Celebrity Travel: Go away with Loren Escandón
Loren Escandón said that working on the film “Shirley” was a life-changing experience for her. “First and foremost, I have to emphasize that anyone unfamiliar with the incredible story of [the first-ever Black congresswoman] Shirley Chisholm must watch this movie,” the Colombian actress and filmmaker said from her Los Angeles home. “Personally, I was unaware of her until the audition landed in my lap. From that moment, I knew I couldn't let this learning opportunity slip away. What truly made the experience unforgettable was the camaraderie among the cast. Sharing moments with artists like Regina King, Terrence Howard and the late Lance Reddick was both humbling and inspiring. Despite the chaos of a bustling set and the added hurdle of unpredictable weather, each actor remained deeply committed to their craft.” Escandón – who may also be seen in “The Baxters” – shares more about her work and travels in Instagram, X and Threads (username @lorenescandon).
Q: Were there any obstacles to overcome while filming “Shirley”?
A: Filming on location presented unexpected challenges and opportunities. I vividly recall a rainy day in L.A. – a rare event in the city's usually sunny climate. While I can't say definitively whether our plans changed, the weather certainly had its say, reshaping the scene in unexpected ways. Witnessing director John Ridley adapt seamlessly to the rain was a masterclass in artistic flexibility. The scene we filmed was charged with emotion, featuring a large ensemble of background actors and palpable tension. Being on location amidst the elements lent an authenticity that simply can't be replicated on a soundstage. The rain added a layer of desperation and despair to both the protesters and my character, Rose. [It enriched] the scene with depth.
Q: Has your ethnicity or nationality impacted your career?
A: Initially, it felt like a constant struggle, a battle between my career aspirations and my sense of self. Whether in the United States or in my native Colombia, I often felt unseen, underrepresented and underestimated. Over time, I've come to see my ethnicity not as an obstacle, but as a source of strength. I've made a conscious effort to defy stereotypes and challenge societal biases wherever I go. It's become a personal mission of mine to dismantle both conscious and unconscious prejudices that society holds against individuals like me.
Navigating my career across different countries has heightened my awareness of the value my perspective brings to my art. My ethnicity and race inform my viewpoint in profound ways, adding depth and richness to my creative expression. Embracing my cultural identity has not only shaped my artistic journey but has also empowered me to advocate for diversity and inclusion in the creative industry.
Q: Do you have any upcoming trips planned?
A: Yes, and I'm incredibly excited about it. I'll be visiting Portugal. It's fascinating because it feels like the country is calling out to me in some inexplicable way. Despite having other destinations on my list, Portugal has been appearing in my dreams and conversations with an unusual frequency. Sometimes, I wonder if it's an ancestral calling, considering Portugal's historical role in the transatlantic slave trade. It might sound a bit hoodoo, but I can't shake off this feeling. I'm eager to immerse myself in Portuguese culture, learn a little of the language, indulge in delicious seafood and experience the soul-stirring music of Fado in a local bar while sipping on a glass of Porto wine and probably crying a little. And, of course, I can't wait to explore the beautiful landscapes during hiking adventures.
Q: What is your favorite vacation destination?
A: South Africa. Our journey took us from the vibrant capital of Johannesburg, to the immersive natural wonders of Hluhluwe, and finally to the captivating city of Cape Town, where we reached the continent's southernmost peak. My experience in South Africa was nothing short of magical when discussing identity and grappling with societal biases.
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