Today we’d like to introduce you to Helena Victoria
Hi Helena, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m an actor, dancer, and independent filmmaker with a multidisciplinary background that bridges both stage and screen. I’m passionate about creating meaningful work that honors culture, storytelling, and artistic expression.
Storytelling has always been at the heart of who I am. Growing up, I was drawn to the way performance could communicate what words sometimes couldn’t. Acting was my first love—it gave me a way to explore emotions and perspectives beyond my own. I started practicing the craft of acting through Street Theatre in Gary, Indiana. My parents were unable to afford professional lessons, therefore a group of friends and I created and performed shows for our neighborhood. Over time, my passion expanded into dance. Once twelve years old, I auditioned and was accepted into the Drama and Dance programs at Emerson for the Visual and Performing Arts School. My dance training roots are in different dance styles such as Contemporary, Ballet, Hip-Hop. Modern, Jazz, and Tap. There, I spent seven years learning academia and the art of dance and acting. This was the start of my professional training as an artist.
I started performing in numerous professional and educational theatre productions in the Chicagoland area and got a B.A degree in Theatre Arts. Eventually, I moved to Dallas, signed with The Clutts Agency, booked a few regional commercials, roles in short films, TV appearances, and a national campaign. I studied Chekhov and Meisner Method acting, Improvisation, Scene Study, Script Writing, and Krav Maga. As I worked more, I became curious about what happened behind the camera. The curiosity led me to work on various sets involving music videos, short films, and TV productions. This eventually motivated me to write and direct, which felt like a natural extension of my storytelling.
While my home base is Dallas, LA has become a growing part of my creative journey, especially with opportunities like my film “Masking” screening in LA this year! I’m incredibly grateful for how both cities have shaped my journey as an artist. Whether I’m on set, in rehearsal, or behind the camera, I’m most drawn to work that explores identity, resilience, and the power of human connection.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
For a long time, I thought I needed to choose one path—acting, dancing, or directing. Whether you are the talent or not. I felt this pressure to fit into just one lane, but over time, I realized my artistry was meant to blend all these worlds. Some of the most fulfilling opportunities of my career have come from embracing the full spectrum of who I am and what I have to offer.
The biggest challenge for me has been giving myself permission to take up space—fully and unapologetically. As a Black woman working in entertainment, there are so many unspoken rules and limitations people try to place on you. For years, I wondered if I’d be taken seriously as an artist or if I was “qualified enough” to step into leadership roles. But I’ve learned that no one is going to hand you the space you deserve—you must claim it for yourself.
That mindset shift has opened doors I never expected, from performing to choreographing and teaching dance workshops. What started as a love for social dancing has evolved into opportunities to create and collaborate on work that amplifies our stories. I’m incredibly excited about what’s ahead and the impact I can make through storytelling in the form of acting, directing, and dance.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Right now, my work lives at the intersection of film, dance, and storytelling. I’m passionate about creating art that reflects lived experiences, culture, and the unseen layers of identity.
One of my most recent projects is “Masking”, an experimental silent short film that I wrote, directed, starred, and produced. It’s a deeply personal piece that explores the masks we wear to survive and how exhausting it can be to hide parts of ourselves. I wanted to make a film that didn’t rely on dialogue to communicate emotion—just expression, movement, and sound. It’s surreal to now see “Masking” finding its place in the world, screening in Los Angeles this May and even being nominated for Best Film. I will be attending this event and will discuss my creative process. Watching something so intimate and vulnerable connect with others on a larger platform has been one of the most affirming moments of my career.
In addition to filmmaking, I’ve stepped into an exciting new chapter performing with Eleda Dance Company, an Afrocentric-focused company that prioritizes authenticity and artistry. Being part of this community has given me the opportunity to collaborate with incredible dancers and contribute to work that deserves to be seen. Performing with Eleda has been a rewarding experience, and I’m excited for what’s to come.
I recently wrapped filming a new docuseries set to release soon. It’s been exciting to be part of a project that explores real stories in such a dynamic way. It truly pushed and stretched me as an actor. I’m looking forward to sharing more once it premieres! Additionally, I am working on my next short film, planning dance workshops, and even taking acting lessons myself. An artist never stops refining and learning!
Whether I’m acting, directing a film or choreographing a dance, my work is about storytelling at its core—holding up a mirror to the human experience and creating art that resonates, heals, and inspires.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that alignment matters more than accolades. Early on, I was chasing the next title, the next booking, or the next opportunity, thinking that would lead to fulfillment. But the truth is, peace came when I started honoring the kind of work that feeds my spirit. Work that feels meaningful, intentional, and rooted in community.
And when you’re in alignment, the opportunities find you. I’m finally in a place where my work reflects who I am at my core, and that’s been the most rewarding part of all.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/helenavictoria
- Instagram: helenavictoriia_
Image Credits
Personal Photo: Juan Guajardo
Photo 1 (Masking Poster photo): Weyni Kahsay
Photo 4 (Dallas Bachata Festival): Jorge Elizondo
Photo 5 (Dance Workshop Group): Angela Burton
