Get to Know Actress Tiffany Hines
Interview with Cincinnati Native and Perfect Combination Star
Jul 4, 2009
Growing up in Cincinnati, Ohio, actress Tiffany Hines dreamed of becoming a dancer and singer. Her desire to express her art manifested itself onto the stages of Cincinnati Ballet Company (including performances of "The Nutcracker"), and even as a singer for bands in clubs throughout the city.
Describing herself as “goofy, spiritual and artistic,” Hines described quite articulate and on how she came to be an actress.
“Acting wasn’t on my radar,” she said, her voice coming across glowing and warm. “I moved to LA about five years ago after I was scouted by two agents. I thought I’d do it for fun, but wasn’t too sure. I visited LA and thought I’d try to do it.”
She laughed – “that’s all she wrote.”
Finding A Niche
Hines said that her first roled were often the “girl next door” type and as she’s navigating a new city, and looking for new challenges, she hopes to develop characters.
“As you grow, you push yourself,” she said. “I’ve really started to step outside my box – be the mean girl. I want to do action roles, like Angelina Jolie-type of roles.
Being An Artist
Like her dance and music foundation, Hines thrives on expressing her art, and is also committed to improving her own self.
“It’s different and being new to acting, coming from Cincinnati, the Midwest, I’m still getting used to the LA vibe,” she said. “Over time when you’re living in a place like this, you create your own happiness, but you’re also struggling within this industry.
“I think people would be surprised to know about me when they say ‘how does it feel to have made it?’ I don’t think that anyone totally ever makes it. I think when you’re an artist it’s all about growth. I’m still pushing myself.”
Hines’ success story is still being written. As “Perfect Combination” finishes up production, it’s a new vehicle for her to show off a bit of her goofy-side. She stars as Lia, a “sassy, sexy boutique manager, and the only girl in a crew of guys.”
“There are some hilarious adventures in this movie,” Hines teased.
The movie, also starring Christian Keyes (“Diary of a Mad Black Woman”, “Madea Goes to Jail,” “Brothers & Sisters”) follows Hines’ career after numerous television and guest starring roles in "CSI," "Criminal Minds," and the featured role of surfer Birdie Scott in “Beyond the Break.”
Community Action
Not only is Hines pushing herself and her craft, she’s taking extra measures to give back to others. Like she did in Cincinnati, the actress is in the process of creating her own non profit organization to expose the creative arts to inner city youth.
Her inspiration stems from economic decisions to cut school programs.
“I don’t think that’s right,” Hines said. “Everyone should have access. We’re (professional artists) really blessed. As we succeed we should remember others.”
Hines continued that some of her other personal inspirations are Will and Jada Smith.
“I heard Will speak once about pushing to a level of excellence,” Hines said. “You push yourself to the next level. The really inspires me to be great at my craft and also help those not as fortunate as myself.”
Strong Support System
Hines, a graduate of Seven Hills High School and University of Cincinnati (Go Bearcats, she chimed), still visits “home” with friends and relatives. Advice to future actors and actresses, she said, is to keep a close circle of confidantes.
“It’s really important to have a strong support system as an actor,” Hines said. “They will experience the successes and set backs with you.”
Hines' inspiration is contagious and her strong personal character will no doubt continue to shine.
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