Noa DiBerto

 

From my earliest childhood moments, the spark of passion for acting ignited within me. I fondly recall the joy of taking my first steps toward performance, eager to be the star of any home videos captured by family and friends. As I grew, my fascination with the magical world of television and film deepened, inspired by the captivating performances of actors and the intricate process behind the scenes. This passion led me to actively engage in drama clubs throughout my formative years, laying the groundwork for my journey into acting. Throughout high school, I dedicated myself wholeheartedly to drama classes and theatrical productions, experiencing significant growth and development along the way. During this time, my leadership role in the drama club, coupled with the mentorship of my drama teacher, solidified my love for acting. 

 

Additionally, my involvement in fitness modeling during elementary school gave me an early appreciation for visual storytelling, further fueling my desire to pursue acting as a career. In addition, I always thought it was fascinating how actors could play a comical character in one film and a serious or angry character in another. I wanted to follow in their footsteps as I am known as a happy/comical person, but I adore acting and playing characters with extreme other emotions. Supported by my mother, a former television actor, I embarked on a journey fueled by ambition and determination. With her guidance, I sought opportunities to improve my skills by participating in film overnight summer camps, talent training programs, and theatre schools. Even while dedicating 25 hours a week to my gymnastics training, I remained focused on my love for acting, balancing both passions. As I navigated auditions, landed roles, and ultimately signed with an agent, I realized that acting wasn’t merely a profession—it was my calling, source of joy, and truest expression of self. The thrill of memorizing lines, embodying characters, and breathing life into every role became my driving force. Each moment on set reaffirms my love for the craft, reminding me of the boundless possibilities that lie ahead. 

 

Acting isn’t just a passion—it’s where I find purpose, fulfillment, and the purest form of self-expression. Growing up, I would practice different accents in case I were to land a role where I would need one, and I would memorize lines from commercials and record myself. As a fluent French speaker, I would also watch French movies and memorize scenes to keep my French sharp in case I was needed in a French film. It was so fun for me, and I knew this was not just a pastime; it was truly what I was BORN to do. 

If you were an advertisement, what would your slogan be? 

 

If I was an advertisement, my slogan would be both of these: 

 

1) “Always laughing, Never slacking “. The slogan “Always laughing, never slacking” embodies my vibrant philosophy of life. It reflects my innate tendency to find joy and laughter in every moment, whether with friends, at my cottage, doing gymnastics or in academic pursuits. I enjoy laughing and having a good time wherever I am, as I adore living new experiences. Furthermore, “never slacking” resonates deeply with my multifaceted engagement beyond acting. I am involved in many activities, from pursuing a dual degree in business and psychology to actively participating in sports and extracurriculars such as varsity coed cheerleading and membership in a sorority. This facet of my life reflects a fundamental belief that dedication and diligence are integral to success, and I believe people can always carve out time for what they truly care about. I view my experiences as a testament to the power of effective time management and strive to inspire others to master this skill so they, too, can be involved in any activities they wish. My life embodies the harmony of laughter and perseverance, a symphony of joy and dedication that is a beacon of encouragement for others seeking to navigate many commitments with grace and purpose. 

 

2) ‘Be strong, be confident, be happy “. I believe in inspiring others to embrace their true selves, pursue their dreams relentlessly, and never give up, no matter their challenges. This is because I believe that with determination and resilience, anyone can achieve their goals and become the best version of themselves. In a world where women’s strength often goes unnoticed, I proudly affirm that women are capable and are so incredibly powerful. Therefore, I want to lift each other up, celebrate our uniqueness, and shine brightly as we pursue our aspirations. 

 

It is challenging to single out a favorite aspect of acting when I genuinely cherish every part of the process. Whether it’s the exhilaration of preparing to inhabit a character and recording an audition, the thrill of progressing to the next round in callbacks, or the sheer joy of receiving the call confirming that I have landed the role, each phase holds a special place in my heart. However, my two favorite aspects of acting are: 

 

Getting to know the actors and crew members I’ll be collaborating with is one of the most heartwarming aspects of being on set. It’s like forming a family where everyone brings unique experiences and wisdom to the table. From the talented actors to the dedicated director to the skilled makeup and hair stylists, each person I meet adds something special to the mix. The love, advice, and exchanging of experiences connect us and make for an incredible movie/TV show. The film industry truly feels like a warm and inviting community, and the excitement of meeting new people on set never fades. Acting isn’t just a job for me—it’s my top priority in life. Being on set every day fills me with a sense of purpose and fulfillment that I can’t find anywhere else. Nothing else I’ve been a part of has brought me the same level of joy and fulfillment as acting, and I’m reminded of that every day. 

