Meet Shah G. Onwuka | Actress

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shah G. Onwuka and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shah, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
One of the principal values that maters to me most is authenticity. The pinnacle of discipline, hard work, gratitude and belief in oneself is authenticity -the ability to trust your gifts, your je ne sais quoi, and show up confidently as yourself. Authenticity guides us to find our purpose. Authenticity allows us to release attachment to outcomes, saves us from people pleasing and allows us to give a truly one of a kind gift to the world.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I love the creative process. For me, the act of creation is collaborative. It all starts with my imagination. I love to sit and dream for hours and hours. When it comes to acting, creating memories that stem from the imaginary circumstances of the script is magical. I get to travel to new worlds, only to discover myself already in those worlds waiting for adventure. My joy for acting makes me a team player -I am genuinely excited when I meet new filmmakers and artists who open up a new way of seeing or being.

Growing up I felt very different -I was very sensitive, a bookworm and found myself between being a lone wolf and a child who thrived in groups. I loved science and games, but also enjoyed long stints of quiet time playing wih my dolls or my brother, getting lost in the world of fantasy, even acting out the books I read. Because of that I’m sure it was had to put me in a box! I was fortunately immersed in the arts: theatre and music. Although my beginnings would be considered by some to be humble. my community always championed the arts and found ways to provide access for those who had a gift or an interest. To this day I love devising a play with friends or drifting off to the sounds of music or getting lost in a book.

While completing undergrad at UCLA, I began acting by studying with Aaron Speiser who truly is a master teacher with a heart of gold. I remember flying here and there on modeling campaigns, running to campus to make my finals, then taking the 720 Wilshire Line plus a transfer to make my night scene study classes.

After graduating UCLA I really began to put in my 10,000 hours studying in a 2 year Meisner conservatory program. My cohort was some of the most creative and dedicated in the business and I’m so grateful to say I also made lifelong friends there. I remember rehearsing everyday, playing games and mastering emotional truth, actions, and improv. During this period I also volunteered my time at the Blank Theatre as one of the Weekly Producers of their staged reading series. Each week I got to help cast, coordinate and rehearse a new play, watching masters of their craft work and play with talent and abandon. I admired that freedom and try to continue to find ease and freedom in my own work today.

Having a theatre home helped me respect this mission that I am on -I have confidence knowing that when all the attention ebbs and flows as it naturally does, I have a baseline in the theatre where I can always find great stories and new ways to improve my craft and hone my skills. It was an honor to go on to Associate Produce two Broadway World Award Winning original plays during my time at the Blank.

After a rigorous audition process. I completed my fundamental acting training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. Their Acting Shakespeare Program was a welcome challenge that I will forever cherish.

Fast forward to today. I am so excited to announce that the premiere of a film dear to my heart, Dark Arrows (written and directed by Eric Gregson) is on the horizon early 2025! We the filmmakers and actors came together to tell a very powerful story of an opportunistic thief’s life being overturned after discovering the lone survivor of a massacred slave caravan. His reluctant attempt to aid her draws out a circle of enemies and the two soon realize partnership is necessary for survival as they try to escape being hunted across Alta California’s sparsely populated terrain. I lead the film as Caroline, a character that helped me excavate a resilience in myself that helped me thorough some of the darkest times of my life. I cannot wait for the world to meet Caroline and dive into the world of Dark Arrows. Independent filmmaking opens up a powerful future for creatives to take ownership of their stories and create unique and surprising art on their own terms. I’m proud to play my part in the creative process!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As an LA native I can say I know a completely other world that this city has to offer than what we see on blogs or TV. I come from a very small town on the east side of Los Angeles, which is known for it’s rich Latin culture. Needless to say, when my besties visit me in my hometown, one of my first stops is my favorite Mexican restaurant. I know tacos are forever the star but I’m an enchilada or ceviche gal -a must on any girls trip for me! After enjoying a great meal I would get things moving by walking around the city, visting the LA Flower Market for some orchids and peonies (and some selfies if I’m honest). I would round out our walk at The Last Bookstore in Downtown. I can always find a cool local author to discover.

If we’re lucky, Larryjean Powell will be having a screening of their project: PASSION -their work is powerful and truly Survival Source Material for the Preservation and Betterment of Our People. The amazing writing and inspired performances would really make for a great night out.

Bruch ag the Manhattan Beach Post is a must , followed by a drive up PCH in a super cute Carrera. LA has some of the most gorgeous views in the state and there is nothing like having the top down, some good music playing on my speakers with the Pacific as our backdrop!

Our ride up PCH would lead us to the Getty Villa to see an outdoor play. The most recent play I experienced at the Getty Villa was Memnon by Will Power (If you can catch it on the eastcoast… DO!).

I would round out our week with a Black Being yoga flow with RahC Yoga, hit the Playa Vista Farmers’ market for a Mocha Oxaquena from Gus’ Coffee and end the day with a a blanket and games on my balcony with a nice candle and our Flower Market finds as the centerpiece!

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?
It’s of tantamount importance to acknowledge Charles Onwuka. Charles has always championed my journey as an artist. Thank you.

Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5969524/

Instagram: @shahgranville

Image Credits
Matt Kallish
Paul Archuleta