I’m Ella Partanen (she/her), a Chicago-based actor and theatre artist originally from Finland. I graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a BFA in Acting this May and was thrilled to join the theatre community of Chicago! Throughout my life, I’ve lived in four countries, inspiring my passion for telling stories of humanity and connection.

Hi! :)

As an actor, my strengths lie in collaboration, ensemble work, and emotional depth. I’m drawn to eccentric characters and love stepping into roles that allow me to explore the full range of human emotions and quirks, particularly those with a raw, honest core. Whether it’s in intimate indie films or ensemble productions, I thrive in spaces where character dynamics drive the story forward.

Among my favorite roles I’ve played are Bessie in Drowning Girls and Witch 2 in Erica Schmidt’s modern adaptation Mac Beth. Some of my dream roles on-stage include Tosh in scenes with girls, Nina in Stupid Fucking Bird, Blanche in Streetcar Named Desire, and Emma in People, Places, and Things. On-screen, roles I resonate with are Lady Bird and Clementine (Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind).

I’ve been a performer at heart from a young age, with over 10 years of experience as a competitive dancer. My passion for acting emerged in high school, and I further explored theatre arts during my time at the University of Oklahoma. Since then, I’ve received a grant for play development, another to translate a Finnish play into English, and have directed and assistant-directed several productions.