Illustration: DeePita

Promising actress Sharmin Shila is a familiar face on the small screen. Among her popular ongoing TV serials areLal Neel Beguni, ArshiandEk Akasher Tara.In a recent meeting with The Daily Star, she gave glimpses of her professional and personal life. Excerpts:

Do you think the exposure to theatre is a plus point for small screen actors?
I don't think it is a must because there is very little similarity between the theatre and television world. On stage we have to deal with body language more than the expressions, we hardly have any hesitation in playing diverse roles. On the contrary, TV is more complex because it is a close up medium.

What are the ingredients of a successful actress?
Sincerity is a key factor. Then comes the question of simplicity. The actress must also identify with the character completely.

If you got a chance to request a senior artiste for advice, what would it be?
I would ask them how I could improve my performance and develop as a quality actress.

Who are your idols?
Without doubt, Shubarna Mustafa, Afsana Mimi and Asaduzzaman Noor.

How do you view the present scenario of the entertainment world?
Most of the directors and viewers complain that today's artistes lack sincerity because of so-called "professionalism". Many artistes believe that acting in a number of productions simultaneously is professionalism, while portraying the role properly is less important. The newcomers need a break so that the audience would not have to watch the stereotypical performances of the artistes.

Are you a morning person?
Its not that I hate to sleep late, but I have to get up early in the morning, as my daughter goes to kindergarten. Then there are times when I have a shooting schedule in the early hours as well.

What is your dream role?
Hands down it is Rabindranath Tagore's characters, as for instance Nandini on stage. I can also name Muna of Kothao Keu Nei or other important roles in Humayun Ahmed's plays that I have always wished to portray.

How do you select your scripts?
I look for a compact story with realistic dialogues and most important of all, I look for a role, which reveals my talent. If the character is insignificant, I don't play the part.

What is your real self?
I am a friendly person, and a bit talkative. My first breakthrough was in the serial Bandhan. In that serial I portrayed a cuddly girl who is a little immature and impractical. I did enjoy the persona for a long time, but now I want to change the image. I want to diversify by playing varied roles.