Today we’d like to introduce you to Kris Bell.
Hi Kris, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I got my start in theatre; from a very young age, I always loved getting in front of crowds and entertaining them or just being the center of attention in general. It always confused me when I heard people say their biggest fear was public speaking because this was an arena in which I felt so comfortable and at home. My intense love of performance and creating is accompanied by my desire to evolve and try different things constantly. This has carried me from the theatre and filming home videos with my school friends to traveling all over as an Independent Pro Wrestler to Stand-up Comedy, emcee work, becoming a “Horror host,” and most recently, writing, directing, and screen acting. I have gotten to where I am because I’m willing to take the chance to try to do something, ask, or give it a shot. Still, I’ve also been very fortunate that I’m surrounded by some of the most talented and creative people I’ve ever known who have helped me and supported me in even my wild of endeavors.
Please talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned. Looking back, has it been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Every person faces struggles. You can learn from them or let them destroy you. You can let what people think of you dictate your actions, or you can be your own person and find your happiness. There have been plenty of people I felt I could trust, plenty of “good deals” I thought I was making, and plenty of times I’ve been lied to and taken advantage of. You learn, and you evolve. Everything else is just noise as long as you’re happy, healthy, and not hurting anyone. If you truly love what you’re doing, no amount of struggle will ever stop you. Every person faces struggles, no matter what. So, shouldn’t you have those struggles following your dreams instead of someone else’s?
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m probably most well known as “The Grand Duke of Spook!” the Monster of SCAREMONIES for the CreepyCon Halloween and Horror Convention. I’ve been the face and host of Creepycon for 7 or 8 years now and love it! It’s one of my favorite events every year, and I love seeing all the wonderful people in the horror community come out in full spooky effect! I specialize in Chaotic Goblin Energy; it’s my job to keep the energy of the event and the attendees at an all-time high for the entire duration of the event while also entertaining the masses and keeping the show running smoothly and on time. What sets me apart from others is my personality and stage presence. I’m not saying I’m better than anyone; I have a unique performance style I don’t feel like many, if any, could replicate. I’m just being myself and having fun. I take my work very seriously and sometimes prepare for months to have this portrayal of goofy, unorganized chaos flow so smoothly.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Don’t be a jerk. Don’t act like you’re better than everyone. What’s worked the best for me both in networking and on jobs is just being easy to work with. Don’t be anyone’s doormat and get taken advantage of, but also don’t be a dick. Instead of competing to see who the best is, help each other. Grow together! Even if it’s a rival, you need those people too! Would Ash have gone on to become a Pokemon Master if Gary hadn’t been dog-talking him all the time? Who knows!? My point is to be easy to work with, don’t be afraid to ask questions, put your foot down when needed, and, most importantly, ensure you’re doing it because it makes you happy. Regarding finding a mentor, look at the people you respect in the craft and watch them, reach out and ask for advice, and always remember to say less and put up the antenna in those situations. You also don’t have to follow every advice you get unthinkingly; take it with a grain of salt and be your person!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegranddukeofspookofficial/
- Facebook: Facebook.com/KrisBellKomedy
- Other: linktr.ee/DeKreature
Image Credits
Mallory Bertrand Photography – Fire by DEMO Cinnamon Studios
