Meet Rhiann Duncan | Actress, Dancer and Singer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rhiann Duncan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rhiann, why did you pursue a creative career?
Growing up, I was always finding ways to put on any kind of creative performance in some such way. I loved to entertain, whether that was through making up dances with my cousins in our living room, or making mini movies with my childhood friends to show to our parents. I was constantly delving into new ideas through my imagination.

Pursuing this career in the performing arts/entertainment industry, for me, is carrying on my inner child. That little girl who drew her name in lights, and got lost in the moment every time she stepped on stage.

I still get that same magical feeling every time I perform for a camera, an audience in a live theatre, or just for myself. I feel so fortunate to be able to do this career for the rest of my life. There is not a day that goes by where I feel like I am just doing some job and going through the motions, because for me I’m getting to do what I am most passionate about, and I get excited the entire process to be able to continue learning and improving through various experiences involving my work.

I began immersing myself into the performing arts through dance. Competing in all styles including; Musical Theatre, Lyrical, Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Modern, Acro, and Hip Hop. I enjoyed dancing so much, I made sure to be involved in every style my studio had to offer, and that, I believe contributed a lot to my growth in gaining confidence and security performing on the stage. Every time I danced, I felt like I was the only one in the room, and with the music guiding me throughout the space, together we formed one beautiful, artistic piece full of ardor.

I wanted that feeling I get when I perform, to last forever. Therefore, I had enrolled in more classes that involved stage performance, and that comprised of Musical Theatre. I was involved in a Musical Theatre Academy that focused on all three crafts of singing, dancing and acting. I attended that program for 3 years and continued to work with the lovely director of that Academy the following year, concentrating mostly on singing with voice lessons.

Upon attending those incredible dance and musical theatre institutions, I knew I was ready to hone in on my acting, as that was the skill in which I had the least amount of training. I had done theatre classes in french throughout high school, and loved every minute of it. My theatre teacher in high school is still someone I consider a mentor to this day, and he really encouraged me to follow my dreams and consider pursuing acting as a career. Those words of encouragement throughout my time were great affirmations to continue on the path I was forging for myself. No matter the obstacle or challenge, one thing was certain, nothing was going to get in my way or stop me from fulfilling my goals.

Upon graduating high school, I had auditioned and been accepted receiving merit scholarships into two separate schools. One prestigious Musical Theatre college in Ontario, Canada, and the other an acclaimed acting institution in Hollywood, U.S.A. The choice for me, was obvious. To hone in on my acting and delve into the world of entertainment I decided to move to the city known for making dreams a reality and attend the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.

I knew if I wanted to continue to improve and further my training I was going to have to step outside of my comfort zone and take some risks. That risk I took was moving across the continent from Winnipeg, a city in the province of Manitoba located in Canada, all the way to the city of angels, Los Angeles California in The United States of America.

The moment I arrived on campus at my acting institution in L.A, not only did everything feel so real, it also felt so right. I had no doubt in my mind this school would be an incredible experience and I am so grateful they saw my potential and welcomed me with open arms.

Throughout my intensive two years at The Academy I had learned so much about acting and the performing arts. I had been challenged and pushed further than I thought possible, to be able to put the best version of myself forward when it came to acting and diving into various roles. Stepping into characters and exploring their perspectives and what made them who they were, became second nature to me. I developed new techniques to enhance my performances as well as build off of my own intuition, that came natural and presented itself through my portrayals. I had also uncovered new things about the way I perform and what drives my acting choices.

I would go on to earn the leading roles in multiple plays we performed as well as powerful roles that left an impact on me to this day. Each day I left class, I would feel a sense of pride knowing I learnt something new, and had gained some sort of knowledge to aid me in my journey. Being able to get to do this for a living, made me so happy and joyful, I never second-guessed myself in terms of continuing acting, singing and dancing for as long as I live.

I feel at peace as an actress. I’m generally a very energetic, busy bee, always thinking ahead or about the next thing I have to do. When I’m on stage however, I become grounded. Like all my life I’ve been constantly in flight mode, soaring over every little thing, but when I’m performing, my feet are planted on the ground. Like my roots come from the stage. I’m completely in the moment, and being present I almost forget where I am. I lose myself but also find another part of me. I feel free without a worry or care in the world. Much like my younger self.

