ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Welcome to 9 Questions with…, an exclusive Spectrum Bay News 9 feature in which we get to know some of the Bay area’s movers and shakers a little better. It could be a politician, an artist, a first responder, a bartender—just about anyone, really. This week, we spoke with actor and cabaret singer Eugenie Bondurant, whose new movie ‘The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It’ is out today in theaters and on HBO Max. Is there someone you’d like to answer 9 Questions? Let us know!

Are you a Tampa Bay native? If not, where are you from?

New Orleans native, born and raised. Lived in lovely Tampa Bay since 2003.  

How would you describe your job or claim to fame?

 Jack of all trades? Actress, voiceover artist, cabaret artist, acting coach, tall & skinny.

What’s your favorite Tampa Bay restaurant?

Oh, come on, not fair. That’s like asking which cat is your fav. Know what I really love? Traditional Tampa cuisine is my weakness—black beans and rice, picadillo, pulled pork, flan, Cuban bread...

Do you have a personal Tampa Bay “secret spot” and/or “hidden treasure”?

Giving away my secrets… Lassing Park, in the Old Southeast district where we live. Hidden gem.  

What is your favorite Tampa Bay tradition?

Going to a Rays Game at The Trop. #RaysUP

What’s one thing many people don’t know about you that you’re willing to share with us?

I’m a cabaret singer. Didn’t see that coming until I met my husband and he put me in his band. Singing, like acting, is all about the story.  

If you could change one thing about the Tampa Bay area or your community specifically, what would it be?

Have the state legislature bring back the tax incentives for TV/film production in this state! It’s a win-win. Don’t get me started!

Your newest major theatrical release, ‘The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It,’ is out this weekend. What’s the one project you get recognized from the most when you’re out and about locally?

Oh, in this order: ‘Fear of Rain’ “Dani” (if you haven’t seen that locally shot film, rent it now!); ‘Hunger Games: Mockingjay—Part 1,’ “Tigris” (even with the tattoos) and maybe now ‘The Conjuring’ as “The Occultist.”

As someone who’s built a remarkable career while remaining relatable to your hometown and its own culture, what do you think of the idea that aspiring performers have to run off to LA or NYC to “make it”?

Well, here is the good news: This past year’s crisis has cemented the deal on expanding the actor’s horizon. Due to the flexibility of doing a “self-tape” an actor can be anywhere and tape an audition. If they have a camera, computer and a light or two handy, they’ve got a set-up. I was filming in February under strict COVID protocol and had three auditions. I brought my handy kit with me and didn’t have to leave the room.  

Having lived in both places, what I suggest to my students is to build your reel and resume locally before venturing to the larger markets. Start writing and creating your own content. Get involved with local film festivals, attending and volunteering. You’ll then gain a bit of footing so you’ll arrive with confidence.  

 PS—It was a BLAST working on ‘The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It.’ Now I hope everyone will get out of their houses and go to the movies. And please let me know how you like it!