Dominika Zawada, a name that resonates with brilliance and excellence in the theater industry, has captivated audiences with her remarkable contributions. Her journey began with a memorable performance during the final rounds of the renowned Polish contest, “Twoja szansa, twój sukces.” 

Sharing the stage with iconic acts such as Lzy, a famous Polish pop-rock band, and the multi-award-winning sensation, Feel, Dominika’s extraordinary talent left a lasting impression. Her mesmerizing performance was broadcast on TVP Katowice, a regional branch of TVP, the esteemed and longstanding Polish television network. The impact of her rendition was so profound that the TVP representative offered to produce and broadcast a music video featuring Dominika.

Dominika’s accolades extend beyond this exceptional moment, as her work has been consistently recognized throughout the years. In 2008, she played a pivotal role in the first-ever Polish musical film, “Spisek,” crafted by Switch Entertainment. 

Dominika was handpicked for the antagonist role of SAMANTHA, showcasing her versatility and undeniable talent. The film’s release and subsequent DVD distribution were accompanied by a triumphant theatrical premiere in Raciborz, Poland, where every seat was filled.

As a driving force in the industry, Dominika has made significant contributions through her affiliation with Happily Ever After Productions, the pioneering English musical theater company in Amsterdam. Under the banner of her own company, HEA Productions, Dominika has organized four Musical Theatre Bootcamps, offering aspiring artists an immersive five-week crash course in the realm of musical theater. 

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Her expertise has been sought after by esteemed institutions such as Act Attack, an English-speaking theater school based in Amsterdam, Zang En Co, a music and singing school catering to both children and adults, and Tosca, a private singing school founded by the accomplished Iise Boellaard-Lindhout. These opportunities have allowed Dominika to impart her knowledge and conduct master classes, enriching the next generation of performers.

Dominika’s role as music director, vocal coach, and performer has yielded resounding success with Happily Ever After Productions. The 2022 production of “Avenue,” staged at the Amsterdam Theatre House with a capacity of 120 seats, garnered such overwhelming demand that all twelve scheduled performances sold out. 

Responding to the fervor, a 13th final show was added to the run, solidifying the production as a sensation. The show’s triumph earned it recognition on the official Broadway World site and in other prominent publications. 

Similarly, Dominika’s contributions to the 2021 production of “Little Shop of Horrors” resulted in a remarkable ten sold-out performances. In 2020, she played one of the lead roles, Cinderella, in the enchanting production of “Into The Woods,” which also experienced an astonishingly successful run of six entirely sold-out performances.

Today, Dominika gives us a sneak peek into her successful career.

Hi Dominika! A lot of people have been asking – what advice would you give to up-and-coming performers seeking international recognition?

First and foremost, continue developing your talent! Dedicate yourself to honing your skills and pushing your boundaries to become the best version of yourself. Don’t shy away from taking risks and exploring new avenues, while staying true to your unique voice and style. 

Networking plays a vital role in the entertainment industry, so actively seek opportunities to connect with industry professionals. Attend events, workshops, and conferences, and approach interactions with a friendly and professional demeanor. You never know who may prove to be a valuable contact in the future!

In today’s digital age, cultivating a strong online presence is essential for gaining recognition. Ensure you have a website and active social media pages where you can showcase your work and engage with fans. Collaborating with other artists is a fantastic way to expand your fan base and reach new audiences. Look for opportunities to collaborate with musicians, dancers, actors, or creatives within your field.

Building a successful career requires time and perseverance, so be patient and resilient in the face of setbacks and rejection. Stay focused on your goals, continue pushing forward, and maintain unwavering determination.

Is there a particular skill set that you find performers must focus on to receive more roles as the lead?

Collaboration and teamwork are vital for any performer, particularly in lead roles. Embrace feedback and demonstrate the ability to take direction effectively. Cultivate strong communication and interpersonal skills to foster positive working relationships. 

Additionally, focus on developing a compelling stage presence and charisma that will set you apart during auditions and performances. Practice projecting confidence and energy, and strive to establish connections with both audiences and fellow performers.

The specific skills required for lead roles may vary depending on the genre and production type. Stay committed to hard work and continuous improvement in your craft, and always remember that every role, no matter the size, contributes to your growth as a performer.

What inspired you to create Happily Ever After Productions, as it has helped so many performers?

I have always harbored a deep passion for the performing arts and a strong desire to positively influence the lives of young performers. My goal has been to make musical theater accessible to anyone who has a love for it and wishes to enhance their skills. 

There are countless talented individuals out there who simply lack the confidence to step onto the stage or audition because they believe they are not good enough. I wanted to be the encouraging voice that tells them, “Yes, you can do it, and if you have a passion for it, you should pursue it!” 

I aim to provide that initial nudge towards the stage and witness the transformative impact that Happily Ever After Productions has had on so many individuals. It brings me immense joy and pride to see the positive influence we have made in their lives.