DANIELA LUGO

When did it all start?

My passion for the performing arts ignited when I was just eight years old, a flame that continues to burn brightly within me. I can still vividly recall the transformative moment when I first watched “The Phantom of the Opera” and felt an undeniable calling to pursue acting. From that point onward, I eagerly delved into dancing, singing, and acting classes at various studios, nurturing my skills and nurturing the dream of a future career in the arts.

In 2006, the release of “High School Musical” served as a catalyst for my creative aspirations. I would organize concerts at home for my parents and their friends, orchestrating my own productions of the show with the help of my enthusiastic friends. As a seven-year-old, I eagerly prepared the set, lights, and sound to the best of my abilities, immersing myself in the joy of performing.

In 2016, I experienced one of the most unforgettable moments of my life when I had the opportunity to appear in Alfonso Cuarón’s film “ROMA.” It was during this time that I realized my desire to pivot towards the film industry as an actress, recognizing the immense power of storytelling through this medium. Prior to my journey to New York City, I had the privilege of participating in numerous professional musicals in Mexico, including notable productions such as “The Producers,” “Shrek The Musical,” “Sweet Charity,” “PIPPIN,” “R&H Cinderella,” and “Evita.”

Following my discovery of true passion and purpose in acting and filmmaking, I made the life-changing decision to relocate to the United States in 2017. In my pursuit of excellence, I sought training at esteemed institutions such as “The American Academy of Dramatic Arts,” “Stella Adler,” “Broadway Dance Center,” and “Steps on Broadway.” These invaluable experiences have provided me with a solid foundation and have contributed to my growth as an artist.

My journey in the performing arts has been shaped by determination, dedication, and a ceaseless hunger for personal and artistic development. I am grateful for the opportunities that have come my way and remain committed to honing my craft and bringing compelling stories to life through acting and filmmaking.

If you were an advertisement, what would your slogan be?

Take a leap of faith and give it a shot

What does your career mean to you?

Acting has been ingrained in my soul for as long as I can remember. It is a passion that courses through my veins, intertwining with my very essence. The world of acting and filmmaking holds a profound place in my heart, representing two of the great loves of my life.

The thought of doing anything else feels inconceivable to me, for I have discovered my purpose within this industry. I am driven by an unwavering determination to continue forging ahead, constantly pushing the boundaries to realize my own happiness and fulfill my dreams.

Words cannot adequately express the depth of my gratitude for the opportunity to pursue my passion professionally in the vibrant landscape of Los Angeles. It is a city that thrives on creativity and possibilities, providing a platform for individuals like myself to flourish and bring stories to life. Each day, I am filled with appreciation for the path I have chosen, knowing that I am on the right course to make a meaningful impact in this captivating world of acting and filmmaking.

What is your main motivation?

 I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support and love of my parents. From the very beginning, they have stood by my side, embracing and encouraging every choice I’ve made. I often find myself overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of their presence in my life and the impact they have had on shaping the person I am today.

Words alone cannot capture the depth of my appreciation for their unwavering commitment and belief in me. They are the bedrock of my existence, providing me with a solid foundation to navigate the challenges and triumphs of my journey. Their unconditional love and support serve as a constant source of motivation, propelling me forward and reminding me of the importance of pursuing my dreams.

I consider myself immensely blessed to have such incredible parents. Their guidance, wisdom, and unwavering presence have been a guiding light, illuminating my path and instilling in me the confidence to pursue my passions. I will forever cherish their selflessness and the immeasurable impact they have had on my life.

In their unwavering love and support, I find solace, strength, and a boundless source of inspiration. I am truly fortunate to have them as my pillars of support, and I will continue to strive every day to make them proud.

What is the part you enjoy the most? And the worst?

As an artist, there is an unparalleled sense of joy and fulfillment that comes from the ability to ignite emotions and create transformative experiences for my audience. Whether it’s stepping onto the stage, fully embodying a character, or bringing stories to life on the big screen, my ultimate goal is to leave a lasting impact and evoke emotions that resonate deeply within others. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to transport people into new worlds and elicit genuine smiles from their faces. Particularly during challenging times, the arts possess a remarkable ability to uplift and inspire, and I feel honored to be a part of that transformative process.

