Photo by Giuseppe Falla
In the world of acting where every movement and word has deeper meaning, there has always been a divide between stage and screen. This gap has closed in recent years with major movie stars gracing Broadway stages, however each medium requires a unique style unto its own. Those who can effortlessly entertain a live audience while simultaneously perfecting each scene shot on camera are a rare breed. One such actor, Angela Parra, has been able to transcend both stage and screen enlightening all who watch her perform.
Parra, originally from Peru began her acting journey on stages in her home country before moving to the United States to further her education and career. In New York, she attended the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts (AADA), which boasts 112 Oscar winners as their graduates. It was there that Parra was able to spread her wings further, delving deep into on stage and on camera performances, and surrounding her with similarly talented people. At AADA she was able to make connections to actors, directors and producers alike, setting the stage, quite literally, for her future.
“I believe there’s something truly special about live performance,” she explains “it offers a unique once-in-a-lifetime experience, by creating an intimate connection between the artists and audience.” The Peruvian born performer holds a special place in her heart for live theater. It is where actors begin their formative lessons while bringing joy to those who watch. Seeking that human connection, each time Parra steps on stage she feels a rush of adrenaline and a shot of excitement.
She finds something unique in the personality of performing on stage. “Each day we bring ourselves to the stage carrying with us our emotions, memories and experiences.” Despite doing their best to mask their emotions, each show put on is different as each performer’s persona shines through. The human element of stage acting goes further than those actually on stage. Parra points out “each audience is different, their energy, how they react, what they find funny, which makes them a crucial part of the experience as well!”
While not gracing the stage, the performer can be found acting on camera for television roles. Parra was instrumental in the filming of “Hadas” where she played the Green Fairy character, one of the show’s protagonists. “I feel like television acting presents a different kind of intimacy,” she says. On set she forms a “close relationship with the camera, allowing it to capture vulnerabilities for the audience to see.” This ability to act in front of the camera and act for people who aren’t watching at the moment infuses their characters with a certain life and energy of curiosity about how far their performances will go, that is, how many souls their characters will touch.
Antonio Fernandez
For Parra, whose journey began at the tender age of 13, it is impossible to choose between the two forms of acting. Both on stage and on screen, she feels a special energy and emotional connection to both her character and the other performers. However, for the moment especially while in New York City, she is excited to explore the intricacies of live performance. Surrounded by the history of Broadway, and with the support of her peers from AADA it is the perfect time for the Peruvian born performer to experience the stage.
Basking in the energy that fills the theater, Parra took on her most serious role to date with “Waiting for Lefty”, an off Broadway play produced by the famed Soho Shakespeare Company. “I was surrounded by such talented individuals,” she begins, “initially it was quite daunting to be around award winning performers.” This unique play revolves around cab drivers in New York organizing a strike. It was written in such a way that the audience actually becomes part of the show.
Parra was originally daunted by this experience, despite her bubbly and energetic personality, she felt a little out of her league. The performer took a different approach than normal, “I was less chatty and I focused on listening and absorbing everything.” This allowed her to pull from the energy of the others she was working with, fitting it exactly as she was needed, and ultimately making the play a success.
While “Waiting for Lefty” was a great stepping stone for her, Parra has lofty dreams and goals. Looking to grace the Broadway stage in the future she points to Ursula in the Little Mermaid as a dream role. Despite her affinity for live theater she states, “I don’t want to limit my journey to just that, I’m a versatile actor who thrives on challenges!” This positive attitude has seen her constantly performing for years, and is sure to help career going forward.
Unfortunately, not many people are lucky enough to do a job that they love. However, Parra has a joy for acting that gets her up every day. “I’m all in,” the actor says, “if it requires training, I’m ready to put in the work! Trust me, I will do it with immense joy.” Her ability to seamlessly blend into live performances or work on camera sets her apart from many others in the same field, but it is her enthusiasm that ensures her success.
The actor, whose career is unfolding before our eyes, has lofty dreams. Whether it be the Broadway stage or gracing the big screen, Parra is excited to see where her hard work will take her. Enjoying the live aspect “I love it when things don’t go as planned, and I have to come up with a solution,” she thrives in being part of a bigger community. Her journey however, isn’t an act of improvisation, rather a calculated one where each move brings her closer to her goals.
We are excited to be able to watch the ascension of Angela Parra, from the stage to the screen, in no particular order. She attacks each role with a gusto and enthusiasm that is obvious for the viewer to experience. While her acting career has been diverse, the one constant has been her energy. From Peru to Buenos Aires, and finally New York, Parra has set a course of success, one that is filled with curtain calls and new opportunities.
To follow along with Angela Parra’s exciting acting career check out her website angela-parra.com and Instagram
Richford Post 