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ELANA
SWARTZ
The Tempest with Berkeley Shakespeare Co. At Point Montara Lighthouse:
Ariel has always been a dream role and doing 'site specific' theater is always a special treat. But put those together and top it off with being directed by Stuart Bousel? I couldn't be luckier! Come to the working hostel at the Point Montara Lighthouse and see why it 'feels like you're being told a story in the hull of a ship'. KQED's Nicole Gluckstern listed us in The Best Bay Area Theater We Saw in 2025. You'll see me as the Fire Ariel (there's also Air and Water), the boatswain, and the goddess Ceres, singing original music by the incomparable Katherine Park!
ScrappyAF:
I'm back working with the ScrappyAF team on a campaign just in time for Halloween! Don't be scared about your claims, VisiQuate can help! Check it out here! Be sure to catch my dance moves--
Costuming Frankenstein with Theatre Lunatico:
I am thrilled to be back with Theatre Lunatico to costume their production of Frankenstein, adapted by Tina Taylor and directed by Lauri Smith. With many characters never leaving the stage, but everyone playing about four roles, it was a challenge. But by repurposing and reinventing leftover materials (there isn't a 'new' item on stage) watch us create an electric environment, including live soundscapes made live by the actors, which surrounds you in a world you recognize but can't quite place. Check it out here! Audiences are already loving it!
ShakesBEER at Theatre Lunatico:
Sometimes, you just gotta throw on a hood to become a witch, or a paper crown for a king and perform in a bar with all your friends. This one-night-only show was a blast! Everyone raised their beers and drank whenever we said 'blood', which was quite often in our production of Macbeth. Everyone played about four parts and ran around the space keeping the audience on their toes. I got to be a Witch, Ross, Fleance, and a messenger!
Constellations at The Pear Theatre:
Come see this explosive show! Broadway with AJ and Sarah said that I, "...delivered one of the rawest portrayals of grief and vulnerability I've seen onstage. Every yell, scream, and tear felt utterly lived-in-like I was right there with her, caught in the emotional wreckage." And, KQED's David John Chávez named our production in their Best Bay Area Theater We Saw of 2025. Directed by the fearless Reed Flores, you don't want to miss this show!
Webex- Setting up an Appointment with AI:
Working with Strange Media at Cisco again to help you learn to use AI with ease!
Romeo and Juliet at
Theatre Lunatico:
The most famous love story ever told! This time performed in a subterranean theatre in Berkeley, it is stripped down to the pure honesty of young love and the utter blindness of hate. I am beyond thrilled that the Bay Area BWW has recognized this production for 7 awards including Best Performer for both Christian Jimenez (Romeo) and myself (Juliet)! Don't forget to grab your tickets and vote to show support for local theater!
'Method' with Code Bear Media:
Getting to work with Claire Haines and Code Bear Media again after Stages is a true dream! Haines has written a script that forces a young actress to question her commitment to her craft. What is she really willing to give for greatness? 'Be bloody, bold, and resolute' has a whole new meaning to this Lady Macbeth... Keep an eye out as it's heading to festivals soon!
Domesticated- A Tale of Survival at Ross Valley Playhouse:
I get to work with the New Works Readings at Ross Valley Playhouse for a second year! Patrick Atkinson wrote an adorable play about a family of pets and how they survive the unthinkable-- no human to take care of them! On March 30th, come see me bring the sassy house cat, Tina, to life! Directed by Bruce Kaplan
A Bright Room Called Day:
On January 22nd, come hear Tony Kushner's play and decide for yourself how relevant it is for today. This cathartic play gives voice to your fears and your hopes. Come to Madrone Art Bar in SF to grab a drink, listen to our history, and change our future together! I play Zillah, the anarcho-punk contemporary who isn't afraid to ask the hard questions, and sing a little jazz. Don't miss this one night only performance directed by Marissa Skudlarek!
Greenwood: A Staged Reading of a NEW PLAY by Stuart Bousel
(and Shakespeare):
Come see this hilariously clever new comedy cooked up from the old stories of Robin Hood, and the classic play "A Midsummer Night's Dream". We are performing for ONE NIGHT ONLY at La Val's in Berkeley with Actor's Ensemble of Berkeley producing. Click here for more information. You won't want to miss my Marian/Titania character explosion!
