from FASHION18:
rising up
Cassie Steele gives F18 the scoop on why her and Manny are so alike.
FASHION18: How did you start acting?
Cassie Steele: I really loved doing improv in school and from there I started doing commercials. The first real job that I got was Degrassi.
F18: What do you enjoy most about it?
Cassie Steele: I really enjoy meeting new people. And also, acting is like an out of body experience in a way. Through acting, you get to live a life that's not your own.
F18: How do you prepare for a difficult scene?
Cassie Steele: I actually try not to dwell on it too much because I want the scene to feel as natural as possible. Usually what ends up happening is that actors feed off of one another's performance.
F18: What would you advise teens who want to get into acting?
Cassie Steele: Take drama classes. If you like doing improv, ask to be recommended to an agent.
F18: How much do you identify with your character?
Cassie Steele: I think every girl going through high school can identify with Manny in some way. She was trailing along after everyone else in season one, and very shy. But then, in season three, she becomes really bold. She's passionate and she cares about people. She's trying out different looks and styles.
F18: What are the most challenging aspects about acting?
Cassie Steele: Probably the long hours and doing the emotional scenes. It's mentally trying because you have to be alert and get into character in a snap. Basically, the battery is going to get tired at some point.
F18: What was your most bizarre fan experience?
Cassie Steele: Probably when this lady named her baby after me!