Being an actor or actress is no longer solely about mastering one type of role in today’s diverse and dynamic entertainment landscape. Versatility has become the golden thread for success. From navigating the spectrum of genres to effortlessly switching between mediums, adapting and captivating audiences across platforms is the key to longevity and impact.
It is especially true in the present, where content consumption is at an all-time high, and audiences crave authenticity and representation in their stories. A versatile actress expands her artistry and becomes an efficient connector, weaving narratives that resonate with a broader spectrum of experiences.
Just take a look at Los Angeles-based Colombian actress and singer Mariana Sanjuan. Her repertoire ranges from performing in musicals, to music videos like “She’s A Siren”, “Be Happy,” and “It’s a Girl: by Mery Diamondz”. In addition, Mariana’s repertoire includes numerous short films, and web series. Talk about range. Specifically, in the past four years, Mariana has acted in over 15 short films, some of them award-winning shorts in distinguished film festivals.
Mariana also had the pleasure of working in an industrial (a type of commercial video production focusing on the details of an industry product, service, or technique required for successful business operations) for one of the top 25 video production companies in Los Angeles: Local Eyes Productions. She played Amanda, a patient dealing with mental health issues who meets a Community Healthcare Worker to get better.
One thing about Mariana’s performances is that she integrates some of her heritage and culture into them, making the role her own, and that’s often rare in the entertainment industry.
As a bilingual actress, Mariana’s work immediately stood out. Having an actress that could smoothly transition from one language to the other was an invaluable asset to have on set. Not only this skill granted Mariana’s character to have richer life. Moreover, it was an intrinsic ability needed in the making if this industrial. Thus, her participation allowed the industrial to successfully impact its targeted audience.
Mariana’s colourful career is also abundant in recognitions and awards, as fitting for her ground-breaking dedication to the craft. One of her notable performances is “Alone” by Roy Shellef. It was an award-winning short in both the Port Blair International Film Festival (2021) and the Vesuvius International Film Festival (2021) and screened at the distinctive Phoenix HorrorCon (2021).
There’s also “The Heartbeat Act” by Anahi G. Luna, where Mariana plays Claudia, a young woman who finds herself in an abortion centre after being sexually assaulted by her teacher. Her character is frightened and conflicted about her decision, but after encountering two other women and witnessing their empathy and strength in such a complicated situation, she finds a sense of belonging and comfort by their side.
If there’s one thing viewers should know about Mariana, she plays meaningful roles that serve as a platform for communities to tell their stories and raise awareness about social issues.
“Heartbeat” is a letter of hope to stop injustice and discrimination, fight for women’s rights, and showcase the importance of sisterhood. Selected in esteemed film festivals such as the California Women’s Film Festival (2022), Dallas Independent Film Festival (2023), the Los Angeles Women in Film Festival (2023), and the esteemed International Film Festival: Hollywood Art and Movie Awards (2024).
Mariana’s achievements speak for themselves: awards, accolades, the whole package. But her true driving force isn’t the trophy case; it’s a hunger to share humanity’s raw, layered beauty in today’s world. As she hones her craft and pushes boundaries, one thing’s clear: Mariana has a dazzling future ahead, lighting up stages and screens at home and beyond.
Published By: Aize Perez
