We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alexandra Corin Johnston a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Alexandra Corin thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

In the summer of 2022, shortly after our wedding, my husband, Justin Shilton, and I shot our first feature film, Shark Girl. Nothing will ever compare to that experience. Born from an overwhelming need to create after two difficult years where it felt like all the door were closing, this project became our way back into the driver’s seat. Armed with a story idea, unshakable confidence, a small budget, and an incredible team—including Justin’s writing and directing partner, Rob Zazzali—we postponed our honeymoon to make a low-budget creature feature. That little movie reopened all the doors we thought had been shut. As I prepare to direct my first short film, I find myself reflecting on that summer and wonder how we pulled it off. The answer? We refused to take “no” for an answer.

Alexandra Corin , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m Alexandra Corin Johnston, an actress and filmmaker with a lifelong passion for storytelling. My journey began in childhood, performing in my hometown theatre and finding inspiration in movies I watched on repeat. Theatre and filmmaking have always been my creative lifelines—places where I’ve found joy, resilience, and a sense of purpose.

My work focuses on bringing compelling stories to life, whether on stage, in front of the camera, or behind it. In the last three years I have found myself in spaces where I am creating projects at rapid speed within my community, and I am finding a real sense of ‘home’ in that space. I love watching what happens when you put a handful of highly creative and unique people in a room together and say: “what have ya got”? I’m currently preparing to direct my first short film, continuing my journey as a storyteller (both terrifying and exhilarating).

What sets me apart is my ability to blend creativity with determination. I thrive in spaces where chaos and order collide, bringing bold ideas to life with heart and focus.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

For me, acting has been as much about unlearning as it has been about learning. Over the years, I realized that some of the techniques I’d been taught—while helpful at times—were actually blocking me from presenting my authentic self in performances. I’ll never forget a coach telling me, “You’re thinking, thinking, thinking—get out of your head!” That moment was a wake-up call. Letting go of preconceived ideas about what I thought I had to do completely transformed my approach.

By unlearning what wasn’t serving me, I became more playful, present, and honest in my work. There are so many incredible resources and teachers out there, but I’ve learned how crucial it is to develop a strong sense of self. Not every piece of advice will work for you, and that’s okay. Trust yourself to make decisions that align with who you are and how you want to grow.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the connections I’ve made with other actors and filmmakers. Finding my people—people who truly understand the journey, who challenge and support each other—is what makes this work so fulfilling. It’s about being part of a community that wants to raise you up, celebrate your wins, and push you to grow. That shared energy, the collaborative spirit, and the genuine bonds formed along the way are what truly make the experience of being an artist worthwhile.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @alicorin
• Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5252352/

Image Credits

Headshots by Stephanie Girard