OLIVIIA TCARGUSH

Which is the part you enjoy the most about acting?

Acting is like jumping into a new world every time you take on a role! It’s about getting to tell stories that matter and becoming the voice that brings those tales to life. There’s something incredibly cool about diving into a character, picking apart all the tiny things that make them unique —the way they talk, walk, and even their quirks.

When you’re playing someone who’s nothing like you, it’s like being a detective, piecing together who they are. You get to do all this research and really get under their skin. It’s about finding that little bit of them that’s also in you and then blowing that up into a full-blown character.

Every part of the process is its own adventure, and honestly, each piece is as awesome as the next. They all come together to make this wild universe that we, as actors, are super lucky to be a part of. It’s not just about changing into someone else but really getting into the nitty-gritty of a new persona. That’s what’s so fascinating about acting.

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

My slogan would be “Through the Lens of Emerald Eyes: Bilingual, Unstoppable, and Smiling on Every Step of the Journey.”

You have trained with some of the best acting coaches and schools. How important is training for you?

Training holds immense importance for me. Even before I obtained my acting degrees in Los Angeles, I recognized the necessity of training as a vital guide in my career. Acting demands a profound self-awareness – understanding fears, strengths, joys, and vulnerabilities. It’s a journey to know oneself entirely. Doing this alone can be challenging; sometimes, it’s hard to push oneself as diligently as someone else can. Particularly at 18, having mentors and structured training is crucial.

Training is not just about classroom learning; it’s about expanding knowledge and exposure. Spending time in libraries, discussing with professors, and engaging with industry professionals provides insights. Human connection is intrinsic to acting, and learning directly from experienced coaches is invaluable.

For me, overcoming language barriers was a significant aspect of training. Coming from Russia, my accent posed a challenge. Through training, I learned various dialects and accents, expanding my vocabulary and acting range. Learning to use a standard American accent was transformative, enhancing my versatility as an actress.

Witnessing fellow actors on similar journeys, navigating their creative paths, is inspiring. Collaboration in a training environment fosters communication, creating a community of artists striving to improve. The ongoing need for guidance and coaching persists even with degrees and experience. Acting is subjective; what feels right may appear different to an audience. Training provides the essential external perspective to align intention with perception.

In essence, training is an ongoing necessity. Regardless of degrees and achievements, actors benefit from continuous learning, guidance, and the expertise of coaches and industry professionals. It’s a collaborative effort to refine one’s craft and navigate the intricacies of the ever-evolving world of acting.

Has there been one particular moment in your career that you’re most proud of?

I will say that I feel like this one particular moment has to be something big and life-changing in the most beautiful and incredible way possible, so I want to hold onto this answer. Nevertheless, I am very proud of my strong work ethic and the progress I’ve made in my career. Every day, I show up for myself, work hard, and strive to be the best version of me. It’s an ongoing journey, and while I anticipate bigger moments in the future, my consistent effort is a source of pride.

If you were not an actor on stage and screen, what would you like to do?

My adventurous nature would undoubtedly lead me to a career as an archaeologist or an adventurer. Inspired by childhood memories of Indiana Jones, I have an immense interest in exploring the wonders of our world, uncovering its secrets, and delving into the rich history. However, the beauty of being an actress is that I can play whoever I want. I am grateful for the opportunity to bring to life fearless and adventurous characters on screen, and I’m hopeful that one day, I’ll have the chance to portray one of these captivating roles.

Most artists say that through their art they learn more about themselves… How has your job helped you?

Yes, that is absolutely true! It’s important to know yourself and your emotions intimately so you can summon them in a matter of seconds, especially for on-camera work where each shot demands fresh, full energy. That’s why understanding your strengths, fears, obsessions, secrets, and the things that make you genuinely happy is crucial. It’s certainly intimidating, but that’s what I love about acting—it makes you fearless because you have to confront your fears every single day, or you won’t be able to tell the story. As an artist, I’m very hard on myself, and there’s no way I’ll let any fears prevent me from telling the story authentically. I’ve been acting since I was a child, learning so much about emotions and how to regulate them properly. My first significant milestone in overcoming fear was incredibly rewarding—at the age of 12, I received my very first award, a golden statue for Best Actress of the Theatre Year in 2013 in ‘Yeralash.’ Since then, I’ve realized that everything you desire lies on the other side of your fear. Each time acting challenges me to face my fears, I grow as a person, and it makes me a better storyteller because every fear I conquer opens a new door.

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

I believe there are always plenty of opportunities for new artists; it all comes down to the desire to seek them out. Everything worthwhile is meant to be challenging at times! However, if you consistently show up for yourself and put in the work, opportunities will come your way in geometric progression.

What would your idyllic life be like?

I prefer to discuss achievements once they’re accomplished, but generally speaking, an idyllic life for me would be one where I can engage in what I love every single day. It would be a life filled with abundant opportunities to support others and promote love, because that’s what I stand for—I’m all about love and connecting people with each other.

Which are your upcoming projects?

The project I haven’t mentioned yet is under a non-disclosure agreement, so stay tuned! I’d love to share more when it is out!