Alisa Kotikova
About
I am a director and actress who had worked in international projects and platforms throughout the past 19 years. During my careeer I have seen beautiful examples how arts shape people's life, mental health, wellbeing and thinking. I have lived in Latin America, Eastern Europe and currently I am moving to Spain.
I believe that every person has unique characteristics that make them stand out. I truly know how arts can change our relationship with the world around us and ourselves, with self esteem and self love. I have seen amazing examples of how my students have discovered their hidden potential and turned it into their daily happiness resource.
My practice is built on a deeper understanding of human behaviour, cultural differences and psychology. As a traveler, I have lived been exposed to different context throughout the last 19 years.
For the past 7 years I've been preparing students for their college assignments in creative disciplines, helping them to find themselves and their inner voice through theater and filmmaking techniques.
As a professional, I have been working both as a film and theater director and as an actress. My experience is based on the last 9 years of freelance in TV, short films and videoclips. I am sure we can find tour strengths and the right approach to make your inner voice heard and your hidden talents shine.
Teaching Style
We will design your learning strategy according to your goals and time, a completely individual approach based on your interests and strengths.
I always try to make sure that my students are satisfied with their process and that their experience on my classes is a healthy and enjoyable experience. We will design every class based on our plan that we will create at the beginning and if needed, make necessary changes based on how you feel today.
My classes are open to everyone who wills to learn, with or without experience. Whether you are a beginner in filmmaking or an amateur, we will focus on your goals and structure our plan with care.
Curriculum
I really enjoy discovering personalities and looking for the best way for people to achieve what they truly desire to live a happy life. I know that artistic practices are often the most desired field to start in, and I'm ready to be present, listen to the inner child of every student and be their support on their journey of self discovery.
Credentials & Affiliations
Education
BFA in Performance Arts at University of Costa Rica
MA in Film and TV Studies at University Carlos 3 of Madrid
Certificated filmmaker educated in New York Film Academy.
Professional Experience
TransformArte (2022–2023) — Founder, Producer & Facilitator Theater-in-mental-health workshops for children; supported by a University of Costa Rica grant (2023). Designed and delivered recurring sessions with clear outcomes in emotional safety and community.
Carambola Group (2023–2024) — Founder, Producer & Facilitator Mental-health theater workshops for teenage girls from Eastern European migrant families. Built peer support and collective storytelling around identity, belonging, and resilience.
Fuímonos Bartolo (2024) — Director & Producer Performance created for UCR's Bus de las Artes program; presented at Festival Cuidarte on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast. Addressed ecology, xenophobia, and migration through participatory theater.
Sinaí, a home of our community (2025–2026) — Author of Initiative, Director & Producer Participatory documentary/community research project with a marginalized community; University of Costa Rica community service context. Coordinated stakeholders, narrative framing, and production logistics.
Directing & Screen Work (2024–Present)
Quédate Conmigo (Polémico) / Stay with me (2024) — Director
Short film about refugee women rebuilding their lives; screened at San José (Cortometrajes 2024, Funciones Especiales).
Beyond the access zone (2025) — Producer
Travel show exploring connection-building between cultures.
La Faguette (2024–2025) — Assistant Director & Actress
Theatrical work about marginalized communities in Costa Rica.


