Far too often, actors get cast based on superficial traits. For Liora Kats, acting is more than memorizing lines or hitting marks. This profession serves as an avenue for exploring the intricacies of human nature and connecting diverse stories. Kats’ interest in storytelling was sparked by her childhood in the Netherlands. However, her desire to bring more depth to the craft inspired her to move to New York City.
Kats is no stranger to challenges. She’s faced numerous adversities that have shaped her resilience and determination in life. Growing up, she struggled with feelings of not belonging and dealt with her mental health concerns. Despite these obstacles, she channeled her experiences into personal growth, using them to fuel and shape her unique perspective on the world.
Along the way, she spent years working odd jobs. At one point, Kats worked coat-checking at late-night clubs. The next, she broke haunted house sales records at an amusement park. Despite the job changes, there was something that remained constant. “Acting kept reappearing in my life without me actively pursuing it,” she recalls.
Kats’ first encounter with performing came early, from performing ballet to playing the piano. By age 12, she competed in Latin dance and became a vice-champion in the Netherlands. The next thing she knew, she had landed a feature film role. The experience left her “mesmerized by the energy of the film set.”
Years later, Kats received encouragement from her high school drama teacher. Motivated by this vote of confidence, the young actress landed a major role on Nickelodeon. This accomplishment led her to hone her acting chops. She enrolled in the esteemed Lee Strasberg Theater & Film Institute in New York, where actors such as Scarlett Johansson, Angelina Jolie, Lady Gaga, and Marilyn Monroe trained.
The acting techniques Kats has mastered have allowed her to dive deeper into the characters she portrays. For instance, she embraces the ‘magic of storytelling’—a philosophy that views each role as a living, breathing entity. This approach encourages actors to fully immerse themselves in their roles. Her latest stage performance as Vanessa in Significant Other highlights her attraction to complex and multifaceted characters.
“The people I’ve met, the cultures I’ve experienced, and the places I’ve seen have all allowed me to view life from so many different perspectives,” she shares. This well-rounded worldview strongly influences her performances. From portraying the winners in the Dutch TV movie Bannebroek’s Got Talent to taking the lead in the upcoming slasher comedy-horror film Slaughter at Camp Swinelake, set to be distributed by Troma Entertainment, she believes that real stories, layered with vulnerability, resonate universally.
Through every performance, Kats invites audiences into a world that, while unique, feels eerily familiar. The struggles and victories are universal. This proves the art of storytelling creates a place for everyone.
Kats remains deeply anchored in her love for authentic narratives. “I want to tell impactful stories while continuing to grow,” she says. She eagerly anticipates taking on more roles that challenge her. The gifted artist is also exploring the idea of creating her own stories.
Her ultimate goal? To craft characters that inspire empathy and understanding while bridging worlds through shared human experiences.
For those who see themselves in Liora Kats’ journey, she shares a poignant reminder: “You’re stronger than you think; anything you want, you can make happen for yourself.”
