Jonathan Horne and Shelli Delgado in The Crucible (2017). image by Casey Gardner Ford Photography.
Actor’s Express inspires people to question themselves, their communities and the world by creating live theatre in an inclusive space designed to challenge conventional thinking and reflect contemporary human experiences.
Through eclectic programming, a bold approach to production and a robust commitment to social accountability, AE encourages audiences and artists to share a journey of adventure, becoming brave change-makers in a world that is spinning into a new era.
Actor’s Express leans into its commitment to the future of our field by nurturing the next generation of artists through rigorous training, and by developing and producing new work.
Values
COURAGE
We create brave and gutsy theatre that challenges and entertains at the same time.
GROWTH THROUGH ARTISTIC ADVENTURE
We produce theatre that encourages audiences, artists and everyone involved to explore new ideas, experiences and views of the world.
Inclusion
We believe every person matters and we create inclusive space to hold the perspectives, ideas, differences and commonalities of diverse people.
CREATION WITH EXCELLENCE
We hold ourselves to a high standard to create excellence with a consistency that audiences can trust.
COMMUNITY BUILDING
Every day, we collaborate, make meaningful connections and build trust with the guiding principle that our work plays a vital role in the civic life of our community.
CREATIVE ENTREPRENEURSHIP
We foster a culture of innovation, risk-taking, and boundary-pushing to create something new and unique that adds value to our community.
PASSIONATE COLLABORATION
We believe that with shared passion and collaboration, we can do almost anything.
Actor’s Express was founded in 1988 by Chris Coleman and Harold M. Leaver. Originally located in a church basement on Clairmont Road, the Express soon moved to a location in Inman Park where it remained until 1994. Since that time, AE has been in West Midtown’s King Plow Arts Center, a sprawling complex converted from a former plow factory.
Founder Chris Coleman led the theatre until 2000. He was succeeded by Wier Harmon, who served as Artistic Director until 2003. Upon Herman’s departure, Jasson Minadakis took the reins and served until 2006. Since July 2007, Freddie Ashley has been serving as the theater’s Artistic Director.
For 35 years, AE has been considered one of the most daring, provocative and high-caliber theatres in Atlanta. Our work continues to appear on local best-of lists and has garnered dozens of awards.
The original 1992 production of The Harvey Milk Show starring Founder and Artistic Director Chris Coleman.
Season 34 (2021-2022)
Season 33 (2020-2021)
- Neat
- Virtual Downstage Monologue Series
- A Christmas Carol
Season 32 (2019-2020)
Season 31 (2018-2019)
Season 30 (2017-2018)
- The Christians
- Cardboard Piano
- Angels in America, Part One: Millennium Approaches
- Angels in America, Part Two: Perestroika
- The Flower Room
- The Color Purple
Season 29 (2016-2017)
Season 28 (2015-2016)
Season 27 (2014-2015)
Season 26 (2013-2014)
Season 25 (2012-2013)
Season 24 (2011-2012)
Season 23 (2010-2011)
Season 22 (2009-2010)
Season 21 (2008-2009)
Season 20 (2007-2008)
Season 19 (2006-2007)
Season 18 (2005-2006)
Season 17 (2004-2005)
Season 15 (2002-2003)
Season 16 (2003-2004)
Season 14 (2001-2002)
Season 13 (2000-2001)
Season 12 (1999-2000)
Season 11 (1998-1999)
Season 10 (1997-1998)
Season 9 (1996-1997)
Season 8 (1995-1996)
Season 7 (1994-1995)
Season 6 (1993-1994)
Season 5 (1992-1993)
Season 4 (1991-1992)
Season 3 (1990-1991)
Season 2 (1989-1990)
Season 1 (1988-1989)
It takes a stage.
And a village.
From our dedicated staff to our audaciously talented artists, everyone plays a key role in the making of our productions. Learn more about us below.
