Henrietta, N.Y. -- For nearly 200 friends and family members of Travaris Spears, a visit to Regal Cinema's theater Friday night was a chance to see a young actor they knew in his first big screen role. They had no idea he would make a cameo in person.
"I almost broke down and cried," said Monique Cannon, Spears' grandmother.
Just before 8 p.m. Spears and his mother walked through the theater doors, welcomed by a couple of close family members.
"It was awesome, they actually did not know we were coming," said the 12-year-old Spears.
He plays a role in the comedy "Admission" opposite Tina Fey and Paul Rudd.
"It was a great experience, learning things and having fun at the same time," said Spears.
His mother, Tanika Hill, moved her young son to New York City five years ago to begin training for his acting career.
"Being a Rochester native and leaving to take your son somewhere to pursue his dreams and come back home and receive this love and support--it just feels good," said Hill.
Admission, which was released Friday is Spears' first major movie.
"I want to, you know, be a successful actor," said Spears. "Not only movies but TV shows and you know, continue doing well in my career."
His family is hopeful his success will inspire others locally with dreams of acting.
"We're very proud and we're definitely sure people know that he is from Rochester, N.Y.," said Cannon.
