Hayley Marie Norman – Alone Together

By starrymag | January 31, 2018

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) What are the recent projects you have been working on?

 

A) I’m really excited that I’m entering a “next phase” of my career in which I am consciously expanding myself as a creator and artist. I created a show that’s in development with a major production company and am also gearing up to direct a short film I wrote and will also star in. Both of these projects are babies to me and I am very excited about them. I will also be on the upcoming CBS comedy “Living Biblically” and returning for season two of Jake Hurwitz and Amir Blumenfeld’s, “Lonely and Horny,” which initially aired as a Vimeo Original series.

 

Q) Please tell us the premise for “Alone Together” and about your character Clara.

 

A) The character we are introduced to in the pilot is the exact opposite of me. Rather than being a “cool girl” like in the show, in real life I was more like the “new girl” as I dealt with transferring schools and moving around a lot. I’m the type that will sit with anyone and let anyone sit with me. But by my second episode you see my character forced to face her fears, which really highlights her vulnerability and humanity in the most hilarious way. It’s a really fun turn of events.

 

Q) What made you want to be a part of the series? 

 

A) Esther Povitsky (one of the stars and creators of the show) and I became friends over Periscope. We both loved watching eachothers’ broadcasts and then finally met in person at an audition for another project. It was so fun to meet IRL! Lo and behold, the casting director from that audition (shoutout to the magnificent Sherie Hernandez) ended up casting “Alone Together” as well. And I got the part! I love that our story became a complete circle after having just met on the Internet.

 

Q) Was there anything you added to your role that wasn’t originally scripted for you?

 

A) I do try to bring something unique to each character I play, adding additional layers to make the character more interesting or funny or quirky. But, also, the scripts for “Alone Together” are just so damn funny in and of themselves so it’s truly a win/win as far as creating a character. They give you so much to work with.

 

Q) You have great comedic timing. Is it something you have worked at or is it natural for you?

 

A) Well, first of all, thank you! I’ve definitely spent a lot of time honing my craft. I love what I do and I think studying it at some of the greatest schools and institutions (American Academy of Dramatic Arts and Upright Citizens Brigade where I remain a performer) has certainly elevated my art form. But I got very lucky with comedy in that I started doing it just for fun. I had already been working as a dramatic actress and considered that my bread and butter. I realized soon on that not only did I absolutely love performing comedy but that I had a knack for it. I’m grateful that I get to call it my job. And that the thing I do for work is also the thing I do for fun.

Q) Is there much room for improv at all with the scenes?

 

A) Working with comedians provides such a ripe atmosphere for improv and It’s always great to have those opportunities like we do on “Alone Together.” The stars of this show are all seasoned and talented comedians and so improvising is easy and great with them. It makes for a more interesting finished product and also a fun time.

 

Q) Talk about working alongside co-stars Esther Povitsky and Benji Aflalo.

 

A) I adore both of them and am happy to also call them friends. We definitely laugh a lot in between takes. Besides being hilarious, they are kind, nurturing people and I’m happy to know them. I’m very excited for their success.

 

Q) What have been some of your most memorable moment from filming? 

 

A) LOL! Well, I have an upcoming episode called The Big One where something hilarious happened on set, but I don’t want to give any spoilers from the episode! Let’s just say I really commit to my character’s dilemma in the episode a little too [wink]

 

Q) What do you think it is about “Alone Together” that makes it a great fit for Freeform?

 

A) “Alone Together” is Freeform’s first comedy and I’m so excited that it gets that prestigious honor! The show is youthful, but edgy. There is nothing trite or pandering about it and I think the Freeform audience is an intelligent one that will respond to that.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Are you looking forward to the instant fan feedback you’ll receive to episodes?

 

A) YES! Cannot wait. I love connecting and have even become friends with some of my longtime fans.

 

Q) Is there anything else you want to be sure fans know about “Alone Together?”

 

A) That they should watch it.

 

 

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

 

A) I thank you and appreciate you. It sincerely means a lot to me! I wish you could see my face right now to know how genuine I am in expressing the gratitude for you guys. This year is already proving to be one of my best and I can’t wait to share with you guys all that is coming down the pipeline! Stay tuned! And in the meantime, follow me on Instagram at HipsLipsAndFingertips and Twitter @xohayleymarie