We had the good fortune of connecting with Kristen DellaPace and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Kristen, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
Ooo, this is a fun question. Acting wise, I’m inspired by watching committed performances. A recent example would be Holly Hunter in the new comedy “Mr. Mayor”, where she plays a pushy jerk. She should be annoying me, but instead she has me laughing; she knows how to sell it. In my writing I’m often inspired to tell stories that exist in quiet places with everyday folks. I find small town life intriguing because the culture tends to be informal and honest where city living (my current reality) feels more slick and buttoned up, always putting on a show. If I had to pinpoint a few things that inspire me in my creative life as a whole, I’d look outside my field. I feel connected to my creativity when I travel, jam out to oldies, when I thrift shop ( I love a good DIY project) and oddly enough I feel so inspired after I rollerblade. Who knew?
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Due to COVID (you heard of it?) auditions have been slow so during these kind of lulls (that happen no matter what) I like to write and make my own projects. Some artists stand out with their short form online content but I’ve found over the years that I love traditional story telling through film. This past year I wrote a dramatic film “Kind of People” specifically for Candlelight Films and after many drafts we’re happy to move into pre production. Things are shaky at the moment (that pandemic thing again) so we’re aiming to shoot it next year when production should be more stable/normal. I’m in on more of the production conversations this time around and have been learning so much about financing films and the ins and outs of getting the support needed to succeed. Learning new strategies and skills keeps me excited and engaged.
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?
I love Malibu- it’s simple and not too touristy. Malibu pier is now revitalized and beautiful so you can get a good souvenir and meal there. The beaches are relaxing and it’s fun to walk behind the million dollar beach homes deciding which one you’d buy. If you’re looking for an awesome meal I always recommend going to RAO’s in Hollywood. My husband and I love Italian food so RAO’s is hands down our favorite spot in the city. If you have kids, the ($5) Pony Rides in Griffith Park is always a hit or you could head all the way north to Underwood Family Farms to see animals and pick pumpkins, fruit, etc. One of the staple things I do when friends come into town is take them to Griffith Observatory at night then drive through Hollywood Blvd. to grab some In-N-Out before we head home. You’re sure to see your fair share of wacky Hollywood nightlife on that drive.
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’d like to take a moment to dedicate this to all the babysitters out there who’ve watched my kids with less than a 24 hour notice. You are my rock, my refuge, my safe place! I’m obviously mostly kidding. Some key things that have shaped my career are the Dallas Travers “Actors Business Blue Print”, my friendships over at Candlelight Films in the UK (I make almost all my projects with them), my agents at Daniel Hoff Agency, and most recently Amy Lyndon. Amy Lyndon is as a seasoned working actor who runs classes and does actor package consultations. She’s transformed my acting materials, my audition technique, and my mindset. I’m a big fan.
Instagram: @kristen.dellapace
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/kdellapeace
Image Credits
Lacey Gabrielle Photography