Today we’d like to introduce you to Sydney Russell
Hi Sydney, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
At the age of five, I saw my first Broadway musical, Disney’s The Lion King. From the moment I saw the young girl playing “Young Nala” come out on stage, I knew I was meant to be an actress and performer. I whispered to my mother, “I can do that!”, and I set a goal to play the role of “Young Nala” on Broadway one day. When I told my parents about my goal, they enrolled me in theater camps and acting classes, and my mother became my vocal coach. Shortly after turning six years old, I landed my first role as Tinker Bell in Disney’s Peter Pan, Jr. and I went on to perform in several local productions.
Then in October 2019, while celebrating my eighth birthday in Disney’s Magic Kingdom, a video of me dancing on Main Street went viral. This unexpected moment opened the door for my professional acting career to begin.
In 2021, at the age of nine, my dream came true as I helped to re-open Broadway while making my debut as Young Nala! Performing in The Lion King was an incredible experience, and I will always cherish the privilege of being a part of such a profound legacy in theater.
One year later, I realized a dream I didn’t even know I had. I joined the cast of Frozen and became the first African American actress to play the role of Young Elsa in the North American Tour. I enjoyed an amazing year performing 188 shows in 21 US cities.
I’ve been blessed to appear on television (most notably in Abbott Elementary) and recently I was chosen to be the singing voice of Qai Qai, the animated character inspired by the favorite doll of Serena Williams’ daughter, Olympia. I’m enjoying creating amazing music for this project and working with Republic Records and Invisible Universe.
What I want the world to take away from my story is that you don’t have to wait until you’re an adult to make an impact. With a vision, support, and a plan you can achieve your dream!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I feel very blessed to say my journey has not involved any major struggles. One significant challenge has been finding time to enjoy my childhood while pursuing my acting dreams. I have amazing parents who help me find the balance between work and play. They create memorable experiences for me, so I never feel like I’m missing out. Also, performing is what I love to do, so I’m always having fun.
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?
Along with being an actor and singer, I’m also a two-time published author. I created the Super ME Children’s Book Series to empower creative kids like me, and show them they have the power to change the world! I’m very thankful for the opportunity to use my gifts and talents to glory God and inspire others. My mother says one of my unique qualities is being able to fully commit to reaching any goal I set for myself. When I decide that I want to do something, I have tunnel vision until I achieve it. I’m grateful for my parents, family, and village that support and guide me as I achieve my dreams.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I know that I am blessed to do what I love at such a young age. This isn’t about being lucky. I work hard at honing my craft so that I’m ready when my next opportunity arrives. I know that my accomplishments are the result of God’s ordained plan for my life. I’ve always been taught that when God blesses you, you get the good and He gets the glory. I know that my journey isn’t just about me, and I have the privilege to be a living testimony of the God’s blessings. No matter what happens, good or bad, I know God is leading me and as we say in my family, “God leads, we follow”.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sydneyelise.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sydneyeliseofficial/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sydneyeliserussell
- Other: https://sydneyelise.com/super-me-order-page/
Image Credits
Calvin Pennick, Jr. Photography
Justin Clynes Studio
Thom Carroll Photography
Courtney Bierman
Rachel Winograd
