Community Spotlight – Aeric Azana

Aeric Azana is a Filipino-American actor based in Los Angeles. Growing up as a military brat meant that his life was often shaken up at a moment’s notice – but the one constant was his love of fiction. A diehard comic book fan from an early age, he fell in love with video games and storytelling in all forms and eventually found his way into performance by accident. Aeric relocated from Tucson, AZ to Los Angeles in 2016 – honing his craft on stage, in film and television, and everywhere else through voiceover. A specialist in falling down (on purpose and otherwise) and getting up (on stage to sing and dance), he has built a utility belt full of experience and technique making him a unique performer.

Aeric has a passion to create and collaborate, and in so doing hopes to inspire others the way he was inspired by his heroes – both real and fictional – in any way he can.

Q: What’s one thing you absolutely can’t live without on your career or journey?

My community! Coming from the on-camera and theatre world, being welcomed with open arms into this wonderful community was a bit of a culture-shock. I have made so many amazing friends since I began this journey and I would not be here without them. Being able to cheer each other on, celebrate our wins, and support each other through our struggles has inspired me more than words can convey, and I am eternally grateful for each and every person on this journey with me.

Q: What’s something that happened this year that you’re really proud of?

Professionally? This past year has been one of growth and change, and I committed myself to learning as much as I could while trusting the process. That culminated in signing with my dream agency (shoutout to my friends at SBV!) and coming into this year with a renewed sense of focus and determination. Personally, to continue the theme of growth and change – I got married to my wonderful wife! We recently celebrated our one year wedding anniversary and I’m excited to celebrate many more to come.

Q: What’s one of your major takeaways from participating in THNEA classes? 

That you never stop learning! Every class I’ve taken with Halp has been alongside students and teachers with a range of experience levels, backgrounds and journeys. No matter how long you’ve been in this industry, there’s always something to improve upon and some pearl of wisdom you can take away. It makes every class a unique opportunity, and I often learn just as much (if not more) from watching my fellow classmates as I do participating myself!

Q: If you can give your past self one piece of advice at the start of your journey, what would it be? 

“Keep. Going.” To be honest, this career is a long and winding road that isn’t always going to be fun. I’ve had good times and I’ve had bad times, and there have been moments along the way where I felt hopeless in the sea of performing arts. But as cliché as it sounds, perseverance and belief in your journey will carry you through those tough times. I have been incredibly fortunate to have people in my life who listened when I was going through it and provided the support I needed to push through, and they all said the exact same thing: “Keep going.” I have needed that reassurance more times than I can count, so if you need it too – here’s your reminder. Your journey is unlike anyone’s who come before you and anyone who will come after, and as long as you don’t quit there’s no telling how far you can go. So let’s keep going!

You can learn more about Aeric on his website or his IMDB.