Actor Spotlight: Amie E. Marzen, Julie Katsarakis

Amie E. Marzen as Julie Katasarakis

If we were to look you up on a dating profile, what would your bio read?

I’m trying to fit a lot into life- I want to do it all.  I dream big and work hard with my own geeky flair. I think with my heart more than my head and love living near the ocean.

Tell us about your character in this season (in this same format)

I have overcome great obstacles and it’s helped to shape who I am. I’m a honest girl with a not-so-honest past. Judge me on my recent accomplishments and you’ll see who I really am: a hard worker, a caring person, and a true friend with lots of love to give.

How did watching season one impact your performance in season two?

I learned a lot from watching season one, mostly the huge differences between acting on screen and on stage and was able to use that in acting in season two (season one was my first time acting for screen).  Learning a bit more about Julie’s past also helped to shape her differently this season, as well as all the changes on the island itself.  I’m thrilled you get to see more of her with Deputy Dan and Rose and see that she does have some depth behind her bubbly personality.

What projects are you currently working on or have you been working on since Ragged Isle wrapped shooting?

I’ve been working full-time at FOX23 in Portland, Maine hosting and producing “Your Hometown” a mini-documentary style series that focuses on what’s great about living in Maine (http://www.youtube.com/yourhometownfox23).   I’ve also had the chance to check an item off my theatrical bucket list playing Shelby in a local production of Steel Magnolias.  It was such an awesome experience! I also got to work with several Ragged Isle actors for a project for the Discovery Channel, an episode of "the Unusual Suspects." I’ve also started hosting the "Isle Talk" series, emceed the season two premiere party and am working on a host of other personal projects... always have a project!

What is your favorite behind the scenes moment during the production of Ragged Isle?

Oh gosh, being on the set is such a fun time and a high. I really enjoyed working with some new friends and new locations. Hanging with Barry and Karen is always fun... I guess it would have to be:

http://www.raggedisle.blogspot.com/2012/06/hi-there-ragged-isle-blog-followers.html

What is your favorite thing about your character?

I think Julie’s pretty good at finding the good in situations and being enthusiastic about things she believes in. She also is pretty unassuming and sees the best in people. I strive for that myself.

What do you and your character have in common?

A fondness and adoration of Rose Fuller/Beth Saufler.

What do you and your character have least in common?

Julie’s criminal record is far more exciting than mine. Also I have a middle name.

If you could play any other character on Ragged Isle who would it be and why?

Tough one! I love Julie, so I don’t think I’d trade her for the world, but if I had to.... I don’t think I could do half as good a job, but I really like Rose Fuller’s character. Maybe that’s because Beth does such an amazing job with it. If I were a dude, I’d want to be Deputy Dan because of the sweet, sweet bicycle he gets to ride.

We’re not sure who survives the second and third seasons of Ragged Isle... any last words just in case your character doesn’t make it?

Those records were sealed!