From Classroom to Camera: Kiana's Journey in the Arts

In this episode of Artists Unframed, we delve into the life and career of Kiana, an actress and educator. Kiana shares her unconventional path from performing on tabletops as a child to attending a performing arts school and later grappling with the decision between a career in acting or academia. Despite choosing the academic route initially and obtaining a minor in theater and a major in Africana studies, Kiana's passion for acting never waned. Her journey took her from teaching in Africa to an unexpected acting opportunity that reignited her dreams. Throughout the conversation, Kiana discusses the importance of representation, the challenges of navigating the film industry as a Latina, and the need for self-care as an actor. She also touches on the humanizing aspect of her roles and the significance of collaboration and empathy on set. Join us as Kiana reflects on her experiences, the impact of her education on her acting career, and her aspirations to break stereotypes in the industry.

00:00 Introduction to Artists Unframed

00:59 Kiana's Early Artistic Aspirations

01:37 High School and College Decisions

03:42 Balancing Academics and Art

07:12 The Bristol Fellowship Experience

09:07 Discovering Hip Hop Theater

26:42 Teaching and the Pandemic

28:30 First Major Acting Role

32:37 Representation and Career Choices

43:05 The Importance of Boundaries in Acting

44:38 Navigating Collaboration with Directors

47:08 Exploring Directing Aspirations

48:23 Representation and Breaking Stereotypes

57:17 Upcoming Roles and Projects

58:52 Emotional Impact of Acting

01:01:05 Maintaining Professionalism and Mental Health

01:07:44 Mentorship and Community in Acting

01:20:44 Final Thoughts on Empathy and Self-Care

This podcast produced Bernice Miller at Robinhood Studios in Winston Salem North Carolina and Colin J Harden with Hermit House Production, it is Executive Produced and hosted by Aaron Ross

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