“Birds of Paradise” Star Kristine Froseth on Physical Strength, Industry Competition, and the Importance of Asking for Support

What was your physical preparation for the role like?

For three months beforehand, they set an intense schedule from morning to night where we would do Pilates, the Gyrotonic method, and some stretch classes. We would observe dance classes and take private beginners’ classes—which aren’t really for beginners, in my opinion!—at these different studios in the city, so I just tried to literally pack as much in as I could. I was really out of touch with my body and so out of alignment and had no idea what these different muscle groups were or what any of this was about, and I had no dance experience prior, so it was really intense, but I’ve learned so much about myself and my body. Overall, it was great.

Are you a ballet fan now?

I am—I have so much more respect for it. I don’t understand how they do it! I don’t have that in me. The discipline and technique of everything is just a little too much for me, but I really enjoyed it all the same.

Is there anything you particularly hope people take away from the film?

I do hope that they find some hope and strength. If anyone’s struggling with loss or depression, it’s so important to rely on one another and talk about it and ask for support. Amongst us females, I feel like we can support each other within the larger competition because there’s space for everyone. Within my own industry, I have a lot of good friends who go up for the same roles I do, but we know it’s apples and oranges, right? We can compete, but it doesn’t have to be sabotage.