In this episode, host Colleen Foy interviews television director April Winney, discussing her career trajectory from theater to becoming a sought-after director known for her rapport with actors. They delve into April’s isolated upbringing in the Sequoia National Forest, her shift from acting to directing in college, and her pivotal years in Chicago’s theater scene. April shares her journey into film and TV, working as a script supervisor for 15 years, and eventually directing for shows like ‘⁠Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D⁠‘ and ‘⁠Tracker⁠’. They also explore her experiences in casting, the importance of authenticity in auditions, and navigating the challenges of directing. April’s passion for mentoring actors and teaching them how to excel as guest stars on TV sets highlights her commitment to the craft and her supportive nature.  

00:00 — Introduction and Celebrity Doppelgangers 

01:10 — Growing Up in Sequoia National Forest 

03:27 — Journey to Becoming a Director 

04:18 — From Theater to Film and TV 

05:01 — Learning on the Job: Script Supervisor to Director 

09:24 — Breaking into TV Directing 

10:34 — Directing on Different Shows 

10:49 — The ABC Disney Program and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. 

13:16 — Directing on Tracker and Location Scouting 

19:02 — Teaching Guest Stars: Workshops and Classes 

25:55 — Technical Tips for Actors 

26:44 — Respect and Challenges for Actors 

27:31 — Casting Decisions and Positivity 

29:23 — The Casting Process 

31:43 — What Directors Look for in Self-Tapes 

34:12 — The Importance of Slates 

42:52 — Balancing Emotions in Performances 

46:46 — Maintaining Well-being During Shoots

48:14 — Navigating Industry Changes 

49:57 — Final Thoughts and Upcoming Classes

EPISODE LINKS:

· ⁠Aprill Winney IMDb⁠

· Follow⁠ Aprill on IG @aprillwinney⁠

·⁠ Acting with the Director with Aprill Winney⁠

Host: ⁠Colleen Foy⁠

Producer: ⁠Kristyn Daniel⁠

Music by: Lindsay Boreing and Will Boreing

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