Ever wondered what it takes to capture the hearts of audiences across diverse genres? Fairuza Alejandra Balk, born on May 21, 1974, in Point Reyes, California, embodies that versatility, seamlessly transitioning between acting, music, and visual arts. Her journey from a child actress to a celebrated performer is a testament to her talent and dedication.
Fairuza Alejandra Balk's story begins in the scenic coastal town of Point Reyes, California. Her parents, Solomon Feldthouse, a traveling musician with roots in Idaho and a founding member of the psychedelic rock band Kaleidoscope, and Cathryn Balk, a belly dancer of Dutch heritage, instilled in her a love for the arts from an early age. The name "Fairuza," meaning turquoise in Farsi, was chosen by her father, inspired by her striking blue eyes. The vibrant artistic environment of her upbringing undoubtedly shaped her future career.
Fairuza Balk: Bio, Career & Personal Information | |
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Real Name | Fairuza Alejandra Feldthouse (professionally known as Fairuza Balk) |
Date of Birth | May 21, 1974 |
Birth Place | Point Reyes, California, USA |
Nationality | American |
Occupation | Actress, Musician, Visual Artist |
Years Active | 1983present |
Parents | Solomon Feldthouse (Father), Cathryn Balk (Mother) |
Father's Occupation | Musician (Traveling Folk Musician, Founding Member of Kaleidoscope) |
Mother's Occupation | Belly Dancer, Dance Teacher (Oriental and Flamenco) |
Early Education | Royal Academy of Ballet (London, UK), Ramona Beauchamp Agency, Bush Davies Performing Arts School |
First Role | The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (1983) - Television Film |
Breakthrough Role | Dorothy Gale in Disney's Return to Oz (1985) |
Notable Films | Valmont, The Craft, The Island of Dr. Moreau, American History X, The Waterboy, Almost Famous, Personal Velocity |
Known For | Playing unique and diverse characters in indie films and popular hits. |
Visual Art | Exhibits artworks under the name Cathryn Balk |
Musical Endeavors | Musician and singer. |
Other Relatives | First cousin, once removed, of actress and singer Debra Monk |
Paternal Grandfather | David Stanley Scaff (son of David Scaff and Octavia/Tava Garnet Weaver) |
Ancestry | Father believed to have Romani and Cherokee ancestry; Mother of Irish and French descent. |
Website | Fairuza.com |
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