We were lucky to catch up with Jimena Herrero recently and have shared our conversation below.
Jimena, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
I find resilience through my experiences, as each challenge has imparted valuable lessons. Moving from Mexico to New York was a significant leap for me. I left behind a theater production company that I cherished and poured my heart into, along with my family. While it was a necessary step toward my dreams, the distance can be tough.
My family and friends provide an incredible support system, always finding ways to lift my spirits—whether it’s a silly meme from a friend or a new song that resonates with me. Staying connected with them keeps me motivated and reminds me that I’m not alone on this journey.
Practicing mindfulness is essential for my well-being. I recharge by engaging in hobbies that bring me joy; you’ll often find me at the park with my dog Cornelio, lost in a good book, Im reading a fiction novel at the moment by Janet Finch. I’m also very curious, so I love exploring new museum exhibits or catching an off-Broadway show, I recommend you go see Medea Re-versed, wonderful experience. These activities ground me and inspire my creativity.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am a Mexican-born and raised actor, producer, teaching artist, and business owner. I’ve blended my biggest passions—acting, teaching, and helping others—to create a vibrant community for aspiring actors who are navigating their journeys in the industry.
While many actors start by attending college and learn invaluable skills about the craft, they often miss out on practical insights about the industry itself. This gap has become even more apparent in the wake of the pandemic, which has transformed the landscape of performing arts.
To address this, I partnered with my good friend Victor to launch Performing Arts Studio, an online acting studio designed to support emerging artists from around the world. We focus on providing tailored guidance that resonates with today’s challenges and opportunities, helping new artists find their unique place in the acting industry.
What excites me most about this venture is the chance to empower a new generation of talent, ensuring they feel equipped and confident as they step into their careers. I’m passionate about creating a supportive environment where every artist can thrive. We’re also working on some exciting new workshops and masterclasses that will be launching soon, aimed at further enhancing our community’s skills and connections.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, I believe the three most impactful qualities in my journey have been resilience, adaptability, and a passion for continuous learning.
Resilience: Navigating the ups and downs of the acting industry can be challenging. Developing resilience helped me bounce back from setbacks and stay focused on my goals. My advice for those starting out is to embrace failure as a learning opportunity. Each setback can teach you something valuable that will strengthen your resolve.
Adaptability: The landscape of the performing arts is constantly changing, especially after the pandemic. Being adaptable allows you to pivot and seize new opportunities. I encourage newcomers to stay open-minded and flexible, whether it’s exploring different styles of acting or trying new roles within the industry. The ability to adapt will keep you relevant and help you grow.
Continuous Learning: The performing arts require a commitment to honing your craft. I’ve always sought out new knowledge, whether through formal education, workshops, or simply engaging with peers. My advice is to stay curious and proactive about your learning. Attend workshops, read widely, and seek mentorship—these experiences will enrich your understanding and skills.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me as a child was to take me to the theater, even though there wasn’t any in our hometown. They recognized my passion for the arts and made the journey to Mexico City to see “Fiddler on the Roof.” I’ll never forget that moment. The experience was transformative; it opened my eyes to the magic of storytelling and the power of performance. It sparked a passion in me that has shaped my life and career ever since. I’m incredibly grateful for their support and vision, as that trip truly changed my perspective and set me on the path I’m on today. Their constant encouragement continues to inspire me, reminding me that my dreams are worth pursuing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.performingartsstudio.com
- Instagram: @jimenawithaj and @performingartsstudio_
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepaschicago
Image Credits
First and last image: www.davidnoles.com
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