However, it is important to acknowledge that the journey of an actor is not without its challenges. It is a demanding career path, one that requires unwavering patience and resilience. The entertainment industry can be full of setbacks and rejections, often inundating us with numerous “NOs.” In such moments, it becomes imperative to believe in oneself and nurture an unwavering self-confidence. If we don’t believe in our own abilities, it becomes difficult for others to do so. It is a journey that calls for patience, determination, and the willingness to persevere against the odds.

Yet, amidst the obstacles and uncertainties, I firmly believe that nothing is truly impossible. The power of our dreams and aspirations can propel us forward, allowing us to transcend limitations and achieve remarkable feats. With unwavering dedication and a steadfast belief in our abilities, we have the capacity to overcome challenges and carve out our own path to success. The road may be arduous, but with patience, resilience, and an unwavering belief in ourselves, we can defy the odds and create the extraordinary.

So, I embrace the imperfections of this journey, knowing that they are part of the process. I remain steadfast in my belief that with passion, perseverance, and an unshakable commitment to my craft, I can navigate the challenges and turn impossibilities into realities.

Who are your idols?

Salma Hayek, Eiza Gonzalez, Alfonso Cuaron, Alejandro Iñárritu, and Guillermo del Toro are towering figures in the film industry who have had a profound impact on me. As a Mexican, I am immensely proud of their accomplishments and the way they have paved the way for the Latinx community in Hollywood. Their talent, dedication, and unyielding commitment to storytelling have not only earned them accolades but also amplified the voices of underrepresented communities.

These influential individuals have not only achieved remarkable success but have also used their platform to tell stories that celebrate their heritage and culture. They have shattered barriers and challenged stereotypes, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Their achievements inspire me to follow in their footsteps and create narratives that authentically represent my own background and heritage.

Recently, I was fortunate enough to book my first off-Broadway play, “Octopus in Its Own Ink,” which tells a Latin story that deserves to be heard. It is a project that carries the weight of representation and aims to contribute to the rich tapestry of diverse voices in the theatrical landscape. In my own small way, I hope to contribute to the legacy of greatness established by these remarkable figures.

My aspirations reach high, and I dream of achieving the same level of greatness as Salma Hayek, Eiza Gonzalez, Alfonso Cuaron, Alejandro Iñárritu, and Guillermo del Toro. They have shown me that it is possible to break barriers, create meaningful art, and make a lasting impact. With their achievements as my guiding lights, I am committed to working tirelessly, honing my craft, and contributing my unique perspective to the film industry.

In case you need a break in your career, what else would you like to do?

I have always held a deep passion for event planning, particularly when it comes to organizing special celebrations such as weddings, quinceañeras, and sweet sixteen parties. The opportunity to be a part of someone’s unforgettable day brings me immense joy and fulfillment.

The process of creating and coordinating these events is a true labor of love for me. From envisioning the overall theme and atmosphere to meticulously arranging every detail, I thrive on the creative challenge of turning a vision into a reality. It is a privilege to work closely with individuals and families, understanding their unique desires and aspirations, and weaving them into a memorable experience.

Bringing together all the elements, from selecting the perfect venue to curating a delightful menu, designing stunning decor, and ensuring seamless coordination, is both an art and a science. It requires careful organization, attention to detail, and the ability to anticipate and handle any unexpected situations that may arise.

The satisfaction of seeing the joy and happiness on the faces of those celebrating their special day is truly priceless. Being able to contribute to their cherished memories, knowing that I played a part in creating those unforgettable moments, is incredibly rewarding.

As I continue to pursue my passion for event planning, I am committed to honing my skills, staying abreast of the latest trends, and always striving to exceed expectations. Whether it’s a wedding, a quinceañera, or any other milestone celebration, my goal is to ensure that each event is a seamless, remarkable experience that reflects the unique essence and dreams of those being celebrated.

I look forward to continuing this journey of creating extraordinary events and making cherished memories for people on their most special days.

Do you consider that nowadays there are more or less opportunities for new artists? Why?

In the midst of a rapidly changing world, it is encouraging to witness the gradual opening of eyes and minds, and the growing recognition that representation matters profoundly. With the benefit of my personal experiences as a Latina woman in Hollywood, I can attest to the shifting landscape and the increasing opportunities that are emerging in the industry.

Gone are the days when I believed I would be limited to playing stereotypical roles. I have been pleasantly surprised by the diversity of characters and narratives that have come my way since I moved to the United States. Hollywood has defied my expectations and provided me with the chance to be part of projects on both stage and screen that seek to empower women and represent various ethnicities equally.