I believe that is one of the reasons I am meant to pursue this career. I’ll never forget where I came from or how I was raised. I’ll always remember the reason younger Rhiann, chose to express herself through performing and how she felt in those moments. I feel connected to that youthful version of myself, and I’ll continue to take her with me through auditions, performances, film days, and all throughout my life and career.

Healing your inner child can present itself in many forms, it’s up to you to decide how you want to maintain the legacy you left as a child. Your hopes, dreams and wishes can become fulfilled in many ways. Lead with your heart, and you’ll be surprised at the opportunities that arise from following your gut and staying true to yourself.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am an actress, dancer and singer. originally from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, currently living in Los Angeles, California. I’ve been apart of the entertainment industry for many years now. I started all three skills a little later in life, when I was around the age of 12.

I recently graduated with honours from a two-year intensive acting conservatory at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Los, Angeles, California. I completed a Degree in Associate of Occupational Studies (Dramatic Arts). I was also honoured to receive the Voice and Speech Award for the 2023 graduates of The Academy

Following graduation I auditioned and earned a spot on the Los Angeles Kings Ice Crew for their upcoming season in the NHL (National Hockey League). Being Canadian, hockey is apart of my childhood and I grew up playing ice sports, and skating in outdoor rinks in the winter. Hockey is something I’ve been very passionate about from a young age. Keeping my home country apart of my life through the sport has been an incredible opportunity I am so thankful to have been able to carry on.

I am a current member of the 2023-2024 La Kings Ice Crew, and have had an incredible experience so far. To be apart of such an amazing organization, and get to inspire others throughout the community by bringing them together to cheer on their favourite hockey team is such a blessing. Although the hockey season portion has come to an end, we continue to bring awareness to the sport and engage in activities that involve hockey and the LA Kings to keep our passion for the team alive, all throughout the year!

My time at the Acting Academy enabled me to strengthen and utilize various acting techniques to benefit my experience as an actor. It was a privilege to work with acclaimed faculty whom I hold in the highest regard and were all able to provide valuable teachings. I am professionally trained in all courses listed: Acting I, II, Advance Acting I, II, Camera Fundamentals I,II, Voice and Speech I,II, Dialect, Movement I,II, Period Movement and Dance, Stage Combat, Advanced Vocal Production, Advanced Shakespeare, Acting Professionally, Improv, Audition Technique, Styles I,II, Sitcom Acting, Theatre History, Script Analysis, and Make-up. Some memorable plays I have performed in at The Academy are: Our Town, A Room with a View, The Great God Pan, Clue, and Much Ado about Nothing,

Prior to The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, I’ve been a part of different institutions to further my training/experience in the performing arts. I was enrolled in a Musical Theatre Company for 4 years with Winnipeg Studio Theatre’s StudioWorks Academy. I was able to learn from esteemed faculty in the industry. I’ve been in productions such as: Seussical the Musical as “Mayzie LaBird”, School of Rock the Musical as “Sasha” and many more. I also served there as dance captain for 2 years. I pride myself on being a triple threat.

I attended Exhale Dance Studio and was a part of the Competitive/Performance Dance Company. I performed in all dance styles. I’ve competed all throughout Canada and The United States as well as attended many conventions. I also was a faculty assistant member, teaching and choreographing tap and jazz for ages 5 through 10 as well as a summer camp instructor in 2022.

I’ve performed and earned honorary awards at the Manitoba Dance Festival, Winnipeg Music Festival, One Family Dance Festival, and More Than Just Great Dancing conventions. I’ve also attended summer intensives at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.

Some dance performances include: The opening and closing ceremonies for the Canada Summer Games, Royal Princess Ball for the Children’s Hospital and The Grey Cup gala for the CFL (Canadian Football League).

