JP: At what age did you know you wanted to pursue a career in theater arts/film? What and who inspired you?
BVL: I've always had a strong interest in participating in theatre. It was during my second year of college when I realized I wanted to pursue an actual career in theatre/performing arts. After changing my major to Theatre Management/Directing I felt more alive and myself. I've always been inspired by seeing shows and performing when I was young - but performing arts comes natural to me and is something that I'm good at as a creative person.
JP: How did you actually get started in theater/film?
BVL: I got started professionally in theatre/film after college. I started my own production business "B-Anne Productions" where I began producing short films and offering services to direct and write films and plays.
JP: Which one do you enjoy directing and producing more stage or film productions? If you do enjoy one over the other why?
BVL: I actually enjoy directing both - but I enjoy directing stage plays...because it's cheaper and less equipment involved. Film is a longer, stricter process to complete. Theatre is more relaxed and can be used to "play" with different concepts and new innovations.
JP: Do you write the material you produce and direct? If so, what inspires you to write a compelling storyline?
BVL: Yes, I write the materials I produce/direct. There are a number of factors that inspire me - from personal experiences, historical events, important leaders, celebrities, and incidents in the news/media.
JP: If you produce or direct a script that is already written by someone else what approach do you take to successful produce and direct that project?
BVL: I would try my best to get in the playwright's or screenwriter's mind to understand where they are coming from, so that way I can keep their vision alive within the play or movie.
JP: Besides theater and film what other field can you see yourself working in?
BVL: I see myself also working in modeling, promo, business and teaching.
JP: Tell us about how you felt when you found out your were nominated for the Chicago Oscars.
BVL: I felt very excited! I felt something larger was taking place. I was happy for the opportunity and being able to network with inspiring, hard-working artists and models.
JP: When producing a project do you have to raise funds yourself? If so what are some ways that you raise capital?
BVL: Yes, I raise funds myself. I use my own funds to cover the cost of projects. I've considered fundraisers but those can be tricky at times.
JP: Tell us how you felt when you produced or directed your first project.
BVL: It was a refreshing feeling...my first project was my short film "Out of Range". I felt optimistic and determined to be in the process. It was also a mesmerizing feeling having the film screened at a festival in West Hollywood.
JP: Do you ever get discouraged during your career journey? If so how do you overcome discouragement?
BVL: Yes, I do get discouraged whether it be criticism, lack of funds, or lack of crew/cast members participating. I overcome it by finding alternatives or another time to complete the project rather than force it.
JP: Who was and is your support system? How did they support you and how important is that?
BVL: My support team are my close friends and family. My friends who are also artists support me by helping with projects, ideas and coming to see shows.
JP: Where do you see yourself in 5 years? What kind of mark would you like to leave in the world?
BVL: I see myself working professionally in the entertainment industry, especially remaining independent as much as possible. I want to leave an impact of creating unique, positive images and projects.
JP: What's your favorite vacation spot and why?
BVL: I have not yet been on "vacation" :) but I would say Jamaica. I've traveled but haven't been out the country.
JP: When you get a multi million dollar budget and could hire any actor and actress who would you choose?
BVL: :) If/when that times comes, I would choose Denzel Washington, Chris Rock, Kenya Moore, Angela Bassett, and/or Viola Davis.