Growing up in a historical town in Japan, Oriko enjoyed visiting old temples and shrines.  Her love of history turned outward once she saw “Raiders of the Lost Ark.”  She fell in love with Indiana Jones and aspired to study in the US.  While attending the University of Pittsburgh, she went to Peru for a dig and visited Machu Pichu, Cusco, Lake Titicaca and many other archaeological sites. Somewhere along the way to becoming an archaeologist, she discovered acting, her way of telling stories.  She knew that it was her calling and never looked back.

 

Oriko has always loved the art of storytelling - providing the audience an escape from their daily life. After appearing in several short films on the east coast, Oriko embarked on a journey westward and moved her husband and two cats to Los Angeles. In LA, she has done a dozen stage productions as well as several films, television, and other media projects; including, "Little Wonder" (Official Selection: Slamdance) and “Nice Guy” which recently won Best Romantic Comedy at the Sydney Indie Film Festival.

 

Oriko goes back to Japan every year where her family still resides.  She loves soaking in hot springs and eating unmatched varieties of sushi.

 

She currently lives in LA and recently celebrated 20 years of marriage. You can connect with her on social media: @orikoikeda