While there may still be exceptions to this progress, as a society, we are steadily moving towards positive change. The entertainment industry is beginning to recognize the importance of embracing and celebrating diversity in all its forms. It is through this inclusivity that we foster a sense of empowerment and create opportunities for talented individuals from around the world to shine.

Looking ahead, I envision a Hollywood ten years from now that continues to champion and empower people from diverse backgrounds. I believe we will witness a significant shift in the narratives we see on screen, as more stories reflect the rich tapestry of humanity. The industry will continue to evolve, with increased representation and opportunities for individuals from all walks of life.

This transformation will not only benefit the artists themselves, but also audiences worldwide, who will have the opportunity to connect with a broader range of stories and experiences. By embracing the power of storytelling as a means of breaking down barriers, Hollywood will play a pivotal role in promoting empathy, understanding, and unity among people from different cultures and backgrounds.

As we move forward, it is essential that we continue to push for progress and hold the industry accountable. By fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment, we can create a future where every individual, regardless of their background, is given a platform to shine. Together, we can shape a Hollywood that truly reflects the diverse and beautiful world we live in.

What would your idyllic life be like?

For me, an idyllic life would revolve around being in close proximity to my family, whether that be in Mexico or the United States. The love and support of my family have been integral to my journey, and having them nearby would bring me a deep sense of happiness and fulfillment.

In terms of my professional aspirations, I envision a life where I have the opportunity to both produce and act in projects that bring joy to people’s lives. Being able to create work that resonates with audiences, evokes emotions, and allows them to momentarily disconnect from reality would be immensely gratifying. The ability to touch people’s hearts and bring a smile to their faces through my craft is something I strive for.

In this idyllic life, I would have the privilege of working on projects that enable me to connect with diverse audiences, transcending cultural and societal boundaries. Through storytelling, I would have the power to uplift, inspire, and bring about positive change.

Additionally, finding a balance between my personal and professional life would be crucial. This would entail dedicating quality time to nurturing my relationships, pursuing hobbies and passions outside of the industry, and taking care of my physical and mental well-being. Creating space for self-care and maintaining a harmonious equilibrium between my personal and professional spheres would be essential for long-term happiness and fulfillment.

Ultimately, an idyllic life for me would encompass the love and support of my family, the ability to create meaningful work that brings joy to others, and the balance to enjoy a fulfilling personal life. It is through these elements that I believe I can lead a life that is purposeful, meaningful, and filled with happiness.

What are your next projects?

Currently, I am immersed in the production of a compelling short film in Mexico that delves into the challenges of leaving one’s homeland to pursue the elusive American Dream. Titled “The March of the Penguins” (La Marcha de los pingüinos), this film holds a mirror to the complexities and hardships individuals face when making such life-altering decisions. I am thrilled to share that it will have its premiere in Mexico this July, with distribution planned across Latin America and the United States. I hope this poignant story resonates with audiences and sparks meaningful conversations.

In addition to “The March of the Penguins,” I am bursting with excitement to discuss my latest venture, a delightful short film called “THE WIFI DATE.” This comedic gem revolves around a hilarious romantic misunderstanding and is set to premiere in June right here in Los Angeles. I can hardly contain my anticipation as I eagerly await the moment when you all can join me in enjoying this laughter-inducing tale.

Expanding the reach of our projects is another source of incredible joy for me. “The March of the Penguins” and “THE WIFI DATE” are not limited to local screenings; they will be distributed in various countries worldwide. From Italy and Spain to Mexico, Colombia, Portugal, and beyond, our stories will travel far and wide, transcending borders and language barriers. It’s truly awe-inspiring to witness the positive trajectory of my career and the opportunities that continue to unfold.

And last, but certainly not least, I am honored to be part of an extraordinary play called “OCTOPUS IN ITS OWN INK” by Eduardo Vega. Taking on the role of “Pertita” is a privilege I hold dear. Our opening night is scheduled for June at the esteemed Hudson Theatre in Los Angeles, and I eagerly anticipate the collective experience we will share with our audience.

These remarkable projects and the creative journey I find myself on are a testament to the dedication and hard work I have poured into my craft. I am humbled and grateful for the wonderful opportunities that have come my way. It is with enthusiasm and a deep sense of appreciation that I invite you all to join me on this incredible ride, whether it be through the silver screen, the theater stage, or the power of storytelling that connects us all.