Behind the scenes: Chaperone
Pearl McGlashan plays Jasmine Cooper - Shortland Street TV2
We go behind the scenes at Shorty Street with
chaperone Renee Lyons who explains what's involved in her role
and what it's like working with the show's younger actors.
What does a chaperone do?
I work as a support person for Geordie Holibar (Phoenix Warner) and
Pearl (Jasmine Cooper). I drive them to and from the
studio/location, make sure they are where they are meant to be and
on time, help them learn lines and make sure they are clear with
what is happening in the scenes they are shooting.
What is your background?
I am an actress. I graduated Unitec in 2008 and have
worked mostly in theatre since then. Before that, I spent seven
years working and travelling abroad.
What are the challenges in your job?
My job is relatively straightforward. There is a lot of
'downtime' which can be a bit of a challenge for me as I like very
much to be busy! However I am in good company so that's a
bonus.
What does a typical day involve for you?
I pick Pearl up from home and Geordie from the ferry.
Geordie and I do a vocal warm up in the car on the way to the
studio. When we get to the studio I run lines with them
and keep an eye on when they are due in the studio (or Make
up/Wardrobe).
When they are shooting scenes I watch on the monitor. In the
downtime we run lines, talk about scenes, have a cup of tea and
chat, watch the 'B' cuts of scenes previously shot... all these
things in no particular order!
What's the best thing about working with Geordie and
Pearl?
They're cool! What I like most is talking about the work
and helping them when they need it. Acting is my passion so,
although they need less assistance the longer they are on the show,
that's where I get most job satisfaction.
Catch Geordie and Pearl playing Phoenix and Jasmine,
weeknights 7pm TV2
