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From Copenhagen to the Global Stage: A Danish Actress's Creative Journey Abroad

From Denmark to the World: A Creative Journey

Moving away from Denmark to pursue a career in both art and acting has been an adventure full of unexpected challenges and discoveries. The shift from one culture to another has shaped my creative voice in profound ways, influencing how I approach both my craft and my artistic identity. As an actress and artist with deep roots in Denmark, I’ve often felt like both an observer and participant, moving between worlds that each have their own charm and challenges.

In this blog post, I’m sharing the key moments that have shaped my artistic life—from growing up in Copenhagen to making my mark on the international stage abroad.


Liv Hansen seated in a vintage Danish living room setup, showcasing her connection to Danish culture and aesthetics
Liv Hansen sitting in a vintage Danish living room in Copenhagen.

Leaving Denmark: A Leap into the Unknown

Leaving Denmark as a teenager was both exhilarating and daunting. Moving to Los Angeles alone, with its endless sunshine and vibrant creative industry, felt worlds away from the understated, cozy streets of Copenhagen. I remember stepping onto the plane, filled with a mixture of nerves and excitement, ready to study acting at the Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute.

Los Angeles was unlike anything I’d experienced—both overwhelming and liberating. Living in a Hollywood hostel among aspiring actors and filmmakers, each with their own dreams and aspirations, was a transformative experience. The city, however, could be unforgiving, with tough auditions and fierce competition. Yet, that initial immersion was crucial in solidifying my resolve.


Navigating the Challenges as a Danish Actress Abroad

One of the most challenging aspects of being a Danish actress abroad is finding a balance between staying true to my Scandinavian roots whilst embracing new cultural contexts. In Los Angeles, I was often referred to as the “Danish actress”—a title that I didn't mind at all, but that also made me question how I wanted to present myself.

This duality followed me to Vancouver, where I spent several years. Here, the artistic community was supportive, yet I often found myself in roles that capitalized on my European background. While it was a strength, it could also be limiting. I could play characters that were enigmatic and unconventional, but there was always the risk of being typecast.

Liv Hansen driving a police car during a film shoot in Vancouver, representing her international acting experience.
Liv Hansen filming in Vancouver

Returning to Europe: A New Perspective

Returning to Copenhagen has given me a chance to re-evaluate everything I’ve learned. The Danish industry is smaller but no less vibrant, with a focus on grounded, realistic storytelling that I find deeply inspiring. While I’m still working on international projects both as an actor and within the world of voice-overs - I’m also exploring opportunities closer to home, bringing a blend of both American and Danish sensibilities to my roles.

In my art, I’ve found a similar interplay between nostalgia and modernity. My pieces often draw from Danish history and culture, blending them with the influences I’ve absorbed while living abroad. There’s a quiet beauty in rediscovering one’s roots, and I feel that my work has taken on a new depth as a result.


What’s Next: Bridging Art and Performance

Looking ahead, my goal is to continue working on projects that resonate on both a personal and universal level. I’m currently preparing for an audition in Denmark, where I’ll be performing in front of some of the country’s top agents and casting directors. It’s nerve-wracking but also incredibly exciting. I hope to bring something unique and authentic to the table, shaped by years of experience in multiple industries and countries.

Whether I’m on stage, in front of a camera, or creating art in my studio, I want my work to reflect a genuine sense of curiosity and exploration. I’m constantly inspired by the idea that no matter where we come from, art and storytelling can connect us in ways that transcend language and culture.


Liv Hansen in a production still close-up, showcasing her nuanced performance and expressive presence on screen.
Liv Hansen production still close-up.

Embracing the Duality of Being “Danish and International”

The journey from Copenhagen to Los Angeles, London, Vancouver, and back again has been transformative. I’ve learned to embrace the duality of being a "Danish actress and artist” who is also very much at home in other places. Each city has left an indelible mark on my work, and I’m excited to see where this path leads next.

I hope that by sharing my story, I can encourage others to explore their own journeys, embrace the unknown, and find inspiration in every place they call home. Feel free to reach out, explore my latest projects, or just share your own stories—I’d love to connect!

Liv Hansen walking through a scenic Danish countryside path, surrounded by lush greenery and classic Danish architecture in the background.
Liv Hansen in the Danish countryside.


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