Alist Nation Magazine April 2021
Interview
Photographer Nicole Mitchem
Tell us a little about your childhood.
I am lucky to have three brothers. Sure, there are many times that they drive me absolutely crazy, but I am fortunate to have them in my life. I don’t currently play any sports, but I did play basketball, soccer, and tennis. I know that I would have continued playing them, if it weren’t for acting. It’s hard to commit to playing on a competitive team when you can’t be at all the practices and games…so why bother.
You have worked on some amazing projects do you have a favorite?
I have been lucky to work on several amazing projects. Each one is special in its own way, but if I had to pick my favorite, I would have to choose The Gateway, directed by Michele Civetta. This was the first project where I wasn’t playing a character that was a younger version of the one being played by the main actress. I also had the opportunity to work with some of the most talented and caring people that I have ever met. Most importantly, I truly felt like an equal to all of them and not just some young kid.
What was one of your most memorable moments on set?
One of my most memorable moments from set would have to be the very first day. We technically didn’t go to set, but instead to a local rink for hockey training. I remember being very excited to meet all of the other cast members, but also crazy-nervous about skating. Once I got on the ice and discovered I wasn’t the only one who didn’t skate, I was able to relax and enjoy the day.
This has been a crazy year to say the least, what have you learned about yourself during all of this?
This past year was definitely a crazy one. I think I learned a lot about myself and what’s important to me. Family is number one. After filming the pilot, we all went home and then quarantine happened. When we finally got the call that filming would resume, I was a little hesitant. My mom and I were going to be travelling back to Canada and I was leaving my dad and brothers behind. I heard so many stories of family members losing loved ones to COVID-19 and it’s heartbreaking. It showed me that you can never take any moment for granted, because you never know when you’ll see your loved ones again or how much longer you might have with them. I think this realization made me more aware of the importance of sharing with others how I feel and not letting a day pass where I don’t let them know. I also think this past year made me realize the importance of voting. Although I am not of age to vote, I’ve seen how powerful it is to express your beliefs, fight for what’s right and vote for those that feel the same way.
Tell us about "The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers."
The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers is a new series streaming on Disney+ that is a follow up to the Mighty Ducks movies. It’s a great underdog story in which an arbitrary group of kids come together to form a hockey team. The series shows us how much can be accomplished with teamwork and never giving up – no matter how many times you fail.
What do you love most about playing Maya Kasper?
I suppose what I love most about playing Maya is that we’re different in many ways. I had to practice incorporating a lot of tone and attitude into my lines. And I also wasn’t part of the “popular girl” group at school, so that was definitely something new for me.
What is something most people don't know about you?
I get really nervous speaking in front of large crowds and I consider myself more of an introvert, than an extrovert.
Who is on you playlist right now and what was the last thing you binge watched?
My current playlist includes: Taylor Swift, The Killers, The Strokes, Radiohead, The Black Keys and Arctic Monkeys. My top songs are: Paper Rings by Taylor Swift, Mr. Brightside and For Reasons Unknown by The Killers, Last Nite and When It Started by The Strokes, Thrift Shop and Glorious by Macklemore, Howlin’ for You and Everlasting Light by The Black Keys, and Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High? and R U Mine? by Arctic Monkeys. The song Home by Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros has been a favorite of mine since I was around 5 years old. The last two series that I binge watched were The Office and Outer Banks. I also watched a lot of movies during quarantine. Two of my favorites movies are 10 Things I Hate About You, and Ladybird.
How would you describe your fashion style?
My fashion style during filming was consistently my go-to Nike hoodie, Topshop joggers, and Air Force ones. It’s all about comfort, so you’ll usually find me in sneakers, shorts, and a hoodie. Overall, I don’t have a specific style and will wear whatever I am in the mood for. I guess you could say my style is #TaegenStyle!
Everyone has been sharing amazing dishes they learned to cook during quarantine did you learn something new this past year?
Yeah, I saw so many people sharing things they cooked or baked together with their family. We are a family of six and with everything flying off the shelves and limits on how much could be bought, it was difficult to get enough ingredients to try new recipes. I do however enjoy baking cakes and cupcakes and am currently looking for a good bread recipe.
Instagram: @taegen.burns
