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2016 – Hailey and Aiden Medina

 

Hailey and Aiden are young actors from the New York City area. This year Hailey has been busy with local theatre productions while Aiden has been seen on What Would You Do?, Maya and Marty, and more! To keep up to date make sure to visit their official website and like their manager’s page on Facebook.

1. Hailey, what was the best part or class in high school?

The best part of high school is probably the trips I get to go on, because I’m involved in many extra curriculars. This year I’m actually going to be performing in Disney World because I’m in advanced choir, and after auditioning I made it into the candlelight processional in Epcot.

2. What was your favorite number to perform in your dance recital?

My favorite number was a ten minute tap medley of the show 42nd street. It was a compilation of several songs from the show and a few tap classes and it took a lot of work since it was so long. Within the performance, which was the opener for the recital, I had three costume changes and it was hard, but so worth it.

3. What was the process like preparing for The Addams Family?

Preparing for The Addams Family was chaotic, but it all worked out in the end. We had 99 days to put on a show and it was majorly a student run production, complete with a vocalist, and student directors to help out. Since I was the dance captain and had a large role in choreographing the dance numbers, it was stressful, yet an amazing opportunity too!

4. How did you enjoy your part in the musical Once Upon a Mattress?

I really liked my part of the minstrel in Once Upon a Mattress. Since I was the lead in the musical, it was really interesting to find new ways to manage my time backstage and I found that I was never not busy. Originally the lead is a tenor male, however in numerous productions the part had been switched to be played by a female and the directors really wanted me to take the part, so they changed it. At first it was difficult to figure out how to change the songs to fit a girls range, but it worked out. I sang most songs up an octave, and since my range is big I even sang a song or two right where it was. I was up for the challenge and it was so worth it because it really pushed me as a performer and my growth as singer was evident.

5. What else have you been up to this year?

This year I have been working a little bit behind the scenes as well as in front of the camera. I had the opportunity of being a PA (production assistant) on two separate projects. I worked on the set of a music video and I also worked on set and on location for multiple days for the pilot of a web series, Half Past Jump Time. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing how everything came together. I loved meeting all the new people and gaining experience in things that I’ve never done before.

6. Aiden, what has been the best part of working for John Marshall Media?

Everyone at the recording studio is super cool and funny. I was happily surprised when I saw they used a clip of me in the studio on their website.

7. What was it like to see yourself on the Today Show?

It’s always great to see myself on TV and the cast and crew were really sweet. Also, it related to sports and I love being on a team.

8. How did you enjoy filming Maya & Marty?

The Maya & Marty Show was a fantastic day and I was excited to use my British voice-over skills. The entire production team was a blast.

9. What was it like working with Martin Short?

What an honor and such an amazing opportunity to act with THE Martin Short!!! I was thrilled when I found out I was cast as “British Ben” and would be working so closely with Mr. Martin Short. It was incredible being with him on set and talking to him side by side during scene changes and backstage. It’s so hilarious watching it back and him screaming at me while I’m totally straight-faced. My parents crack-up every time and it’s priceless. Yeah, it was definitely a day I will remember forever!

10. Do you have a favorite episode of What Would You Do? that you filmed this year?

Every episode is enjoyable and it’s also interesting to see if people will “step in” and “speak up.” It’s a great feeling when people help others and I’m always smiling when John Quinones comes out to greet the people and you see their reactions. Also, I really appreciate the entire WWYD team for casting me in numerous scenarios because it allows me to play a variety of roles.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

xoxo to our parents, manager CP, agents, family, friends, teachers, producers, directors, casting directors, cast and crew, and supporters!!!

 

We’d like to thank Hailey and Aiden for participating in our November Q&A series!

(Image by Stacy Gallizzi)