I was born in New York City into a family of artists. My parents, actors Olympia Dukakis and Louis Zorich, were early members of The Williamstown Theater Festival and founding members of The Whole Theater Company in Montclair, New Jersey; where our family later took up residence.  These two artists communities deeply shaped and informed my development. 

 

My earliest memories were of rehearsals, production meetings, performances and social gatherings constantly surrounded and amongst talented writers, actors, directors, designers and other members of these theatrical communities. My first time on stage was their charter production at The Whole theater in Thorton Wilder's Pulitzer winning play, Our Town; playing George's younger sister, Rebecca Gibbs.

 

This experience birthed that moment of destiny many speak of: where you just know you're called to something.  For me, I was up on that ladder in the first act with George, reciting Wilder's gorgeous dialogue, contemplating "the mind of God." 

 

The theater was home and almost church to me, then.  Acting was my first love and everyone I cared about was there. My love of acting and the stage developed throughout the years into a passion for photography, teaching acting, directing, producing and filmmaking. 

 

At a young age, from the back of dark theaters; I learned the power of the artist to shape, influence and liberate the human mind and heart. For, indeed, it was my story, as well!