Honolulu, HI — During the filming of a recent Hawaii Five 0 episode, actor Michael Ng was apprehensive as he stepped on to the set for the first time in two years. “I was afraid I’d be rusty, but it turned out to be one of the best acting experiences I’ve had. Everyone was really friendly. They made me feel at ease, ” Ng recalled.
Since returning to Hawaii from the mainland six years ago, Ng has guest starred on Five 0 twice, worked on the controversial film, Aloha and was a recurring regular on the cancelled ABC series Last Resort that starred Andre Braugher. “It was intense, non stop. Once you finished shooting an episode they’d give you a new script and then you had to learn your lines all over again, ” Ng explained. “I learned a lot from that experience, ” he added.
Six years ago, Ng was another struggling actor attempting to make it in LA, but when his father became ill, he decided to move back home. “I didn’t plan on coming back so soon. I wanted to stay for at least 10 years, but I got the call, ” he stated. Ng’s father eventually succumbed to his illness.
Ng says that the difference between acting in LA and Hawaii is that LA is more competitive. “Here people are more supportive. It’s more family oriented–even on the set, ” he described. “Out there you’re competing with everyone else. It taught me to take initiative. You don’t wait around for the phone to ring, cause you’ll be forgotten, ” he emphasized.
Asked if there were things he missed about living in LA, Ng replied, “The restaurants–I love the food there! You can drive anywhere. Take trips to Vegas and theme parks. I also miss IKEA and Trader Joe’s,” he laughed.
In order to support himself between his acting jobs, Ng works as a part time drama instructor and director at his alma mater Kaimuki High School. He is currently directing a production of the broadway musical, Once on this Island. It features 30 of his students. “We auditioned in November. Rehearse for two and a half months and then perform for three weeks,” he said. The play opens on February 19th.
When asked if his students feel inspired by his work in film and TV, Ng humbly replied,” I don’t make a big deal about it. I treat them (his students) with respect and rarely get angry. I’ve been through it, so I guess they trust me.”
In addition to acting, Ng enjoys eating great local food. When asked if there were places he would recommend for travelers to Honolulu, he replied,” Bangkok Chef. I love their green curry. Mitsu Ken, they’re famous for their garlic chicken. Kakaako Kitchen it’s owned by Chef Alan Wong. They make upscale plate lunches and Doraku Sushi. They have a great happy hour,” he declared.
“It’s good to be back. There aren’t as many opportunities as there are in LA, but at least I’m not driving hours to get places. I can take some time, relax and enjoy the day, ” he concluded.