It's a surreal experience. During the first show, I was like, "Wow, I'm onstage with Ms. Tyson!" Everybody has been amazing, and the energy is really beautiful. I'm replacing my friend Condola, so everyone making sure that I'm OK has turned what could've been a very scary, nerve-racking and lonely experience into a supportive environment.

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My mother's a pretty warm, open person.

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My first audition was an open call and I had no picture and no resume - that's how clueless I was. I just thought I could show up.

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I think L.A. is beautiful.

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I would come to L.A. for a job, but I love New York.

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I was reading the paper and saw a cartoon with Ray Kelly frisking Obama, and I was like "Wait, what's happening?" so I Googled it. For everything Obama stands for and the things he's said in the past in his books, especially with the Trayvon Martin thing - and I'm not sure if he [made his comments on Trayvon] because he was asked a question and he was trying to be diplomatic and neutral - that can't happen.

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That's what you want art to do, to open people up and start conversations.

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I took acting classes in my senior year in college and I loved it.

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I want to tell authentic, real stories with real characters.

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My intention is to do more films.

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