For some, finding a career path is a lifelong journey. For others, like Angela Parra it is a pursuit of passion, one that they chase for their whole lives, improving at each stage. Parra, born in Peru, is an actor with a joie de vivre that is unmatched. Her energy is contagious, providing those who work with her a constant source of happiness. This is thanks to the young actor following her dreams, from Peru, to Argentina, and finally to the bright lights of New York.

Her journey began in her home country of Peru, where she is probably best known for her role as the Green Fairy in the musical and TV show ‘Hadas.’ This role seemed to fit Parra like a glove, allowing her to bring her whimsical energy to the character, and making it her own. While continuing to spread her wings, the actor moved to Buenos Aires, Argentina, attending the Fundacion Julio Bocca for two years, where she continued to evolve as an actor. Waiting for her after her time in Argentina, was the role of the Green Fairy which had been held thanks to her incredible work as the character. Looking to continue her evolution, Parra moved to New York City where she attended the famed American Academy of Dramatic Arts.

After completing her education, she has participated in several productions, including ‘Peregrination’, ‘Waiting for Lefty’, and ‘Lullaby Land’. She has worked with three different esteemed companies in a remarkably short period, such as SoHo Shakespeare, Dutch Kills Theater Company, and Spellbound Theater. This experience has allowed her to explore three distinct styles of theater, including a non-speaking theater, a Proletarian drama, and a Musical Theater for children. Previously, she had the opportunity to work in some of these styles in Peru, notably in the large-scale production of ‘La Gallina Pintadita’, a well-known brand across major Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America and Spain, where she played the lead role of the singer. Additionally, she has been involved in various musicals, such as ‘The Little Mermaid’, where her performance as ‘Ursula’ was unforgettable. She also led the musical production of ‘Anastasia’, which has had multiple tours, as well as ‘Hair’ and ‘Legally Blonde’, among others. Angela Parra's talent is so renowned that she was specifically invited from Peru to participate in a special course on ‘El Cuerpo Escenico’, due to her unique skills and undeniable talent and technique whenever she embodies a new character. Today, we had the privilege of sitting down with Angela Parra to discuss her journey and what the future holds.

First off, thank you for joining us today! Do you see your future on stage or the big screen?
Angela Parra: I feel like I definitely relate to both of them! Having spent a significant part of my life on stage, I am really excited to pursue my journey towards the big screen. I am hoping to share my energy of hope and positivity with the world. Of course there is the added benefit of films being more visible and therefore bringing more eyes to my work. The vulnerability and authenticity that actors are able to display on camera is breathtaking. It feels like a once in a lifetime experience, and I can’t wait to be a part of it.

So are you taking a hiatus from the stage?
No! I am merely putting it on the backburner, and pursuing my on screen roles. Trust me, the stage will always call me back! I know that I don’t need to worry about that, as it is my first love and what has gotten me so far in my acting career. I am actually currently working on creating a theater piece for myself, connecting me back to the stage which has been like a home for me.

Having lived in Peru, Argentina and now New York, how do you feel about your nomadic existence?
Throughout my life, I have always sought stability and a sense of belonging. I yearned for a place where I could truly put down roots and thrive pursuing my passion in peace. It seems almost fantastical doesn’t it? However, ever since starting my career journey at the age of 14, the world has transformed. It is a vibrant and thrilling landscape that sparked in me a curiosity. I found myself eager to explore, and push my boundaries, initially through my passion for art, but then it morphed into a desire to understand different cultures. Driven by wanting to understand humanity and the intricate connections between people, nature and spirituality, I want to understand how different cultures approach life.

So where is home?
Currently, I am proud to call New York City home, and it has afforded me many opportunities which I am grateful for. However, I embrace my identity as an international actor and I have had the privilege of performing in Peru, Argentina and now New York City. My ultimate dream is to tour the world through my art getting to see new places and experience new cultures all while doing what I love! Although I have yet to visit Los Angeles, something tells me that I will have an opportunity there one day, and I would be thrilled to take part in that new journey.

How did your upbringing in Peru shape you?
Growing up in Peru, I was instilled with the values of hard work and discipline. Peruvians are truly passionate people, and that is especially true for me. For some reason the concept of “creativity” resonates deeply with me. I believe this is a trait that Peruvians possess, which goes hand in hand with our delicious cuisines, the artistic element is seen throughout our daily lives. It even stretches to our countless natural wonders waiting to be explored, many of which I still haven’t seen myself!

How did your time in Argentina change or enrich you?
Argentina offered me a wealth of diverse classes and a truly astonishing level of artistic talent. The art scene in Buenos Aires and beyond is incredible and has to be seen to be understood. The warmth and hospitality that the people greeted me with can’t be understated, it was truly an unforgettable experience. They taught me the importance of taking breaks. I am wired to just work, work , work, and the Argentinian people instilled in me the ability to slow down, and digest my experiences savoring life's little pauses. This wisdom is something that I truly cherish, especially during the traditional “meriendas” or while enjoying a hot cup of “mate”.

How has your time in South America influenced you?
It’s funny, while I was aware of the lessons I was learning in each country I lived in, it wasn’t until I moved to New York that I truly started to feel my roots come alive. There’s a unique warmth and charm that we, as Latinos, embody. While I don’t want to generalize, I see this trait as a strength. At times it can feel vulnerable being so empathetic and caring, but I have learned to embrace this side of me and ultimately, it has become a blessing. I take great pride in being both Latina, and Peruvian, and I feel honored to come from such a powerful and resilient country. I can’t wait to share its energy and magic with the world!

Explain how you can harness your experiences to be successful going forward?
I believe this question has arrived at a pivotal moment in my life. Working in a field that you are passionate about sometimes makes it challenging to take a break. Something we get lost in what we do because we love it so much, that we forget how important it is to rest and rejuvenate ourselves. This is something that I forget often, yet it is certainly crucial for success. As my Argentinian friends instilled in me, it is within these pauses that our knowledge and curiosity can flourish. It gives us time to reflect on the essence of humanity, which we can only do by exploring and understanding the world around us.

Cinco Mujeres en un Mismo Vestido

Any final words to aspiring actors on how they can achieve the critical acclaim and happiness you have?
We should live our fullest lives, not just in our imagination, but in our reality. As an actor it is important to establish a foundation for your personality which makes it easier to embody different characters. I think it is of utmost importance to be disciplined but have the ability to be flexible. Developing rituals and habits that keep your acting fresh and vibrant is key to helping always keep you prepared for your next opportunity. Continue to audition and engage with your art, and be ready to adapt to any changes that arise. Our careers are vast and you never know what challenges lie ahead. So, strive to keep your skills sharp and your mind, body and spirit in harmony.