Next Monday (Oct. 21), fans of Pink will flock to Rogers Arena for a sold-out show that features some made-in-Richmond flair.
Richmond-raised Cole Walliser directed videos that are being played during the pop superstar’s the Truth About Love world tour.
That’s no easy feat for a director.
Pink is one of the hottest touring musical acts in the world, known for her high-energy shows and stunning stage production—never mind the fact she’s one of the most successful artists of her generation.
Walliser, 32, is a Hugh McRoberts grad and self-taught director and producer who has already built up an impressive resume of music videos. Now based in Los Angeles, Walliser recently formed his own production company, Steveston Films.
Besides his work for Pink’s tour,
Walliser also recently directed a half-hour documentary of Pink’s life. It’s set to air on the American TV network Epix and will also be released on her concert tour DVD in January.
As the story goes, Walliser started filming skateboarders as a young teenager. People liked his work, which progressed to music videos. He moved to L.A. and started shooting videos for professional dancers at no charge. Then came his big break.
A dancer returned the favour and asked Walliser to be a part of some dance videos for Miley Cyrus. One thing led to another and in 2009 he met Pink’s management team.
He’s since directed videos for numerous artists, including Katy Perry for her California Dreams world tour.
1. Where did you learn to be a director? “I am self taught. I learned while I was getting my bachelor’s degree at UBC for psychology. I’d do as little as I needed to do to get decent grades and went out and made films in my spare time.”
2. As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up? “Either a professional skateboarder or filmmaker. My obsession with making films started pretty young.”
3. What do you like best about living in L.A.? “The weather and the groups of creative and talented people that flock here. “
4. What do you miss about Steveston? “Fish and chips! Everywhere in the States has horrible fish and chips.”
5. Biggest misconception about music stars? “That they have attitudes. Pink and Katy Perry are both sweethearts in person.”
6. Longest shoot in a single day? “Seventeen hours on our final day with Katy Perry.”
7. What’s something you’ve learned about Pink? “That the only thing that supersedes her ability to perform is her ability to be an amazing mom.”
8. What do you consider your greatest accomplishment? “I think my greatest accomplishment isn’t a single video or job, but the fact that I’ve been able to make a living at what I love to do. “
9. Favourite band or singer growing up? “Progression probably went something like this: The Monkees, MC Hammer, Bel Biv Divoe, Nirvana, Tupac, John Mayer and then I turned into an adult. “
10. What kind of musician are you? “You know how they have bedroom DJs? Well I’m a bedroom guitarist. I love to play, but it’s often just me by myself performing for an imaginary cute girl.”
11. Best way to drink Scotch? “Neat. And with someone who can hold a great conversation.”
12. What inspires you? “There isn’t one thing in particular. I like to think I can look at anything and find something inspiring about it.”
13. Biggest L.A. traffic jam you can remember? “The funniest one was when they proclaimed ‘Carmageddon’ when the 405 shut down. Everyone was so freaked out and stayed home. I had to drive somewhere and literally every freeway around Los Angeles was wide open. I’ve never had more fun on the roads. “
14. At what time of the day do your best ideas come? “The most random times, and I’m never ready for them. “
15. What is Katy Perry like? “Hardworking and thankful. “
16. Last night’s dinner? “Sushi and it was amazing.”
17. Best food you shouldn’t eat? “Poutine. But I do. Every time I come home. “
18. Reality show where you’d fit right in? “I’ve always wanted to do the Amazing Race! “
19. Favourite pro sports team? “The Canucks (and that’s obvious).”
20. Your must-have tool as a director? “A good eye.”
http://www.richmondreview.com/entert...228359831.html
