During Asian Pacific Heritage Month, it is essential to highlight the remarkable talents that emerge from this rich cultural heritage. One rising star, Audrey Ly, has captured the spotlight as the lead actress in the short film “CELYNA.” directed by Emmy Nominated producer Artisha-Mann Cooper. In an exclusive Q&A interview, Audrey shares her transformative experience bringing her character to life and the profound impact it has had on her budding acting career.
When she’s not gracing the silver screen, Audrey finds solace in creating captivating content for her YouTube channel, where she channels her creativity into storytelling. She draws inspiration from summer romance shows like “The Summer I Turned Pretty,” reflecting relatable narratives that resonate with her own experiences and aspirations. Audrey emphasizes her Asian heritage in her work and plans to major in Asian studies in college, passionately advocating for Asian representation in films to share her cultural heritage with the world.
“CELYNA” is a poignant narrative centered around a young girl’s struggle to reconcile familial expectations with her own aspirations. Reflecting on her role, Audrey explains, “The short film is about a girl navigating her teenage years while deciding whether to continue her ballroom dancing training to honor her family’s wish or pursue her dream of becoming a musician.” To prepare for the role, Audrey immersed herself in rigorous training in both dance and music, learning choreographed dance routines and how to play the guitar. “It was quite challenging,” she reveals, crediting her guitar coach for guiding her through the process.
Stepping onto the set of “CELYNA” offered Audrey a glimpse into the filmmaking realm. A typical day consisted of meticulous makeup sessions and slipping into character-defining costumes. “A special makeup look was my rocker makeup with my blue wig,” she shares, highlighting the transformative nature of her role. Despite the chaos of filming, Audrey cherishes many memorable moments, such as exploring her character’s depth through unconventional scenes. “A memorable experience was smearing my eyeliner for a scene,” she recalls. Seeing herself on the big screen was surreal for Audrey, “I think to myself, ‘Oh my god! It’s me up there!'” she exclaims, reflecting on her journey from aspiring actress to sensation.
Collaboration lies at the heart of any successful project. “My experience working with the director and the crew was wonderful. Everyone was friendly and encouraging,” Audrey remarks, underscoring the collaborative spirit that fueled the film’s success. Beyond professional relationships, Audrey forged new friendships with her fellow cast members, emphasizing the bonds that extend beyond the set. Through her portrayal in “CELYNA,” Audrey discovered newfound depths within herself, embracing the versatility demanded by acting. “I learned that I can be more versatile and take on roles different from my personality,” she muses, hinting at the transformative power of artistic expression.
As Audrey’s stardom continues to ascend, her dreams and aspirations reach new heights. “My aspirations are to become a better actress and pursue my dreams of becoming a producer,” she reveals, harboring ambitions that transcend the realm of acting. With unwavering determination and a steadfast commitment to her craft, Audrey sets her sights on a future filled with boundless possibilities. “To pursue your dreams, you have to be willing to work hard and believe in yourself,” she asserts. Balancing her burgeoning acting career with the demands of school and volunteer work, Audrey embodies resilience and dedication, proving that with passion and determination, anything is possible.
As Audrey Ly continues to captivate audiences with her undeniable talent, her journey serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring artists everywhere. With each role she undertakes and every character she embodies, Audrey reaffirms her commitment to the craft of acting, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