 

Secondly, I love stepping into different characters. In our everyday lives, we’re often stuck being ourselves, with our likes and dislikes set in stone. But with acting, there are no boundaries. You can become anyone and do anything. It’s like unlocking a door to a whole new world of possibilities. Feeling a character’s emotions, whether it’s happiness, sadness, strength, or vulnerability, is truly magical. Each scene teaches me something new, both about myself and the character I’m portraying. And the best part? I get to share these experiences with the audience, evoking compassion and understanding for my character. Acting has brought so much joy into my life. It’s not just a job—it’s a passion that fills me with happiness every day. The anticipation of what character I’ll play next, the excitement of being on set—it’s all so exhilarating. Acting has given me a sense of belonging like nothing else. I’m grateful for every moment I spend pursuing my dreams in this amazing industry. That’s what I love most about acting—it’s not just about pretending; it’s about discovering new parts of myself and sharing them with the world. 

 

Through my involvement in cheerleading/gymnastics and acting, I’ve learned diverse skills that have impacted my personal growth and development. Gymnastics has helped me mentally and physically and has helped me in countless ways. Since I have been doing gymnastics since I was 18 months old, I have learned from a young age that if you fall, you must get back up and never give up. To succeed in gymnastics, you must dedicate your time, practice, and resilience toward it. The same goes for life; this mindset has helped me in many ways. For example, if I do not hear back from an audition, gymnastics taught me to keep my head up and keep trying. Gymnastics has taught me that everything happens for a reason and to stay patient with the process. Despite how challenging and competitive life, acting, or sports can be, you must get back up and try again. I’m very thankful for gymnastics because I have taken these skills into acting and considering the industry’s competitiveness, this has shaped the way I perceive acting and life and motivated me to keep going and never give up. In cheerleading, I have cultivated strong leadership abilities by serving as a motivator and role model for my teammates. Being a part of such a high-level team required me to exhibit initiative, dedication, and effective communication. Through consistent attendance at practices and commitment to our shared goals, I’ve learned the importance of reliability and perseverance. Moreover, my involvement in charitable endeavors and securing sponsorships showcased my proactive approach and ability to leverage resources for the team’s benefit. These experiences have enhanced my organizational skills and taught me the value of community engagement and teamwork. Transitioning to acting, I’ve expanded my skill set by refining my creativity, adaptability, and performance abilities. From an early age, I demonstrated a passion for storytelling and character portrayal, nurtured through various acting camps, training programs, and theatrical productions. Balancing my dedication to gymnastics with my pursuit of acting required me to manage my time effectively and prioritize my goals. This experience instilled a strong work ethic and taught me the importance of perseverance and resilience in facing challenges. These experiences have enriched my personal and professional life, allowed me to discover new passions and avenues for growth, and helped me discover who I am. 

 

Acting is more than just a passion for me; it’s a calling, something I feel deep in my bones that I was born to do. The thought of not having auditions or being on set is unfathomable to me—it’s where I come alive, where I truly feel like myself. The world of acting is my escape from reality, a place where I can immerse myself in different characters and stories, and every moment spent with fellow actors and crewmembers fills me with joy and excitement. I am immensely grateful for the opportunities I’ve had so far, but I know there are even more waiting for me on the horizon. Stepping into another character’s shoes is like stepping into a whole new world, and I relish the chance to embrace different personas and experiences. And just like in my gymnastics and sports endeavors, it’s not just about the big moments—it’s the laughter shared with my fellow actors, the quiet moments of reflection before a scene, and the electrifying feeling of bringing a character to life before a captivated audience. Acting, gymnastics, and modeling aren’t just hobbies for me—they’re my passion, my priority, and the very essence of who I am 

 

Simone Biles is my idol for numerous reasons, but primarily because she embodies resilience, determination, and unmatched skill in gymnastics. As someone who has been a gymnast since I was 18 months old, I resonate with her and feel as though I am going through emotions with her when watching her routines. One of my favorite quotes of hers that I have also taken into acting is: “If you’re not having fun, then it’s not worth it.” This quote reflects Simone’s belief in the importance of enjoying what you do, even when faced with challenges. As a gymnast, I understand the immense pressure that comes with training and competition, but Simone’s reminder to find joy in the process is invaluable to me. It serves as a constant reminder to stay true to myself and to approach each practice and competition with passion and enthusiasm. 

