Debuting Artist: Aleiah Jasper
Aleiah takes the stage for the very first time with OpenStage in Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night!
Tell us about yourself! What training or other theatre experiences did you have before working on this show?
Hi there! My name is Aleiah Jasper, and I am a Colorado-born actress! I have been performing in choir since I was a kid, but fell in love with acting during my sophomore year of high school. In high school, I played Ariel in Footloose, Abigail in The Crucible, and ensemble for Rock of Ages and Mamma Mia! After high school, I continued my theatre education at the School of Music, Theatre, and Dance at Colorado State University. There, I played Evil Gabbi in She Kills Monsters, #14 in The Wolves, and Ensemble in Machinal. I have also performed locally as an Ensemble Member in Native Gardens at Bas Bleu Theatre Company.
What is something you spend your free time doing, outside of theatre?
I love to read and write! Some of my favorite books are Jane Eyre and After. I love writing songs, poems, plays, and more! I also love going to the gym and cooking in my kitchen while listening to my favorite music.
How did you hear about OpenStage? What compelled you to audition for this show?
OpenStage is a major player in the Fort Collins theatre scene, and many of my colleagues and peers have performed here! I am so happy I get to work with one of my professors from CSU, Debbie Swann! I also love Shakespeare and have never gotten the opportunity to be in a Shakespeare production, so I am excited to show everyone what I can do!
What has been your favorite part of rehearsals so far?
My favorite part of rehearsals has been all of the laughs we share. The people on this cast are so funny and are an absolute pleasure to be around.
What has been the most challenging aspect of rehearsals for this show?
The most challenging aspect of this show for me has been the physicality this play requires. It is sometimes hard to get out of your head and feel the character in your body!
What is your favorite character from the show (other than your own)? Why is that one your favorite?
My favorite character in this show has to be Sir Toby! He is just so funny and I love the youth that Steve brings to him.
Why is Twelfth Night important? What do you hope audiences will get out of it?
I think Twelfth Night says a lot about gender and gender expression. I love that Viola’s character can be a catalyst for conversation about what gender is and how it is expressed.
What is your favorite line in the show?
Definitely “What ho! Malvolio!”
What is your favorite role you’ve played in the past?
My favorite role has to be Abigail in The Crucible. That role gave me a real challenge, and I love the message of the play. I love roles that can bring important conversations to light.
What is your favorite play or musical?
Some of my favorite musicals are Rock of Ages, Les Miserables, Hamilton, and Newsies. My favorite plays would have to be Cost of Living, Good People, and Miss Julie.
What projects are you working on next? What is your dream role?
Currently, I am working on a movie called Ginger, in which filming is wrapping up! After Twelfth Night, I am moving to Denver, Colorado and will be auditioning for more short films and commercials. My dream role is Julie in Miss Julie by August Strindberg.
By William Shakespeare
Directed by Debbie Swann
June 8–July 13, 2024
Playing in the Park at Columbine Health Systems
Come see Aleiah take the stage in “Twelfth Night” June 8- July 13!
In a rambunctious story of hidden identities and misplaced love, the witty, resourceful, and inventive Viola turns tragedy and loss into a life-changing experience for herself and everyone she touches. Shipwrecked in a strange new land, this charming woman proves to be equally charming disguised as a man as she manages to throw the collective romantic life of the island into further disarray. In a place where everyone is in love with someone, but no one is in love with the someone who loves them back, Viola may just be the soul to set them right. Full of humor and hijinks, Twelfth Night showcases a whirlwind of unbridled passion and embraces the insanity of love. Walk in, bike in, or drive in! Featuring nightly food trucks.
