Tell about yourself and your background! *
I took a very "unconventional route" to Hollywood and my entertainment career. A graduate of the Eastman School of Music where I studied opera, Broadway musicals were the goal. The events of 9/11 altered the trajectory of my goals and dreams. The industry changed. And I decided to cross the country to Hollywood to pursue acting in television and film.
What inspired you to become a stunt performer?
After the writers strike in 2007, many developmental talent- like me- were released from agency and studio rosters. It was an uncertain time for our indistry. I'd been an athlete most my life and already enjoyed training with stunt colleagues. At their persuasion, I began to focus my training more specific to the field and, eventually, was given the opportunity to perform stunts on a television show. One led to another, then another. It was easy to fall in love with non verbal storytelling and push myself physically and mentally in ways I hadn't before. It still is!
What is your greatest skill as a stunt performer, is there a stunt behind it?
Honestly, great skills to have for any stunt performer (aside from our physical abilities) are professionalism, use of critical thinking, the ability to see a "bigger picture" on set, and to avoid dangers, several steps before they are a problem. I believe these to be mandatory skills. As a 20 year veteran actress, my ability to both act and perform physical action simultaneously has been an asset and provided me with countless diverse opportunities to develop my instincts and skills, often with talented "name talent", also from stage. A culmination of the things I love.
What is the best part about being a stunt performer?
STORYTELLING!!! Whether that be in the context of the show/film I'm involved in, in the context of the previz we are creating, and especially from the veteran stunt coordinators, 2nd unit directors, and colleagues I collaborate with. Sharing our experiences (the laughs and the pains) builds community. I am constantly learning and growing for it.
Tell your all-time favorite stunt story!
I've been a professional stunt performer for a decade and still consider myself a "newbie". And I always feel that "the best is yet to come" because I LOVE to keep Magic alive. There have been some amazing experiences for sure, some you just had to be there, lol.
What advice would you give other stunt performers?
Listen first. Think next. Think again. Try. And always, ALWAYS, be truthful and professional.
Please share your social media handles and how we can follow you!
Instagram & Twitter : @lisa_catara
Please include any links to stunt reels or videos you'd like to share!
