UVA Drummer Featured on Netflix’s ‘Sweet Magnolias’

When Elena Heraldo, a University of Virginia student and talented drummer, received an email related to her viral Instagram account, she couldn’t believe her luck. The co-executive producer of the popular Netflix series “Sweet Magnolias” had been following her drumming videos and wanted her to appear on the show. Despite initial doubts, she soon found herself on set in Atlanta, shooting a scene as Roxanne, a female drummer.

For Heraldo, juggling her budding drumming career with midterms was a challenge, but one she was excited to take on. After some acting tips and the freedom to improvise her drum solo, she shot her 56-second scene in just a few hours. The experience of being on a big-budget show like “Sweet Magnolias” opened her eyes to the amount of work that goes on behind the scenes to create a seamless production.

Despite having to keep her role a secret for a year due to a non-disclosure agreement, Heraldo can now share her excitement with the world. Her Instagram followers, who have been following her drumming journey, can now see her on one of their favorite Netflix shows.