Tention Free: Tell us a little bit about yourself. Your background, education, your passion etc.?
I started acting because of my mother’s desire to have me take dance classes.Her father did not allow her to enroll in dance school when she was a young child. He didn’t think it was appropriate; so she wanted to make sure I had dance classes. She enrolled me in the children’s program at the Neighborhood Playhouse in Manhattan. While my mother was really interested in having me take dance classes, I truly enjoyed my acting classes. She probably thought of the acting classes as an extra, I loved them. I was an avid reader with a very active imagination. Acting was the outlet I needed and craved growing up. I attended the High School of Performing Arts (PA) (yes, the Fame school). The school was located in the theater district, on 46th Street. It has since moved to its current location near Lincoln Center. High School was an incredible time – studio every day, meeting talented young people from all the boroughs. (I grew up in Queens so Queens was home, the other boroughs not so much, lol) We were teens, with all the angst and traumas of teen years and we were also neck deep in absorbing the details and discipline necessary to nurture our interests. It is a time I look back upon with great wonder and affection for the wisdom I received from many of my studio and academic teachers. Nothing is ever perfect, and there were difficult episodes in high school and during my teenage years, in hindsight, PA was one of the best decisions of my life. The lessons learned there have served me well throughout my entire life. And, many of the friends I made in high school are still close friends today. After high school I attended the United States International University’ School of Performing Arts in San Diego, California. I returned to New York after spending a year working in San Francisco. Back in New York City, I pursued my hearts desire and started auditioning, studying and dancing.
I was fortunate to get involved with Latino Playwrights at Henry Street Settlement where I worked with Carla Pinza on several plays and readings. I choreographed dance sequences for the Obie award winning production of Pericles at the Jacques Cocteau rep company directed by Toby Robertson.
During my tenure of ten years with the Creative Arts team (CAT) I served as the Artistic Director of the GATO team, when they were affiliated with New York University, utilizing theatre strategies to engage, inspire and educate young people and adults.
After leaving CAT, I became interested in public relations and crisis management, incorporating all the skills I had honed as an actress into serving as spokesperson for the NYC Emergency Medical Service, the New York Lung Association and for the management of the largest federal y subsidized residential development in the nation.
During my hiatus from performing in theatre and/or on film, I married, raised our two children and maintained a successful career in the private sector. Several years ago I auditioned for the Boom by Cindy Joseph skin care line for women of a certain age and I was chosen as one of their models for their products. It was so much fun and I enjoyed being in front of the camera telling my story. And now I have the time to take full advantage of the opportunities being presented to me.
Tention Free: We been hearing a lot about you, so we notice your starting to gain a lot of attention how does it feel?
Well, that is a very nice compliment and it makes me feel terrific. I am very excited for my future.
Tention Free: Any upcoming project?
There are several projects underway including a documentary about pursuing your passions and faith in the belief that all things are possible.
Tention Free: What has been one of the most exciting achievements of your career so far?
I am very proud of the work that I have done with young people over the course of my career; helping them to find their own voice, inspiring confidence and helping them find comfort in standing comfortably in their own skin have been among my most treasured experiences.
Tention Free: What’s your goal in life you want to achieve next?
My goal in life is always to do the best I can do in all aspects of my life.
Tention Free: What motivates you to do your best work?
My motivation is always the same, to be the best that I can be because I am grateful for the opportunities I am given. I also have the example of two great role models in my life, my parents whose strength of character, accomplishments and love always with me, encouraging me to challenge myself and go for my dreams.
Tention Free: Did you initially choose this industry, as a career, or as a hobby?
I chose to be an actor and then made adjustments as my life circumstances changed but always used my acting skills to further my career as a spokesperson and community affairs manager.
Tention Free: Everybody needs time out. What do you do in your free time?
Free time and self-care are so important to maintain a balance in our life. I have a ritual that I practice each day, a time carved out just for me to meditate and disconnect from my phone. It really helps me to then focus on the tasks ahead and prepare for any challenges that I may encounter during the day.
Tention Free: How can people find you and follow you online?
I am currently updating my social media pages. Stay tuned.
