Meet Charissa Buhagiar | Actress and Acting Coach

We had the good fortune of connecting with Charissa Buhagiar and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Charissa, we’d love to start by asking you about lessons learned. Is there a lesson you can share with us?
The most important lesson that my acting career has taught me is tenacity. As well as believing in myself when no one will. You have to be hungry for what you want and not let yourself get in the way. Because I’ve realized our biggest obstacle is ourself and self doubt. You have to be diligent and work like an athlete. That tough mentality mindset where nothing can stop you. So this career has taught me I can do anything.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
For me I caught the acting bug at an early age but didn’t think it was practical. I saw the movie Selena when I was a kid and instantly knew I wanted to do that. I saw a woman on the screen who actually looked like me and it was inspiring. Once I was an adult I started pursuing it. This journey is wild but I wouldn’t trade it. Acting has really taught me to listen but not with the intent to reply, to truly be present and listen to someone as well as self exploration. I’ve learned that we all start as beginners but it’s your ability and patience to say and do it 1000 times and not give up that sets you apart. To not only learn the craft but truly be in love with it. You cannot do acting and not be in love with it. The industry is way too hard for it. I want everyone to know that you can do anything you are truly passionate about if you work hard and never, I mean never, give up. Because it is always when we are ready to give up, something truly magical happens. My mindset is I can and I will. It’s not a matter of if but when.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my friend was visiting I would have a full day planned for them. First take them to breakfast at Blu Jam Cafe then head over to the Santa Monica pier and rent some bikes and ride along the coast. Take them to griffin observatory and have a lunch in the park after. Dinner time at Benihana Take them to the laugh factory for the final stop!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people and books and influences that have brought me to where I am today. I still have a long way to go but it’s happening. Honestly an acting studio called Studio 24 changed my life. They were the first ones who taught me about acting and really developed my craft. As well as The Meisner technique I recommend reading that book as well as Power of the Actor by Ivana Chubback. Also God has kept my peace during this crazy journey of acting. My family as well just keeps get excited after every audition and it’s really sweet that support me which I’m so blessed with.

Instagram: @theonlycharissa

Image Credits
@electroglow @DanaPatrick @averypeck