Today we’d like to introduce you to Abigail Cisneros. They and their team shared their story with us below:
Although many know her as “Abigail Guerrero” in the acting industry, her full name is Laura Abigail Cisneros, and most students refer to her as “Miss Abi.” Abigail is a film and stage actress, director, and singer. She started her journey in the arts at a very early age, always dancing, singing, and “performing” for loved ones. She loved taking Jazz, Hip-Hop, and Folklorico dance classes and quickly realized that music was a passion. With vocal training as the foundation of her career and knowing a few instruments, she began songwriting. For years, she wrote, sang, and performed music. She trained vocally under Sonya Florie in Texas. At 13, she participated in a televised vocal competition, “Our Part of Town,” in the 13-18-year-old category and won first place.
One day, the vocal director for the stage production of “Tarzan” reached out to her and invited her to audition in a nearby city. Her first thought was “no way,” given that she had no experience with acting, only vocals and dance. However, she took the risk and landed the lead role of “Jane.” A new passion was born through this role, in which she had to learn the British dialect and the ins and outs of stage Theatre. After this production, Abigail starred in over 12 more musicals at different Theaters in the lead and supporting roles. Through her training in Musical Theatre, she learned from Derek Klena, Britney Coleman, Tony Award winner Matt Doyle, and the choreographer of “Hamilton.” When she started a family, she decided to take on fewer projects and taught Theatre Arts at a Middle School for ages 11-15. Throughout her teaching years, she directed several musicals and plays, winning 1st place in the district UIL two years in a row, among other awards. She was also nominated as one of the Top 5 teachers in Texas by “Teachers of Tomorrow.” After dedicating much time to stage productions, Abigail received her BFA in Theatre with an emphasis in Film Acting and Directing. Through the classes she took and mentors, she learned important acting techniques derived from legendary professionals such as Meisner and Stanislavsky. She eventually got picked up by an agent (we teach you all about agencies at our studio) and started auditing for roles in the Film industry. Being bilingual, she was able to book jobs that catered to a variety of audiences. She booked several Spanish commercials that have been streamed through networks such as Univision and Telemundo (some still air today!), some English commercials, a few short films, and feature films with iconic costars such as Corey Feldman, Georgina Reilly, Brian George, and more. After studying under several acting coaches, working in different films, and working as a Casting Director in the industry, she believes she finally found what she calls the “Golden Recipe” to what makes a great actor and the needed training. This drew her to create the classes she offers at Nova Arts. There is no wasting time or money here. Sometimes, the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life; you can take your first step at Nova Arts Studio!
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has been a challenging road. There were obstacles to starting this business, such as finding the right space/location to start this journey. I wanted it to be a place that felt like an excellent first home, allowing me to serve the community I wanted to serve. As a first-time and full-time mother, I also found it challenging to juggle running a full-time business while caring for my little one. At the end of the day, though, I am fulfilling my purpose and passions as an entrepreneur, artist, and mother, and I am very thankful.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Most of this can be found in my first response to this questionnaire or on my website: www.nova-arts-studio.com. However, what I am most proud of is the students who are currently training at my studio. This is the next generation of world changers, creative artists, and magic makers. They are the heart of my studio as its roots are sprouting, and they are already leaving a legacy as they grow artistically through the training I offer and book professional jobs as actors in the Film Industry. What sets me apart from others is my passion and experience. I have been in this industry long enough to know the golden rules and the right routes for this craft of acting. Many acting studios take advantage of families new to the industry and only do it for the income. However, I do it for my students. Suppose I see potential, commitment, and a dream. I welcome them in, and we work as a family to make it happen without wasting time or money. San Antonio and surrounding cities have so many gems of talent, and a film acting studio was much needed for them.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Diversity, Collaboration, Empathy, and Consistency.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.nova-arts-studio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nova_arts_studio/?igshid=YmMyMTA2MY%3D
- Facebook: Nova Arts Acting Studio
