Page 64 - Beauty Prime Magazine

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Ania Danylo, celebrated theatre
director and children’s author, shares
her passion for storytelling and
creativity.
BY DAN PETERS READER’S HOUSE
Literature
64 II BEAUTY PRIME
From Stage to Page
Ania Danylo discusses her theatre
background, transition to children’s literatu-
re, and the interplay between her roles as
director, educator, and writer, highlighting
her passion for storytelling and creative
collaboration.
ANIA DANYLO
EXPLORING THE CREATIVE WORLD
OF A MULTIFACETED ARTIST
to the world of theatre and literature have left an indeli-
Ania Danylo is a multifaceted talent whose contributions
ble mark. With over 25 years of experience as an actor,
director, writer, and instructor, Ania has brought to life
a diverse array of productions, from the poignant “The
Diary of Anne Frank” to the timeless enchantment of Shakespeare’s
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Her directorial prowess extends to
a variety of Shakespearean plays and other classics, showcasing her
ability to navigate complex narratives and bring out the best in her
cast and crew. Ania’s dedication to the arts is further exemplified by
her role as an educator, where she has inspired countless students to
achieve their own successes, many of whom have gone on to win
awards for their performances.
Ania’s foray into children’s literature is a testament to her storytelling
prowess. Her books, “The Elephant’s Christmas Wish” and “Zolemina:
The Should Do, Could Do, Would Do Cat,” are delightful rhyming
tales that capture the imagination of young readers. These works reflect
her deep understanding of narrative structure, character development,
and emotional resonance; skills honed through her extensive theatre
background. Ania’s ability to weave engaging stories for children is
reminiscent of the whimsical charm found in the works of Shel Silverstein
and Jack Prelutsky, yet uniquely her own. Her books not only entertain
but also offer coloring book versions, inviting children to interact with
the stories in a creative and personal way. Ania Danylo’s contributions to
both theatre and literature continue to inspire and captivate audiences of
all ages.
With over 20 years of experience in theatre, including direct-
ing plays like The Diary of Anne Frank and Shakespeare’s
works, how has your background in theatre influenced your
approach to writing children’s books like The Elephant’s
Christmas Wish?
Engaging in directing and acting in the theatre is all about the art of
storytelling. Shakespeare was a genius at it. Understanding how to build
tension, create conflicts, and craft satisfying resolutions is essential
for creating compelling narratives in children’s picture books. It also
involves mastering character development, pacing, rhythm and timing,
language and imagery, emotional resonance, and themes. But I am also
influenced by Shel Silverstein and Jack Prelutsky as much as I am by
Shakespeare, Tennessee Williams, or Edward Albee. Directing also
fosters attention to detail and the ability to see the big picture. Theatre,
being a very visual and auditory medium, strongly connects with chil-
dren’s picture books.
When I initially wrote “The Elephant’s Christmas Wish” as a poem, I
envisioned it as a TV animation special rather than a book. I took it to