In this episode, we get a close-up look at immigration - from the immigrant’s perspective.
Ken welcomes veteran actor, Stelio Savante who plays a key role in the new independent film, “Between Borders.” In his nearly forty years as an actor, Stelio is a SAG award nominee with over 140 credits in television, and theatrical releases. In the popular series, The Chosen, Stelio plays the role of Moses.
Ken and Stelio talk about his career in film. They follow his journey of faith, starting in his country of birth - South Africa. From Capetown, Stelio goes to college in the United States where he excels in sports - and in theater.
Then they get into the powerful drama of the film, Between Borders. Stelio plays the role of an American Missionary who meets Armenian refugee Ivan and Petrosyan family in Russia. Here’s a summary from the official web site -
“In a crumbling Soviet Union, the Petrosyan family finds themselves as outcasts—wherever they go. Their Armenian heritage marks them for discrimination, first in their home country of Azerbaijan and then in Russia. After finding their eternal hope through a church planted by American missionaries, the hostility of everyday life pushes them to seek refuge in the United States. In the shadow of exile, hope became their home. Based on a riveting true story of faith and hope set amidst great oppression.”
The role of Violeta Petrosyan is played by Elizabeth Tish (who plays Mary in The Chosen). Ken and Stelio unpack the power of the story and Stelio’s identification, himself an immigrant and now a citizen.
Stelio also tells the story of his role as Moses in The Chosen, and Demas (one of the thieves crucified with Jesus) in The Two Thieves.
SHOW NOTES - See links to Stelio’s work.
Between Borders Official Site - How to see the film
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BETWEEN BORDERS is based on the true story of the Petrosyan family. This is what they are up to today …
Violet works as the Director of International Students at Charleston University. She is known as an incredible host to young people who choose to study a long way from home.
Ivan works in maintenance for his local church. His passion for coffee also recently led him to start his own roasting business. He still loves to play his guitar.
Julia is married and the mother of two. She runs a cafe in Denmark that she helped establish as a ministry for community outreach.
Olga graduated from Bethel University with a degree in vocal performance. After serving for years as a worship leader in Denmark and the U.S., she is now an associate producer at Southeast Christian Church in Louisville.
Stelio Savante is a South African-born actor, producer, and writer known for his diverse roles across film, television, and theater. Born in Cape Town, he moved to the United States on an international theater scholarship and built a career spanning over two decades. Savante gained recognition for his performance in Ugly Betty and has since appeared in numerous films, including The Chosen, Infidel, and Running for Grace. His work extends to voice acting and producing, with credits in award-winning independent films. Notably, he became the first South African male to be nominated for a Screen Actors Guild Award. With a distinctive presence and a talent for portraying complex characters, Savante continues to make an impact in Hollywood and beyond. His dedication to storytelling and versatility in both dramatic and action roles have solidified his status as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
More Pending
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