Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexandra Castro
Hi Alexandra, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Imagine a high school auditorium, where a shy musician is unexpectedly thrust into a new spotlight – and not behind a musical instrument, but center stage in a play. That was me, plucked from obscurity by my VERY observant speech teacher who saw potential I didn’t know I had. The moment I stepped onto that stage, the world shifted. The music I’d always loved suddenly had a new dimension – theater.
But life had another surprise in store. Fresh out of high school, I wandered into a grand hotel across from San Antonio’s Majestic Theatre, simply looking for a restroom after watching a show. Instead, I found my future career pinned to a bulletin board – a job opening for a ‘PBX Operator’. I had no idea what it meant, but I took a chance. Little did I know, I was stepping into another kind of performance – the grand production of hospitality.
I came from what others would stereotype as the ‘poor Mexican side of town’, raised mainly in a single parent household, familiar with the sting of poverty and the weight of others’ low expectations. But those challenges lit a fire in me. Every whisper of ‘you need to get out of the Southside’ became fuel for my dreams. New York beckoned – a siren call of bright lights and big stages, where I could reinvent myself. (Despite the old-school stereotypes surrounding the Southside of San Antonio, I am immensely proud of my roots and love my community wholeheartedly, always!)
In the world of hotels, I climbed the ladder. From answering phones to managing entire sales departments, I said ‘yes’ to every role, learning my “hospitality” lines and hitting my marks. Meanwhile, in the theatre world, I was juggling roles too – house manager one night, merchandise seller the next, always ready for my next moment.
My life literally became a two-act play. By day, I navigated the intricate world of hotel operations. By night, I lost myself in the magic of the stage. Both worlds demanded the same things – quick thinking, adaptability, and the ability to connect with people.
Looking back, it’s clear that my unlikely journey – from that high school stage to the grand hotels of New York – wasn’t just about ‘making it out’. It was about making something of myself, on my own terms. I was writing, directing, and starring in my own unique show.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Balancing my dual passions in New York City has been a journey marked by both exhilaration and significant challenges.
When I first arrived from San Antonio, the NYC’s legendary intensity hit me full force. The contrast was stark – from the familiar streets of my hometown to the relentless pace of New York.
My days quickly became a true balancing act with the hospitality industry demanding as much of me as the theatre world. In New York’s fiercely competitive hotel market, every property is locked in a constant battle to outperform the others. As the most visited city in the world, New York’s hospitality sector never sleeps – the phones ring incessantly, emails flood in at all hours, and the pressure to maximize revenue is relentless. Adding to this challenge is the high turnover of staff, a common issue that requires constant adaptation and training.
Despite the demands of hotel life, I’d still dash off to background acting gigs after long work days, performing in readings, acting workshops…squeezing every opportunity I could from the entertainment scene. The nights often stretched into early mornings as I pursued creative work, pouring my heart into roles that paid little, if anything at all.
Personal struggles added another layer of complexity. Forming new friendships while maintaining connections back home proved to be a delicate balancing act. The distance from my support system in San Antonio was palpable, especially during tough times.
Perhaps the most challenging aspect was facing the constant tide of rejection in acting. Each ‘no’ tested my resilience, forcing me to dig deep and find the strength to keep auditioning, keep believing in my craft.
Through it all, I was learning to navigate life in New York on my own terms – a daunting task in a city known for its unforgiving nature. It meant creating new routines, finding my place in this vast urban landscape, and constantly adapting to the city’s ever-changing rhythm.
While it hasn’t been smooth sailing, these struggles have been integral to my growth. They’ve honed my resilience, sharpened my focus, and deepened my appreciation for both my theatrical and hospitality careers. Each challenge overcome has been a step towards mastering the art of living a dual life in the city that never sleeps.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a Director of Sales in the hotel industry, my primary focus is driving profitability and ensuring high performance. This role demands strategic thinking, leadership, and a keen understanding of the hospitality market.
Parallel to this, I maintain a thriving career in the arts. I’ve cultivated a diverse portfolio of acting work spanning theatre, film, and television. Additionally, I’m the proud owner of Lone Star Media, a business venture dedicated to creating and promoting Latine-centered work across various media platforms, including stage productions and digital content.
It’s challenging to pinpoint what I’m ‘known’ for, as I’ve been maintaining this delicate balance for two decades. My journey began 20 years ago when I unexpectedly fell in love with theatre, followed by my entry into the hospitality industry 17 years ago. Both paths have shaped my professional identity in profound ways.
However, the achievement I’m most proud of is my time at the Stella Adler Studio of Acting. After moving to New York, while juggling multiple gigs and my hotel work, I committed to a part-time, two-year program at this renowned institution. I seized every available moment to hone my craft, pushing myself to new limits both as an artist and as a human being. This period was intensely challenging but immensely rewarding.
The culmination of my time at Stella Adler marked a significant turning point. Armed with newfound skills and confidence, I immediately took on the dual role of star and producer in a full two-act show. This accomplishment was made all the more remarkable as I was simultaneously working as a Sales Coordinator for a bustling Times Square hotel.
Looking back, I’m filled with pride and fondness for that period. It exemplifies the dedication, hard work, and passion that have defined my dual career path. This experience not only sharpened my acting skills but also reinforced my ability to excel in high-pressure, multifaceted roles – a skill that continues to serve me well in both my theatrical pursuits and my hospitality career.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
When it comes to finding a mentor, the key is alignment. Seek out individuals whose career trajectory, values, and professional ethos resonate with your own aspirations. Look for someone who not only has achieved what you aim for but also demonstrates a genuine willingness to share their knowledge and experiences. The best mentors are those who view success as a collaborative journey rather than a solitary climb.
As for networking, my advice can be distilled into three words: Say yes, engage, and risk.
First, say ‘yes’ to opportunities, even if they seem tangential to your immediate goals. Attend that industry event, join that professional group, or volunteer for that project. Each ‘yes’ opens a door to new connections and experiences.
Second, engage with everyone you meet. Strike up conversations, ask questions, and listen attentively. Remember, in the interconnected worlds of hospitality and entertainment, you never know who might provide a crucial opportunity – whether it’s in the moment or years down the line.
Finally, don’t be afraid to take risks. Step out of your comfort zone, share your ideas, and put yourself forward for challenging roles or projects. Networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards; it’s about showcasing your potential and passion.
Throughout it all, remain authentic. People connect with genuine individuals, not polished facades. Stay curious about others’ experiences and perspectives. Your unique combination of interests and experiences is your strength – let it shine through in your interactions.
In essence, successful networking and mentorship are about being open, proactive, and true to yourself. These principles have served me well in navigating both the competitive hotel industry and the dynamic world of theatre and media.
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Image Credits
Stage Production Still by Krystal Conyé