The Ville Interviews - Anna Schlegel

CDP: So, you've been with The Ville since the beginning. How do you think we avoided the
sophomore slump? There was a risk of losing momentum but Season Two was a hit.
AS: Well, thank you! I think there were a number of things that went into the success of
Season Two. The scripts have been amazing and the new cast...I couldn't have asked for a
more talented or fun group of people. We really hit our stride within our process.

EF: Your character, Lainey, was pregnant for most of last season. How did you prepare to be
pregnant on stage?
AS: I wish I could say I was the type of actor that does tons of research, but that's not really
how I roll. And I've never necessarily found it for Lainey, she's so much a part of me now. I
got into the physicality of pregnancy by making my bellies bigger for each episode. And
wow, do those things change the way I moved! Especially the big one I wear in the final
episode. It affects where I put my hands, my center of gravity, where my focus is...basically
the belly does the work!

CDP: Your characters Lainey and Harmony are very different. How do you approach that as
an actress?
AS: Oh goodness, they are different. I almost cried when I was cast as Harmony, I was very
intimidated by the role but Rebekah was great at directing me and I love playing her now. As
far as my approach as an actress with Lainey, I get to be myself but magnified...sillier and a
bit more optimistic. I also hope I'm a bit more put together than Lainey, at least on a good
day. Harmony has a different voice, a different stance and focus. Harmony leads with her
hips. Lainey and I apologize more than Harmony would ever dream of!

CDP: What advice did you give to the new actors?
AS: Ew, advice makes me feel old! I think I told people to be patient. They're doing
something totally new and it takes a while to get used to. I've worked with a lot of talented
actors but it takes a special person to be a Ville-an.