Point Park University's Joseph Cannon '22 Lands Roles on Netflix's The Chair, Archive 81 and Episodes of Law & Order Student Profile

What factors made you choose the Conservatory of Performing Arts at Point Park University?

One main factor was Pittsburgh itself. Prior to college, I studied at the Stella Adler Teen Summer Conservatory program in New York. It opened my eyes to what it was like living in a city. Since Point Park is located right in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh, I knew there were going to be a lot of opportunities in film and theater.

Point Park's Department of Theatre was also very welcoming and made me feel like I could do anything I wanted to in this field. I was looking for a program that was both rigorous and inviting, and I definitely found it here at Point Park.

In what ways is the training and experience you’ve received at Point Park preparing you for your career?

Point Park has given me so much when it comes to experience and training.

The Department of Cinema really helped me when it came time to work on professional projects.

The university provides so many opportunities on campus and in the City of Pittsburgh, not to mention the amazing shows that the Conservatory puts on at the Pittsburgh Playhouse. Everyone that works on these shows are some of the most professional, hardworking people I've ever met. Point Park really creates a great environment for an artist to learn and grow.

Tell us about the professional opportunities you’ve had as an actor.

I've been blessed to have worked on a few shows while here at Point Park. Before COVID, I had a great role on Showtime's American Rust which shot here in Pittsburgh. Then the pandemic happened and my character was cut.

Thanks to my agent Jared at Docherty Talent Agency, I've worked on two episodes of Netflix's The Chair and Archive 81. I also worked on Law & Order SVU as Arlo James and Law & Order as Toby Crawford. I landed those roles because of my agent Natalie at LA Talent Agency. 

It's extremely helpful to have these credits and experiences as a student. I've learned so much and also have my SAG-AFTRA card.

What advice do you have for prospective students?

Take every opportunity because you don't know where it might lead you. Have fun and don't sweat the small stuff.

What are your career goals?

I want to work on more projects with amazing people and continue to hone my craft as an actor.

More About: cinema arts, acting, theatre, Conservatory of Performing Arts, Downtown Pittsburgh