Today we’d like to introduce you to Dora Endre.
Hi Dora, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I am a creative professional and educator, affiliated with SDC, IFTA and the Young Vic’s Creators Program. I started out curious rather than strategic. I was drawn to stories early on: first through theatre and books, later through film, and I followed that curiosity across countries and disciplines. I studied and trained in Hungary, Italy, and the U.S., which shaped not only how I work, but how I listen and collaborate. It definitely boosted my sensitivity and empathy. I have directed-produced an array of projects, from a musical and devised theatre pieces to Off-Broadway productions, a touring show, commercials, image and promotional videos, music videos, and short films.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Working across countries and disciplines means navigating different professional cultures, expectations, and logistical hurdles. Early in my career, I learned that even the most carefully planned projects can be unpredictable, and external factors often come into play. Over time, I’ve developed a method of milestone-based planning: setting clear goals and deadlines, while leaving room for flexibility to adapt to unexpected changes.
Another lesson has been the importance of taking care of yourself: your body, mind, and creative instrument. Sleep, nutrition, exercise, and self-awareness are essential to sustaining long-term work, especially when balancing multiple roles as a director, producer, educator, and writer.
Balancing creative ambition with practical realities is another ongoing challenge. Producing work that reaches audiences, has impact, financial benefit and aligns with market demands requires resilience, adaptability and strategic compromise. In this industry, you’re effectively running your own business, so learning how to navigate client expectations, financial pressures, and emerging trends – like AI-driven content – while maintaining your artistic vision is crucial.
I’m inspired by countries that support artists through structured programs that value creative labor, even when the final output is still in development – like Ireland’s new Basic Income for the Arts (BIA) pilot scheme. Supporting creativity in this way not only enables artists to thrive but also has a broader economic and cultural impact. I do think there is a lot of untapped potential in letting creative problem-solvers focus more on their work instead of being pressured and exhausted by tremendous financial strain. Shoutout to world leaders: bring those programs on, Ireland’s just proven it has a massively good impact on your GDP too!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Over time, the curiosity I mentioned earlier turned into a profession. I direct and produce stage and film projects, working with artists, NGOs, and brands, and have built somewhat of an international practice spanning Hungary, Italy, and the U.S. My work ranges from commercials and digital campaigns for clients such as Vodafone, Cipriani Couture, Newsweek, Alpha Apps, and UNICEF, to short documentaries, narrative films, and educational or social impact projects. I’m currently developing a sports documentary and a gothic narrative feature.
Writing and storytelling remain central to my work. The second edition of my children’s mindfulness book, Magical Meadows: Rhymes and Mindfulness Exercises, was released in 2024, and I contribute regularly to magazines with interviews, articles, and reviews.
I love creating collaborative, safe, and playful creative environments, whether on set, in rehearsal rooms, or during production meetings. I enjoy brainstorming, experimenting, and problem-solving with teams, and my favorite moments are when a project is alive – during shoots or rehearsals – discovering material together and bringing ideas to life.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I really believe in the idea that “Luck is when preparation meets opportunity,” often attributed to Seneca. Most of the great things in my life and career have come from having the groundwork already done – the skills learned, the projects experimented with, the knowledge acquired – so that when an opportunity arises, I can actually take it on fully. Whether it’s personal growth, professional development, or learning new tools, if I’m not prepared, a chance may appear, but I might not be ready to seize it, or I might realize a few weeks in that the project isn’t ready either.
In this crazy industry, especially when working with studios, streamers, or partners like Netflix, getting the call and a greenlight isn’t enough – every day on set demands presenting and explaining decisions, managing time, finances, and creativity, and constantly adapting.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.doraendre.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/de_videoprods/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dora-endre/
- Other: https://linktr.ee/doraendre
