ELISE BENSON

Elise Benson is a soulful and intelligent actor whose emotional instrument is deep and immeasurable. Growing up in Indiana, in an African American household, Elise was always encouraged to get involved in pieces that tell African American stories. Elise’s theatrical artistry was ignited when she was cast in August Wilson’s Fences, which left her with a need to continue telling the stories of her community and those who came before her. Elise has trained in classical, contemporary, and heightened language, with a specific interest in telling nuanced, dramatic stories that integrate historical elements. Also, as a multidisciplinary artist, Elise thrives in artistic environments that champion collective dramaturgical conversations, ensemble building, and collaboration. Elise notes her most transformative experience at Fordham as helping to devise and perform The Daughter I Raised, The Girl I am, a piece that reckons with the pressure of making our ancestors and our families proud. Offstage, you can find Elise watching Audrey Hepburn movies, trying new makeup looks, or enjoying matcha!