Rick Hansberry

You never know where your next great contact will come from. Perhaps that alone is the best lesson in networking.

Rick HAnsberry and Christina RomanNot to long ago I was rehearsing for a student film, “Pesca’s Pill”, with a wonderful actor.  While we were waiting for makeup test shoots we got to chatting – Peter Quentin Smith was a remarkable and interesting guy: actor, entertainer, and a retired firefighter.  When he heard that I had attended school in Lancaster he offered to put me in touch with a filmmaker he knew in the area. I agreed, emailed them both that night, and didn’t think more of it.

Within a few days I received a call from Rick Hansberry – this writer was ecstatic to speak with me about his newest script.  It was Peter’s friend!  As luck would have it, one of the central characters for his next film was a determined young woman with a chemistry and biology background not unlike my own.  We spoke for nearly an hour on the phone that night and quickly became each others sounding board; I offered Rick insight into the character as he was writing and he was an enthusiastic advocate for my career.

Sarah Hawkins, Rick Hansberry, and Christina RomanI recently had an opportunity to sit down with Rick in person; I travelled to Lancaster to attend a festival of Rick’s past films including the award-winning “Branches”. We were able to speak at length about careers in entertainment, writing, and the character in his upcoming film. The night concluded with a wonderful celebration of his work and hope we will be able to work together soon. Best of all: I was able to introduce a young actress/model and Lancaster local to Rick that evening - and they have since worked together!

Networking constantly comes full circle - I'm looking forward to the future!