Marianne Garrah | Special to the Fitzhugh
What medium do you work in?
I am a film and television actress.
Is there a reason why you chose that medium?
Ever since I was a kid I wanted to act. I love using my imagination and storytelling. Stories have inspired me, comforted me and allowed some form of escape through hard times in my life. Growing up in Jasper, we did not have a drama club, but, honestly, playing hockey, skiing and rolling in the mountains gave me an invaluable experience that not many other actresses have. I also like that every day is different—new character, new situation, new plot, new environment—and I’ve been lucky to work with the most incredible artists.
When did you begin Acting?
I began acting at the University of Victoria as a theatre major when I was 17. I had zero experience and was terrified on my first day. Everyone was the star of their high school plays and I didn’t even know what a monologue was. Lots of learning curves and great mentors who have guided me along the way. I’ve been doing it for over 20 years and still seek out different instructors and am constantly learning from my co-stars (juniors and seniors).
Best piece of advice you were given?
The best piece of advice was given to me by Doris Roberts, she said “Honey, whenever you can, make sure to sit down.” And she was right. Long gone are my days of voluntarily suffering 18-hour days in high heels and doing my own stunts. It’s all about preserving your energy and keeping your body rested and hydrated throughout the day. I’m all about the long game in this. I hope to be as lucky as Doris was acting well into her 80s.
Has your practice changed over the years?
I’ve always been very instinctive, but have learned invaluable techniques over the years that help string tricky arcs together. Sometimes, the writing can be clunky or you are not so fresh after 20 crying takes, so technique is essential. I’m always open to trying new things. Some stick, some I let go. I’ve never done the Meisner technique. Someday, I will have to try a class. One of my favourite teachers (for 15 years) is David Rotenburg. He just released his book “Act” that is genius. Experience really teaches you a lot in this industry. It took me years of on-camera experience to get the confidence and technique to flow freely with the camera, crew and other actors. There is so much going on outside of what you actually see on TV that it’s mind boggling. It’s like an intricate dance of people all bringing their best steps to create the picture you see. In the beginning, we all step on a lot of feet before it looks easy and polished.
How do you find ways to showcase your art?
I’ve been very fortunate to land roles that play on network/cable/streaming, which are incredible platforms to showcase work. Some shows are bigger than others but not necessarily better. Some of my best work was carried by smaller networks, and I don’t know if they ever saw the light of day. My favourite is still a show called “Being Erica” that aired on the CBC. It meant a lot that friends and family could watch. It’s nice to be able to share your work. Not every profession gets that praise and recognition but should.
Where has your pursuit taken you?
Literally around the world, which is another reason I love it so much. I’ve been lucky to work in Prague, Japan, England, Mexico, several states in America, Scotland and almost every major city in Canada.
What is the most rewarding part of your practice?
When I hear from someone that a show I performed in inspired or comforted them in some way. Also, the people I work with. I’ve been fortunate to work with thousands of incredibly talented artists, and have made so many lifelong friends and connections. It’s pretty incredible, from the long running TV series to short Hallmarks and Lifetime movies, the crew becomes like a second family.
What do you dislike the most about your work?
Not working! Ha, ha. Also, lots of rejection, but I came to terms with that in my 20s. When something big “goes a different direction” (as my agent breaks it to me), it deflates me for a minute, but I’ve learned it’s because something better is around the corner.
What is your dream project?
An HBO dark comedy about female empowerment. Sprinkle in Anthony Hopkins somewhere and shoot it in NYC. Yes, please.
What wouldn’t you do without?
My trips to Jasper to touch down and fill my tea cup. I still make it home at least a few times a year to visit family and soak up the air, walk a million times around Lake Annette and then order a Greek salad. It’s still home to me.
What’s your best piece of advice to someone starting out in the arts?
Always know what your objective is in a scene, and go after it in a compelling way. Create high stakes and sit on them. Nothing is ever casual. The best actors when “seeming casual” have an entire world inside them you don’t see. That is what makes them compelling and the story matter. Create a spectacular inner world.
