Dr. Elizabeth Celi., PhD, now redirects her 18 years as a psychologist into screenwriting and directing film and theatre. The fourth daughter of Sicilian immigrants to Australia, the passing of her mother in 2018 inspired Elizabeth to write, produce and direct her third short film, “Dare the Seas”. You can view the trailer at www.vimeo.com/310429466.
Elizabeth‘s development slate includes actively writing her third dram-edy feature screenplay and pre-production to direct a web-series and be 1st assistant director for fellow filmmakers. Post-production continues on her documentary exploring energy healing. Elizabeth is currently directing a one act stage play written by playwright Alex Broun. Her cast of five are enjoying the Italian snacks and meals she brings along to rehearsals, of course “mangia mangia” is an important mantra and way to take care of your community!
Her short film “Dare the Seas” has screened with Director’s Q&As to private and public audiences, now being written as a feature film. Invited to do an ABC Radio interview, Elizabeth contributed to the celebration of Harmony Day. Showcasing how the story of her mother in “Dare the Seas” reflects the attitude of compassion and understanding for immigrants starting a new life. A copy of the radio interview audio is available on request. “Dare the Seas” is a tribute to her mother’s brave journey immigrating to Australia in 1960. Temporarily leaving her two oldest daughters with her husband and mother in Sicily for two long years, “Dare the Seas” highlights the hope, tenacity and grit of a Sicilian woman making a short term sacrifice for the long term benefit of her family. Elizabeth relishes contributing to her worldwide Italian community as a writer, director and media commentator. Allowing our beautiful cultural heritage to positively influence the next generations brings Elizabeth immense joy and fulfillment.
