Pamela Silverthorn, Acting in English Student in Paris

• Can you tell us about your background before starting your studies in the Acting in English Department at Cours Florent in Paris?

I was born and raised in Ontario Canada. I first discovered acting when I was thirteen and since dabbled in theatre. I decided to finally study acting combined with a long term desire to live in France.

• What do you remember about your first / second / third year at Cours Florent?

You know when you stand at the edge of a cliff and you are afraid to fall… so you jump anyway just to save yourself from slipping. There’s nothing to lose here. 

One thing I understood immediately upon coming to Cours Florent was an expectation that in order to act, it is important to let go of inhibition, and to reveal the parts in you that would generally be kept hidden. There is a lot to discover about your own personal power in giving of who you are, and this is a place in which that practice, as uncomfortable, intense, and relieving it can be, has been incredibly supported and encouraged here.

• You won the competition and received the Free English Scholarship. Could you tell us what this meant for you?

Personally, I was very afraid to audition because of the pressure I put on myself to do well. I understood that I had people behind me demonstrating their support that I rise to the challenge, which lent in me a trust in showing myself, as I am. Winning to me was a confirmation that this is what this process is really about in the end.

• What advice would you give a future student at Cours Florent? 

Keeping a balanced ratio between sensitivity and groundedness, and to make sure you create a lifestyle that supports you in this process.

• Do you have any ongoing projects or upcoming ones?

I’m currently in my fourth year of Acting in English, and with plans to write in hopes of directing future projects.