Elena’s Artist’s Statement
I work in socially diverse communities to unlock potential — especially where it feels out of reach. Through performance in both mainstream theatre venues and site-specific settings, I create work that champions change and opens pathways to new beginnings around pressing social issues. My practice in Applied Arts is rooted in empowerment: supporting individuals to express themselves creatively, to be heard, and to experience a genuine sense of belonging — particularly in times of challenge and transition.
‘OPENSIDE’ A Performance Story About Rugby And Women’s Freedom.
OPENSIDE challenges the negative stigma surrounding women’s participation in physical sport, reframing the narrative to celebrate strength, resilience, and community. Through this project, Elena spotlights the powerful connection between sport and women’s mental health — advocating for participation not only as physical activity, but as empowerment.
This work is deeply personal. During a pivotal time in her own life, rugby became a source of stability, confidence, and belonging. It provided strength when it was needed most — both mentally and physically.
With OPENSIDE, Elena encourages women to reclaim space within sport, to challenge limiting narratives, and to recognise that they, too, can redefine their story.
Technovirus
Commissioned through York Theatre Royal, Elena collaborated with eight inspiring Year 10 students at Joseph Rowntree School on a devised project exploring the impact of the pandemic and the rise of technology and social media on young people today. The process was both dynamic and deeply rewarding. The students brought exceptional teamwork, honesty, and energy to the rehearsal room, creating a space that felt open, supportive, and creatively ambitious. Together, they crafted a performance that resonated strongly with audiences. The positive response from York Theatre Royal, the students and their families, as well as her lecturers and peers, was incredibly affirming. The initial concept was inspired by a personal experience within her own family. Following the pandemic, a close relative developed anxiety linked to prolonged isolation and reduced social interaction, leading to an increased reliance on their phone. This real-life context grounded the work in authenticity and care, allowing the project to sensitively explore themes of connection, disconnection, and the lasting effects of a global crisis on youth wellbeing.
Her Home-Her Story-Her Voice.
Foundations is a powerful site-specific performance that amplifies the lived experiences of women and girls, exploring the complex transition from adolescence to adulthood. Staged within a domestic setting, the work transforms a house into an intimate performance landscape, guiding audiences on an immersive and interactive journey.
Blending audio recordings, spoken word, and live performance, Foundations creates space for stories that are often unheard — advocating for visibility, validation, and voice. The audience is not simply a spectator, but an active participant, invited into moments of reflection, conversation, and thoughtful response.
At its core, Foundations is a call to listen — to honour the narratives of women and girls, and to recognise the strength, vulnerability, and resilience embedded within their everyday experiences.
Scare Acting
In October 2021, Elena worked as a scare actor at a Halloween music festival in Bedford — an experience that significantly strengthened her physicality, characterisation, and improvisational performance skills. Performing in a high-energy, large-scale environment required stamina, precision, and the ability to respond instinctively to live audience reactions.
This role sharpened Elena’s understanding of immersive performance and audience engagement, skills that she now transfers directly into her facilitation practice. Working at scale enhanced her confidence in leading dynamic workshops and devising bold, impactful performance work, particularly within interactive and site-responsive settings.
Youth Theatre
On Wednesday evenings, she worked with York Theatre Royal Youth Theatre, supporting two age groups: 11–14 and 14–19. Assisting within these sessions strengthened her facilitation skills and deepened her understanding of working with young performers at different stages of their creative development.
This experience significantly enriched her practitioner toolkit — from planning and delivery to responsive leadership within the rehearsal space. It also strengthened her passion for creative outreach with children and young people, reaffirming her commitment to accessible, inclusive arts practice.
As she progresses into her MA, she intends to continue her work with York Theatre Royal to further refine her practice, expand her experience, and continue learning within a dynamic professional theatre environment.
Theatre Train Bedford
During her deferred year from university, Elena worked as a Drama Teacher with Theatre Train in Bedford. This role was instrumental in shaping her practice, consistently challenging her to adapt, lead with confidence, and respond creatively to new situations. Theatre Train’s ethos — encouraging students to believe in themselves, achieve their ambitions, and exceed expectations — strongly aligned with her own values as a facilitator. She embedded this philosophy into her sessions, using positive reinforcement to strengthen purpose, nurture confidence, and cultivate a supportive ensemble environment. Working collaboratively with fellow practitioners, she co-devised a large-scale performance for the iconic Royal Albert Hall. The process was both exhilarating and demanding, requiring resilience, teamwork, and clear artistic vision. It remains a defining experience that deepened her understanding of large-scale performance making and the transformative power of ambitious creative opportunities.