Today we’d like to introduce you to Jane Schwartz.
Hi Jane, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I am thrilled to be a working actor based in Austin, Texas, who supports the Arts and artists, with a specific focus on representation, connection, and encouragement. Despite our relatively small market, I have worked on network television shows, independent feature films, commercials and industrials, and in local musical theatre, as an actor, producer, and writer. I continue to seek out opportunities to encourage female artists. I am also active in supporting Austin-based emerging and experimental dance companies and film festivals.
As a very shy kid I always found happiness in my artwork and ideas. Before I started working professionally in the Arts, I had a career at AT&T supporting large business clients, earned an MBA, started an online business and had 3 children. Over time it became clear that my true interests and abilities were in accessing my emotions and experiences, and encouraging others to do the same, through my art, collaboration, and performance. My gift is that I help others feel connected, inspired and engaged.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Most of the obstacles to pursuing my interests were self-imposed; believing what I wanted to do was out of reach, too difficult, or too indulgent. I encourage you not to wait for an invitation, permission, or the perfect opportunity to begin pursuing your interests. Simply start doing what you are most interested in, challenge yourself to improve, and support others who do what you love. Success in spite of obstacles is an organic result that comes with commitment to consistency and adaptability. It is that simple. So get going, be consistent, be curious, and be patient!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m helping to produce a female-written and directed feature film called Inbetween Girl, which is a coming of age story with a multiracial female hero that deals with the very relatable challenges of identity, sexuality, and family dynamics. It’s a wry, realistic and ultimately optimistic view of growing up today.
I’m also writing a screenplay called The Disconnect, in which a frazzled, modern family follows a charismatic, anti-technology relationship guru on a month-long crash course in living authentically. My story explores the idea of connection as it relates to technology, identity, and resiliency.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
What exactly do you have to lose by going for it? Probably not much. In my experience, a collected series of what I now consider phantom risks discouraged me from pursuing the Arts early on. In reality, I am so privileged to enjoy fairly limited risks to my biologic safety. The greatest risk I’ve probably ever faced is spending a lifetime not in service to my interests.
Laura Elizabeth Jewelry
Proud to call her my friend, Laura Stuart designs timeless jewelry in Austin, TX that is ethically and sustainably made in the US, by women for women. I love her nature-inspired designs, rich with textures and organic shapes! I always receive compliments when I wear Laura Elizabeth pieces.
https://www.
Merlin Works
I looked forward to being silly with strangers once a week during quarantine, thanks to Merlin Works Online Improv classes. Affiliated with ZACH Theatre, they offer an ever-evolving curriculum of fun and practical improv and corporate communication classes, geared to every experience level, and guaranteed to get you out of your comfort zone, safely.
https://www.merlin-works.com/
Ventana Ballet
Our community is teeming with beautiful dancers and artists committed to creating experiences that are often unique to Austin. Professional Dance Company Ventana Ballet inspires me with their commitment to innovation and creativity.
Each unique production showcases the results of intimate collaboration between representatives of various art genres. Ventana Ballet performs in various capacities, from immersive theater to full-stage performances. Each production operates on a “project basis,” where artists are carefully hand-selected by invitation or audition.
https://www.ventanaballet.com/
Lake Travis Film Festival
I am endlessly inspired by ideas literally put in motion, so it’s a treat to watch a film Festival grow up right in my backyard. As Festival Director Kat Albert shares: It’s intimate discussions, exhilarating after parties, and unparalleled access to some of the most exciting venues in the Lake Travis area, make this festival a destination for filmmakers and a cultural enhancement for our community.
https://www.
The BREAKS podcast
As a long time fan of hip-hop and R&B, I love listening to native Austinites Confucius and Fresh debate ‘all things hip-hop’ on their KUTX 98.9 show and podcast of the same name. Entertaining, timely, knowledgeable and authentic, they are giving a voice to a style of music and expression that’s perhaps long overdue in Austin.
https://kutx.org/category/the-
Contact Info:
- Email: https://www.acclaimtalent.com/profiles/jane-schwartz/
- Website: https://www.inbetweengirlfilm.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jane_schwartz_artist/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jane.e.schwartz.3
- Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10224838/
Image Credits
Arthur Marroquin: https://www.abmpix.com/ (the headshots, white blazer, blue sweater, brown jacket) Audrey Dunne: https://www.facebook.com/dunneinfocus (B+W family) Andrew Bennett, Creative Director and Peter Longno, DP: https://www.bennettcreative.co/canopy (the family commercial stills)
