Briana Lane – 9-1-1

By starrymag | February 28, 2018

By: Maggie Stankiewicz

 

 

Q) What are some current projects that you’re working on?

 

A) I just finished shooting a TWIX campaign, I am getting ready to release my series “Couch People” that I wrote with Sterling Sulieman (ABC’s “Still Star-Crossed”) and Sunkrish Bala (ABC’s “Castle”) and my band Winslow is releasing a record this year.

 

Q) What can you tell us about your upcoming role on FOX’s new drama “9-1-1?”

 

A) The wonderful thing about all of Ryan Murphy’s shows and what makes them so dynamic, in my opinion, (other than their insanely talented writers, actors, producers, etc.) is that they are all so clever in tone—even when a show is dramatic, there is always a metaphoric wink buried somewhere in the episode.  With that being said, my character is a bit of comedic relief in a very stressful situation. She also probably lights sage daily.  And carries crystals around. And prefers to use her “fairy card tarot deck” because she has a penchant for woodland creatures and childlike innocence. Am I her?

 

Q) Your episode of “9-1-1: is all about the pandemonium brought on by a full moon. Do you have any creepy or exciting full moon stories to share from your real life? 

 

A) I truly feel as though the moon forms some kind of magnetic field around us and full moons always seem to bring about odd behavior, but I haven’t had any creepy things happen to me yet! One exciting thing I’ve done during a full moon is take a night hike up to the Griffith Park Observatory.  It was one of the most magical experiences I’ve ever had. A moonlit hike paired with a night view of Los Angeles? Yes, please.

 

Q) If you could play any other character on “9-1-1” other than Storm, who would it be and why?

 

A) I would have to say Angela Bassett’s character “Athena Grant.” I mean, no one can do what Angela Bassett does because she is Angela Bassett, but it would be a fun challenge to even attempt to try.

 

Q) What’s the biggest difference between working on a comedy like “Young & Hungry” and working on a fast-paced drama like “9-1-1?”

 

A) The biggest difference is “Young & Hungry” is a sitcom so we would perform for a live audience. Also, our schedule was weekly and the first half was filled with rehearsals and run throughs and then on the last two days we taped and performed live. My scenes in “9-1-1” were shot in one night. The producers and writers would add lines here and there as they went and we went ALL night.  We wrapped around 4am.  I have so much love and respect for the writers and producers of the show.  They put so much time and energy into making it one of the most highly rated shows on the air!

 

Q) “9-1-1” is a new show with a cast of incredible and established actors. Did you feel any sense of intimidation or fear before coming on board?

 

A) Fortunately, I was at ease. My scenes were with Oliver Stark and Peter Krause and I had heard amazing things about both of them through friends that had guest starred on the show prior. So, I was really looking forward to working with them.  Oliver Stark was the sweetest and is so talented!  Did you know that he’s British? His accent and character depth are out of this world. And Peter…I would just like to say that I would hang out with Peter Krause voluntarily all day, every day if I could.  It does not get more affable than Peter Krause. That man was sent here to be a poster child for endearment! He is so much like his character on the show: earnest, kind and a true gentleman.  What a damn delight!

 

Q) What were some of your most memorable moments from filming “9-1-1?”

 

A) I would have to say talking to Peter on set about the early days of his career. I think it was about 2:30 in the morning and we both were sitting by crafty and he was recounting stories from his time on Broadway and working with Aaron Sorkin. His humility through our entire conversation was awe-worthy.

 

Q) Your film One Nation Under God is currently in post-production. What can you tell us about the movie? 

 

A) I would say it’s a cross between “House of Cards: and a Lifetime drama. We have a great cast and the writing is beautiful.  I also got to play a strong female character who rises above in the workplace, which felt very necessary during this dawn of female empowerment. We also shot the whole movie in a month on location in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.  It was an incredible experience being on location there and going to crawfish boils, spending weekends in New Orleans and falling in love with the music and food.

 

Q) You’re one half of the indie duo Winslow. What message do you hope listeners take away from hearing your music?

 

A) I think the true beauty of creating music is leaving it open for interpretation.  I may have a specific story to tell in my writing, but someone may apply it to their own life or situation in a completely different way and I think that’s what it’s all about.  So, to answer your question, I just hope our listeners feel something, good or bad.

 

Q) You’re a triple threat as an actress, writer, and musician. Where do you find the time and inspiration to nurture all of those talents?

 

A) Thanks for saying that!  I can get burned out easily drilling lines and my brain will need a break so I’ll sit down at the piano and start writing. When I start to feel uninspired with music, I’ll revisit a writing project that I’m futzing with. Rinse and repeat.  I think the key to doing all three requires the most intricate dance between the left and right brain. I need my left brain to schedule time to do everything while also shutting it off and turning on my right side in time for when I need to create. And lastly, collaborators help! My bandmate Kate Miner (of Miner) helps keep us on a schedule and we hold each other accountable for certain tasks.  You guys should google her. She’s incredible.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Are you looking forward to the fan feedback you’ll receive to your “9-1-1” episode?

 

A) Always!

 

Q) What advice would you give to up and coming kids who want to be actors and actresses?

 

A) Always work your acting muscle. Always be in class. Always run stuff with friends. Always be working. Just because someone isn’t paying you to do it, doesn’t mean you should stop. You can only get better!

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

 

A) Hi! You’re so cool! Thanks so much for supporting!! And never hesitate to reach out!