Today we’d like to introduce you to Kostadinka Aratlakova.
Hi Kostadinka, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I have been involved in acting for as long as I can remember. From an early age, I took part in small performances organized by my grandmother. These were informal and not professional, but they introduced me to the stage. I played different roles, such as a soldier or a dog, and often sang children’s songs for a small audience of family friends. My brother and I also created our own performances for the children in our neighborhood, without realizing at the time that we were developing a connection to theatre.
In those early years, acting was mainly a form of play and entertainment. Later in life, however, it became a true inner need—one that I still cannot imagine living without.
My first conscious experience with theatre came during high school, when I joined a forum theatre group. Through this work, I understood the practical value of theatre and its ability to address real social issues through art. After that, I was invited to join another theatre group led by my philosophy teacher. At that time, theatre gave me a strong sense of fulfillment, and I did not feel particularly confident in any other field. For this reason, I decided to pursue acting as my profession.
I wanted to apply to the National Academy, but I lacked formal preparation and did not fully understand the admission process. I also lacked self-confidence, and comparing myself to others made this even more difficult. As a result, I did not pass the entrance exams. Nevertheless, I reached almost the final stage, which showed me that there was potential, even though the experience felt discouraging. Deep down, I believed I was capable of this work, but for the first time I was told that I was not good enough.
I had planned to move to the United States when I was cast in my first leading role in a feature film. This opportunity convinced me to stay. The following year, I applied again to the Academy and was accepted with the highest score, ranking first among the candidates.
Fifteen years later, acting remains my profession.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Growth in acting is difficult. It requires persistence, inner struggle, and significant personal sacrifice. Life has taught me many lessons, and the question of whether the price is worth paying has arisen more than once. I have learned that when something is taken away, something else is given in return. This understanding has often protected me from self-blame and doubt, and it has helped me preserve my integrity by continuing to fight in an honest and dignified way.
I have repeatedly witnessed work being assigned not on the basis of professional merit, but for personal reasons. This can be deeply discouraging, especially when one holds clear and meaningful artistic goals. The system in Bulgaria has the power to break a true artist, but it can also educate them—teaching that they are part of something larger, governed by its own rules, and that in order to do what truly matters, one must first set aside the ego.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Acting is a flexible profession. I am fortunate to have a certain level of stability through a permanent position at a theatre. Many of my colleagues work as freelancers, which involves a higher level of uncertainty but also offers greater freedom. In addition to my permanent engagement, I also perform in other theatres and take part in commercial projects, allowing me to actively practice my profession in diverse contexts.
I value this work because it brings me into contact with many different people, it is never monotonous, and each role offers an opportunity to explore a different aspect of human nature and a new artistic challenge.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I am always open to new ideas and projects and never hesitate to explore new opportunities. I welcome every proposal with genuine interest. Anyone interested in my work is welcome to contact me via direct message on Instagram or by email at kostadinkaart@gmail.com.
Contact Info:
- Email: kostadinkaart@gmail.com.
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1822optvtw/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kostadinka-aratlakova-714410127
