Today we’d like to introduce you to ADRIANA PASCUAL.
Hi ADRIANA, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I grew up acting, singing and dancing – but only for family and friends. I would put on shows for my family every summer at my grandparents hacienda in Colombia. I would gather my cousins and be the director, the choreographer, the wardrobe stylist – and of course would place myself in the starring role! However, it wasn’t until I graduated from FIU with a BA in Psychology, that I realized I could no longer deny my love for performing so I took off for NYC and spent a summer studying at the acclaimed American Academy of Dramatic Arts. Once I returned home to Miami, I got a talent agent and began to audition for tv commercials, films, and voiceovers. That was 30 years ago and I’m happy to say that I continue to consistently work. Being fluent in Spanish surely helped my career and opened many doors and opportunities. To date, I have been the face (and at times, the voice) of countless national and international commercial campaigns. And since I decided to stop coloring my hair and grow out my natural color of salt and pepper, my career has skyrocketed. I really am proof that your best years can actually come later in life.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Of course their have been struggles along this road! At first, I had what all actors call a “survival job”. I was a substitute teacher for many years, as well as a promotional model for international giants like Bacardi and Lexus. There were many times I thought I could not make a living as an actor – especially living in Miami. But my persistence and patience paid off. I can proudly say that I am one of the most successful actors based out of Miami.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I act on camera, in still photography (pictures), and on voice overs for clients that want me to represent a particular image or voice for their advertising campaigns or films. Through my agencies, Stellar Talent Agency, Atlanta Models & Talent, and AMC, I receive casting calls from casting directors for me to audition for these jobs. I like to say that I’m always on a job interview! It might be discouraging and daunting for people to know that rejection is definitely part of working in this industry – but I find the casting process fun and exciting! You have to learn to not take it personally if you don’t book a job and definitely develop the thick skin to move on to the next audition.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
What has worked for me has always been being an utmost professional at castings, on sets, at shoots and overall being kind and respectful to everyone on set. From the production assistants to the director. I’ve also been known to hand write thank you cards for crew and talent that I have worked with. I feel it’s a nice touch to show my gratitude for their collaboration. Another “networking” advice I like to give, is to send agents, casting directors and other industry people cards on their birthdays! Getting a birthday card in the mail is a rarity so you will most definitely stand out to them. As far as mentorship, I feel that it’s important to have someone very experienced in the industry that you trust and that you can go to with questions and guidance. I personally really enjoy guiding and helping aspiring talent get on the right path to either break in to the business or build upon what they have as skills and talent so that they don’t make certain mistakes most newbies make. And reminding actors and models that this is a business – and that it should be treated as that. If you are professional, everyone will notice.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.adrianapascual.com
- Instagram: adriana_pascual
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/adrianapascual
