There’s something about Christmas movies that tug at our hearts, and actress Alexis Arnold knows exactly how to bring that magic to life. 

In her latest role as Tara Seagull in “The Sound of Willow”, Alexis steps into the shoes of a young music intern who helps a student find her voice again — literally. Inspired by Shawn Welling’s moving documentary “Alive”, the film blends themes of faith, resilience, and hope just in time for the holiday season. For Alexis, it’s more than just another project; it’s a story that touches close to home and one she hopes will remind audiences that miracles can happen — even when life feels impossible.

Can you tell us more about your character, Tara Seagull, and what drew you to this role in “The Sound of Willow”?

My character, Tara Seagull, is just starting her career as a school music intern. She begins a magical and dramatic journey to help her new friend and student, Willow Cassidy, learn how to sing and talk again. What drew me to this project was the documentary “Alive” by Shawn Welling, which is what “The Sound of Willow” is based off of. If you haven’t seen it, I 100% recommend it, but I will warn you, it will make you cry. Big thanks to Dr. Burzynski and to all of his patients that shared their heartbreaking stories. 

This isn’t your first project with director Shawn Welling. How has your previous collaboration influenced your approach to this film?

The last project I filmed with Shawn, my character, Jackie Moss, was angry and lost her faith in God. In this film my role was quite the opposite. Tara is more of an educator and a believer in God. Her faith is much stronger. 

Given the heavy themes of the film, including illness and resilience, how do you prepare emotionally for scenes that require such depth?

To prepare myself for such emotional scenes, I typically think of things that have happened in the past or could happen in the future. Unfortunately, this story hits me hard emotionally, because I have lost a loved one to cancer. 

What has been your experience working alongside the cast, particularly with the character of Willow (EmmaRain) who faces significant challenges? 

I love our cast and film family so much! It has been such a magical experience watching EmmaRain grow up. Not just in age, but she has also grown so much in talent from the last project I’ve worked with her on. Words cannot describe how proud I am of EmmaRain for learning sign language, piano, and how to sing for “The Sound of Willow.” She is like my own little sister. I also would like to mention Tom Vera and Josh Peri. Just WOW! I am amazed at Tom’s dedication for every role he has ever booked. For this film he learned how to conduct. He is not only just talented, but he has THE BEST personality. If there was a Mr. Congeniality, it would be him. I am also honored to see Josh Peri pop out of his shell and cry on camera. He even made me bawl my eyes out on set; he really made it believable. Lastly, I would like to mention how awesome it was to work with THE Lee Majors!!! I’ve worked with Lee on other projects, but this was the first time I’ve gotten to really know him. He was incredible and very professional.

In what ways do you hope that your portrayal of Tara Seagull will impact viewers, especially those who may relate to the struggles faced by the young character in the film?

I want the audience to see Tara as someone who doesn’t give up, and as a reminder that someone will always be there for you. Even when your dream seems impossible.

“The Sound of Willow” prominently features themes of faith and perseverance. What personal experiences or beliefs do you draw from to embody these themes in your performance?

Unfortunately, I didn’t have a happy ending when it came to my Nana having cancer, but “The Sound of Willow” gave me hope that not all stories have to end badly.

Can you share any memorable behind-the-scenes moments or challenges during filming that you think fans of the film would appreciate?

My favorite memory of filming was when EmmaRain told me in her cute dramatic voice, “I wish Mr. Puddles could be in the movie, too. It’s unfair that Moose is, but Mr. Puddles isn’t.” (For those of you who don’t know, Mr. Puddles is the Welling’s pet bunny and Moose is the family dog.) Right after she said that, we started rolling and while filming some random bunny hops across the field. I was so thankful we were on a wide shot and the bunny was captured on camera. I will never forget how excited she was that Mr. Puddles’ stunt double made it in the movie.  

Music plays a significant role in the film. How does your character connect with the choir pageant, and what role does music play in Tara’s interactions with Willow and other students?

Tara connects with her students through the magic of music. Tara typically prepares the student by helping with vocal and breathing exercises. For example: Willow and Tara blow bubbles and blow on a pinwheel to help control breathing patterns. Tara also teaches her students how to do vocal warm ups with the piano.

What do you believe is the core message of “The Sound of Willow,” and how do you think it resonates with audiences, especially during the holiday season?

I envision that the audience of “The Sound of Willow” will leave hopeful and with tears running down their faces. There is no better time to believe in a miracle than at Christmas.

After this emotionally rich experience, what kind of roles or projects are you looking to pursue next? Do you have any specific themes or messages in mind that you want to explore further in your career?

My dream role is to be in a fantasy film, any type whether it’s werewolves, vampires, mermaids, or even a Harry Potter type movie. I’d be honored and excited to be in any film; however, I’ve come across the funniest comedy script ever! I CANNOT wait to start filming, and it just happens to be a Welling Film called “Lincoln & Knox”. I am also very excited that a movie I filmed last summer, “If I Could Ride Again”, will be streaming on several networks starting July 8, and I hear there is potentially a race car movie in the works in the future so I’m excited about that too. Playing Jodie Davis in the “If I Could Ride” movies were some of my favorite memories.

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Cover Photo Ray Kuglar

Bob Valleau is a regular entertainment writer for Texas Lifestyle Magazine.