Alanna Smith is a rising actress known for her roles in the movies Love Afloat and Chang Can Dunk on Disney+. Alanna’s natural talent and versatility as an actress have garnered attention and praise from audiences and critics alike. With her captivating performances, she is quickly becoming a sought-after talent in the entertainment industry.
As we caught up, we discussed Alanna’s upcoming projects, her favorite memory from the set, and Maggie, the cat.
Please introduce yourself, What you do, why you do it, and what you want people to know about you?
I’m Alanna Smith, I’m an actress, I love immersing myself in powerful stories, and I love making someone’s day better with laughter.
Why did you choose acting as a career?
Nothing excites me quite like the entertainment business. It’s fast-paced, creative, and driven by the most passionate people I’ve ever met.
Do you tell us about your upcoming projects?
You can catch me in the new feature film Chang Can Dunk streaming on Disney+, and the new season of Power Book II: Ghost on Starz.
How is your experience working in the industry so far?
A rollercoaster, but anytime I’m working I count myself lucky. Right now, I’m back on the stage playing “Maggie the Cat” in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof at America’s Oldest Theatre, Walnut Street Theatre, in Philadelphia. When I walk into work every day, I pass pictures of the icons who have graced that stage before me— Katharine Hepburn, Marlon Brando, and Jane Fonda, to name a few. It’s a reminder that I’m part of a collective of artists, one that I’m so grateful for.
What are your biggest influences?
Women who have paved the way for me. I love reading biographies about female game-changers— recent favorites are Madam by Debby Applegate and Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit & Glamour of an Icon by Kate Andersen Brower.
How and when exactly did you realize you had a passion for acting?
My kindergarten teacher hosted a talent show, and I insisted on performing not once, but twice in it. No turning back after that!
Which role has played you the most?
This current role, Maggie the Cat, is my most influential one to date. I get to use all of my faculties— my strength, humor, sex appeal, intellect— and that’s a rare and magical feeling.
What is more important for a person, inner beauty, or an external one?
The most beautiful people I know strut with bold confidence. There’s nothing sexier than someone who knows who they truly are.
Do you like something other than acting?
I’m a writer and have directed some stage work. I also love playing pick-up basketball in my free time.
How do you react when you receive a negative review about a performance?
I remember I was once doing a play and received two reviews for it in the same day: “Alanna Smith just sparkles!” and “Alanna Smith lacks sparkle.” That’s when I realized reviews simply don’t matter that much.
Which types of acting do you feel you are most suited for?
Romantic Comedies and sitcoms are in my DNA— it’s the humor I grew up with. Set me up for a punchline and I’ll knock it out of the park. On the drama side, I bring a level of deep commitment to strong, complicated women. I like doing research and would love the chance to play a real person from history— maybe a fearless woman from the 20s, like Libby Holman.
Tell me about your character in Chang Can Dunk on Disney+?
I play a sassy millennial club promoter, living the high life in Manhattan!
What’s your favorite memory from the set?
Riding in the elevator with famous NBA players.
You also starred in the romantic comedy “Love Afloat” how was that experience for you?
It was so fun to film in Miami, and make a movie on a boat! And I love that the film has such a great audience across the globe. I get messages from all over—France, Hungary, Italy, Portugal—from people saying how much they love the sweet love story. It’s amazing to be a part of something that so many people can relate to!