Today we’d like to introduce you to Toni Dewese
Toni, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started my journey over 25 years when a friend asked me to join the drama ministry at my church in Albuquerque. That is where my love for drama, acting and the theater began. Since then, I’ve done numerous plays, films, a tv series and even a movie.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. I’ve had to overcome obstacles . As a mature African American female. Actress, I don’t fit a lot of the requirements for standard castings and openings.
I also faced some health issues that made the journey a little more difficult. I have a condition called Bell’s palsy that causes paralysis of the facial muscles, speech distortion and vision issues. This is normally a condition that people completely recover from in a few weeks or months.. Although I have had improvement in my symptoms, I have had the condition for over 7 years with lasting physical trauma. My acting has helped me with my confidence and recovery.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m an actor who loves acting for the joy of it. A lot of my work is done on a voluntary basis verses professional because I value the peace and joy I receive when I can utilize my talent. I have done roles in several aspects of the drama industry including live plays, as well as filming.. if I had to make a choice, I would consider Stageplays as my favorite type of work. I love the closeness formed with my cast mates, and the feedback received from a live audience. I’m most proud of my roles that allow me to portray black females in a strong, positive light. I’ve been able to do that in roles such as Mamie Till, Matilda Banks, Mary Gaines. and others whose story deserves to be told.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I don’t have a lot of surprises, because I consider myself to be pretty transparent. But I do have a couple of things that some people may not know.. I’m an ordained minister. I started out as a youth pastor and director of Children’’s ministry. And I have a twin brother. .
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