NYWIFT Blog

By Katie Chambers

We are thrilled to welcome new NYWIFT member Isi Laborde! Isi is a Brooklyn-based actor (AEA, SAG/AFTRA). Her film roles include Return to Montauk, directed by Academy Award-winner Volker Schlöndorff, and Jay-Z’s music video “Smile,” directed by Grammy-winner Miles Jay. She has had TV appearances in Facebook TV’s Strangers and Paramount’s Younger. Theater credits include The Bacchae at La Mama Experimental Theatre Club and Skip to My Lou at Theater for the New City.

Laborde’s work has received awards and nominations at the Berlin International Film Festival, SXSW Film Festival, Cannes Lions Festival, and Urbanworld Film Festival. She has a B.F.A. in Drama from NYU Tisch.

She spoke to us about her craft, how she kept up her creativity during COVID, and her dream role!

NYWIFT Member Isi Laborde

Tell us about yourself – give us your elevator pitch!

I am a Brooklyn-based actress looking to make meaningful, intellectual, and unique work with directors, writers, and producers who share my passion for deep and thoughtful storytelling.

What has been your favorite project to date?

I loved working with director Jordan Bayne because she created a work that spoke to a very real human experience of love and loss. She told a story that was deeply personal, and I felt a great sense of purpose helping her create such a delicate cinematic experience. 

And what is your dream role? What kind of work speaks to you creatively?

My dream role would be to play a powerful mind such as Angela Davis. I am so intrigued by what moves people to catalyze change and become a true leader and voice for others.

The pandemic has taken a toll on so many, but it was especially tough on actors and other folks who rely on being on set or on stage. How did you continue to thrive creatively during COVID-19?

I created a study plan of books, plays, and films to keep me engaged in my craft. Every day I decided what my topic of research would be and also worked in a physical and vocal practice. I am an eternal student and there are so many resources and information out there to gobble up. I racked up a lot of subscriptions, though!

What is the best advice you ever received? And the worst?

Best – Don’t get distracted!

Worst – You should wear more makeup.

What brought you to NYWIFT?

A community for women to lead in the arts and invest in each other’s creativity. Women are putting out the most compelling work in my opinion and I would like to see a woman in a leadership position for everything I am a part of. 

And what is next for you?

Auditioning, going to film festivals, and finding independent female directors and producers who share my style and passion.

Connect with Isi Laborde via email: isilaborde@gmail.com

 And check out her reel: