I had a chance to work with and shadow an actress for a day and it was exciting to see how hard actors have to work to be the best that they can be. While New York City may be the city where everyone comes to live out their acting dreams, it is very hard to stand out among the throngs of actors that walk the streets every day. Through her outstanding talent and her significant contributions to theatre, Patricia is one of a small group of actors who has been able to achieve that.
Patricia Cardona is an actress and singer that was born and raised in Palma de Mallorca, Spain. Some of her most significant achievements have been the training that she has received from The New York Film Academy; her film, TV, and theater roles; as well as the inception of a festival created to showcase other talented actors like herself. With the quick pace of the city, one wonders how can an actress do so much and excel at it? The one thing that makes a well-seasoned actor successful is the ability to hone in on a role and breathe that role. Patricia has this intriguing talent that makes her one of the best in her field.
Aside from acting, she has made national contributions to the theatre world with the creation of the Leela NYC Theatre Festival. This contribution will have a lasting impression on the theatre world because it gives actors a chance to step out of their comfort zones and play roles they would otherwise not have played. In this day and age where we have a lot of actors who are turned down because of what they look like, Patricia is pioneering a movement that will change the landscape of theatre as we know it. Her role is critical not only for this generation, but for future generations who will be affected by the changes created by this maven.
You have to really see an actor perform to feel and see the power behind the words that they utter. I had a chance to sit down with Patricia and ask her a few questions so that we could get into her psyche. Check out an excerpt from my interview with her below.
L What do you think has been the biggest challenge for you as an Actress in New York City?
P I think my biggest challenge in NYC is my accent, but now I also see it as an opportunity and I am taking that direction!
L Do you think that more actors should ‘create’ opportunities for themselves? If so, how?
P Yes I think so. It is a very enriching experience from both the personal and professional point of view. If you have an idea you believe in, talk to your friends and network and put a creative group together and do it!
L What advice can you give up and coming actors and actresses that want to make it in the industry?
P Believe in yourself and never give up. I know you hear this all the time and it’s easier said than done; but you must believe in yourself as an actor and never, never give up. Make sure you respond to phone calls or emails from agents or friends offering you a gig as soon as possible, sometimes the first one that responds will get the job. Even if you can’t make it for any reason still respond, say’ thanks for thinking of me’ and say that you wish to work with her/him in the future. This job is about showing up, commitment and reliability. And also very important is that you keep learning and networking, surround yourself with other actors, writers, directors, they always need someone to read their plays. It is also about helping and supporting each other.
L Name a modern day actress that you think is a trailblazer.
P I am impressed by the work of many modern actresses that besides their art, they also advocate for rights: women’s rights, LGBT rights, children rights, environment…this is where well-known artists can bring awareness and make a difference. A trailblazer if you like. Amongst all these brilliant woman we have Angelina Jolie who is capable of doing it all, including having a family. Amazing.
To learn more about Patricia and her upcoming projects check out her website. To get involved, donate, and learn more about the Leela NYC Theatre Festival visit their website by clicking here.
*All images via Erick Gonzalez
Twisted Talk: What production have you seen Patricia Cardona Roca in? Have you heard of the Leela NYC Theatre Festival before? Discuss below!
