TEO CELIGO
We recently caught up with Slovenia’s Teo Celigo, about his transition into the acting world as well as surviving and staying grounded in a place like Hollywood.
First of all, how far do you feel you have come from a few years ago when you first arrived in LA? What have you learned the most?
I’ve come far in the sense of having a better understanding of how I and the people around me function. I say ‘better’ because on occasion I will still do things that make no sense. And accepting that is the best thing one can do.
How do you manage to remain grounded and not stressed out in an industry such as Hollywood?
Yoga, meditation, a good friend or two and of course, my lovely girlfriend.
How do you find California compared to where you grew up?
I think it’s hard to compare California to any other place, Los Angeles in particular. Time here hardly exists. I still can’t believe it’s been 5 years.
Have you found it difficult to transition into the LA lifestyle? Or do you feel you have easily adjusted?
I like the mentality of opportunities meeting hard work. I had an immense desire to fit in. I’ve never done acting before so for me, this was it. Going to school made it easier to adjust. But ‘LA lifestyle’ perceived as partying, heavy drinking and drugs – I never fell into that.
What are some of the most important things to do and remember as an actor in LA?
This is the main one: If there’s anything else you want to do, go do it. Also not to be in competition with anybody but yourself.
Tell us about some of the films you have done and which was one was your highlights?
The latest film I’ve done (Killing Joan) I’m particularly excited about, because everybody on set was great to work with. I had a similar experience working on a play that recently closed (Isaac Babel and the Black Sea). On the commercial side, to work with Grammy award winner Dave Meyers on a Mexico Tourism campaign was extremely fulfilling.
Which character was your favorite to play so far?
Kuleshov, in Isaac Babel and the Black Sea. Theater is where I grow most. I love film don’t get me wrong. But nothing beats acting in front of an audience.
Tell us what keeps you most humble and grounded?
The fact that I’m here in the first place. Living in LA where dreams come true for the 1% is still better than living in Slovenia where they aren’t even allowed.
What can we expect to see from you in the near future?
Well, hopefully, that I’ll keep the ball rolling.
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