Being big fans of the Cardiff based BBC drama Crash, we were thrilled when Elin, who plays Dr Rhian Matthews, agreed to model an I Love Cardiff hoodie in Roath park for us. As well as being a talented actress, Elin is also a skilled musician, playing flute, piano and harp.
So Elin, what's on your mind today?
Well, I've just seen some christmas decorations for sale and had my first mince pie of the year, so I'm very excited that Christmas is coming! How did you find your ilovecf photoshoot experience?
I loved the photo-shoot! I didn't really know what I was doing but it was good fun and great to meet you and Jason. I'm a huge fan of America's Next Top Model (sad I know) so it was fun living the dream and pretending to be a model for a day. How did you get into acting / was it something you always wanted to do?
As far as I can remember I always wanted to act. My mother is a musician and encouraged me from an early age to perform in public. I was quite shy when I was younger so performing was a great way to help boost my confidence. I enjoyed acting in school shows and the eisteddfod through the years and applying to drama school was the next step for me. I loved my time at RWCMD and would encourage anyone who's interested in acting to apply. Being your first time on TV, how did you find the whole filming experience?
Filming was so enjoyable but at the same time a big learning curve. It was so fortunate for me that I was surrounded by a great cast and crew who were very supportive and friendly. What was it like playing a doctor, how difficult was it to learn the technical stuff?
Playing a doctor was great but I don't think I could ever handle the responsibility of the real thing! We had local doctors as medical advisors who gave us a few sessions on adminstering CPR, taking someone's blood pressure, etc which was quite complicated as you can imagine, but who knows? Maybe one day I could put it to good use! Tell us about your musical talents, which instruments can you play?
My main instrument is the flute, but I also play the piano, harp and sing a bit. It was hard at drama school to keep up with practice so I'm a bit rusty! At the moment I'm trying to learn the guitar as well. How are rehearsals for A Christmas Carol going?
Today we had our first music rehearsal which went well, there's quite a bit of music in the show and the score sounds great. We start on our feet next week so I'm very excited but a bit nervous! The run of "A Christmas Carol" starts from December 2nd until January 6th in the Sherman so I'll be quite busy with that. What's next for Elin on TV? If you could choose, which series would you like a part in?
I just filmed an episode of Doctors in Birmingham which was great fun, I played a totally different character from Rhian Matthews. If I could choose, it would be great to be in a period drama or to play a spy in Spooks. How do you find theatre work compared to TV work?
I find both forms of performance equally challenging and exciting. Theatre is amazing for the rehearsal period where you can really explore your character and relationships, also performing live in front of an audience can be such and exhilarating experience. However television is great for detailed performances and the pace forces you to trust your instincts and make decisive choices. If you weren't an actor, what would you be?
I think I'd be an explorer or a writer or something. Not sure really, don't really have a plan B. What are your plans for the future, professionally and personally and where do you want to be in 10 years' time?
I would love to still be working as an actress. The industry is so hard and to have a long-lasting career is every actor's dream. I'm eager to continue to work in Wales but also keen to see the world, the prospect of being a jobbing actress is a very exciting one for me. What's your favourite way to relax?
My favourite way to relax is to take a walk in a park, Cardiff's Bute Park or Roath Park in Autumn. Or watching a dvd in bed with a cup of tea and chocolate digestives. What is your favourite restaurant in Cardiff?
Le Garcon down the bay is lovely.But I have to admit I love a good takeaway from Albany Fish Bar! What is your favourite bar in Cardiff?
It was my job to show the Crash team where to drink in Cardiff so we'd go to Buffalo or Milgi's for their cocktails. 10 feet tall is another good one. What is your favourite club in Cardiff?
We always went to Lloyds on a night out in college but Clwb Ifor Bach on a saturday night is always a good night out. Where would you take someone on their first visit here, to show them Cardiff at its best?
I think I'd take them to Roath Park for a walk then shopping in the new St Davids 2, then a nice meal down the bay. Perfect! Thank you for your time Elin and good luck for the future.
Once again, big thanks to Jason Aspinall for taking the photos. Visit his chilledatthebottom photography website to see more of his work.
