Ximena Casillas
We recently caught up with actress and all round performer, Ximena Casillas about her life in the spotlight and who inspired her as a performer, here is what she had to say:
Please introduce yourself to the readers and how and when did you first get into performing?
My name is Ximena Casillas. I got into performing at the age of two when I started taking ballet lessons. Then I saw Broadway’s Beauty and the Beast when I was probably 3 years old and I fell in love with Musical Theatre and the Entertainment industry in general. I grew up watching a lot of movies with my family and I just loved the way stories were told and how a single movie could inspire and cause such an effect on so many people.
What really inspired you growing up and who are some of your influences now?
When I was younger I was inspired mainly by my teachers who are all working actors back in Mexico City. Now my biggest inspirations are Karla Souza, Jessica Chanstain, Jennifer Lawrence, Cate Blanchett and of course, Meryl Streep.
What kind of training have you had, if any?
I have training in Musical Theatre (singing and dancing) and I have a BFA in Acting. I’m also trained and certified in Stage Combat.
What has been your favorite role to play so far?
I loved playing 4 year old Lucy in Mr. Marmalade, a play by Noah Haidle and I also enjoyed being Rumpleteazer in the musical Cats.
What has been one of your biggest achievements in your career so far?
Definitely, signing with an amazing management company (Harris Management) and working with a great manager like Jordan (Escoto) is. Also, knowing how the industry works and feeling confident that being a part of it is something I can do,
What projects do you have coming up?
I will be filming two features this summer The Long Way and The life, the journey, the struggle. I will also be shooting a short film titled Skye and in a play called The Gypsy Machine.
Who would be your ideal co-star and why?
I wish I could be in a movie with Judy Greer. She’s amazing and she’s just so funny!
What are your plans for the future?
Definitley continuing training in different areas like acting, dancing, voice and music. I would also like to start writing my own projects and would love to be able to be in a TV show and do independent films.
What is your advice to aspiring performers?
Always be true to your dreams and believe in yourself. That, with the combination of hard work and perseverance will take you as far as you want to go.
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