Meet Jasmine Thomas: Actress & Teaching Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jasmine Thomas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jasmine, what are you inspired by?
I’m inspired by everything! That’s such a generic answer, but it’s true. I’m inspired by the people I meet or those who are already in my life, nature, history, reading, watching a movie, the world we’re living in now…the list goes on! Oftentimes, I’ll use those inspirations in creating art or remembering that experience or feeling for my next role.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
During this pandemic, I actually opened a one-woman show written by Danielle Deadwyler. I would say that was a HUGE goal of mine that I was able to check off my list. I am very proud of myself and the journey I went through during that process. I also joined the leadership team of Atlanta Theatre Artists for Justice (follow us on Facebook & Instagram for more info!) which has been an incredibly rewarding experience. We are continuing to fight for social justice in Atlanta theatres and in our communities. If you want to check out our new voting initiative, check out https://www.atltheatre4justice.com/atlvotescount. I am extremely excited to focus a little more on TV/Film/Commercial work this year. The auditions are starting to roll back in to my agent so I’m ready to explore that medium a little further and put my all into it. I believe my drive sets me apart from others and has played a huge role of getting me to where I am today. Once I moved to Atlanta, I researched all the theatres in town and their seasons to see which shows I could fit in, and I would submit myself for those shows so that the least I could do was get in the room with all of these amazing theatres and put my best foot forward. Now, I still take note of every season and continue to submit myself for productions I would fit or would like to be a part of. The work never stops, and it’s exciting! It definitely has not been a smooth road. It’s been difficult and the furthest thing from east. Sometimes when I would get my “thanks but no thanks email” or give a bad audition, it made me think I wasn’t good enough or I would take it very personally. At the end of the day, different directors and casting directors are looking for something specific. I’ve learned that it’s ok if I don’t fit into that box this time. In this industry, we hear “no” a lot, but once you get that “yes”, all of the hard work pays off. I’ve told myself that giving up is not an option. You learn from your mistakes, apply the note and show them what you can do the next time. Acting is an ever-changing craft that you never stop learning from. I tell myself that constantly. I’m always ready for the next challenge/struggle because I know it’ll make me a stronger artist and person in the long run.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
This is so hard! If they’ve never been to Atlanta before, of course, I would take them to a couple of Atlanta staples (Georgia Aquarium, Centennial Park, High Museum, etc…). I’m a huge fan of the nightlife here and take advantage of different events happening around Atlanta. I would take them to Edgewood one night to experience the eclectic bars and groups of people, and then to East Atlanta Village or Little 5 Points the next night to experience the chill vibes and maybe catch some live music. We would go on a little hike on one of the many trails in the city (or just outside of the city). One of my favorites is Arabia Mountain. One thing I love about Atlanta is all of the different neighborhoods and the people that reside in these specific places. There is so much history and character behind everything which is so exciting and cool.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to give a special shoutout to my family who has always supported me in all of my creative endeavors.

Website: https://jasminegracethomas.weebly.com/
Instagram: jasmine.g.thomas

Image Credits
Casey Gardner Ford Greg Mooney