A Talented and Passionate Rising Star
Taking Center Stage: The Exciting Journey in the Theater World
Elissa Dynes is a skilled actress with a solid educational background in theater and political science. She holds a BA degree in Theater from the University of Dubuque and an MFA in International Acting. Elissa has also received advanced training at the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center, which helps her connect with audiences uniquely. As she begins her career, she has already taken on roles in theater, YouTube shows, and films, impressing viewers with her powerful performances.
Elissa’s Work
Height: 5’9” | Weight: 130 | Eyes: Blue | Hair: Brunette | Voice: Mezzo Soprano
Theatre
Ro Ro Black Box Theater, Moline
Trifles Mrs. Hale Rose Bruford College
Before Breakfast Mrs. Rowland University of Dubuque
84 Charing Cross Road Cecily Farr Richmond Hill Theatre
Words Mean Everything Mary National Theatre Institute
Willam Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors Luce/Messenger University of Dubuque
Equus Jill Mason University of Dubuque
Endgame Nag University of Dubuque
Film
Crusader’s Tale (Season 1&2) Director/Anna BA Studios (YouTube)
Voiceover
Mr. Buzzkill Callers 1-10 ConceptMediaFilms
The Girl from Down-Town All Characters New Athens Players
The Stronger One Mrs. X New Athens Players
Writing
Ro Black Box Theatre, Moline
Rome’s Women Rose Bruford College
Words Mean Everything National Theatre Institute
Will I? National Theater Institute
Training
National Theatre Institute, Connecticut & Rose Burford College, London: MFA Int’l Theatre Performance (2023-25) Acting, Directing, Writing
Theatre and Politics-University of Dubuque (2019-2023)
Special Skills
Accents & Dialects: RP
Dance: Beginner- Ballet, Viewpoints, Gaga
Miscellaneous: Operate heavy machinery and extensive work with Animals
Emerging Talent: A New Star Shines in the Theater Scene!
Mastering the Craft: Exceptional Training!
Elissa’s training at the National Theater Institute and Rose Bruford College shaped her into a fearless storyteller. She embraces bold creative choices while staying deeply connected to her characters’ emotions and intentions. This balance allows her to create work that is both daring and authentic, whether writing, directing, or performing.”
The Political and the Theatrical
Elissa is fascinated by the intersection of theatre and politics. During her undergraduate studies in Theatre and Politics, she explored the political philosophies of Hobbes and Socrates. She discovered how these ideas are woven into Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice, sparking a deep connection to the character of Portia—her dream role—because of Portia’s intelligence and power. This insight inspired Elissa to draw parallels between The Merchant of Venice and the TV series Yellowstone, culminating in a paper that compared the two through the lens of these political theories.
Originally from a Family Farm
Born and raised on a farm in Western Illinois, Elissa developed a strong work ethic and resilience from an early age. She showed cattle and entered produce at her county fair, and helped with the harvest by driving the tractor. Whether winning or losing, she approached every experience as an opportunity to learn and grow. These lessons have played a significant role in shaping who she is today.