 

She also expressed: “I’d rather regret the risks that didn’t work out than the chances I didn’t take at all.” I feel as though this quote is so powerful as it reflects her fearless attitude and inspires women to challenge norms and pursue their passions. As one of the most decorated gymnasts in history, Simone shatters stereotypes and advocates for gender equality and mental health awareness. She encourages women to embrace their uniqueness, prioritize self-care, and stand up for their rights, making her a true women empowerment champion. 

 

This quote also makes me think about how I feel about acting because there has never been a time when I got an audition and chose not to do it. This is because I agree with her attitude and determination, and you never know until you try perspective. Therefore, I go into every audition and give it my all because I must take the risk, and if it does not work out, then that role was not meant for me, but at least I took the chance. 

 

Secondly, Adam Stander is also one of my idols. Firstly, his comedic talent is unmatched, and he has the rare ability to always make me laugh. Whether delivering a one-liner or improvising a hilarious scene, Adam’s humour is infectious and always brightens my day. Additionally, I greatly admire his natural delivery of lines, which are always infused with genuine excitement and authenticity. Since many of my roles are comedy-related, I sometimes think about him when debating how to deliver my lines. His ability to make even the most ordinary dialogue feel vibrant and engaging is remarkable. I also appreciate Adam’s down-to-earth demeanour, particularly his choice to wear comfortable clothing in public. This reflects his grounded personality and refusal to conform to societal expectations, which I love about him. 

 

Another idol of mine is my mother. No matter how packed her schedule is or how many things she has on her plate, she never hesitates to lend me a hand. She willingly drives two hours whenever I have auditions and reads the opposite lines incredibly. Before each audition, she offers me valuable advice and boosts my spirits with her infectious positivity. I owe a lot of my success to her unwavering support and encouragement. Somehow, she maintains a radiant smile, spreads joy and laughter, and lights up any room she enters with her positivity. I strive to emulate her bright outlook and compassionate nature in everything I do. 

 

Lastly, Rachel McAdams is another actor I deeply admire. She embodies the versatility I aspire to achieve in my acting career. From the heart-wrenching role in “The Notebook” to the iconic mean girl in “Mean Girls,” and then portraying a woman in a challenging relationship in “The Vow,” her range is truly remarkable. I especially admire her portrayal of real-life characters, such as in “The Vow,” which was based on a true story where she delivered an outstanding performance despite the added pressure. Her ability to bring depth and authenticity to every role she takes on is so motivating. Moreover, Rachel has this captivating energy that draws people in, making them laugh and hang on to her every word. Her eloquence and charm are something I hope to embody in my own journey as an actor. Overall, Rachel McAdams’s versatility, authenticity, and infectious energy are a constant source of inspiration for me, and I aspire to be an actor like her someday. 

 

If I was not acting or modeling, first of all, I would be very sad! However, my focus would still be sports, health, and active living in cheerleading, soccer, surfing, skiing or gymnastics. I’d also continue to actively support kid sports organizations that ensure all children have access to sports, as I believe everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of physical activity, teamwork, and confidence building. Singing brings me immense joy, and I would continue to pursue it with more singing lessons alongside my university degrees in psychology and business. Additionally, I’m passionate about supporting women’s causes and women in business, using platforms like TikTok to spread positive messages and encouragement for women to pursue their goals and dreams. Therefore, if I was not acting, I could focus on my online brand and take on opportunities/ambassadorships that have been asked of me already. 

 

Do you consider that nowadays there are more or less opportunities for new actors? Why? 

In today’s dynamic entertainment landscape, the doors of opportunity are wide open for aspiring actors and models eager to make their mark. The industry thrives on diversity, seeking individuals who bring something fresh and unique to the table—whether it’s a distinctive appearance, unconventional characteristics, or unique talents that set them apart. These could be a particular skill, such as roller skating, singing, playing guitar, and, in my case, gymnastics and cheerleading; these talents add depth and authenticity to performances, broadening the scope of opportunities within the industry. If you’re passionate about acting or modeling, I urge you to explore the many opportunities available. There’s plenty of support and resources to help newcomers find their way, whether through specialized training programs, theatre courses, or dedicated organizations. 

