We had the good fortune of connecting with Effie Somrova and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Effie, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I pursued an artistic career because it has always felt like the most honest extension of who I am. I fell in love with dance back home in Prague, but for a long time I never truly thought it was possible to build a real career from it. That changed when I visited Los Angeles. Being there made everything feel bigger and more possible. I made the decision to move across the world and fully go for it in 2017. It was not easy at all, because it meant leaving behind my hometown, family and friends, which was extremely difficult, but it also showed me how deeply I believed in this path. Pursuing an artistic career was not just about following a passion, it was about trusting myself enough to build a life around something I truly love.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I believe every artist is unique in their own way. Whether I’m performing live or working on a film set, I approach each project with a mindset of creating an experience for the audience. I love making people feel something special through a performance – whether it’s joy, inspiration or simply a moment they remember later with a smile.

My journey to where I am today definitely was not easy. Moving to a new country meant starting from the beginning – building connections, adapting to a new culture, and constantly proving myself in a very competitive industry. But that experience also shaped who I am as an artist and as a human.

In many ways, that journey is what sets me apart. When you’ve had to overcome so many challenges just to stand where you are today, it changes the way you see the world. It makes you more open-minded, more resilient and more appreciative of every opportunity. I approach my work with that mindset, always striving to bring authenticity, dedication and passion into every project I’m part of.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Funny enough, my sister is actually coming to visit me this summer, so I have a list of places that keeps getting longer of all the things I want to show her! California has so much to offer. As much as I love being a dancer, I also really enjoy doing non-dance related activities and exploring different experiences, places and food!

From camping in Sequoia National Park to skiing in Big Bear during winter, I love the variety of things you can do here! Even just chasing waterfalls is possible without leaving LA. And as much as it’s a tourist attraction, I love Universal Studios! It’s a must-see when in LA because so many iconic movies were filmed there!

Another place I always enjoy is the Magic Castle – because who doesn’t love magic? I also love going to places with live jazz or live music in general. It doesn’t have to be a dance event, sometimes it’s just nice to sit down with a drink and listen to great musicians.

Food wise? There is SO much! You can find cuisine from all around the world. Personally, I have a sweet tooth, so any place that serves great crepes is definitely somewhere you’ll find me!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would definitely give a shoutout to my parents and my sister. When I first mentioned moving to LA and pursuing dance they were pretty skeptical about it (as pretty much every parent, I believe)! Coming from Prague all the way across the world felt like a big risk and they were naturally worried about me. I really had to persuade them to believe in what I believed in but over time I proved them that it was all worth it. They never stopped believing in me which is the most important thing! Another shoutout has to go to my incredible community of artists in LA. Being surrounded by people from all around the world who are passionate about what they do has had a huge impact on my journey.

Website: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7-LLCDF8zs

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/effiesomrova/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eliska.somrova/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YwmmU8fhYGw

Image Credits
Wes Klein, Sthanlee B. Mirador

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.