Women Today

Women magazine hopes to honor area actors and their perseverance in the acting business through its Women Who Inspire feature. Today we present Emily Terrell Paulsen:

Emily Terrell Paulsen
Green Bay
Works with Let Me Be Frank Productions

What made you get into acting? I come from a very musical family. My parents began as music majors in college.
I was exposed to a lot of theatre; my mother founded a theatre troupe at our church when I was about 12. That is where I first began acting and singing.
Eventually I began to study acting in college as a musical theatre major. I have been in a variety of productions ranging from full length ballets and operas to musicals, plays and rock bands.

What has been your most exciting acting experience? In summer 2007 I played the title role in the St. Norbert College Summer Music Theatre’s production of “Evita.” The role was both challenging and rewarding.
In fall 2007 I was nominated for the Irene Ryan Acting award for my portrayal of Penelope Pennywise in “Urinetown” at UW-Green Bay and competed regionally in the American College Theatre Festival.

What advice do you have for aspiring actors? If you love it, pursue it. Study the craft; watch good actors and have confidence in your abilities. Look for opportunities to perform and take any that come your way.

Is it tough to be an actress in Northeast Wisconsin? It is and it isn’t. There are a lot of opportunities to perform; you just need to watch for them.
As far as stage acting, the only down side is that there are very few opportunities to get paid for your work. I am lucky to be working with Let Me Be Frank Productions.