Meet Rani Apodaca from New York City, who has lived in Los Angeles and is currently bi-coastal, and is very excited to fly to LA this month for the Spirit of the Toscars in February! She currently works on both coasts and is pursuing acting in NYC and is honored to be part of Brits in LA.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA?
Los Angeles was a big dream of mine, to live and pursue my craft. It challenged me and I grew so much from my time there! I filmed independent films there and discovered an amazing improv scene and I really got to understand the business of acting, which then led me to NYC.
What one thing do you miss from home?
I am originally from Santa Barbara, and I miss the laid back aspect of a small beach town. I was used to taking 15 minutes at the most going from one side of town to the other, but not in LA! I do miss the ease of getting around.
What do you find the biggest difference is living in LA versus NYC?
Well since I’m bicoastal I get the benefit of both! The aspect of networking is NYC is huge because you’re constantly in and among everyone and everything! The hustle and creative beat in NYC is amazing! In LA I get to feel at home more with the ocean and mountains (like Santa Barbara) but also get the business of show going! With opportunities like The Toscars which has opened up SAG opportunities for me. That’s huge and I’m so happy for the fellow actors in this community that get those perks as well!
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
I have lots of hidden gems! I Iived in Los Feliz for 2 years and loved it. I walked everywhere, it has some of the best restaurants in the city! I suggest checking out The Alcove for breakfast or lunch, and when you’re done eating those famous desserts go for a walk to Griffith Park. It’s a beautiful oasis, from the trail to the Koi ponds, to the observatory! LA has so much to offer, and I was lucky to find my hidden gem in Los Feliz.
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
I suggest having a plan or initial idea of where you want to start in the business. For instance researching casting websites, casting workshops and other tools that are at your disposal. The business changes so fast and you really have to keep up with the ever-changing tides of the industry. Also be yourself, there’s nobody like you, nobody who can do what you can do! The faster you realize this the better off you’ll be.
If your your life was a TV show what would be the theme tune?
My theme song would have to be a combination of The Facts of Life sprinkled in with the theme song of Rocky! I’ve been knocked down, I’ve taken the good and the bad and taken them both and that’s the facts of life…
Lastly, how can we find out more about you? Are you on the Internet?
I’m on Instagram at @ranigirlnyc, and my Twitter is @goranigirl
