Violet Brinson

Q: You and your sister both started out as dancers. What got you interested in acting?

A: I always loved to read and play imaginary games as a kid, so creating stories and imitating people has always been very close to my heart. It wasn’t until I was older, though, and had been dancing for some time that I convinced April to try out an acting class with me. We both fell in love with it and I knew then and there that I wanted to do this for the rest of my life.

Q: Growing up in Oklahoma where the entertainment industry is not as prevalent was there anyone who doubted you could pursue an acting career? How did you push through any doubt?

A: No one said anything specific. It was very unconventional thing to do and when we decided to move to L.A and there was a lot of disbelief that we were actually going for it. But honestly, we were surrounded by a very loving and supportive group of friends, so although there was some incredulity, there was even more encouragement.

Q: How did the opportunity to be in Sharp Objects come about? How did you react when you found out you and your sister had both been cast?

A: Oh, April and I were beyond ecstatic. We were jumping on top of each other and laughing. I couldn’t stop smiling even when my face started hurting. And getting to share that moment with each other just made it a million times more fantastic.

Q: What was it like working with Amy Adams and Patricia Clarkson? Did they ever give you advice?

A: It was amazing! Both Amy and Patricia are beyond talented and just being able to watch them work taught me so much about my own craft. They also taught me about who I want to be, not only as an actress but as a person. About how to conduct myself on set and how to treat others. It was a great learning experience to be surrounded by two women who are not only extraordinarily successful, but warm, hilarious, and generous.

Q: What was it like delving into the world of Sharp Objects? In an interview on CBS Amy Adams said playing a messy character was freeing. Was it freeing for you to play a character that stirs up trouble?

A: Sharp Objects is a very disturbing show and I love that kind of stuff. There is something especially intriguing about a story that is so dark, and twisted, and messy. Playing a character like Kelsey is definitely very freeing. You get to give in to all the whims which common sense and decency would otherwise have prohibited. You get to let go and explore the mind of someone who is quite different from you.

Q: Your character Kelsey is often tearing Jodes down. Is it ever hard to get through those scenes, especially since you and April are actually sisters?

A: I think it actually made it easier. Being sisters, April and I are extremely comfortable with each other. We know that we love each other no matter what. If I say something mean and hurtful in a scene, it’s helpful knowing that the other person supports you in real life, so you’re not worried about really hurting anyone’s feelings.

Q: Can you discuss any upcoming projects?

A: There’s nothing I can say right now. We are both very busy with work and auditioning and I can’t wait to talk about that kind of thing at a later date!

Q: Outside of acting what do you enjoy doing?

A: I love reading and writing. We go on hikes all the time and just hanging out with my friends, going to the movies or just having a ‘lay by the pool’ day is some stuff I really enjoy.

Q: What advice do you have for aspiring actors?

A: Just stick with. Work hard, do your best, and show up. Never give up, even when it’s tough and you haven’t heard back from an audition that you desperately want. Just keep at it.

Interview by Carol Wright | Photos by Benjo Arwas