Today we’d like to introduce you to Elena Evangelo.
Hi Elena, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
As a first-generation New Yorker raised by Greek immigrant parents, growing up was full of challenges. My parents started out with basically nothing, so that meant they were both working constantly to afford my brother and I the opportunities they never had. Their sacrifices in life meant a great deal to me and helped to shape my perspective. Like most immigrant parents, they pushed me to become a doctor or a lawyer but they also gave me room to pursue “impractical dreams” like acting, writing, poetry and filmmaking. I graduated from Vassar College with a B.A. in English and French, followed by an M.F.A. from USC, School of Cinematic Arts, graduating Phi Kappa Phi. From there, I jumped into the acting and filmmaking world. The idea of taking my personal experiences and transmuting them into something another person can feel is what I love about pursuing the Arts.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I’m not gonna lie – the challenges and obstacles in this industry are constant and yet a part of the process. Wins followed by losses, followed by wins, followed by losses that end up leading to some more losses! Then, if you’re lucky enough, you turn a corner to be met by a sudden win. It’s a mercurial ride that keeps you at the edge of your seat and always wanting more.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I have been in love with and immersed in the film and television industry for most of my life. It’s been an amazing experience and I’ve met some truly remarkable people. Acting in TV, Film and Commercials with roles in movies like “The Dirt” (loved every minute) and shows like “This Is Us”, “NCIS Hawaii”, “NCIS LA”, “House”, to music videos like Muse’s “Unsustainable”. At the moment, I’m working on the post side of things for a film I directed, “Eyesome”, and I’m looking forward to more opportunities both in front of and behind the camera.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I have been blessed with a few extremely gifted teachers that I am so deeply grateful for. Warner Loughlin & Nikolai Guzov. Both of them have deepened my work and taught me how to stay grounded by concentrating on specificity and authenticity – two very important ingredients in the alchemy of any profession.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.elenaevangelo.com
- Instagram: lelenaeva
- Facebook: Elenaeva
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/elena-evangelo-441a898
- Twitter: @elenaeva
Image Credits
Ralph Gibson Emma Ferreira Diana Ragland Steven Sasaki Unique Nicole Michael Boardman GP/ Star Max JB Lacroix Shandon Youngclaus Brie Childers Roger Kupelian Dana Patrick