- Staff
- Board
- Apprentices
ARTISTIC
Freddie Ashley
Artistic Director
He/Him/His
Freddie Ashley was appointed Artistic Director of Actor’s Express in July 2007. He has directed AE productions of Stupid Fucking Bird, Rent (Suzi nomination), Bad Jews, Murder Ballad, The Rocky Horror Show… more
Amanda Washington
Associate Artistic Director
She/Her/Hers
Amanda Washington is an Atlanta-based freelance director, a National New Play Network Producer in Residency in conjunction with Actor’s Express, and Assistant Faculty at Theatrical… more
Sheila Oliver
Artistic Liason
She/Her/Hers
Actor’s Express: Sheila has been involved with Actor’s Express off and on since 1992 serving as Casting Assistant, Assistant Director, Props, Stage Manager, House Manager, Dramaturg and Fund Raising… more
Justin Kalin
Casting Director
He/Him/His
Actor’s Express: 2016-2017 Intern Company. Stage Manager: Blackpool and Parrish (Out of Box Theatre). Director: Shadow Cast of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Next Fall (Georgia College)… more
PRODUCTION
Seamus M. Bourne
Production Manager
He/Him/His
Seamus M. Bourne was a Production Manager and Technical Director at Berry College in Rome, Georgia. He has designed scenery at AE for Company, Wolves, Next Fall and Spring Awakening…. more
English Brackett
Technical Director
She/Her/Hers
AE shows: Red Speedo, Heathers, Hometown Boy and Intimate Apparel. Regional: Mamma Mia at The Historic Holly Theatre. Educational: Songs for a new world, The Tempest, La La Land, Traces of Memory, The Bra and Panty Club, Pippin, Legally Blonde,... more
ADMINISTRATIVE
Alex Scollon
Managing Director
He/Him/His
Alex Scollon received his BFA from the Carnegie Mellon School of Drama with a concentration in Production and Technical Management, and in 2005 received his Master of Arts Management degree…more
Marysa Sutton
Associate Managing Director
She/Her/Hers
Marysa Sutton joined Actor’s Express in July of 2021. She has previously worked in the world of campaign finance and public service. Her theatre credits begin and end with Switzer Elementary…more
Ali White
Marketing Director
She/Her/Hers
Ali White received her BA in Theatre and certificate in Hospitality Management from the University of Central Florida as well as a graduate certificate in Arts Leadership and Cultural Management at the University of Connecticut. In addition, Ali has a sales background in the bridal and auto industry as well as a performing and producing background. She recently served as Producer and Assistant Director of Shakers Restirred performed at Robert Mello Studios and has been seen in commercials for Mercedes, Texas Pete, and Earth Fare. She has been involved in many committees at the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival including the Community Engagement, Young Professionals, and Film Evaluation committees. Ali is a proud wife and momma to her silly and active toddler boy.
Ebony Jerry
Audience Services Manager
She/Her/Hers
Ebony L. Jerry is a former 2017-2018 Actor’s Express Intern. She received her BFA in Performing Arts from Savannah College of Art and Design. Her credits include Suzi Award Winning for Best Ensemble The Wolves… more
Emma Jean Scott
Marketing Assistant
She/Her/Hers
Emma Jean Scott is an Atlanta-based actress who has most recently been seen in AE’s production of Urinetown as Hope Cladwell, AE’s Heathers, and The Play That Goes Wrong as Sandra. Emma Jean is currently earning her BFA in Theatre at Oglethorpe University and hopes to explore Atlanta’s great stages as she moves forward in her career. She would like to thank her wonderful family and friends who support her every step of the way. Follow her journey @emma._.jeanius
Summer Stockard
Development Assistant
She/Her/Hers
Summer Stockard is a student at Oglethorpe University, undergoing a BA in Theatre. Her acting credits include Urinetown and Heathers
The Actor’s Express Board of Directors is comprised of leaders from across Atlanta. The Board advises the staff, creates long range plans and represents the organization in the community. If you are interested in joining this elite group of supporters please contact Managing Director Alex Scollon.
- Patrice Brown, Warner Media
- Kevin Dew, Community Volunteer
- Jennifer Gelder, Budget Rent a Car
- Arlene Glaser, Chair, The Coca-Cola Company
- Anne Hayden, Community Volenteer
- Kevin Harry, Randstand
- Amy Hollibaugh, Nora Wealth
- Andrea Ivory, UPS
- Melissa Moore, Director of Human Resources for Partners in Health
- Jesse Peel, MD, Community Volunteer
- Jennie Saliers, Community Volunteer
- David Schoenberg, Law Office of David P. Schoenberg
- Chris Schneider, Vice Chair, Thompson Hine
- Charles Stephens, Counter Narrative Project
- Carlos Toledo, Centers for Disease Control *
- Mary Anne Walser, Keller Williams
- Aaron Watson, Thompson Hine
- Angie Weiss, InterContinental Hotels Group
- Ashley Williams, Secretary, ImagineX Consulting
- Mark Williamson, Alston & Bird LLP
* This director is serving in a personal capacity and is not fulfilling official CDC duties
The Apprentice Company
Acting
Caroline Gammage
Acting
Hello there! My name is Caroline Gammage and I’m from Oglethorpe University, which is right here in Atlanta! My focus in the Apprenticeship Program at Actor’s Express is Acting. The aspect I’m looking forward to is all of the people I’ve met and am going to meet!
Connor P. Maguire
Acting/Dramaturgy/Directing
They/Them
Connor P. Maguire is an Atlanta-based actor, dramaturge, and directing apprentice this season at Actors Express. Connor graduated from Kennesaw State University with a B.A. in Theatre and Performance Studies. They are excited to be able to continue their artistic and professional development with AE and the amazing creatives who work there. Director: Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead (KSU) Playwright: “Martha was Right” (KSU)
Edwin Navarrete
Acting
Edwin Navarrete is from Houston, Texas. He’s excited to be here in Atlanta and to be part of the 2023-2024 AE apprentice company. He’s excited to take this opportunity to work on his craft and become a better artist!
Ja’Kayla Meeks
Acting
Ja’Kayla Meeks graduated from Columbus State University with her Bachelor’s in Fine Arts focusing in performance. She is an acting apprentice here at Actor’s Express. She would like you all to know how excited she is to begin this new journey and she is looking forward to learning all that Actor’s Express has to offer.
