Salif CISSE
Actor

Salif received a grant to help him finance his studies at the Conservatoire National Supérieur d’Art Dramatique de Paris. 

What is your artistic background ?
It was during a workshop in high school that I discovered theatre at the age of 18. I had never acted before and never thought that I would turn towards this artistic discipline. The following year, I entered the Conservatoire of the 1st arrondissement of Paris. That year confirmed that acting was a passion for me. I then took part in two theatre projects. Then I went back to the Conservatoire of the 8th arrondissement to prepare for the entry exam of the Conservatoire National Supérieur d'Art Dramatique. I am now a 2nd year student. 

How do you see your profession today ?
I'm just beginning to tell myself that it is actually a profession. I'm still in training, I'm in the process of becoming a professional. This means that I have to find a formula that combines work and fun. I find that the acting profession is very different from other professions. It's also a question of knowing how to do it. But above all, it's about having a very good knowledge of human nature. To be permeable to emotions and to have a lot of empathy.

How do you see yourself in five years ? In 10 years ?
I like acting very much, but also writing and directing other actors. In five years, I think I will be making films and directing plays. And in 10 years, I see myself leading big projects as an artistic director. I love television series and it has always been my dream to create one.

This interview was conducted in 2019
Photo credit: Amandine Besacier