Bryana Salaz: Unleashing her acting and vocal stylings
By Sonja Grunfeld
Bryana Salaz first started performing at the age of 12 and knew then and there that singing was was for her. In time, she worked her way towards acting and is now playing the lead on the Netflix original “Team Kaylie.” As many would say, this is truly a dream come true and never did she expect to find herself working on TV. Open to the many possibilities the world has to offer, Bryana Salaz’s eyes continue to sparkle as she unravels something new about herself a little every day.
What is your earliest memory of singing in front of an audience?
My earliest memory of singing in front of an audience is the very first time I ever sang. I was 12 years old and sang ”The Climb” by Miley Cyrus because it was the only song I knew all the lyrics to at the time. I knew after that performance that I was quitting my soccer team the next day.
What made you pursue an acting career? Do you see yourself pursuing acting and singing at the same time?
I started pursuing acting because I was a part of a theatre company in Atlanta, and the owner of the company referred me to an agency there. I stared with lots of guest star roles and commercials in Atlanta. I 100% plan to pursue both singing and acting. I am equally passionate about both, and I am so thankful that I have the opportunity to pursue them at the same time.
You are now playing the lead on the Netflix original “Team Kaylie.” What was challenging about taking on this role and how did it help you grow as an actress?
The most challenging part of becoming Kaylie was finding what keeps her grounded. She doesn’t live in reality, her life is basically a tv show and she has been sheltered and controlled. It’s very easy for her to be taken the wrong way and come off as selfish or unlikable. So, it was very important for me to make sure her intentions always came across as good, because they always were. It helped me grow having to ground her in a very crazy reality, keeping her real and genuine.
How do you relate to your character, Kaylie, the most?
Kaylie just wants the best for everyone, she only wants to help and genuinely cares about the people she loves. It’s my favorite thing about her. I would do anything for the people I love, and you see the same in Kaylie throughout the whole series.
Kaylie has some cool ensembles on the show. How would you describe your own personal style?
Ahhhh my style is very different than Kaylies. I’m very casual. It’s super dope dressing up for photo shoots and all, but i really just enjoy my jeans with a t shirt & some docs. Who is your favorite singer and why? I have many favorite singers, it’s hard to pick. I find inspiration in so many different artists. I definitely don’t have just one favorite singer haha.
Did you ever think you would find yourself on screen?
Definitely never thought I’d see myself on a screen. Literally as a teen, just chillin after school watching tv, never did i think I’d be working with those same people 5 years later. It still doesn’t feel real sometimes. So wild.
Where do you see yourself going next?
I have no idea what the future holds for me. I’m very excited for whatever it is. I believe everything happens for a reason, and I’m learning more and more every day to just trust the process. What’s meant to be is meant to be. I’m so thankful for how far I’ve come, and I can’t wait to see what’s gonna happen in the new year.
Photographer: FIORELLA OCCHIPINTI @fiorella_occhipinti
Creative Direction: ALEKSANDAR TOMOVIC @alekandsteph
Stylist: ALEX SHERA @alexandersherastyle
Hair: KELSEY GUSTOVICH @kelseygusto
Hair Assistant: MCKINSEY MARRARA @mckmarr
Makeup: MARIA VARGAS @themariavee
Production: @BELLOMediaGroup x @MaisonPriveePR_LA x bonnetalex18
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