Gabb Wireless:
Kid-safe phones and watches! I loved going to the beautiful mountains of Utah to shoot this spot about keeping kids connected and safe with Gabb's tech! Watch me and my 'son' Major decide if he's ready for social media :)
Dreamgirl:
Shooting this incredible love story with Erik Grow (DP) and Lauren Langford (writer/co-lead) has been a true dream! We have been all over beautiful San Francisco and I can't wait to pickup filming this fall! I'll definitely be sharing more of this stunning and heartwrenching film as we continue!
Cymbeline with BSC:
I loved getting to sink my teeth into this show! I would argue that Imogen is one of Shakespeare's best female characters-- a strong willed princess who runs away, disguises herself, and helps reunite her kingdom? Yes please! Working with director and adapter Stuart Bousel was incredibly rewarding as he brought fresh life into this rarely produced drama/comedy/romance as only he can. Don't miss our run at Live Oak Theater in Berkeley!
Get Stocked:
Lucky enough to be in this fabulous shoot for Get Stocked!
A new beverage delivery service with all your possible needs, making your next get together that much easier. This cast and crew was so fun! Check it out here!
BATS Improv:
Taking improv classes at BATS has been on the SF bucket list since moving here in 2021! The community is absolutely incredible! I've loved each class and instructor: Mindset & Skillset with Susie Sargent, Movement & Story with John Remak, and Character & Relationship with Dave Dennison! Definitely recommend jumping in! Excited for the next level!
King Lear:
I took on the challenge of playing BOTH the regal Cordelia and the juggling Fool in my fourth production with BSC! You don't want to miss this heart wrenching production-- with a female Lear! You will cheer on as Cordelia fights for her birthright, laugh as the Fool tricks the sisters, then cry in what many consider one of Shakespeare's most tragic endings. It's the best kind of emotional rollercoaster!
AND I'm nominated for Best Supporting Actor in a Play by the Bay Area Broadway World!
Vote Here!
Catch us at three different venues! Tickets here!
Stages:
This is my first horror film in the bay! Working with the incredible writer/director Claire Haines, as well as the predominately female crew of Code Bear Media, this project holds a very special place in my heart. You'll be gripping your seat in fear then I'll swoop in as the sassy best friend! Look out for this one coming to festivals soon!
Midsummer Night's Dream --
The Musical!
I am thrilled to be in my third production with The Berkeley Shakespeare Company and my first musical in the bay! Adapted by Sonya Baehr and music written by Thomas W. Jones, the magic feels fresh! Catch my Helena-- Brandon Leland says that I, "brought a consistent energy to every scene as Helena ... Swartz portrayed an eagerness and relentlessness as Helena that at times felt like watching Lucille Ball, in both dynamics and attitude".
Don't miss it! Tickets here!
Cyberland:
A riff on 'Alice in Wonderland', Cyberland tells the story of a woman discovering the natural world despite ever expanding AI. Written and directed by Giulia Mucciarelli, this passion project had us filming from the expansive beaches of SF into the sprawling tech campuses in San Jose. Keep an eye out for it at festivals!
Twelfth Night:
You'll have a grand ol' time in this 1920's inspired production directed by Julianna King. Catch me as Olivia at The Aurora Theatre in Downtown Berkeley! You'll love the costumes I designed with the stock of SF's The Speakeasy.
Tickets here! Don't miss out!
Truth or Fate:
"A tarot-inspired card game that magically brings people closer with clever questions and activities, and then tells everyone's futures" says Daniel Schreiner who is the creator and founder of this new game! Check out their Kickstarter campaign here. I loved playing this new game during the shoot!
Survey Monkey:
I got to be a CEO for this Survey Monkey project!
Keep an eye out for it! Such an incredible team to be a part of for the day.
Lifestyle shoot with Rama Knight:
Can't wait for this campaign to come out soon! I had a blast in Santa Cruz and San Mateo with beach bonfires and stunning sunsets!
Commercial for DropOffer :
Do you need a bigger space? DropOffer can help! So many soaking wet laughs during this shoot with Townsend Visuals LLC- check out the spot here to giggle at our mishaps.
Going Dark:
Zoom table reads are a fun way to safely collaborate while we're all social distancing. I was cast as the lead in Going Dark which tells the story of sexual assault survivors and the communities that help them heal. It was truly a privilege to be a part of this process.
