ELANA
SWARTZ
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“Though she be but little, she is fierce!” It’s the perfect description of this native Virginian playing in the new sandbox of the Bay Area. Originally from the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains, backpacking and the outdoors are in my bones. My big energy is echoed in my bouncy 80’s curls- my hair is full of secrets- watch out! As a child I learned street miming, clowning, and stage combat from my forever-young drama teacher dad. My education truly began ‘on the boards’. My vibe is a young Marissa Tomei meets Emmy Rossum. Why? I have been called a reliable teammate, a ball of energy, and a hell of a cook- I rarely make the same thing twice! I’m your ultimate ‘ride or die’ best friend, your smart and precocious lawyer, or your dedicated therapist with the derby name 'Lady Macdeath'.
Let’s get something on the books and play! I’ll keep you on your toes and asking for more.
A LITTLE ABOUT ME . . .
Personality Slate
“Elana is a director’s dream – she is specific, smart, driven, and always working. Her positivity shines through in rehearsal and performance. I look forward to working with her again in the future!”
- Patrick Pearson
Professor at Sam Houston State University / Former Director of Artistic Programming at Ford's Theatre
VOLUNTEER WORK
After traveling and doing theatre in over six countries, I appreciate a fusion between the intimate human experience and the craftsmanship of storytelling. I have written, performed, and taught street theatre in Thailand with young children, lead local branches of national theatre movements like The Ghost Light Project, and volunteered with local public high school productions as everything from a makeup designer to an assistant director. I am always looking for opportunities to give back using the arts.
AWARDS
I received an Irene Ryan Nomination for my role as Madge Owens in JMU's Mainstage production of Picnic. I was also recognized for my work as an assistant director on JMU's Mainstage production of School for Scandal, receiving a Certificate of Merit for Directing from the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival. Most recently, I received a Distinguished Senior Award from the JMU School of Theatre and Dance.