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With a childhood steeped in the arts and an enriching theatre education from Dal, Myrthin Stagg (BA’10) is now finding success in front of — and behind — the camera. 

Her recent award-winning short film , in which she stars and has co-produced, depicts the blurred and delicate line between love and friendship. Now, the short film is becoming a feature film. We caught up with Stagg to discuss the inspiration behind her recent work, the lessons she’s learned, and her own evolution in the industry. 

Where did the idea for Play It Again come from? What do you hope audiences gain from it?

From personal experience. There was a moment in time when I was in love, or believed I was in love, with my best friend. Not dissimilar to Play It Again, I never told them. I hope audiences resonate with the main character and recognize aspects of their own lives in Kitty’s journey, finding comfort in knowing they are not alone in their own experiences.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as an actor and filmmaker?

There are no absolute rules. You’re often told there’s a ‘right’ way to audition, a ‘right’ way to present yourself, a ‘right’ way to bring a film to life. But the truth is, there isn’t. The most successful and inspiring individuals in this field are those who challenge conventions, defy expectations, and carve their own paths. Greatness doesn’t come from playing it safe or adhering to prescribed methods; it comes from embracing your unique perspective, taking risks and pushing boundaries.

What practices do you follow to help you be your most creative self? 

Reading, research and repetition. This applies to every area of film I work on. Also, I watch a lot of movies. That really helps!

Did you know from an early age that you were destined for acting and filmmaking?

I was a theatre kid from age three. My dad ran a theatre camp, which I joined when I was old enough. Art, theatre, music and film were very important in my household growing up. We watched a lot of old movies, and I often woke up to classical music playing in the kitchen. My love for acting and film has only grown stronger with age.

How did your time at Dal influence the storyteller you are today?

My time as a Dal Theatre student helped me think critically, write analytical critiques and develop a rich vocabulary. Great filmmaking lies in the details, and I’m deeply grateful to Dal for teaching me to recognize and appreciate them.

Do you prefer to be in front of, or behind, the camera?

I used to say my place was in front of the camera, but these days, I feel increasingly at home behind it. I love being a creative producer, involved in every aspect of the filmmaking process — from shaping the story to casting and editing. Film is such a deeply collaborative art form, and as an actor, you only get to experience a small piece of the puzzle. Being behind the camera allows me to engage with the full scope of creativity, and I absolutely love that.

Stagg appearing deep in thought while wearing a headset and viewing a screen.

What advice would you offer someone studying theatre or entering a career in acting?

Learn the business of acting! How it works, what happens on set, who you are hired by, and what every person's job is on film. The more you understand how everything works, the easier it is for you to understand your place there. Oh, and practice! Take more classes, try new teachers and get on every possible film you can.

What’s next for you?

My production company, , is currently in development of two feature films (one of which is Play It Again!) as well as a TV series. We hope to go to camera with Play It Again in spring 2026. Concurrently, we have two short films that will be released on the festival circuit this year, Heirlooms and Leopard.

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, produced by Stagg Forrest Films, has been screened at over 15 festivals, received the Best Narrative Short Jury Award at the 2021 Austin Film Festival and was nominated for Best International Comedy at 2023’s New Filmmakers Los Angeles. It is available for viewing on YouTube’s and is currently being developed into a feature film by the same team.