Today on the blog, we're pleased to bring you the first in what will be a series of 'LA Diaries'. These diaries will take the form of Q & As with actors from our Melbourne Studio who have spent a significant amount of time in Los Angeles, furthering their acting careers.

For our first LA Diary, we bring you an interview with Stephen (Stevie) Lopez, who has acted professionally from a young age, and is known around The Studio as possibly the nicest guy in acting!

Q. Why did you move to LA?

A. As many before me have, and I’m sure many after me will, you come out to America for opportunity; Los Angeles is the mecca for Film and Television.

I’ve worked professionally as an actor since I was 13 years old in Australia and I can honestly say I probably never saw myself making the move over the pond. A few doors opened for me and I took my chances and now I hold a US Green Card and find myself out here in Hollywood. The US film industry is a big and diverse one and I’m here to be a part of it.

Q. What was your first impression?

A. LA is massive! I really had no idea how big the place was until I got here. You really do need to give yourself PLENTY of time to get from A to B otherwise you can find yourself smack bang in the middle of the LA’s wonderful traffic!

Q. What differences have you noticed about your life as an actor since arriving?

A. I guess coming from Melbourne, which I consider a very artsy place, Los Angeles is a very business orientated town. Things can move very quickly out here and networking is a big part of it. I myself have always been more inclined to take class and work on my craft, but I do believe a good balance of both is essential, particularly here in Los Angeles.

Q. What's next for you?

A. I was fortunate enough to work on the film Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales. From what I’ve seen so far, the film looks fantastic and I’m very exited for it’s release. Since arriving in Los Angeles, I jumped straight into class at The Studio (HFAS LA) taking Comprehensive Technique with the incredible Mr. Howard Fine. I believe Comprehensive Technique is a must for any actor- the class is brilliant. I now find myself in Howard's Monday night Masterclass here at The Studio in LA, which is an absolute honour and privilege to be part of.