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 33 (2020-2021)

  • Neat
  • Hometown Boy
  • Virtual Downstage Monologue Series
  • A Christmas Carol

Season 32 (2019-2020)

  • Skintight
  • Downstairs
  • Fun Home
  • The Brothers Size
  • Desire Under the Elms

Season 31 (2018-2019)

  • A Doll’s House, Part 2
  • Reykjavík
  • An Octoroon
  • Falsettos
  • Jump
  • Head Over Heels

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)

  • Company
  • Appropriate
  • The Crucible
  • The Legend of Georgia McBride
  • Father Comes Home from the Wars (Parts 1, 2 & 3)
  • Little Shop of Horrors

Season 28 (2015-2016)

  • Stupid Fucking Bird
  • The Thrush & the Woodpecker
  • Blackberry Winter
  • Sweeney Todd
  • Serial Black Face
  • Significant Other

Season 27 (2014-2015)

  • Les Liaisons Dangereuses
  • Murder Ballad
  • Bad Jews
  • Marcus; or the Secret of Sweet
  • The Whale
  • Rent

Season 26 (2013-2014)

  • Venus in Fur
  • Pluto
  • Six Degrees of Separation
  • Maple and Vine
  • End of the Rainbow
  • The Rocky Horror Show

Season 25 (2012-2013)

  • Kiss of the Spider Woman
  • Wolves
  • Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson
  • Equus
  • Seminar

Season 24 (2011-2012)

  • Spring Awakening
  • Edith Can Shoot Things and Hit Them
  • Next Fall
  • The Motherf**ker with the Hat
  • Xanadu

Season 23 (2010-2011)

  • Becky Shaw
  • Albatross
  • Every Christmas Story Ever Told
  • Broadsword
  • See What I Wanna See
  • The Judas Kiss

Season 22 (2009-2010)

  • Grey Gardens
  • Fair Use
  • Good Boys & True
  • 100 Saints You Should Know
  • Slasher

Season 21 (2008-2009)

  • Finn in the Underworld
  • The New Century
  • Mauritius
  • Suddenly Last Summer
  • Zanna, Don’t!
  • Libby’s at the Express

Season 20 (2007-2008)

  • Dark Play or Stories for Boys
  • The Last Five Years
  • Octopus
  • Some Men
  • When Something Wonderful Ends
  • Hedwig and the Angry Inch

Season 19 (2006-2007)

  • The Great American Trailer Park Musical
  • Thom Pain ( Based on Nothing )
  • I Am My Own Wife
  • Based on a TotallyTrue Story
  • The Pillowman

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.

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

Amanda Nerby

Scenic Charge Artist

She/Her/Hers

“Amanda Nerby is a freelance Scenic Artist and Designer. She received her BA in Fine Arts: Theatre at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, Spring of 2015. Following this, Nerby received her Masters at Kent ... more

Nick Battaglia

Resident Props Designer

He/Him/His

(Resident Props Designer/ Set Decorator) Actor’s Express: Sunset Baby, Desire Under the Elms, Lizzie, Bootycandy, Intimate Apparel, Heathers the Musical, Fun Home, Head Over Heels ...more

D. Connor McVey

Production Electrician

He/Him/His

(Lighting Designer) Actor’s Express: Sunset Baby, Heathers, Skintight, Significant Other. Atlanta: Dad’s Garage, Georgia Ensemble Theatre, Horizon Theatre Company, Oglethorpe University, ...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 at Actor’s Express, and her directing credits include No Exit at Oglethorpe University. She loves playing the piano and taking long walks on the beach.

Olivia Hackney

Marketing Assistant
She/Her/Hers

Olivia Hackney is an Atlanta-based videographer/editor. She received her BFA from Georgia State University, and began working for Actor’s Express in 2022. In her freetime she enjoys being outside with friends and playing the drums. 

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
  • Brent Huff, Community Volunteer
  • Andrea Ivory, UPS
  • Melissa Moore, Treasurer, Momentum Consulting LLC
  • 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

amani headshot square

Amani Clanton

Acting

She/They

Amani Clanton is an actor, writer and performance artist located in Atlanta, GA. She is a graduate of Kennesaw State University’s Bachelor of Arts Theatre and Performance... more

Makallen Kelley

Acting

She/Her/ Hers

“Makallen Kelley is an Atlanta-based actor, writer, and artist who recently received her B.F.A in Theatre Performance from the University of Southern Mississippi. On stage more

Cameron Lane

Acting

Cameron Lane is eager and thankful to be a part of the Actor’s Express Apprentice Company. He graduated from Western Kentucky University in spring of 2020. This summer… more

Tatyana Mack

Acting

Erin North headshot square

Erin North

Acting

Erin North is so excited to join the 2022-2023 apprentice company at Actors’ Express! A Southern California transplant, Erin is an emerging Atlanta performer. She is a recent more

Ciara Pysczynski

Acting

Ciara is thrilled to join Actor’s Express and the 2022-23 apprentice company! Regional: The Wizard of Oz, Rocket Boys: The Musical, Hatfields and McCoys more

Andrew Randolph

Acting

Andrew Randolph is excited to join the Apprentice Company of Actor’s Express! Andrew graduated from the University of South Carolina: Aiken in May and spent the summer  more

Sarah Velasco

Acting

Sarah Velasco is an actor originally from the Washington, D.C. area, and a graduate from Virginia Commonwealth University‘s acting program. In addition to acting more

Directing and Stage Management

Khatelin white.Headshot square

Khatelin White

Directing

Khatelin is thrilled to be an apprentice with Actor’s Express! She recently graduated from Austin Peay State University with a BFA in Acting/Directing where... more

Emma Eisnaugle

Stage Management

She/Her/Hers

Emma is a recent graduate from Georgia College & State University with a B.A. in English with a concentration in Literature. She was a 2020 KCACTF Region IV... more

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

Techical

Ethan Hall square headshot

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

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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.