesitant to tell her I was thinking of leaving the company. She was the first person to tell me to go after my dream and has been my biggest supporter.
What’s next for you?
I will continue training and working on improving myself as an actor and am very excited to see what 2020 brings.
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