ELLISVILLE – If you’re streaming movies on Amazon and other Reel One Entertainment services located in Canada, you may find a familiar face in the movie, Love, Game, Match. Oak Grove resident and 2022 Jones College graduate, Emma Burge plays Ariella in the newly released movie.
“Working on the set of the movie, Love, Game, Match was an incredible and extremely affirming experience! I had a lot of ‘aha moments’ where I felt like I was exactly where I wanted to be, doing what I was born to do. The cast and crew were beyond welcoming, and they are people I keep in touch with daily. I really appreciate the kindness and encouragement they offered and showed me throughout filming, and we continue to be in touch today,” said Emma Burge.
Success in the film business didn’t come easy or quick for Burge. The Oak Grove resident began acting at 11 years of age after responding to an “open call” for children for the Mississippi Made Film, As I Lay Dying. Despite not getting a part in the William Faulkner novel inspired film, it opened the doors for the Oak Grove resident for another project. She was later cast in the James Franco remake of the screen adaptation of William Faulkner’s, The Sound and the Fury. 
“Being on the set, Emma said she fell in love with the process and decided she wanted to explore acting more,” said her father, Dr. Ben Burge. “Emma sought agency representation and is currently a client with Action Talent Agency.”
The rising star with long red-hair is the daughter of Jones College’s Director of 
Bands, Dr. Ben Burge and his wife Cindy. They explained after Emma fell in love with acting, she has continually found her way back to the stage. Whether it’s to dance, sing or play the flute, Emma has embraced all the Fine Arts.
Her dad shared, “Emma was a theatre student in middle school and high school. She credits her middle school acting teacher, Emily Wright of Northwest Rankin Middle School for inspiring her. Ms. Wright is a consummate professional and a wonderful arts educator. Emma was inspired by her and admires her middle school acting teacher.”
Over the last nine years, Emma has been cast in a variety of projects, including horror, romantic comedy and sci-fi projects on screen and commercial 
projects for television and print. Additionally, she has years of modeling experience, and she has enjoyed a wealth of opportunities to work with talented photographers and fellow models. Emma has worked alongside Loretta Divine, Janet Gretsky, and Mississippi actor, Kylen Davis. In the film, Don’t Kill It, Emma worked for the horror genre director and creative genius, Mike Mendez. Additionally, Emma has worked on films for actor-director John Krasinski, Tate Taylor, and New Orleans filmmaker, Nathan Tape. She worked alongside Christine Prosperi (Degrassi, Bring it On), and Dale Moss (The Bachelorette).
The 2022 Jones College music industry graduate has 14 years of competitive dance training, she also plays the flute in addition to being a member of the color guard and drum major in both high school and college. On top of it all, her talents include being a vocalist with the JC Jazz Band and she was a member of the Bobcat Brigade leadership and ambassador group for the college.
“I loved my experience at Jones! I enjoyed my service in the Bobcat Brigade and the Maroon Typhoon Marching Band. I made lifelong friends and professional connections I will always have while at JC. I know that my first two years of college have set me up for success along my path. I will always be thankful for my time at Jones. I am a proud alumna!” said Burge.
She added that access to the recording studio and individualized instruction in the music industry program were key factors in choosing Jones to continue her education. Also, being close to New Orleans and accessible to auditions were another major factor for staying in the Pine Belt. She encourages young performers to pursue their passion and learn from the “no’s.”
“I’m excited that this film (Love, Game, Match) is the one that lifted me back up in confidence affirming that I can do this and that not every audition will be a ‘no.’ I’m honored for being cast in this film and was trusted with the role of Ariella. I’m very thankful for the support of my family and friends that have reached out, watched the movie, and have been supportive behind the scenes for the auditions and trips to the film set.”
Currently, Burge said she is working on a television series this summer, which is filming in New Orleans, along with a few other projects in the works. Her last feature film, Off Ramp, is currently in post-production. She was cast with veteran Actor Reid Diamond, Scott Turner Schofield, and Ashely Smith (fashion model and actress). Next fall, Emma will head off to the New York Film Academy to earn her certification in film production and acting. To learn more about the rising actress, check out Emma Burge’s IMDb bio at https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6367259/bio?ref_=nm_ov_bio_sm