Today we’d like to introduce you to Tonya Holloway.
Hi Tonya, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I grew up thinking I had to be an actor to be in the entertainment industry. I didn’t perform on stage until I was in college. After receiving a bachelor’s degree in performing arts, I hit the audition trail. It wasn’t until I got a job as a Production Assistant on a national commercial did, I discovered the world of production. After that experience, I was hooked on life behind the camera. From there, I worked my way up from PA to video assistant, Casting, Assistant Editor, and finally Director. I worked for several years as a freelancer, gathering on-the-job experience that would prepare me for future opportunities. I’m grateful for the experiences because it all strengthened me as an artist.
Currently, I am one of three co-founders of the longest-running Black theatre company in Dallas, as well as a screenwriter and filmmaker.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I wouldn’t necessarily say the road has been bumpy, but rather long. After freelancing for ten years, I took a 15-year break after I got married. He was in the military (USMC); therefore, we traveled quite a bit as our family expanded. Since most of the duty stations were in remote places, it was hard for me to work my profession. However, it allowed me the chance to immerse myself in the art of screenwriting. After several years of practice, I began placing in screenwriting competitions, ultimately landing an option deal with TVOne. I continue to write, perfecting my voice on the page. It never gets boring. I’m still exploring.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Currently, I work as a film consultant at the prestigious Booker T Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts while attending grad school at the University of Texas at Arlington, where I will earn an MFA in Cinematic Arts.
I’m most proud of the fact that I’ve worked in this profession since college, implementing the skills acquired into every project. Even when I was traversing around the states and abroad with four kids and a husband who served 30 years in the US Marine Corps, I never stopped writing and producing. There are several firsts I’m still striving for, but the experiences gained have been useful and most of all, memorable.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
One of the most productive ways to network is to simply open your mouth and say, “Hi. My name is…” That’s the first start. Put yourself in social engagements that allow you the opportunity to expand your contacts. Find out what organizations, clubs, and social interests are of like mind and go. Even by yourself. There have been many times when I just got up and went to an event, not knowing a single person. I’ve made some of my best contacts that way. Submit to workshops and fellowships that can elevate your craft. Volunteer for events of interest. In other words, find your seat at the table and see what comes of it.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: tonyaholloway2021
- Facebook: tonya holloway
