Today we’d like to introduce you to Alicia Haymer.
Hi Alicia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, you could tell our readers some of your backstories.
I started acting at Meigs Middle School in the 7th grade. I joined the Forensics team, led by my drama teacher Kaul Williams. She saw a talent in me and encouraged me to use it. From there, I continued participating in Forensics at John Overton High School with my coach Bonnie Barker. I went to the National Championship Tournament in three out of my four participating years. I majored in Speech/Communications at Fisk University, graduating with my B.A. in 2000. I took some time off to have a family and started acting again in the mid-2000s with SistaStyle Productions. From there, I began working with many other theater companies in Nashville. Including Dream 7, Destiny Theater Experience, Amun Ra Theater, Street Theater, Actor’s Bridge Ensemble, and Nashville Rep. I started writing and directing about five years ago, writing with Kenly Smith at Tennessee Playwright’s Studio and directing with Actor’s Bridge Ensemble. I’ve since written two full-length plays, several shorts, a libretto, and a children’s show. Along with Actor’s Bridge, I’ve directed with Street Theater Company, Nashville Story Garden, Nashville Rep, and Chattanooga Theatre Centre.
You wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been smooth?
There have been hills and valleys in my professional career. There are moments of imposter syndrome, questioning my career choices, and wondering if I’m talented enough to be successful, which is to be expected in the life of an artist. With good mentors and a supportive community, I’ve learned to trust myself and my voice. Believing in myself has helped me to create my best work.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am an artist with slashes. I am an actor/director/playwright/artistic director. I have been acting the longest and love any opportunity to perform. I have the most fun directing because I love to work collaboratively. A lot of work goes into pre-production; costumers, technical directors, light and sound designers, prop masters- everyone is essential to a successful production, and it’s so fascinating to watch everyone’s creative ideas come together. Playwrighting is like free therapy for me! I work through many issues I have with the world through the scripts I write. Being an Artistic Director is fairly new to me, but I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn about the theater business. I think all artists should know about the business of the arts and how everything runs. I am proud of all of the work I’ve done. My unique voice is what sets me apart as an artist. We all have a uniqueness to share with the world, and I’m grateful to share mine.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc.?
My Google calendar is my lifeline! Without it, I would double-book myself because I like to take advantage of so many great opportunities that I’m offered. I also love listening to Nikkie’s Thoughts podcast because it’s like talking to a girlfriend. She gives sound advice about how to set boundaries, speak your voice, and have fun. The guidance she shares and the advice she gives help me to stay true to myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.aliciahaymer.com
- Instagram: @alicia.haymer
Image Credits
Bralyn Stokes Photography