Shoot with Daryll Morgan:
Gotta love those shoots that make you feel like you're on top of the world. Daryll Morgan is based in RVA and a blast to work with!
HillsBros. Coffee:
Who doesn't love a warm and frothy cappuccino made in your own home!? Check out the spot here and remember that it is always okay to be "a little extra"! So fun to work with Jeff Atkins and the team at GKV Advertising
Truebill App Commercial:
I had a great time collaborating with director Rogelio Montes from TubeScience shooting this commercial from my home! Check out the full Instagram ad here!
Lovers' Lane Murders on Oxygen:
I am portraying Cassandra Lee Hailey, one of the real eight victims in the infamous unsolved Colonial Parkway Murders case. Catch the mini-series on the Oxygen app or website premiering Feb. 12th!
Hey, I Saw Your Commercial!
I have completed Levels 1, 2, and 3 and is continuing with Coach Mike's program! Learning on camera commercial techniques, cold copy skills, commercial copy improvisation, group improv, and more, ALL during the pandemic! Check out his zoom classes here!
True Terror on the Travel Channel:
Taking a closer look at the spine-chilling mysteries in American History documented in the newspapers of the past! A must see with Robert Englund as the host!
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Lifestyle Shoot with Little Mountain Creative:
Working with Pam Perez was an absolute joy! Creating a lifestyle shoot complete with quaint shops, mountain views, and hoop earrings. Click here for the full fall shoot!
Working on The Walking Dead: World Beyond and The Good Lord Bird as an extra were both incredible experiences! Living in a post-apocalyptic and a historic world was a true treat! Love working in beautiful Richmond, VA. Luckily they both premier on October 4th- so keep an eye out on both AMC and Showtime!
Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, VA:
Enjoy The Taste of Busch Gardens at their park in Williamsburg, Virginia this Sept 2 - 27th! Such a fun shoot and a tasty event that you won't want to miss out on! But don't forget your mask!
Devils Backbone Brewing Co:
I had so many laughs on set for the new seasonal brews from Devils Backbone Brewing Company! Grabbing a cold one of these during this pandemic is definitely on my bucket list. But of course, please drink responsibly!
The Body In The Garden:
I just completed both voice over work and filming for a new book trailer this March! This historical murder mystery novel by Katharine Schellman will definitely keep you guessing! Working with Deep Structure Productions was such fun! Click here for the full trailer, and keep an eye out for the book coming to stores near you this April!
Displaced:
I am continuing to work on a new web-series 'Displaced' written and directed by Luba Gershenzon. I'm getting muddy and bloody in this project! It's gonna be a wild ride!
Banking Reimagined:
I had the opportunity of working with Hoopla Media on this product shoot. Check out the finished project to see the fun new tech and my cute furry costar!
Osiris:
I worked with Lauren Scott on her short film, Osiris. This visual poem explores the cyclical nature of the earth and its tension with our man made environment. Full of both under water work and huge industrial sets, I was thrilled to dive into the lead role of 'Woman.' It did very well at the Baltimore Fringe Film Festival this past year!
Stanley Martins Companies:
I worked with Tim Coburn Photography to bring this home to life. Lifestyle shoots are always more fun with kids! Check out this, and other realty shoots, on my Model Page.
Playhouse Creatures:
I am honored to bring Mrs. Mary Betterton to life in this historical drama set in 1669 England. Directed by Emily LaPlante for her Senior Thesis, this piece has powerful current parallels while exploring the first actresses ever legally allowed on the British stage! Don't miss it April 18th- 20th at the JMU Arboretum! Click here for more info and to follow along on this process!
Stained Glass:
I am a part of the world premiere of Stained Glass, a new play by Ingrid De Sanctis! I am thrilled to originate the role of Tinker Belle in the JMU MainStage production. Tinker Belle is a playful leader and yet holds nothing back when speaking the truth; her light illuminates both the good and the bad. This production, directed by Patrick Pearson the former Director of Artistic Programming at Ford's Theatre, creates a world in which fairytale characters collide with the traumatic past of Jewels, and help guide her into her own healing.
More coming soon!
Keep checking in as I love to keep busy all over the greater San Francisco Bay Area!
Check the Acting & Modeling Pages for more production photos and media! Check out Instagram too!
I always bring energy and professionalism to every project.
Count on me for a lot of laughs
and tons of heart!
Let's play!
Contact Me
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