Today we’d like to introduce you to Elisha “Eli” Davis.
Hi Eli, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
A year ago, I would not have guessed that I’d get to work on a Boots Riley production or be on the same set as people I grew up watching. It all started with me not being afraid to ask a question last winter. I saw people filming near campus so I stopped to ask how to get involved. Not long after, I began my journey in television & film working on Disney and AMC productions however I could. Kris Davis is one phenomenal actor I met that started off as a silent star. I took a similar approach to start my career too. My first time on television was as a silent star on the show “Queer As Folk”. These past few months I’ve spent most of my time on set / filming or auditioning. I remember casting being very excited for me when I booked my first role. I was excited as well. For me it was special because I had achieved something I didn’t know I was capable of doing. One of the most important things you can do for you in this industry is have confidence in yourself. I aspire to play a wide range of characters. I train a lot. As an actress, it’s important to be coachable. But also, I hope to do more behind the scenes. Being on Boots Riley, Justin Simien, and George Tillman Jr. sets have really inspired me as a creative.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
My acting experience has been pretty organic. One thing I had to learn was how to audition. The art of self-taping is something I self-taught myself by watching my friends’ auditions who have landed roles & listening to advice from casting directors. Set up wise, the more you audition the easier it becomes. It is helpful to have actor/theater friends so you can help each other. They can be a reader for you, which is great. Make sure you have good lighting and a neutral background as well. My advice is to fully commit to your character. Also, have a demo reel available. Whenever you audition go into it with the mindset to be great & confident at what you love.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My journey as a storyteller began last year. Before I was signed to an agency, auditioning and booking roles, I got into the game as a silent star. “Queer As Folk” and “Killing it” starring Craig Robinson were the first productions I worked on. Afterwards, I was apart of second team on “Haunted Mansion” directed by Justin Seiman and the tv show “National Treasure”. A lot of the projects I’ve worked on are coming out within the next few years and are listed on my IMDb if you would like to follow my journey. I am excited for people to see all of them! Everything coming out is going to be great. I wouldn’t say I have a favorite project I worked on because each is its own unique experience!
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
For any aspiring actors try to be a sponge, take mental notes and learn something with every experience you have on set. I learned a lot from watching some of the best in the game like Jamie Foxx.
Make the most out of every opportunity you have on set, be kind, on time, and make connections. Go for it! Try to do at least one thing that will get you closer to your goal every day. Stay focused, and have a good relationship with God. Also, have patience and be kind to yourself. Stay in the game. One of my favorite quotes is “the fastest way to reach your goal is to go slow.” I am still becoming, as are you!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://m.imdb.com/name/nm13351414/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0
- Instagram: @elithecreative
Image Credits
Mrs. Dee
