Movie, Television and Theater Actor An Interview with EP Magazine's Faye Simon

Edward "Eddie" Barbanell, 40, has acted for almost two decades in movies, television and the theater. Best known to movie audiences for the role of Billy in the 2005 film "The Ringer," he recently starred in the Roundabout Theatre Company's production of "Andy and the Orphans" at the Laura Pels Theatre. Eddie, who has Down syndrome, has been written up in The New York Times and several other national publications.

"To me it is a meaningless title," he said about having Down syndrome. "I know I can and will succeed at whatever it takes to accomplish my goals. Acting gives me a feeling that I can showcase my talents. It shows people that if you focus on something you love, you can relate to an audience and project your feelings."

Q: When and how did you start acting? A: I started acting at age 20. My mother's friend was practicing a Shakespearian monologue. I wanted to learn it too. There was an audition in California to receive a Ricardo Montalban scholarship. My mother and I flew to California and I auditioned. I performed the balcony scene from Romeo and Juliet. Two weeks later, I was notified that I won the scholarship!

Q: What shows, movies and plays have you been cast in? A: In 2005, I played Billy in the Farrelly brothers' movie The Ringer. The TV shows I've appeared in are Comedy Central's Workaholics, Jackassworld.com (a 24-hour live TV special with stars of the movie franchise Jackass), Loudermilk with Ron Livingston, and Rob Dyrdek's Fantasy Factory. I've acted in theater in The Boys Next Door at the Down in Front Theatre, Florida; and most recently, Andy and the Orphans at the Roundabout Theatre Company in New York City.

Q: What is it you love about acting? I love acting because it gives me a chance to express my emotions. I enjoy working with directors and cast members and learning new skills. It helps with confidence and self-esteem.

Q: What is the hardest part about acting?

Q: What is the hardest part about acting? A: Standing in front of an audience. It's hard to look up at the lights!

Q: How do you learn and remember lines?

A: I read the script every day and I have my mother help with the cue lines. I prepare every day and love what I am doing.

Q: How do you gain the confidence to act in front of people? A: I study my script and so feel ready to perform.

A: I study my script and so feel ready to perform.

Q: What future parts are you interested in playing? A: I am ready to be challenged with any script that is up

A: I am ready to be challenged with any script that is uplifting and positive.

Q: Who are some of your favorite actors who have inspired you?

A: Patty Duke, Anne Bancroft, Dustin Hoffman.

Q: Who are some of your favorite actors you have worked with?

A: Johnny Knoxville, Jim Carey, Katherine Heigl.

Q: What have you learned from other actors?

A: I've learned new skills such as timing and blocking. I've learned to follow cues and respect cast members.

Q: Do you prefer comedies or serious acting? A: I like both comedy

A: I like both comedy and serious acting.

Q: What are your goals for the future?

A: My goal is to get more ROLE MODEL: "Down syndrome is a meaningless title," said Eddie. "I know I can and will succeed at whatever it takes to accomplish my goals. parts that will help build confidence and my selfesteem – and to become a better actor.

. Q: Could you please share a favorite story from acting in H

A: Once, after my matinee show was over, I walked outside the theatre and someone had a disability. He walked up to me and said to me, "I loved you in the show, you were great." Then he said, "You give me hope."

Q: Anything else you would like to share with our readers about yourself and the experiences you have had?

A: Being in a Broadway play [Andy and the Orphans] was the best experience of my life and I want readers to know we have the same needs as all of you – love, respect, and camaraderie too.

Q: Do you have a special message for others who have been diagnosed with Down syndrome?

A: Believe in yourself. Don't give up. Keep striving and reach for the stars! •

ROLE MODEL: "Down syndrome is a meaningless title," said Eddie. "I know I can and will succeed at whatever it takes to accomplish my goals.