Vala Thorsdottir is an accomplished Icelandic writer and actress, with a diverse career in the arts. She earned her BA (Hons) in Theatre Arts from Bretton Hall College, University of Leeds, in 1995 and has since expanded her expertise through advanced courses in screenwriting, including the North by Northwest program and masterclasses with industry icons such as Dario Fo, Stephen Frears, and Laurie Hutzler. She has also participated in elite programs such as the MIDPOINT TV Launch, underscoring her commitment to creative excellence.

Her creative portfolio spans plays, children's literature, and screenwriting, showcasing her versatility and depth as a storyteller. Her children’s books have earned international acclaim, including the Icelandic Women’s Literature Prize Fjöruverðlaunin and recognition on the prestigious IBBY International Honour Booklist.

Vala's work includes the internationally performed play Eldhús eftir máli, which won both the DV Cultural Prize and Gríma Award, as well as her contributions to the award-winning TV drama Fractures/Vitjanir both as writer and actress. Her works have been translated into multiple languages and staged worldwide, reflecting her ability to resonate with diverse audiences and cultures.

A seasoned collaborator, Vala has lived and worked in Iceland, England, Italy, Germany, Turkey, and Malta, embodying a truly global artistic perspective. She ran an independent theatre company, Icelandic Take Away Theatre with her colleagues both in Iceland and England, producing over 14 new plays in 12 years. She has also contributed significantly to the arts community, serving on the boards of the Icelandic Dramatists Union and the Actors Union of Iceland.

In recognition of her contributions, Vala was named a Fellow of the Royal Society of the Arts, highlighting her leadership and influence within the creative industry. Currently based in Reykjavík, she continues to forge international partnerships and engage in projects that celebrate cultural exchange and storytelling.