All of these accomplishments came through hard work and dedication. I made sure to always thrive for greatness, not necessarily perfection. If you are constantly aiming to be perfect in everything that you do, you can become depleted more quickly and when you don’t necessarily succeed to the best of your ability you may get hard on yourself and criticize your mistakes. However, I am slowly realizing that that is no way to live. As long as you are giving it your all and knowing that you are doing the best you can possibly be doing, that should be enough to encourage you to continue on the path you’re taking. Do this for yourself, first and foremost, not for others.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
It’s crazy I’ve been in L.A for three years now and still sometimes feel like a local! There are definitely some amazing spots and venues to check out if you’re visiting the city.

I think the South Bay area is a must-see to anyone coming in to L.A. I personally love Redondo Beach, as it is the definition of a cool, coastal beach town with a lot of hidden gem, spots. When you think of California, I bet the ocean and beaches are probably some of the first things that come to mind, and Redondo beach would be at the top of my list in terms of exploring the seaside areas Los Angeles has to offer.

I would say if you’re into the entertainment aspect of Los Angeles, Booking a hotel in Studio City or Burbank is a great idea. There are many amazing hotels in Studio City, that provide shuttles you can take all the way to Universal Studios.I’ve personally stayed at the Sheraton Hotel, and would definitely recommend staying there, great service, good location and perfect for families looking to make a day-trip to Universal Studios. I absolutely love theme parks, and would recommend Universal to everyone, (especially the Jurassic Park ride).

Burbank also is home to most of the major production company studios including; Warner Brothers, Nickelodeon, Universal, Disney. Warner brothers offers studio tours and you will get to see where some of your favourite, iconic TV shows were filmed throughout the seasons.

I would of course, recommend going to a hockey game downtown at Crypto.com Arena, to watch the LA Kings NHL team. It is an unforgettable experience full of fun in-game activities, great food, and exciting entertainment. The fast-paced level of hockey is full of action and will have you on the edge of your seat. It is especially notable during winter near the holiday season, as right across from Crypto arena, the L.A Kings set up an outdoor hockey rink at L.A Live that is open to the public to skate on and make some unforgettable memories.

In terms of dining, my favourite place to get some delicious frozen yogurt/ice cream would be “Whippd LA”. Located in Hollywood near the walk of fame, Whippd is a tiny corner store establishment with some of the best frozen desserts I’ve ever tasted. When I first moved to L.A, it was the first “dining” experience my friends and I chose to eat at, and I quickly became a local there. The staff are so kind, and the service is excellent.

I’m also a sucker for Tocaya Modern Organica restaurant. They have amazing gluten-friendly, vegan, bowls and salads. Anyone with any type of food intolerance or allergy can feel really comfortable eating at this restaurant, and also are able to enjoy the quality in taste of the food they prepare and serve.

Lastly an honorable mention would be, the Huntington library and Gardens located in San Marino, California. The rich culture and history behind this exhibit is what makes it so special. The nature is breathtaking and creates a serene atmosphere that is peaceful and exquisite to roam through aimlessly from one garden to another.

All in all, Los Angeles is the place to be, for anyone, and no matter what you’re into or what your niche may be, you will find a place here or something fun to do!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many lovely people who have been apart of my journey that I am so grateful for. My family, friends, co-workers, teachers, mentors, of course I thank them for everything they have done, and for the amazing individuals they all are.

I’d like to dedicate this interview specifically to my parents. My mom and dad have supported and cared for me through everything. They’ve always believed in me, and they are the reason I stay motivated and confident to pursue this career each and every day. I do not know where I would be without them. They are my heroes and my best friends. Mom, dad, you mean the absolute world to me. Thank you for all that you do. Your love and support does not go unnoticed. Your generosity and kindness is infectious and you’ve raised your kids to carry on your empowering, loving attributes through us all, and I am lucky and honoured to be able to call both of you my parents. The fact that I get to go through life knowing you two are by my side cheering on my every move and guiding me to make the right decisions makes me feel as though I’ve already won in life, because I have the best parents in the world.

This shoutout goes to you dad and mom, I love you both!

Instagram: @rhiannduncan

Other: IMDB:

https://pro.imdb.com/name/nm14940479?s=0ec7bf48-7278-5038-981d-b84953229b99&site_preference=normal

Image Credits
Alo Images
Tina Vonn
Kayla Gordon
Rebecca Van Bockern
Marcia Vogt