Tristan D. Lalla can be seen in the upcoming film The United States vs. Billie Holiday directed by Lee Daniels. We got to chat with him about the film, his show “Nurses”, what he enjoyed most about his recent trip to NYC, and more!
Photo Credit: Jeremy Cabrera
upfrontNY: How did you get your start in acting and what do you love most about it?
Tristan D. Lalla: I kind of always knew that I wanted to be an actor. I come from a family of talented musicians and performers, so intrinsically I caught the bug. When I was six, I saw a production of A Christmas Carol and one of the leads was a young black actor. I recognized myself in him and knew right then and there that this is what I wanted to do. After high school I went to Dawson College’s Professional Theatre Program for three years and upon graduating (with honours) I landed my first set of gigs. I love being able (and encouraged) to tap into the full range of my emotions.
upfrontNY: Can you tell us about your film The United States vs. Billie Holiday?
Tristan D. Lalla: It’s a feature film directed by Lee Daniels (Precious, Empire, The Butler), and starring the stunningly beautiful and talented Andra Day. The film tells the story of Billie Holiday’s career, particularly the portion of her life when she became the target of the Federal Department of Narcotics.
upfrontNY: You play Mr. Jordon Green, can you tell us about him and how you prepared for the role?
Tristan D. Lalla: I believe (hope) the film will be huge to audiences, and particularly to lovers of Lady Day. I play a reporter named Mr. Green who challenges Billie Holiday on her views of what it means to be a role model for young black people at the time. I did tons of research about journalists during that time (particularly black journalists), and did a deep dive into all things Billie Holiday related. She was such a fascinating woman, and her life ended so tragically.
upfrontNY: Had you been a fan of Billie Holiday’s music, if so what is your favorite song of hers?
Tristan D. Lalla: Absolutely. Her “Strange Fruit” rendition will always be haunting to me.
upfrontNY: The film is directed by Lee Daniels and stars Andra Day and Trevante Rhodes. What was it like to be a part of this film?
Tristan D. Lalla: A little surreal, but quite an honour. Lee took such time and care to make sure I was in the mix. I’m really grateful for that.
upfrontNY: Can you tell us about your show “Nurses” and your character Damien Sanders?
Tristan D. Lalla: “Nurses” takes us into the hectic life at St. Mary’s Hospital. It follows five rookie nurses who are thrown into the realities of what it takes to be an effective team player under high stakes situations. It’s an ensemble piece, put together by a highly acclaimed team of writers, directors, producers, and editors. I’m really proud to be a part of this one. I play Damien Sanders, head charge nurse at St. Mary’s. He’s a bit of a hard a** (having been a Master Corporal and chief field medic in the military) but he definitely has a soft side. Maybe a few soft sides… episode six is not to be missed. Trust.
upfrontNY: You have acted in several musicals and plays. How do you feel when you are on stage?
Tristan D. Lalla: I definitely feel at home. I’ve felt the most in my element on stage. Over my career I’ve been really fortunate to touch stages all across Canada, in over 70 productions. It’s been a ride! Some highlights are being part of the ensemble company at Canada’s National Arts Centre, and starring in “The Mountaintop” by Katori Hall, alongside my wife Letitia Brookes. We’ve done the show in three cities, and were recipients of Outstanding Lead Actor/Actress awards respectively at the 2018 METAs (Montreal English Theatre Awards). The show also won Best Production. The theatre will always be home base.
upfrontNY: Your voice can be heard on over 45 video game productions that you have worked on. What has been your favorite experience?
Tristan D. Lalla: I would have to say that being in the Assassin’s Creed games has changed my life a lot. I have worked on eight Assassin’s Creed game titles to date. Most notably in three of the games I am Adéwalé (full voice and performance capture), and I also play the roles of Taharqa, Agaté, and Jumao in the franchise. I’m also in most of the Far Cry games, all of the Dues Ex games, and both Watchdogs games, to name a few.
upfrontNY: We saw on your Instagram that you recently visited New York City. What did you enjoy most about NYC?
Tristan D. Lalla: There is a vibrancy that is like no other in New York! I was lucky enough to see “A Solider’s Play” starring David Alan Greer and Blair Underwood, directed by Kenny Leon (it was incredible!!), and I also visited the Color Factory in SoHo, and enjoyed some chicken and waffles with collard greens and cornbread at Sylvia’s in Harlem. I also enjoyed being mistaken for Gerald Levert in Times Square, and seeing six Elmos standing together, trying to entice tourists with groups shots for a dollar.
upfrontNY: What do you like to do when you are not working?
Tristan D. Lalla: I get lost in movies and books easily. Exploring new music is great too. But not as great as snuggling with my wife and our 13 year old cat, Boopsie.
upfrontNY: What is next for you in 2020?
Tristan D. Lalla: I’ve got a few commercials airing soon, I start shooting a secret project very soon that’s being directed by Dan Mazer (Borat, Ali G), and of course in the spring we start shooting Season 2 of “NURSES”!
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