Today we’d like to introduce you to Catalina.
Hi Catalina, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My artistic journey began with my family’s influence—especially my uncle, Julio Cesar Arenas—who introduced me to theater and performance at an early age.
When I was seventeen, I began studying Drama at Universidad de Antioquia, Colombia, but after two semesters my life took an unexpected turn. I moved to the United States and settled in Miami, where I had to overcome the challenges most immigrants face: legal processes, learning a new language, and adapting to a multicultural city. Ten years later, I returned to Colombia, completed my degree in Dramatic Arts, complemented my academic training with specialized workshops in improvisation, clown, and physical theater, and began working full-time as an actress for recognize theater companies in Medellin.
In 2017, I returned to Miami determined to pursue my career as an actress, entertainer, and entrepreneur. A year later, I founded Creative Stage Productions, a company dedicated to education and entertainment through the arts.
Alongside theater, writing has always been a refuge. In December 2025, I completed a Master’s degree in Creative Writing at UNIR Universidad Internacional de La Rioja, and I am currently finishing my first novel, Mariposas en ácido.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Art is, in itself, a profession that requires self-discipline and the ability to overcome many obstacles. As an independent artist, one of the biggest challenges I face is having to do everything on my own. I create the ideas, write the scripts, produce the work, find clients, and promote it myself.
Here in Miami, another challenge is that culture and the arts are often not a priority for local leaders, which means there is limited government support. That sense of isolation and lack of resources has been the hardest part. That is why, being able to build a full-time artistic practice in this context has been deeply meaningful to me.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am an artist and cultural producer specializing in theater, education, and creative programming for children and family audiences. My main platform is my company, Creative Stage Productions, a company dedicated to theatrical shows, educational and cultural programming, and live entertainment with a special emphasis on children.
Since 2021, I have also worked as a teaching artist with Arts for Learning, where I lead theater programs for elementary and middle school students. This role allows me to combine artistic practice with education.
In addition to my work in performance and education, I am also a writer. I have written and produced several plays, and I am the author of two published poetry books: Murmullos del camino (2005) and De puertas para adentro (2009).
What sets me apart is my blend of roles—actress, educator, writer, entertainer, and producer. I also bring circus skills into my work. I have been working as a stilt walker for seven years and practicing juggling for two.
I am a full-spectrum performer, combining diverse skills to create innovative shows.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
In my experience, what has helped me the most is researching on social media and online platforms to identify organizations, venues, and individuals whose work aligns with my skills and goals.
I look for people who are already doing what I aspire to do or who are actively developing the kind of work I want to be part of.
For me, face-to-face connection has been essential.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://creativestage.us/
- Instagram: @creativestageproductions
- Youtube: @creativestageproductions
- Other: @creative.parties
