UTT Main Website
Michael Cherrie Stars in Netflix Biopic
210742 views Print version (opens in a new tab)
The University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) wishes to acknowledge the recent achievement of Michael Cherrie, Assistant Professor, at The Academy for the Performing Arts, in his role as Conrad O Chisholm in the Netflix movie, Shirley. Cherrie, who is an acclaimed actor with many credits to his name, received his professional training for the stage and screen at The National Theatre Conservatory's Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programme at Denver Center for the Performing Arts USA. He is also a graduate of the University of the West Indies' Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Film with Theatre Arts programme.
In the Netflix original movie, directed by John Ridley, Cherrie indicated that he was "Absolutely honoured to have been part of the Netflix historical biopic Shirley, which has been a 15-year labour of love for its shining star and producer, Regina King!"
Michael Cherrie also remarked that, "This was most professional experience of my life, and that it was indeed an honour and privilege! Regina's process is grounded in reality and trust and getting to the truth of each scene... the realness of it! Each actor I worked with on the set brought fun, spontaneity, urgency and great value to the work. I learned to trust the process despite the odds. I think I taught them the wonder of what the Caribbean spirit can bring to the giant that is Hollywood."
As an Assistant Professor at UTT, he offered a few words of advice and inspiration to young actors, "Know and understand the story, know and understand your own story. Read, observe and engage with people, engage with art. Be curious, take acting classes! Take every opportunity to practice your craft, find a tribe with whom you want to create and produce, believe in what you're doing and believe in yourself!"
Cherrie is also a recipient of the Best Supporting Actor Cacique Award for Excellence in Theatre, for his work playing Batricio in Derek Walcott's The Joker of Seville. He is a member of both the Actors' Equity Association and the Screen Actors' Guild of the USA.
The University of Trinidad and Tobago congratulates Michael Cherry and wishes him many more successes in the future, as he continues to fly UTT's flag.
