These Four Talented Young Artists Share How They Pursue Their Passions in the Big City

Analise Scarpaci is the 20-year-old actress whose laser-focus and determination has landed her multiple leading roles in Broadway musicals. Family is what keeps Scarpaci grounded and inspired to continue to pursue her dreams in New York City. Born into a big Italian-American family based in Staten Island, her parents and cousins are her biggest cheerleaders despite her being an only child. “My family is the best,” she tells Teen Vogue. “We’re about over 150 people on both sides.” Her best friend Lucia, who she connected with when starting high school, is like a sister to her. With such a support system, Scarpaci notes that having a close-knit community helps combat self-doubt. “They are always there to assure me that everything happens for a reason, everything is supposed to happen the way it’s supposed to happen and that I was put into this world to do this for a reason. They’re always there to reassure me that everything’s going to be okay. That’s really important as an actor, because your mind races with different thoughts — negative thoughts — but they help me through it.” When reflecting on why creatives come to New York to kickstart their dreams, Scarpaci says, “This is the greatest city in the world. New York is all about being important in your own story.” And despite not wanting to sound cliche, Scarpaci urges newcomers to the Big Apple to always be yourself. “If you’re not yourself, you’re not going to be happy.”