Elena was born on 21 January 1967 in Vologda. In 1986-1990 she was trained as an actress in Leningrad State Institute of Theatre, Music and Cinema (Igor Vladimirov's class). Upon graduating in 1990 she joined the Lensovet Theatre (St. Petersburg).

Being a versatile actress she played travesty and young female characters in contemporary dramas as well as in classics.

In 1988 and 1991 she performed in episodes of several movies and TV films made by Lenfilm Studio.

Parts in Sokurov's films:

1999 – principal part — Eva Braun in MOLOCH.
2002 – the Lady in RUSSIAN ARK

Prizes and awards:

1999. Open Russian and International Festival KINOTAVR (CINEMA-TAURUS). “Best actress” award (Eva Braun in MOLOCH).