Multi-talented artist Natasha Kalimada is known for her exceptional skills in acting, dance, and modeling. Raised in Southern California, Natasha has been a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry since a young age. Her passion for the arts led her to train at American Ballet Theatre as part of their National Training Program. She attended Princeton University where she was highly involved in the arts and campus life. Upon graduation, she was honored with the prestigious Francis LeMoyne Page Theatre & Dance Award for excellence in the Performing Arts. She also holds an MBA from Pepperdine University.
Natasha’s talent and dedication to her craft have earned her accolades in both national and international competitions. As a professional dancer, Natasha has performed for Taylor Swift, JLo, Cirque, a Broadway National tour, the Walt Disney Hall with the LA Phil, Royalty, among others. She also appears in tv, film, and numerous commercial campaigns.
At Princeton University, Natasha was captivated by acting and performed in multiple theater productions. Her impressive artistic background led her to pursue a career in acting, where she has showcased her versatility and talent in various roles. With a growing list of credits to her name, Natasha is rapidly establishing herself as a rising star in the entertainment industry.
Throughout her career, Natasha has remained committed to empowering women and advocating for social causes. She serves as a role model for aspiring young artists and has dedicated her platform to creating positive change in the world. Flanelle had the opportunity to discuss with her.
When you were young, did you envision all the opportunities that came to you during your career so far?
When I was young, I could have never imagined in a million years all of the twists and turns that would make up who I am today. I’ve been building mental durability since the time I can remember, and I always knew that whatever I would eventually accomplish in life would take tremendous focus, hard work, and unfaltering resilience. I also attribute this mentality to my parents. They are both immigrants to the States (my father is from India and my mother is from Scotland), so naturally, I adopted a similar attitude of perseverance, patience, and grit.
What is your typical daily routine?
My day consists of doing everything to ensure I am well prepared in case the phone rings and I have a big job starting tomorrow or a life-changing audition that very day. I work out two hours a day … low impact classes which include pilates and heated yoga sculpt, heated power flow, or heated barre class. I train with an acting coach twice a week. Self-tape requests are always last minute, so I’ll prioritize them and get them in as soon as possible. I don’t like waiting until the deadline. In the afternoon, I’ll take my little pomsky for a 3-mile walk. My evenings consist of either dinner at home or meeting up with friends. I’m always doing something creative every day and try to read before bed. I call my mother every day!
Being a performer, what would you say are the two most important things to be ready for work?
When mental health is on track, everything is on track, including exercising well, eating well, and focusing hard. Training and picking up new skills are also very important as a performer. I try to do things that push my limit as a performer.
Tell us more about your passion for Yoga and Mental Health awareness?
I have a passion for movement, whether that is through yoga, dance, and/or pilates, I love finding my mental and physical edge. That is why I love heated workout classes. The heat adds an extra layer of being uncomfortable. I love finding comfort in the uncomfortable while maintaining full body and mind awareness. Mental health is imperative to realize one’s full potential and live a healthy, meaningful, and good life rooted in strong relationships.
You express yourself through your body and movement a lot. Can you tell us more about the life-changing experience which led you to have to relearn how to bend her leg from a 90-degree angle?
I fell down a canyon once which left me entirely immobile with 3 different fractures. It was a grueling experience to heal myself, but thankfully, my knowledge of movement helped me to accelerate the pace of full recovery. After I recovered, I made a promise to myself to become a full-fledged performer for a living. Leaving a job with great benefits, health insurance, and stability was a scary decision to make. It was the best decision. It hasn’t been easy at all and I continue to push through all the bumps in the road with the support of my family and a close-knit circle of friends.
You work alongside long-time actor Brad Pitt. Can you tell us more about your experience in the role of Princess of Isabella of Castille from the Golden Globe-nominated film “Babylon”?
I had the best experience working on Babylon and alongside Brad. It was at a time in which strict covid protocols were still in place and the world was still a giant question mark. I really didn’t know if I would ever work again or if this could possibly be my last project. I felt like the whole crew and cast felt a similar feeling because everyone just gave it their all 24/7. My scene with Brad took my own breath away. I am so grateful to Damien and Olivia for trusting in me and allowing me the most beautiful platform to perform.
What lies in the future for Natasha Kalimada?
We will see! I would one day love to work with Michael B Jordan and The Rock in a role that shows off my physicality.
