Lights, camera, action: Hollywood calls for Notre Dame student

08 Jun 2016

By The Record

Communications & Media student, Olivia Cervi, was signed by Paradigm Talent Agency during a recent on-camera skills trip to Los Angeles and New York. Photo: Supplied

University of Notre Dame Australia (UNDA) student Olivia Cervi is well on the way to a thriving career in Hollywood after the 18 year old was signed by Paradigm Talent Agency during a recent on-camera skills trip to Los Angeles and New York.

The first-year Bachelor of Communications & Media (Film & Screen Production) student at UNDA’s Fremantle Campus says she is delighted at the news, which reflects her commitment to a future career in stage and screen.

“I’ve always had a passion for performing arts and being on stage, but the industry has taught me that, in order to succeed, I need to have a positive work ethic and continued drive to improve my on-stage skills,” Olivia said.

The USA trip was organised through Olivia’s drama teacher of five years, Ali Roberts, and is designed to prepare Perth-based performers for the rigours of a career in stage and screen.

As part of the experience, budding performers took part in educational experiences and invaluable networking opportunities with industry agents, casting directors and managers.

Olivia’s signing with Paradigm was the direct result of a meeting and face-to-face interview in the agency’s New York office.

Paradigm manages some of the world’s biggest performers, including Dick Van Dyke and Ed Sheeran.

On the back of a successful national commercial shoot with one of Australia’s leading footwear franchises, Olivia says she is confident of making an impact in the highly competitive industry.

“One of the challenges of being an Australian actor is having to audition for lead roles in international features through self-tapes and interviews, rather than in person.

“So we have to really show casting agents why we should be in their feature film or television show,” Olivia said.

“While the industry presents a number of challenges for budding actors, through extensive networking, hard work and commitment to one’s craft, the results can be fantastic!

“I am excited for where this journey can take me – however, I would like to feature in an action film one day.”

Professor Sarah McGann, Dean of the School of Arts & Sciences, Fremantle, congratulated Olivia on her achievement.

“Olivia’s confidence and ambition to succeed as an actor is recognised and supported by all in the School of Arts & Sciences. We look forward to seeing her headline a Hollywood blockbuster in the very near future,” Professor McGann said.

Olivia says the University has provided her with a holistic environment in which to achieve her academic and professional goals.

“I was drawn to Notre Dame for its community atmosphere and picturesque location in the heart of Fremantle. The personalised learning environment it contains ensures I will have every opportunity to realise my ambitions,” Olivia said.