Jacob Alexander Craig
Acting
Introducing Jacob Alexander Craig, a recent graduate of KSU, holding a B.A. in Theatre & Performance Studies. He is thrilled, honored, humbled, and eager to get to work with everyone here at AE. He is eternally grateful to everyone who has supported him on his journey and wants you to know that you can do it too.
Keenan Pasqua
Acting
Keenan Pasqua is a May 2023 graduate from Columbus State University with a BFA in Theatre Performance. He spent the following summer working and performing with Hope Repertory Theatre, and is excited to learn and work with the rest of the apprentices at Actor’s Express!
Kendall Felix
Acting
Kendall Felix graduated in three years from Virginia Commonwealth University with a BFA in Theatre Performance. College theatre training with the hindrance of a pandemic prevented her from most opportunities to take the stage, aside from her work on the VCU all-female improv team Toxic Shock, but she found a love for film acting in its absence. She’s very excited to learn from the distinguished professionals at Actors Express and broaden her experience in the world of live theatre.
Keshawn Morgan
Acting
Keshawn Morgan, a recent graduate from Morehouse College is an acting apprentice from Orlando, Florida. He is a passionate artist that works in various mediums of storytelling. Keshawn is committed to telling great stories that address social issues, notions of love, and untold narratives.
Naiya Alexis
Acting
Naiya Alexis is new to the Atlanta area, hailing from the Raleigh NC area. She is also a recent grad from Elon University (BFA Acting ’22) and so thankful to join the apprenticeship company for their season. She was most recently Beatrice in Blue Box Theatre Company’s production of Much Ado in Chapel Hill, NC–more information can be found at her website naiyaalexis.com!
Nakia Lambert
Acting
Nakia Lambert is an Atlanta based actor/stage manager, recently graduated from Kennesaw State University with a BA in Theatre and Performance Studies-Acting. She is extremely grateful and excited to be a part of this apprentice company and can’t wait for this upcoming season!
Sarah Ann Burke
Acting
She/Her
Sarah Ann Burke (she/her) comes from Charlotte, North Carolina where she has had years of experience and education in theatre. She is excited to be an acting apprentice with Actors Express to further her education and career this season! She looks forward to performing with and learning from this talented company!
Zach Tellez
Acting
Zach Tellez is a Kennesaw State University Alumni. While at KSU he participated in productions including Thumbelina, Everybody, She Kills Monsters and worked at The Atlanta Lyric in their production of The Wizard of Oz. He is very thankful to be a member of the Actor’s Express Apprentice Program, and is ready for a year of creativity and knowledge.
Directing and Stage Management
Aliciona Strothers
Directing
She/They
Kentucky born and raised, Aliciona Strothers (She/They) graduated in May 2023 with a BA in theatre from the University of Kentucky. Though theatre has been a major part of her life for as long as she can remember, directing has been a recent development for her. She is incredibly excited to explore her artistry while being a part of the amazing community here at Actor’s Express!
Katie Hurst
Stage Management
She/Her/Hers
Katie Hurst (she/her) graduated with a BA in Theatre from Western Kentucky University and is a Stage Management Apprentice for the 2023-2024 Actor’s Express Apprentice Company. She is excited to learn from and work with everyone at AE in order for her to expand her knowledge in not just stage management, but all aspects of theatre.
Ray Ward
Stage Managment
They/Them
Ray is a recent graduate of University of North Carolina at Greensboro with a BFA in Design & Technical Production. Their primary areas are Wigs, Costumes and Stage Management. Therefore, they are very excited for the opportunity to broaden their expertise with AE as their Lighting & Sound Apprentice.
Sarah Velasco
Casting Director
He/Him/His
Actor’s Express: 2016-2017 Intern Company. Stage Manager: Blackpool and Parrish (Out of Box Theatre). Director: Shadow Cast of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Next Fall (Georgia College)… more
Techical
Ethan Hall
Techical Direction
Ethan Hall has just finished his Bachelors of Fine Arts at Ball State University. He has just moved out here from Indiana and hopes you enjoy the set!
Max Piper
Lighting and Sound
Andrew Randolph
Artistic Liason
She/Her/Hers
Actor’s Express: Sheila has been involved with Actor’s Express off and on since 1992 serving as Casting Assistant, Assistant Director, Props, Stage Manager, House Manager, Dramaturg and Fund Raising… more
Sarah Velasco
Casting Director
He/Him/His
Actor’s Express: 2016-2017 Intern Company. Stage Manager: Blackpool and Parrish (Out of Box Theatre). Director: Shadow Cast of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Next Fall (Georgia College)… more
PRESS
PARTNERS
Actor’s Express Theatre, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit entity and is a constituent of Theatre Communications Group (TCG) and a member of the Atlanta Coalition of the Performing Arts (ACPA), The Atlanta Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (AGLCC), the National New Play Network (NNPN) and the Atlanta Intown Theatre Partnership (AITP). Actor’s Express operates under the Small Professional Theatre guidelines set by Actors’ Equity Association.
