RTA Media Production student lands lead role on TVOKids show

Lisa Pryce is already making a splash in her first year at RTA Media Production, taking on multiple roles in various TVOKids shows.

Pryce’s journey began when she started acting at the age of ten. Since then, she’s done various projects, classes, and auditioning, to hone her creative skills.

Last year, Pryce landed a role in a TVOKids show called Green Squad. “It was truly an amazing experience. I absolutely loved working in front of the camera, but also had an inside look into the production of the show,” says Pryce.

After Green Squad, Pryce had the opportunity to work on the production side of another TVOKids show called Sunny’s Quest, which showcases narratives recounted by Black youth across Canada. Pryce says that working behind the camera has allowed her to grow her skills besides acting. 

“Working in roles relating to children is always fun because you get to really feel as though you’re making a difference in these kids’ lives,” says Pryce. For her, it’s important to teach children about different issues in society, especially those that affect the world around them. “I love teaching kids, especially when it's about topics as important as the environment, and it’s even better when I get to blend that with the entertainment industry,” says Pryce.

Making strides in the industry as a student

Pryce says that the RTA Media Production program has taught her invaluable lessons about the various aspects of TV production, and what makes it engaging. “Once we had to do a written piece for a segment of the Green Squad and my knowledge of media production and the things that I learned applied to that a lot, and I know will apply a lot in the future as well,” says Pryce.

But this opportunity doesn’t come without challenges. Pryce says that the biggest challenge she faces as a student who also works in TV is managing time efficiently and staying organized to ensure she meets all academic and professional obligations. “It is so important to be organized and make sure that I’m aware of the due dates of things so that I don’t miss anything,” she said. “Luckily, the program has been very accommodating thus far for when I need to miss classes for a shoot.”

For students looking to break into the industry, Pryce’s advice is all about perseverance and confidence. “The two really go hand in hand because there are going to be many no’s in the industry, but it’s so important to keep trying to take advantage of all the opportunities, reach out to people, and try your best,” she said. She adds that being engaged with one’s community is extremely important for professional development. 

Pryce hopes to continue pursuing roles and projects, especially ones centred on Black culture.“ A lot of the roles and work that I’ve done after filming Green Squad have been tied to the Black community and that’s been incredible work as well and that’s a path that I would like to continue following,” says Pryce.

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