 

Taking that first step into the world of acting can be both thrilling and scary. That’s why starting with some online courses or in-person training is a great way to ease into it. These courses cover everything from improvisation to character development, giving aspiring actors and models a solid foundation upon which to build. Plus, they offer a supportive community where you can connect with others, share experiences, and get helpful feedback. By going through these programs, newcomers gain the confidence and skills they need to navigate the industry and discover their strengths. So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration, why not enroll in an online acting course or find some in-person training? It could be the start of something amazing in the world of entertainment. 

 

However, since COVID-19, in-person auditions have become less common, with self-tapes taking precedence. This shift has opened up more opportunities for individuals to audition for roles. In my opinion, this means there’s a greater chance for new actors to be seen, as more tapes can be reviewed. However, in-person auditions have their benefits. They allow you to meet the director and others involved in the film, providing insight into the people you’ll be working with and the project itself. It’s a bit disappointing that there aren’t as many in-person auditions besides callbacks, as casting directors often like to gauge a person’s personality, which is more evident in person. Personally, I enjoy in-person auditions because I like meeting new people and forming connections rather than just being behind a screen.Overall, self-tapes offer new actors more chances to be noticed and are a great way to kick start their journey in the industry! 

 

Ideally, I have had the privilege to work on some incredible projects, and I hope to continue pursuing my passions in acting, modelling, and maintaining a connection to sports, fitness, and health. I believe these aspects of my life can complement each other, enriching my experiences along the way. As an artist, I see my platform as an opportunity to inspire and uplift others, particularly young girls and women. Through my social media presence, I aim to encourage them to embrace their strength, follow their dreams, and prioritize their well-being. Whether it’s through sharing snippets of my journey or offering words of encouragement, I hope to be a source of positivity and support for those around me. 

 

My dream as an actor/model is to land roles beyond Canada and experience the thrill of filming in new and exciting locations. I am passionate about travel, and meeting industry professionals from diverse backgrounds worldwide would be an enriching experience. I’m eager to explore how the filming process varies in different places and to connect with individuals who bring unique perspectives to the table. Playing a variety of characters that highlight my versatile abilities is a top priority for me. I have always had a goal of being in a horror/thriller movie, as those are my favourite genres. I thrive on keeping audiences on the edge of their seats and immersing them in the story. Pursuing different roles and gaining more visibility and experience are key goals for me as I progress in my career. 

 

Furthermore, I aspire to attend events where I can motivate others, particularly athletes or individuals with multiple passions, to pursue their dreams wholeheartedly. My background in gymnastics and sports has not only helped me mentally but has also contributed to my performance in specific roles. I hope to encourage others to give their all to their passions, as you never know when they might converge into something extraordinary. Meeting industry figures whom I admire and share similarities with would be a dream come true. I find inspiration in their journeys and hope to forge connections with fellow artists who share my passion for acting. Overall, I am prepared to take on challenging roles and embrace diverse personalities and I am willing to travel the world to pursue my dreams. 

 

My ultimate goal is to be recognized as an actor who inspires others to showcase their talents confidently. Ultimately, my goal as an artist is to live authentically, passionately pursuing my dreams while positively impacting those I encounter. I believe in the power of happiness, fulfillment, and determination, and I’m committed to encouraging others to pursue their own path to a life filled with joy and purpose. 

 

 

I am excited to share that my film Backspot will be making its highly anticipated theatrical release on May 31st. The film is produced by Elliot Page and I star alongside Devery Jacobs and Evan Rachel Wood. The film which made its world premiere at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival tells the story of young queer cheerleader Riley, who is the formidable backspot on her mid-level cheerleading squad until professional coach Eileen McNamara gives her an opportunity to join the Thunderhawks, a high performance All Star team. I play Rachel,  a spirited cheerleader with a background in gymnastics. She navigates the competitive cheer world alongside friends Riley and Amanda, showcasing athleticism and resilience. 

 

Additionally, I am pleased to say that I have been selected as a candidate for a Ms. Health and Fitness Cover shoot for the Muscle and Fitness HERS magazine cover! Considering I value health and fitness so much, this opportunity is so exciting, and I am beyond grateful to be in the running!