15 minuti con l’artista rinascimentale internazionale… Arianna Wellmoney

Arianna Wellmoney is an Italian actress and playwright currently based in New York City.

Wellmoney’s Off Broadway credits include: Lord Byron’s “Marino Faliero”, Sophocles’ “Antigone” and Michael Seebold’s “Enoptromancy”, which had its world premiere in April 2018. In 2019, Arianna reprised the role of Tam in “The Pot”, this time performing at the Schimmel Center. The event was supported by the United Nations, World Health Organisation and Pace University.

Arianna wrote, produced and starred as Lili in “I’m sorry, I can’t make it. My uncle’s hamster has passed and I am reading the eulogy at the funeral” directed by Bradly Valenzuela and showcased at Open Jar Studios. She also co-wrote, starred in and produced “Extraordinary Aliens”, which had its world premiere at Casa Italiana Zerilli Marimo’ and was later featured in the Hollywood Fringe Festival in Los Angeles, California. She ALSO appeared in “La Santera”, a new TV pilot filmed in The Bronx, NY. WOW!

Throughout 2018, she was featured in the webseries “Immigrants Eat it.” She also recently appeared in the new Snapchat’s webseries “3018. In 2017, Arianna was part of the movie “Dissonance,” which was part of the Short Film Corner at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival. No small feat!  

Prior to her studies at AADA, Arianna trained at Campo Teatrale Acting School in Milan, Italy, where she studied Acting On Camera and played the role of Rachel Plescan in the original production of Quel Giorno all’Improvviso. But she was already setting her course before college. During her high school years, Arianna directed, produced and starred in several short films, including Diritto al Lavoro: TG Pacle, which was premiered at Bicocca University in 2013.

 ARTIUM met with Arianna and learned about the brilliamce of this actress, dancer, producer, writer, director …

Tell us about YOU: Actor, writer, producer …. which came first?

Acting came first—it’s what inspired me to move to the USA. Growing up in Italy, I was captivated by American TV shows and films, dreaming of being part of that world one day. That passion for performance was my gateway into storytelling, and it remains at the heart of everything I do.  As I developed as an artist, I found myself experiencing situations that I couldn’t see reflected in the media around me. That’s when writing became a necessity—it allowed me to create the stories I needed to see. Becoming a playwright was my way of sharing those experiences, bringing authenticity and a fresh perspective to the stage. Producing came later, as I wanted to take ownership of my work and ensure that these stories had a platform. Founding Wellmoney Productions was a way to combine my love for acting and writing with the power of collaboration. It’s a space where I can bring my vision to life and work with other passionate artists. Acting, writing, and producing are all interconnected for me—each one helps me grow as a storyteller and connect with audiences in unique ways. Storytelling is my passion, and I’m grateful for the chance to explore it through these different avenues.

What is the “message or mission” in your work? 

My mission as an artist is to create stories that reflect the complexity and diversity of human experiences, particularly the ones that are often overlooked or misunderstood. Growing up, I often felt disconnected from the narratives I saw in media—they didn’t always reflect the realities I knew or the nuances of my perspective. That’s why I’m passionate about writing and producing work that feels authentic, relatable, and inclusive.  Through Wellmoney Productions, I strive to amplify voices that deserve to be heard and tell stories that challenge, inspire, and connect us. Whether it’s through acting, writing, or producing, I want my work to spark conversations, foster empathy, and create a space where people feel seen and valued. At the end of the day, it’s all about connecting with others and making them feel something real.”  

What do you find your biggest obstacle these days?  Money? Time? Opportunity? Navigating the male Ego? or…. 

Right now, my biggest obstacle is funding. As a self-funded artist, I often have to find creative ways to make my projects happen. I’ve been lucky to have the support of my family and friends, who have donated or helped me along the way. My parents have been a huge source of support, but I know that funding remains a constant challenge for many independent artists.  That being said, I try to focus on what I can control—creating work that feels meaningful and finding ways to make it happen, even when the resources are limited. It’s a constant balancing act, but it’s also part of the process, and I know the work I create will be worth it.”  

What’s next?

What’s next for me is a combination of new and exciting projects. I’m currently working on a new play that I’m really passionate about. In addition to that, I would love to restage *He’s Different*, this time with Act 2 added, although I don’t have any concrete plans yet. It’s something I’d like to revisit when the right opportunity arises.  Perhaps even make it into a short film? I’m also focused on collaborating with friends and fellow artists—creative partnerships are essential for bringing fresh ideas to life. My main goal is to continue making art that challenges, inspires, and connects with others. I have so many talented friends in my life that I would like to work again or start a professional relationship with!

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