What sparked your interest in entertainment?
I’ve always been a storyteller. Even at a young age, I’d put on mini plays with my sister and next-door neighbour in our backyards. I loved playing dress up, watching movies, and admiring entertainers like Dolly Parton! I was also a competitive figure skater and dancer growing up. Having that background in performance paved the way for me to express myself & create in different ways.
What do you love about your job?
I love how I get to create and tap into my imagination on a daily basis. Whether I’m Acting, Writing, Producing or Coaching, I’m creating. Creating art is truly fulfilling for me because it’s a collaborative form of expression. I love being able to connect with and impact others, while finding freedom in the exploration. Each day is new and completely different from the last.
As an Asian Canadian Actor, tell us what your ethnicity is and as a mixed actor, what are your thoughts on representation in the Film industry and how it’s changed through your time in the industry so far.
My Mom is from Beijing, China and my Dad is from a beautiful town in Switzerland. I had a melting pot of unique customs and traditions from both cultures growing up. My parents fully embraced Canadian culture too! Being multi-racial has allowed me to connect with numerous communities from different backgrounds. While we still have a long way to go in the Film & Television industry when it comes to representation, there have been some shifts that have brought hope for under-represented communities. Under-represented communities are fighting and striving for proper representation of Women, Mixed communities, Asian, LGBTQ, Black, Hispanic, Indigenous, Pacific Islander, people with disabilities, etc.
Our world is multi-ethnic and the mixed race community would like to see that we don’t just have to fit into one box. Canada and the United States have some of the greatest per-capita numbers of mixed raced individuals world-wide, yet it’s still a struggle to see our mixed backgrounds represented on screen.
My greatest full circle moment for me as an actor was when an Asian Canadian student of mine took a photo of me acting on TV. She beamed. Knowing that she feels heard, seen, and represented meant the world to me.
Thank you for bringing up my mixed race background! I think it’s still something people think is taboo to talk about, and I’m happy to be a part of the conversation to demystify that.
Why is Asian Heritage month important to you?
Canada has such a rich history of contributions made by Asian-Canadians, which have positively and profoundly impacted so many aspects of Canadian life. My Grandmother, Isabelle Shen, is someone I celebrate, even after her passing two years ago. She was a Doctor in China, and practiced acupuncture in Canada for over 39 years. She was also a founding member of the Alberta Acupuncturist and Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners Association. My Grandma was awarded the SAGE Award in Health and Wellness for raising awareness in the Community for holistic healing and acupuncture. She’d also waive fees for those who couldn’t afford to pay, and was a regular volunteer at the volunteer clinic in Chinatown for Seniors, working until she passed at the age of 95. Her contributions left a lasting impact on her community.
What are some of your favorite Chinese traditions that you celebrate?
There’s so much that I love about Chinese traditions and culture! Chinese New Year’s is a special celebration in our family. Some people relate to their astrological sign, but I very much relate to my Chinese Zodiac. The animal that rings in the New Year comes with certain symbols, and predictions for the year ahead. Money in a red envelope (Hóngbāo), was always given to us by my grandparents throughout the Year and on Birthdays and Christmas for good luck. A lot of Chinese traditions are centered around luck & good fortune. My mom would always make a bowl of long noodles for us on our Birthdays for a long-life. One of the traditions that I miss the most is getting together with my family to make hand rolled dumplings together!
During these interesting times, what keeps you inspired?
I find a lot of inspiration from being in nature. When I clear my mind, and become truly aligned, I usually get a wave of creativity – whether it be for a role, a piece of writing that I’m working on, or an upcoming project.
I’m also constantly inspired by other art and forms of expression. Photography, books, features, dance, paintings, podcasts, series, articles, among others.
You’ve been the go-to Acting Coach for young actors on Series and Feature Films for Universal, Netflix and Disney. What advice do you have for aspiring actors in today’s industry?
Yes! I’ve been coaching young actors for over 12 years now, both on set and in classes and workshops. Being from Alberta, I didn’t have access to a mentor who worked in Film & Television. I love assisting young actors and watching them grow not only as artists, but also individuals. For aspiring actors, I encourage them to get into class. Drive, resilience and creative play are important too. There are so many things you can hone as an actor if you stay curious…Be so good they can’t say no.
What’s coming up for you?
‘Christmas Waltz’ has come back around on Hallmark as part of their Christmas Fridays (I play legal assistant, Darna). I just finished coaching on a Netflix feature, ‘Mixtape’ and completed writing a dramatic short. A number of Directors I’ve worked with over the years keep urging me to Direct, so I’m excited for this next Chapter!
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I truly believe the egg tarts in Hong Kong are the best things I’ve ever eaten. Egg tarts should be a food group.
Thank you for taking the time to chat with WBD Beatrice. You are a force to be reckoned with, a multi-faceted talent and so beautiful on the inside and out! We’re honoured that you shared a closer look into your creative process and your Chinese Traditions. We can’t wait to see what you do next! – The WBD Team
For more info:
IMDB: Beatrice King
Instagram: @beabeaking