Andrea Bogart – Cheer Camp Killer

By: Lisa Steinberg

Q) What made you want to be a part of Cheer Camp Killer?  

A) I’m always grateful for being offered roles for Lifetime, so there’s that for starters. Having been a cheerleader many moons ago and spent years as a professional dancer, it’s always felt very aligned to be a part of a cheer/dance film. I loved that during a Pandemic this particular film had so many scenes that could be shot outdoors for a safer shooting environment too. I don’t often play the “bad woman,” so I was really drawn to playing a role that is different from what I usually get cast as. It’s always fun to step out of your comfort zone and dig a bit deeper to play a role like “Coach Beth.”

Q) How was your role as Beth originally described to you?  

A) It was very evident who Beth was in the script so the main discussion Randy Carter (my director) and I had was about giving the scenes levels and not getting all Beth’s crazy out too soon.

Q) What did you find challenging about your portrayal? 

A) For the past 10+ years I’ve been a yoga practitioner, writing about inspiration and mindfulness and helping guide others into a more balanced lifestyle. When I read a role that is the extreme opposite of these things, I know that I have some research to do and go deep into the places of myself that I hope never to be outwardly toward others. That poses challenges to go there and then really let it all go again.

Q) Were you familiar with any of your costars before working with them on this movie? 

A) I wasn’t. Having said that I was delightfully thrilled to work with everyone. Professional, respectful of the safety protocols and a talented sweet bunch of humans!

Q) Did you watch any shows/films about cheerleader or pageant moms to get you into “competitive mom mode?”  

A) Bring It On was released the year I moved to Los Angeles, so I saw it numerous times and felt familiar having been a cheer/dance competitor myself. I know these types of traits are out there in people- it’s sad but it’s great material when you have to play this type of character to reflect upon and use.

Q) How did you shake off a long day of shooting such intense scenes? 

A) I had a rockstar director and crew and frankly it was one of the easiest shoots I’ve had. I always come prepared knowing my lines and ready to shoot. The day’s ran smoothly and some of my more challenging scenes were spaced out, so it wasn’t super grueling. I know that practicing meditation and yoga consistently is a big reason I can shake off the energy a character like Beth has to have as soon as I’m wrapped.

Q) What advice did director Randy Carter offer that you took to heart while shooting? 

A) Randy was just lovely, he let me do my thing, asked if I was happy before we’d move on and I always appreciate that.

Q) What message do you hope that viewers take away from tuning in to Cheer Camp Killer? 

A) I hope people enjoy it for what it is and have fun watching. It’s a cheerleading thriller… Besides that, I hope people understand how nice it is to be a kind, good human. These sports should be fun for the kids and not full of pressure, stress and causing anxiety.

Q) You are a part of social media. Are you looking forward to the fan response you’ll be receiving to the movie?  

A) I feel the fans are the only reason to stay connected on social media. They truly are the people who created any kind of following for me and seem to support all avenues of my life that I share. I’m grateful and looking forward to their response for sure.

Q) What did you personally take away from your time working on this film? 

A) There are days I miss dancing so much. I spent twenty years doing it…So, needless to say, watching these actors rehearse together and work their bums off reminded me of my many years doing the same. It was enjoyable to share that experience with them. Even though “Beth” was unfair, tough and pushing them to be better… “Andrea” was really proud to witness their hard work and talents. I enjoyed working with everyone dearly.