JULEE CERDA: Balancing Motherhood and Broadway's Othello

Julie Cerda, a seasoned actor known for roles in *Blindspot*, *Orange Is the New Black*, and *Homeland*, shares her journey of balancing motherhood with a thriving career in both New York and London. After a five-year plan to stay in New York fell through, she made the bold decision to relocate to London during the pandemic, leveraging the shift to self-tapes to maintain her career while raising her daughter. She discusses the challenges of auditioning remotely, the emotional toll of theater versus the intimacy of film, and how motherhood has reshaped her approach to time and auditions. Despite the constraints of parenting and a reduced window for preparation, she emphasizes trust in her instincts, the power of strong point-of-view tapes, and the importance of guided practice. Julie also reflects on the mental resilience required in acting, the joy of collaboration, and her evolving identity as an artist, writer, and mother. Her story is one of adaptability, authenticity, and quiet perseverance in the face of industry shifts and personal demands. Key takeaways include: 1) Trust your instincts—self-tape success comes from confidence, not perfection; 2) Motherhood changes your audition game—time is scarce, so focus on strong point-of-view takes; 3) Use your environment creatively—whether camping in England or filming in Rome, make it work; 4) Self-tape is a storytelling tool—mirror your script analysis with framing and composition; 5) Guided practice is essential—join communities like The Bridge for Actors to stay sharp; 6) It’s not personal—casting decisions are about fit, not your worth; 7) Celebrate the journey, not just the job—logistics often come before joy; 8) You’re not behind—balancing a career and a child means building two legacies, which takes time.