We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kelsey Landon. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kelsey below.

Hi Kelsey, thanks for joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

That’s a tough one,, I’ve met so many incredible talents over the years, but I would have to say “Department of One” has been my most meaningful project. From the first read, to being green lit, to filming and now on the cusp of getting back to it, it’s all been a joy. I was lucky enough to work with new faces and trusted old friends and creatives. The project is truly a combination of ages and backgrounds and I love all that comes to the table with each persons perspective. You can make it happen, it’s never how you expect, but it’s always possible.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I grew up on a dairy farm in Minnesota, my whole childhood was spent creating stories, problem solving and keeping my pet dog entertained. Right after high school, I moved to New York city, and I’ve been an actor/producer/teacher for about 10 years now. I started in the theater and spent my formative years deep in the New York theater scene. Once I moved to LA, I realized I loved Artists. END STOP. I jumped into immersive shows, stand-up comedy, and of course film. The magic we create needs support on all levels. I became a producer and acting coach to help facilitate artist. It’s not magic, it’s hard work, it’s finding the right people and being clear on “What do I want to say”. At every point in the process, things take shape and change, but the heart, the heart remains the same. The main things I focus on are the individual process. What works for one person, does not work for another. I keep my classes small for teaching so that I can delve into each person rather than rushing through. As a producer I’m a cheerleader, a task master and am not afraid to ask tough questions. As a teacher at the Michael Laskin studio, I’m most proud of my students creating their own work. So much of this business is out of your control, but when you see students, writing for themselves, showing the world what makes them stand out as their authentic selves, its MAGIC.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

People need other people to believe in them. We so often put our projects on the backburner, because we don’t believe anyone would want to hear them, or we don’t know how to start, or we don’t think we have the money….and on and on. A million reasons why you CAN’T do that thing. I’m the person who says YOU CAN. All of my artist know, I’m the one who will guide you to the finish line. I will ask and support you for the whole journey.

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

That you only could be one thing. I am an actor, I am a producer, I am a teacher. When I first started out, my teachers didn’t believe in the multi-hyphenate. Things are so different now, and we must learn to embrace all the skills we have. Don’t judge the skills you’ve got, USE THEM. The best relationships with creatives have always been the ones who see ALL my skills rather than just one. It took me years to say, OH, I am a producer, I have that capability. Find the things you are good at and share them, don’t get tunnel vision.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: kelseylandonolson
• Other: Teaching Schedule at Michael Laskin Studio page.