Full Time Adult, Part Time Artist

In case you haven’t realized or noticed my lack of blogs, I am not the full time artist I would like to be. Don’t get me wrong I love being an artist but like every adult I have bills to pay and I need health insurance. This doesn’t mean that I’m quitting, far from it.

As of writing this blog, I am currently writing a new script, waiting for results from auditions, and something that I can’t mention right now. Once it comes around in late October, it will definitely be something new. Believe me, in my time as an actor I have never done this particular thing. Again, I can’t say it until late October and no it’s not a Marvel movie (although one can dream). Hopefully I’ll hear something either from the video auditions I’ve submitted, or find out what some of the other theatre companies are doing so I can prepare for future auditions.

Until then,

Jessica :)

Summer of shows

In case you haven't been following my theatrical adventures(AKA my social media posts) Evita has officially opened! The week leading up to opening has been hectic if not stressful. However at the end of the day it is worth the lack of sleep, sore feet and sweating through our costumes… at least that's how it is from my perspective.

The next gig I have is a personal favorite and it sucks that we’re doing it for one weekend. It’s Forbidden Broadway’s Greatest Hits. I wish I could say that I’m reprising the roles I played previously but alas, I’m only reprising three roles/songs. A new role/song that I’m excited about is the late Carol Channing (original star of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and Hello Dolly!). If you’re not familiar with her work, then you might have seen the one episode of Family Guy where she beats Mike Tyson in a celebrity boxing fight, the same fight Brian loses the bet with Stewie. Sorry for getting off topic but what I’m trying to say is that she has a distinct voice, and I have been working on it.

Other than that I’m currently awaiting the results of video auditions I’ve submitted as well as what some of the theater’s upcoming seasons will be. once I know something I’ll definitely post it.

- Jessica

Life as a playwright

Hi again.

In case you missed the playwright page on this site, I am also a playwright and as I’m writing this post I had finished working on something new which I’m hoping it’ll be up in 2025. All I can say is that it’s an adaptation and it takes place during Christmas. If it ever get’s produced I’ll definitely post about it. Now that I’ve finished that adaptation, I can work on an original idea that I’ve had kicking around in my brain.

Anyway, I’m learning more and more about myself as a writer the more I continue to work on my next script. I try to give myself a deadline so I could finish the project within a timely manner. Another thing I’ve learned, through a friend of mine (who is a copyright lawyer) is that once you get the copyright, make sure that it expires seventy years after your death in your will. I guess if you have a friend who’s a lawyer, pay attention to their advice. It may save your butt one day.

I do like writing, I really do, but the one thing I do not love about it is the occasional writer's block. I believe that I had this idea for about two years (maybe one year ) I don't remember but I have a basic outline and other basics when writing a script. I have even given myself a deadline for next year to finish it. Right now I'm just hoping that writer's block doesn't get me.

Until next time,

Jessica

First few weeks of Evita rehearsal

Hello, as the title suggests I’ve survived the first few weeks of Evita rehearsals. 🤗

For those that don’t know, usually the first week or so of rehearsals are reserved to go over the music. Right now as I’m writing I feel like my throat throbbing. Which may have been my own fault because I can’t help but sing the high notes. Now you’re probably wondering how high could it be? Well, I volunteered to sing a D6 at the end of the song “And The Money Kept Rolling In.” One may call it being cocky, but I know I can do it. I’m just hoping that it doesn’t come back to bite me in the butt.

Right, now we’re currently less than two weeks until we open, and I can’t wait for audiences to see this remarkable story told with a beautiful score.

-Jessica Roberts

My next show…

As promised, I can finally announce my next show, or theatrical adventure as I’d like to say.

My next theatrical adventure is Evita.

Program of the original West End production at the Prince Edward Theatre.

With music by the legendary team that is Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, this show concentrates on of the life of Argentina’s first lady Eva Peron, the second wife of the country’s president, Juan Peron. The story shows Eva’s early life, rise to power, her charity work, and her untimely death at the age of 33.

I’m really excited, as a fan of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s work, to be working in the ensemble of this fabulous cast and crew at the Harlequin Theatre. As the show dates draw near, June 21-July 13, I’ll post information on tickets.

First Blog…For Real

Hello.

This is possibly the first time that I’ve done something even close to a blog, but I’m excited to use this as a log of my journey as an artist.

I am an actor. I have been for as long as I can remember, but lately I’ve been branching out to other artistic venues and I’m liking it. I have dabbled in playwriting with varying success. I even have done some directing, also with success. And you’re probably wondering, what are you doing right now? Well, right now, I’m awaiting my next adventure. Once I have an update everyone will know.

Until then,

Jessica

Everything’s coming up roses

I know what you’re thinking, what’s with the Gypsy reference?

Well if you know me or the life of an actor trying to get work, you understand how frustrating it can be sometimes. Especially when you feel like you have been rejected by everyone. And if I may quote another lyric from Gypsy, lately I had kept asking myself and/or anyone who would listen “Someone tell me when is it my turn? Don’t I get a dream for myself?”

Another thing to keep in mind, I have been wanting to do well known works. Yes, working on original projects are fun but there comes a time where you need a break. I have yet to do a well known play or musical since 2019, and I was getting really frustrated…until now.

I can’t say anything until the theatre’s social media pages announce it, but I’ve been cast in a show. When the announcement comes out I’ll gladly share it on my socials as well as here on this blog.

Thanks for reading,

Jessica