Ania Danylo – A Multifaceted Talent in Theatre and Literature

Ania Danylo’s career spans over 25 years, impacting theatre and literature with her diverse talents.

Ania Danylo discusses her multifaceted career in theatre and literature, balancing roles as an educator, director, and writer, while incorporating hypnotherapy and collaborating with illustrators to create engaging children’s books.

Ania Danylo is a name that stands out in the worlds of theatre and literature, celebrated for her remarkable versatility and creativity. With over 25 years of experience, she has made significant contributions as an actor, director, writer, and instructor. Her extensive career has allowed her to bring to life an impressive range of productions, from the emotionally charged “The Diary of Anne Frank” to the whimsical “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” As a director, Ania has skillfully navigated the complexities of various Shakespearean plays and other classics, showcasing her talent for drawing out the best performances from her cast and crew. Additionally, her dedication to the arts is evident in her role as an educator, where she has inspired countless students, many of whom have gone on to achieve success and recognition in their own right.

Ania’s foray into children’s literature is a natural extension of her storytelling abilities. Her delightful books, including “The Elephant’s Christmas Wish” and “Zolemina: The Should Do, Could Do, Would Do Cat,” are crafted with care and creativity, engaging young readers with enchanting rhymes and imaginative narratives. These works reflect her deep understanding of narrative structure and character development—skills she has honed through her extensive theatre background. Ania’s ability to create captivating stories for children is reminiscent of the charm found in the works of iconic authors like Shel Silverstein and Jack Prelutsky, yet they possess a distinctiveness that is entirely her own. Notably, her books also offer coloring book versions, inviting young readers to interact creatively with the stories, making the reading experience even more engaging.

In an interview with Reader’s House magazine, Ania shared insights about how her extensive experience in theatre has profoundly influenced her approach to writing children’s literature. She explains that both directing and acting revolve around the art of storytelling, a skill she has mastered throughout her career. “Understanding how to build tension, create conflicts, and craft satisfying resolutions is essential for creating compelling narratives in children’s picture books,” she notes. Her theatrical background has equipped her with the tools necessary for developing characters, pacing, rhythm, and emotional resonance—elements crucial for crafting engaging tales for young audiences.

Balancing multiple roles—educator, director, and writer—has become a hallmark of Ania’s career. She finds that each aspect informs and enriches the others in invaluable ways. “When I’m working on a project, I often find myself drawing on skills from each of these roles,” she explains. For example, when writing a picture book, she may adopt a director’s perspective, imagining how the story could be staged. As an educator, she considers how the narrative can serve to teach or inspire her young readers. Ania emphasizes the importance of time management, setting clear goals, and remaining adaptable to effectively juggle these diverse responsibilities.

Transitioning from theatre to screen has introduced Ania to a new set of challenges and insights. She articulates the fundamental differences between the two mediums, noting that theatre is akin to speaking into a megaphone, whereas film requires a more subtle approach. “Film is more visual and less dependent on the spoken word,” she explains, highlighting the significance of an actor’s eyes in conveying emotions and depth of character. In contrast, theatre offers a more immersive experience where the storyline takes center stage. Despite these differences, Ania embraces the unique qualities of both mediums, allowing them to shape and enhance her creative process.

In addition to her work in theatre and literature, Ania is a certified hypnotherapist and experienced acting coach. She incorporates her understanding of the mind and emotions into her teaching and directing, helping her students and actors reach their full potential and deliver captivating performances. Creating a relaxed atmosphere with a touch of humor is essential for Ania, as it fosters an environment where actors feel safe to take risks and explore their craft. She firmly believes that confidence is key to success in acting, public speaking, and storytelling.

Ania’s collaborations with illustrators have further enriched her literary journey. Working with illustrator Remi Bryant on “The Elephant’s Christmas Wish” proved to be a rewarding experience, not only in bringing Felix the elephant’s journey to life but also in learning about self-publishing. Ania’s strong vision for the book’s aesthetic, cultivated through her directing background, guided their collaboration. She faced challenges, such as time zone differences and the cost of printing full-color illustrations, but found the process both enjoyable and educational. Her subsequent work with illustrator David Griffiths on “Zolemina: The Should Do, Could Do, Would Do Cat” was equally fulfilling, culminating in a book that continues to delight young readers.

Ania Danylo’s multifaceted career stands as a testament to her passion for storytelling and her ability to inspire audiences of all ages. Her journey is ongoing, and her contributions to the arts are sure to leave a lasting impact on those who encounter her work.