Lindsay Hicks – A Holiday I Do

By: Dana Jacoviello

Q) A Holiday I Do is an LGTBQ+ movie.  What drew you to this film the most, and to want to play your character Jane? 

A) I aspire to be a part of creative works that promote visibility for the causes I care most about, and I have been fortunate enough to do that several times in my life. When I spoke to co-director Paul Schneider about A Holiday I Do, I was thrilled to know that a queer lesbian holiday film was underway and immediately felt so very drawn to be a part of it. Holiday movies are such a warm and comforting genre, and the queers deserve warm and comforting things! But also, everyone deserves queer joy on their screens. When I read the script by the magnificent Melinda Bryce, I felt an instant connection to Jane’s optimistic and affectionate personality (as well as her quirks) and I knew that I had to play her.

Q) It seemed like a fun movie. Were you familiar with any of your costars before working with them? 

A) I was! Years ago, I was producing a stand-up comedy event when I was working for Wanda Sykes’ production company and Marsha Warfield did an INCREDIBLE set. I was definitely starstruck being on set with Marsha! Also, Rivkah [Reyes] and I have a ton of friends in common, so hanging with Rivkah was like a little piece of LA with me when we shot in Michigan! I’m also a massive fan of their work, so it was a double whammy.

Q) How was the chemistry between you and Rivkah Reyes when having to play the intimate scenes? 

A) Rivkah is so very funny and kind and a really talented actor. We really bonded while we were working and were able to talk through a lot of aspects of our characters. We even did a session with my acting teacher on zoom in a hotel room! When I was working with them, I always felt like they had my back, creatively and as a friend, which was a huge comfort.

Q) They never really say what happened between Jane and her ex-husband too much. Is it fair to assume she realized that she only liked women later in life after being married and having a child? 

A) I’d say that’s more than fair! We know that Jane and Mark (Joe Piazza) were able to be close friends after all of it, so I think what matters is that Jane was somehow able to have that realization and communicate her experience to Mark, and he was able to understand and be supportive. One thing I love most about this film is that not only could Mark understand and support, but everyone in her family and community seems to be able to as well. What a fantastic thing!

Q) Jane remains best friends with her ex-husband. And it is obvious at first his new bride-to-be doesn’t seem fond of Jane. And we see towards the end why that is, but why do you think Jane was still such a threat to her if she knows she only likes women?

A) Well, I’m sure only Melinda Bryce, Heather, Heather’s therapist and India Chappel (the actor who plays Heather) would know the true answer to that! If I had to guess, I’d say that insecurity might have something to do with it. I know a lot of wonderful people who waste a lot of time spinning their wheels wondering if they measure up to what was before them or what might come after them. Not that I’ve ever been one of those people (wink wink). What is beautiful about Heather is that she has this sweet evolution and is able to be really honest about her experience and connect with Jane in a deeper way. She also seems to be a great stepmother and an awesome partner to Mark.

Q) What was one of your favorite moments in this movie? 

A) I had such a wonderful time shooting this movie, so it’s really hard to pick a single moment! The whole time we were on set I was just so honored to be a part of it all. It was pretty overwhelming for me actually. The whole crew was so dedicated, and the cast was so supportive and caring. Maybe it’s a cop out but the whole thing was my favorite! (I’m not just saying that because it’s weird to just say “crying with the horse.”)

Q) What do you hope lingers with audiences that watch A Holiday I Do? 

A) I hope people feel like even when it seems like the whole world is against you, there is magic, love, and acceptance out there, sometimes right in front of you.  I also hope they feel a desire to go support their local independent lesbian horse businesses.

Q) Do you think you will do more LGBTQ+ movies in the future? 

A) I hope so! Keep ‘em coming!

Q) Do you believe that LGBTQ+ movies need more representation rather than a straight actor playing roles because they are more of a name? 

A) I believe that queer actors should have more opportunities to even become ‘more of a name’ in entertainment. Studios and networks should absolutely prioritize casting actors who authentically represent the characters they are playing. There is an abundance of talented queer individuals, both in front of and behind the camera, and they must have access to high-level projects. When we amplify historically marginalized voices, we move towards a more compassionate and understanding society. My hope is that we can continue to make progress towards acceptance and inclusivity.

Q) What is next for you in the near future as far as acting projects? 

A) It’s been a strange couple of months in the entertainment world, but I’m hoping for more exciting opportunities as we come out of the strike!

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of the work you do on our screens? 

A) THANK YOU. Like, actually, I’m so beyond grateful to any fans or supporters that I want to send flowers to their homes because it means so much to me. Maybe a succulent. Something sustainable. You know what, they should call me and tell me what they’re into. Maybe some organic seeds? Mother for their sourdough? Anyway… I have deep gratitude that I will carry with me my entire life for anyone who supports my creative journey. Yes, I’m crying. In a cool way.