Noëlle Renée Bercy

Noëlle Renée Bercy

Interview by Carol Wright Photos by Claud TopNotch Charles

When did you first become interested in acting?

I’ve always been an entertainer since I was little girl. After I took my first steps, I began dancing. Each holiday I would force my siblings and cousins to put on dance shows s or plays with me to perform in front of our family. I attended performing arts schools growing up and specifically concentrated on dance where I technically trained in ballet, tap, jazz, modern, African and hip-hop. Dance led me to my love for performing onstage, which led to my passion for acting.

How did the opportunity to be on “Cloak and Dagger” come about?

I received an audition tape request for an Untitled Freeform Pilot. Initially, I had no idea that it was for Marvel’s “Cloak and Dagger.” After using my superior cyber stalking skills to research the production team, I was able to piece it together. Once I discovered that geniuses Joe Pokaski and Gina Prince Bythewood were involved, I knew I had to fly in to meet with them in person.

What was your reaction when you found out you were cast in the show?

Sheer excitement! I dropped to my knees and thanked God. My knees are actually a little darker these days from all of the prayers of thanks. I flew back to Los Angeles after my chemistry read with Aubrey, Joe and Gina on Monday. I got the call that I booked it on Tuesday. I flew back to New Orleans on Wednesday and officially starting filming as a member of the Marvel Universe on Thursday. It happened so fast!

How does it feel to be a part of the Marvel universe?Like what?? Is this even real?!

Are you a comic book fan?

I used to tag along to the shop with my brother when he went to buy his Dragon Ball Z figurines. I would read as many comics as I could while he shopped because I knew he spent all the money on Goku.

What is your favorite memory from on set?

I was chatting with a group of background actors and they were wondering who the director was. I asked them to guess and watched as they all pointed to this white man, and that white man. I pointed to Gina and said “The black woman in the hoodie.” Their faces were priceless. Some of them felt guilty for not assuming a minority, some were in complete shock, and some were beyond excited and inspired. In that moment everyone’s eyes were opened to the reality that a deserving, talented, black female was running the show. It was such a proud moment that I’ll never forget.

What has it been like getting more involved in the industry at a time when there is more diversity on screen?

Even though we have a long way to go, I’m proud of the progress the entertainment industry has made thus far in terms of representation. I did not see many faces that looked like me on television when I was a child which led to me think some of my physical features were undesirable to mainstream. Being able to see people that look like you, that come from where you come from, that speak how you speak in positions of power and influence is inspiration to reach farther. I get so excited thinking about where the next generation will go knowing from a young age that there’s a world out there that wants them to be seen.

How is that landscape influencing the roles you audition for?

In just the last few years I’ve seen a shift in my auditions. They have gone from the token black friend that offers comedic relief, to real life layered characters in lead roles that have something to offer. And I’ve noticed that many of the roles I have auditioned for recently are open ethnicity. I’ll be sitting in the room with Asian, White and Hispanic girls all auditioning for the same role. It’s beautiful.

You often post comedy videos on your Instagram. Is sketch comedy something you’d like to explore as you take on more acting roles?

Definitely! I love comedy. I also love drama. I plan to

continue to explore both and everything in between. I’m still working on my craft and currently enrolled in classes to sharpen my skill set.

What other creative outlets do you have besides acting?

Dance is my first love, and whenever I go too long outside of the studio, my mind, body and soul is like “uhh uhh, Noey get it together.” I am technically trained in ballet, tap, jazz, modern, african and hip hop, so I try to take as many classes as I can. I also love writing! It’s so therapeutic. Not only for the writer but for all of those that enjoy their work.

What are some of your favorite tv shows?

This is Us, Insecure, American Crime Story, How to Get Away With Murder, American Crime, Atlanta, Stranger Things, The OA, Orange is the New Black, and so many for! Ugh, there’s just so much great television out right now. Especially Marvel’s Cloak and Dagger, (Both a shameless plug, and the truth).

Our theme for this issue is ‘Art is Life’. How has art changed your life?

The Earth wouldn’t even be Earth without art. It would just be Ehhhhhh. Art is one of the best ways we as humans can express ourselves, because let’s be real: words are hard sometimes. I am blessed to be able to have found a career in my art of choice, I wish everyone the ability to do the same. Attending Performing Arts programs instilled the belief that a career in the arts is not only possible, but probable if you constantly and consistently work to improve your craft.

What advice do you have for aspiring actors?

Never give up on your dreams, ever! 100% of people that have reached their dreams have one thing in common, and that one thing is they didn’t quit. The odds are in your favor, keep going! I never had a Plan B, I think Plan B’s distract you from your Plan A. Although as I was pursuing my dream, I did have a Plan A minus. Find something that can keep you financially float WHILE you pursue your dreams, not instead of.