ABOUT
How did I become an actor?
Our stories don't come from a single event or one life experience by alone. But we are shaped in the journey that follows a massive redirections which unapologetically remind us we are not in control.
At the age of sixteen I had an experience that picked me straight up and off my foundation like Dorothy's house. I was tornadoed around for 2 years after being diagnosed with a multiple tumored cancer.
Bald, wearing masks long before it was pandemic cool- after 2 years- by pure grace, lots of chemotherapy, and the guidance of the celestial St. Jude Children’s Hospital - I went into a complete remission and graduated high school. 3 days later I left for college- utterly bewildered- having no idea where my story would lead me.
During summers I worked at Paul Newman’s Hole in the Wall Gang Camp- a haven for kids facing similar life threatening experiences. It was there. Camp is a magnet for gifted souls and artists of all kinds.
The day I watched a talented friend perform a story by the campfire was my moment. I felt that story. I understood it. I was inside of it as it grew bigger than all of us.
I knew I would learn the craft. I would be a storyteller.
I threw on a backpack and sought out storytellers. I lived in Ireland, Scotland, France.
I learned, I performed. Festivals, pubs, schools. I performed on the street, with musicians. I was fortunate to spend time with Duncan Williamson, a gifted seanchai (storyteller).
Stories give us permission to experience our collective humanity. We laugh, shout for justice, weep for peace. We learn things and find strength to release burdens. Together. Stories remind us we are not alone.
I was all in and I wanted more.
I needed to be inside stories bigger than I alone could tell.
I trained at the Dell Arte International School of Theatre. Then to Actor’s Avenue Studio for Meisner, and classes on Anne Bogart's Viewpoints. I wanted my tool box full and ready to serve the story.
It is impossible for me to stop being moved by the world, by its people. Accountants, landscapers, cashiers, and that mom at the stoplight. Humanity inspires me in all of its chaotic and divine motion.
I am fortunate to work with many talented, diversely skilled storytellers. On stage, on camera, coming through my headset in my sound studio. We bring our skills, we dive in, and we let go into the work that connects us all. We give it away in hopes even a glimpse of truth can help. A reminder that we are all in this together.