Today we’d like to introduce you to CJ Morrison.
CJ, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My fun journey started back in 2007 with the birth of an amazing musical comedy called MINNIE PAUSE & THE HOT FLASHES. This consisted of a hilarious four-woman cast for a musical comedy whose focus was JOY for Life’s Journey! We wore outrageous outfits with 18′ beehive wigs, and during our time on stage, we laughed, cried, and prayed with audiences all over Texas and even some in Louisiana. Our husbands traveled with us and were truly the backbone of that remarkable ministry. After eight years, almost 100 shows, and even the loss of one of our cast members to cancer, we decided it was time to close that beautiful chapter of our lives.
Now, as they say, one door closes and another opens, and mine opened into the world of film acting. I found a group called AMTC Actors, Models, and Talent for Christ, and for a year, I traveled to Dallas on weekends for intensive training by industry professionals. At the end of that training, I signed with an agent, and started the auditioning and booking process. Four years later, I have over 40 acting, producing, writing, and now even a directing credit, which is nothing short of God’s providence, considering the short amount of time I have been in the industry. And, that’s not even to mention the numerous projects I am looking forward to on the horizon.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
You know, when we watch the great actors, we all love to see on the screen, they make it look like anyone can do it. That is so very far from the truth. Those actors we admire so much have engaged themselves in intense training, be it university, conservatory, professional coaching, classes, and all manner of preparation in order to prepare themselves to bring those characters to life. I try to follow in many of their professional footsteps by seeking guidance and instruction from every possible source. When I am not working, I focus on training and honing my craft, because once I step up to my mark, I want to bring the best performance I can and deliver my character in such a way that the audience is drawn in to the story and taken away. So, has it been smooth? Let me say it is a lot of hard work, but the work is so worth it and the journey is truly a blast.
Please tell us about your work.
Acting is an art, but it is also a business, so I am constantly seeking ways to improve my artistry as well as my business. I remember the first time someone asked me to join a project as a producer. I told them there was no way I knew how to be a producer. Then, I quickly learned that a producer is simply someone who knows what needs to be done and finds the people and the resources that will result in the best possible production. I’ve met some outstanding professionals along the way, and I love working together with teams of actors and crews who are passionate about creating wonderful films.
It thrills me to be known as an actor who plays a variety of roles in a plethora of genres. I’ve been in westerns landing roles as Calamity Jane, I’ve played the crazy girlfriend of a gunfighter, a mourning widow, the kidnapped school teacher… I’ve landed roles as a Dark Shadows type character Josette, a detective, a nun, a counselor… and the list goes on and on.
I must say that one of my greatest joys in this career is helping other people follow their dreams. Anyone who knows me knows that if can help them with their project, I will. I love helping others. I have learned a lot, and the more I learn, the more I realize I have so much to learn. But, what I know, I readily share.
That being said, if your business is in the Katy/Houston area and you need a commercial for the purpose of advertising, I am the one who can get it done for you with excellence. I know the filmmakers in our area who are outstanding, and we can deliver an advertising commercial that will sell your product.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
I’m so thrilled to say that I wouldn’t do anything differently if I were to start over. I’ve had some rough rides along the way, but I learned so much through those hard experiences that I would not have learned otherwise. I have no doubt that God has led me to the film industry for a much higher purpose in addition to making great films. I’m mostly here to be a light. I’m here to help those who need help. I’m here to exemplify Christ.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 713.430.6448
- Email: cherylmorrison@me.com
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