Meet Cornelius Jefferson | Actor, Acting Coach, & Author

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

Hi Cornelius, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Originally, I wasn’t looking to start my own business. I’ve garnered almost 2 decades in the entertainment industry. I’ve studied at the University of Miami with a focus on Theatre, performed in countless plays and films, and even worked alongside well known actors helping them to prepare for popular television shows. Throughout this journey I’ve met many people with aspirations to grow in their acting career or who just wanted advice. I would help people because that’s who I am. These people went on to sign with agencies and star on tv series’ or stage plays. I always had a heart to help develop and coach others. I was passionate about seeing others develop in their craft. One day, a friend put the idea in my head to start the business and I realized I had been walking in this role all along. This is who I am. I’m an encourager. A motivator. A coach. Thus Royal Dramatics was born with the idea of helping others to bring out the royalty in their performances. In our sessions, we go deep because not only do I want to see our clients thrive on stage or in front of the camera, but I want them to succeed in life. Through our sessions, many of our clients have been able to face their fears and start journeys toward healing. All of these things have aided in them being free in their performances. At Royal Dramatics, we are invested in our clients because that is the heart of the business.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
To get to where I am today, it took me to have to face, heal from, and overcome my trauma and insecurities. I believe that many of us are capable are doing more in life, but we let our own fears stop us. This was definitely the case with me. I knew I was talented, but I didn’t believe I had anything to offer the world. Once I elevated my view of self, I was able to begin walking into what was always there; my passion for art and others. Combining these two through Royal Dramatics has been most fulfilling. I love helping others to grow in their craft and obtain artistic goals. At Royal Dramatics, we are invested in the lives of our clients. It isn’t just about helping you to perform well. We want you to manifest that vision board that’s hanging on your wall.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Look! Lol. I am the wrong person for this. Believe it or not but I am an Atlanta native; born and raised! Grady baby to be exact; however, I don’t know where anything is!! You would think that I’m a tourist. lol. It’s so bad. My friend’s from other states come here and introduce ME to places. Lol. I’ve got to do better about getting out. smh. lol

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My community! It isn’t just one person. It started with my mother and son who have believed in me when no one else did. The CEO of JT Talent, Danielle Jackson, pushed me to step out and start the business helping me to realize that I was already walking in the role. CEO’s of Q-Zeen’s and Baked by the Pound, Marcus & LaWanda Kirkland, and CEO of City Permit, Jesse Tarr helped me to formulate the business and encouraged me when the light got really dim in my life. There are so many people who have had a hand in helping me on my journey. I’m grateful to them all!

Instagram: @royaldramatics & @thecornelius_j

Facebook: Cornelius Jefferson

Image Credits
Personal Photos