Meet Jessie Booth | Actor & Director

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

Hi Jessie, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I am a descendant of the notorious Booth theatrical family. Generations later, my family is still in the theatre. My father is a director, producer, and actor and my mother is a film/tv, stage, and voice over actress. When I was growing up, my family ran the Alhambra Dinner Theatre in Florida. When I was 8 years old, my dad needed a Tiny Tim in “A Christmas Carole”. So he had me chop off my hair and I was put onstage and decades later I’m still performing. I fell in love with the art form and telling stories, whether it be in theatre or on film. This industry feels like a big adventure and I feel so lucky to be on this adventure with the support of my family.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am so proud to be currently working on the global regional premiere of “Everybody’s Talking About Jamie” at Weathervane Theatre in New Hampshire as Miss Hedge. There is something so exciting about working on a piece that’s this new and being able to make your artistic imprint on the character. It isn’t a role that has been played a million times, so I feel a freedom to tell this story in a unique and personal way.
As a performer and director, I love exploring new works and being a part of the future of theatre as a whole. I love analyzing the needs of a modern audience and exploring the best ways to tell a story to change the world around me. Whether it is tackling a major societal issue like “Jamie” or making someone’s day brighter by making them laugh with “Clue”, which I just directed. I feel the responsibility to my audience to be a positive influence on their life experience.

This industry can be so hard. The rejection, the hustle, the ups and downs, the instability, the financial unreliability, are a constant challenge. But I have never questioned this being my life’s purpose. Even on my worst days, I still bask in the joy and gratitude of being an artist. Over the years, I have found “my people”, good souls that support me, keep me focused, and inspire me. I have also said “yes” to many different opportunities within my field. I have branched out into producing, directing, stage management, tech, singing on a cruise ship, etc. I am grateful that has kept me employed in this industry and learning these skills has made a better collaborator and artist.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, I am currently in Whitefield, New Hamsphire so I would tell anyone visiting to see all of the shows at the Weathervane. I am so proud of the work we have done this summer. And enjoy the beautiful views of the North Country and small town life. In New York, where I am usually based, I again encourage people to see shows and support artists. Eat great food from small businesses and enjoy the artistry of the city.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would love to Shoutout my Alhambra family in Florida. I grew up in the Alhambra working as a performer, director, technician, box office, hostess, etc. I would do anything that was needed to be involved at the theatre. Besides working with my parents, I was in awe of the amazing community of artists and staff. They shaped me as an artist and as a human. They taught me discipline, craft, patience, collaboration, hard work, and perseverance. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their support and guidance.

Website: https://www.jessiebooth.com

Instagram: @itsjessiebooth

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjessiebooth/

Twitter: @itsjessiebooth

Facebook: @itsjessiebooth

Youtube: @thejessiebooth

Image Credits
Headshot: Shawn Carter
Blue Headshot: Darnell Bennett
Jamie photo: Lew Whitener