Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Peña.
Monica, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I love learning and I’ve always had a passion for reading, researching, writing and creating various experiences to entertain myself and others. I never thought of it as anything more than just something I did in my free time. I’ve also always been interested in people’s stories and how they choose to live and move in the world.
All of that ended up colliding and led to my job as an actress and writer. This particular leg of my journey started when I was in management in the corporate world. I hired talent, but I never thought of doing it myself. One day a colleague of mine suggested I get some headshots and send them out. I decided to do it to see what would happen. A couple of days later I got a call about an audition and I ended up booking it! I thought it might be wise to take a couple of classes to learn my way around a set. After successfully booking a few jobs on my own, I was blessed to meet my agent, Linda McAlister. Little did I know, it was only the beginning.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
Being an actress has been extremely rewarding and fulfilling. The majority of my work has been in film and television and last year I starred in my first mini web series, The Beginning and Ending of Everything by writer/director Ya’ke Smith. Some of my favorite roles to date are the ones that have challenged me the most – the ones with difficult subject matter. Domestic violence, alcoholism and drugs to name a few. It is important for me to speak up for those who are not often heard and this is one of the many ways I can do that. It has also allowed me to connect with people I would never have had the opportunity to know and experience a different level of compassion. The lighter roles remind me to have fun with it all.
I am in the process of writing my first book and while it is a bit scary to think it will soon be out in the world for all to see, I am excited to see what this new chapter of creativity brings. I feel every art form gives purpose and freedom and I hope that when others see my work they are inspired, motivated or empowered in some way to live life to the fullest.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
Painted Woman, a film directed by James Cotten and produced by Amber Lindley, can be streamed and has been released on DVD and is available at retail stores nationwide. It is a beautifully shot western and a powerful story of a young woman that fights for her life and her convictions. My character is someone that helps her along the way.
I also just completed a role in an upcoming film that will be released in 2019. Once I can discuss it, I will be sure to post details! I truly appreciate all the love and support I’ve received over the years! It is so encouraging to know you have people that support your work!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1709017/
- Phone: 972.938.2433
- Email: reach_monica@hotmail.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/monicapenaactress/
Image Credit:
Supreme Dream Photography; Nathan James
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