Born and bred in Catford, Ani Nelson is a native South Londoner. Having trained at the Academy of Live and Recorded Arts (ALRA) Ani has appeared in Channel 4’s Roadkill, Random Acts, popular web series Brothers with No Game, and theatre productions such as The Trick and Abigail’s Party. In Flatshare, Ani plays Kemi, a young woman seeking independence away from her controlling parents. In this Q&A Ani talks about why she wishes she was more like her character Kemi, why she feels passionate about diversity, and why she thinks everyone should watch Flatshare.
How did you get into acting?
This might sound like a cliché, but I was really inspired by my A-Level teacher - he made theatre really exciting. Then I wanted to go to drama school straight after sixth form, but my dad had other ideas. So, I did a ‘proper’ degree, and then came back to it a couple of years ago.
What do you most love about acting?
It’s just fun. I don’t know how else to describe it. Being able to play so many different characters it’s just a lot of fun and it makes me happy.
What attracted you to the character of Kemi?
I liked how passionate she was about things like gentrification in Peckham and issues that are affecting a lot people in London. And that she wasn’t afraid to call people out on things when she thinks it wrong. I wish I was more like her.
What was your experience like on set whilst filming?
It was so much fun! I felt like I was just hanging out with my friends. But also, it was really focused. And working with Grant Taylor, the director - he’s very clear and so clever. I learnt so much working with him.
How do you hope your character Kemi will be received by audiences?
I think they’ll appreciate her directness but also feel empathy for her opinions and compassion for what she’s trying to achieve.
The main cast of Flatshare is very diverse. Why do you think representation is important?
It represents the world we live in which is so important and long overdue.
Why should people watch Flatshare when it is released?
Because I guarantee, you haven’t seen anything like this before; the themes that it blends together, and the diversity of the cast. I think it’ll be hilarious, eye opening and addictive!