Anja Kersten is an accomplished German-born actress, improviser, and creator, specialising in physical theatre, dance, and film acting. With a diverse range of skills and training, she is passionate about developing and performing original works that showcase her unique talents and creative versatility.

Experienced Actress, Performance Artist, and Improviser specialising in creating original works

Professional headshot of Anja Kersten, showcasing her striking blue-grey eyes and light brown hair.

Actor's Bio

Name: Anja Kersten

Date of birth: 1st of March 1972

Location: Galway, Ireland

Homepage: www.anjakersten.com

Hight: 5' 7'' (1.70 m)

Eyes: Blue - Greyish

Hair: Light Brown

Languages: German (native), English (fluent) French (basic)

Skills: Yoga, Horse Riding, Improvisation, Clowning, Workshop Leader, Body Mind Centering, Modern & Contemporary Dance, Six Viewpoints, Contact Improvisation, Performing Arts, Writing, Singing: Mezzo - Soprano

TRAINING

2019 Lab 1, Digital Practices, Art Incubator, Make a Move Project (EU)

2015 Summer Intensive with SITI, Suzuki and Six Viewpoints

2008 The Studio Los Angeles, International Filmactorstraining

2001 – 2003 School Of Physical Theatre London

Demo

Throughout my career as an actress and performance artist, I have created numerous performances, ranging from short pieces to full-length solo shows. Many of these works were entirely improvised and never documented. Below, you will find black and white photographs from a short performance art piece titled 'Alive' and images from my largely improvised, evening-length theatrical show, 'Cheese & Pickle.'

For more examples of my work as an actress and performance artist, please visit my films page, which features art films and short films showcasing my range and talent. Additionally, if you enjoy original stories, I invite you to explore my story podcast, where you can immerse yourself in captivating narratives.

Anja Kersten begins the 'Alive' performance with an intense expression.
Anja Kersten bursts into action during the 'Alive' performance, her outstretched arm conveying a powerful gesture.
Anja Kersten, seated and wearing a coat, pauses for a moment of reflection during the 'Alive' performance.
Anja Kersten takes refuge in her coat, concealing herself from the audience during a poignant moment in the 'Alive' performance.
Anja Kersten appears lost in contemplation, her expression betraying a sense of desperation during the 'Alive' performance.
In profile, Anja Kersten delivers a powerful gesture during the 'Alive' performance, conveying a strong sense of vitality and emotion.
Anja Kersten is captured in the midst of movement, the dynamic flow of her body exemplifying the vitality and energy of the 'Alive' performance.
In a close-up shot, Anja Kersten's facial expression communicates a sense of deep emotion, reflecting the intensity and complexity of the 'Alive' performance.
As the 'Alive' performance comes to a close, Anja Kersten gradually fades into the darkness, leaving behind a powerful and enduring impression of her captivating work.
Pickle, portrayed by Anja Kersten, commands the stage with a sensual yet powerful pose, locking eyes with the audience and inviting them into the largely improvised world of 'Cheese and Pickle'.
Anja Kersten, as Pickle, gracefully executes a mesmerizing dance, her movements fluid and enchanting as she captivates the audience with the artistry and physicality of her performance in 'Cheese and Pickle.'
Anja Kersten's profile is captured mid-movement, showcasing her expressive and improvised choreography as she portrays the character of Pickle in the spontaneous and inventive theatre show 'Cheese and Pickle.'
Anja Kersten delivers an expressive gesture during an improvised moment in 'Cheese and Pickle,' showcasing her talent for reacting creatively and spontaneously on stage.

Original Theatre Show at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival

"How Desperate Can It Get" (2011)

"How Desperate Can It Get" was a unique, four-woman theatre show that we created based on the characters from Euripides' "The Women of Troy." Each actress wrote their own part, despite having little to no prior writing experience. I served as both the director and a performer in the show.

The play premiered in St. Ives and then made its way to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. A special feature of the production was the incorporation of filmed segments, which were projected during key moments of the show, adding depth and texture to the live performance.

Theatre and Solo Shows

In collaboration with director Ron East, I created and performed two original, full-length solo shows, "Circus of Emotions" and "Mind the Trap," between 2003 and 2006. Both productions showcased my skills as an actress and were performed in London and Hamburg in both English and German.

"Circus of Emotions" took audiences on an evocative journey through a range of human emotions, while "Mind the Trap" explored the complexities of the human psyche. Working with Ron East as director, I was able to bring these powerful stories to life and engage international audiences with my captivating performances.

Collaborations, Workshops, and Storytelling Events

I'm always eager to collaborate with fellow artists and performers on new and exciting projects. To see more of my work in performance art and film, be sure to visit my films page. Additionally, I'm available for bookings for workshops and storytelling evenings, where I share my experiences and expertise in the world of performance. Let's connect and create something incredible together!

Anja Kersten takes a moment to reflect as she perches on a wall, showcasing her contemplative and introspective side. This candid snapshot captures a quieter, more personal side of the versatile actress, reminding us of the diverse range of emotions
Anja Kersten displays her playful and mischievous side as she leans her face against a wall, giving the camera a cheeky glance. This headshot showcases the actress's dynamic range, revealing a lively and spirited personality that contrasts beautifull
Anja Kersten radiates warmth and joy as she smiles brightly, her radiant presence commanding attention in this portrait. Though a background of flowers adds a touch of beauty, it's Anja's infectious smile and positive energy that truly shine through,
Anja Kersten, the talented performer, strikes a different pose as she returns to the wall, showcasing her adaptability and flexibility. This image reveals yet another facet of the actress's multifaceted personality, as she effortlessly transitions fr

Anja Kersten's Fotos from March 2023: "A Winter Retreat in Barão de São João, Portugal"

Actress and performer Anja Kersten shares a series of personal photos from her winter retreat in the charming town of Barão de São João, Portugal. Located near her current residence, this historic locale provided a serene backdrop for Anja's visit, capturing her connection to this beautiful and picturesque setting.