Today we’d like to introduce you to Soraya Garré.
Hi Soraya, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I grew up in the South of France, in a healthy mix of French, Algerian, and Spanish cultures. I went on to do a master’s degree in English before starting to train as an actress in London. I then moved to Paris, where I went to acting school, and then settled in Los Angeles, where I had some additional training in various studios.
In LA, I did production and voice work for NBC Universal (E!News France) and, in parallel, created an online language program and YouTube channel, “Oh La La I Speak French.” The idea was to teach French through comedy and fiction. But my first passion has always been cinema and acting, and I soon wrote/produced and starred in a short film, “I’m not an Accent”, a romantic comedy.
Back in Paris for a while, I worked in film/television and did a few commercials. But I was missing Los Angeles, so I moved back there in 2019, right on time for the pandemic! Since then, I have worked as a voice actress and recorded several audiobooks in French. I have recently completed a short film entitled “Haunted”, which I co-wrote with acclaimed director Jon Amiel and also produced and star in. “Haunted” is currently doing the festival circuit and has recently screened at the Chinese Theater as part of the official selection of the Beverly Hills Film Festival.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has definitely not been a smooth road! The first year I was in LA, I got scammed by a psychic and was left with literally nothing. It was an amazing learning experience to say the least! You’re definitely more vulnerable when you live on your own in a foreign country.
And then in general, pursuing acting is very difficult, especially as a foreign actress. But that pushed me to be proactive and create my own content, to keep learning new skills and wear several hats. Being a writer/producer and actress on any project never takes you on a smooth journey; struggles come with the territory. It is pretty nerve-racking, but it is so gratifying!! Mostly when it’s all over and you can share it with the audience!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am an actress/writer/producer. I love telling stories. I love using fiction to touch people but also to address certain issues that are sometimes difficult to address upfront. My current short film is a psychological drama about mental health and teen suicide, and the next one will be a sexy satire of social media, in French this time.
I am happy to have shaped my life into the intrinsically human and artistic journey it has been and still is. What sets me apart in life is probably the will and strength that have been driving me. And paradoxically, what sets me apart is my vulnerability and sensitivity.
What matters most to you?
Learning, creating, and developing meaningful relationships with others. This is what gives purpose to my journey as a human being. It is also what allows me to keep evolving, to keep growing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.imdb.me/
sorayagarre - Instagram: https://www.
instagram.com/sorayagarre - Linkedin: https://www.
linkedin.com/in/soraya-garre- sag-aftra-french-actress- acting/ - Youtube: https://www.youtube.
com/sorayagarre
Image Credits
Jean-Luc Muller
