Catching A Break: With Madison Ekstrand

Madison Ekstrand, a dancer and actress from Niagara, Wisconsin always had a passion for the arts. Most of her time was dedicated to her dance career, for which she received numerous awards for her performances. In addition to her passion for dancing, she really wanted to be an actress. She had taken some classes locally and had gone to Hollywood on a few trips with her mother trying to get an opportunity to enter the industry.

“Getting a break in the film and television business can be extremely frustrating,” according to her mother Florence. “You can go on many auditions and callbacks and come close, but never get anything.”

A few months ago, Madison was fortunate enough to catch the eye of long-time producer Suzanne DeLaurentiis and she was able to get an opportunity to co-star in a series called, “Very Frightening Stories,” alongside veteran actor Michael Pare (Eddie and the Cruisers, Streets of Fire). The episode is titled, “The Curse of Stone Hill.” It was filmed in an actual haunted mansion and is the story of a young girl who was orphaned at birth and is seeking to find her real mother. Madison plays the role of Lauren, the young girl, and Michael Paré plays the role of the caretaker of the house her late mother grew up in. The thriller has many twists and turns that will leave the audience at the edge of their seats. Madison’s background in dance was an integral part of the story.

“It was really a challenge to go to Los Angeles during COVID to be constantly tested, have my temperature taken and wear masks and face shields during production,” says Madison. “But it was an amazing experience, especially being able to work with Michael Paré who was so gracious and helpful, knowing that it was my first time as a lead role on a film set.”

Her mother Florence is proud of her daughter’s accomplishments: “We can’t wait to see the episode and are excited about the opportunities and doors that may open.”