Star Quality
Epic Kids chats with a local up-and-coming actress.

Name: Hailey Glicksman
Age: 14
Grade: 9th
School you attend: Desert Mountain High School

How did you get into acting?
I started off in dance when I was young, but I also always loved to sing. We were having a talent show in fourth grade, and I decided to sing “The Cup Song.” A teacher came up to me after and asked me to perform for her class because she liked my performance so much, and that’s when I realized how much I love of performing—and I’ve wanted to do it ever since. Not long after that I tried out for my first musical, which was Shrek, Jr. That’s where I found my love for musical theater.

What was your first acting job?
My first musical theater role was in Shrek, Jr., and I was cast as Teen Fiona. As I was moving into film and television, I also filmed my first commercial. It was during the pandemic and I filmed a spot with Tim Tebow.

What are some of the other projects you’ve worked on?
Some of my favorite musical theater roles have been Annie in Annie; Veruca Salt in Willy Wonka, Jr.; Ladahlord in James and The Giant Peach; and Ariel in The Little Mermaid, Jr. I’m currently wrapping up Les Misérables. I’ve also done several fun commercials and am waiting to hear back on auditions for several projects, including television shows and a mini-series. I signed with ROSSI Talent Management in 2021, and since then have auditioned for everything from HBO to Netflix to Nickelodeon.

What do you enjoy about acting?
I enjoy being able to play different characters and emotions, and expressing myself through a character.

How do you train?
I currently work with an acting coach here in Arizona and one in Los Angeles, and I work with both each week in classes and some privates. I also take weekly vocal lessons, and I’ve taken several forms of dance.

How do you juggle being a student and acting?
I do my work during breaks with acting and I plan out when I’ll have time to do my homework to balance it out. Sometimes it’s a big juggle though!

What advice would you give to a kid who wants to start acting?
Don’t just act as the character, be the character. Also, try an acting class and see if you like it, and get the experience you need to become an actor.

What do you do when you’re not acting?
I like to spend time with my friends and family. I also am part of National Charity League and I volunteer throughout the Valley. I think it’s very important to give back and help others.

What do you want to be when you grow up?
An actor!