Debuting Artist: Jysten Atom

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Jysten takes the stage for the very first time with OpenStage in The Minutes!

 

Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got into theatre?

I started in performance as a cellist, mostly playing weddings and private events—very dignified, very refined. But after a pit orchestra gig for the musical Annie, I thought being on stage seemed like it would be another cool way to perform and entertain. So, I auditioned for my next school play, and have been addicted ever since.

How did you first hear about OpenStage, and what drew you to work with us for this show?

I had the pleasure of co-starring with Ghandia Johnson in a production last October, and she spoke glowingly of OpenStage. She told me, You’re going to love these people. And she was right.

What is your role in this production, and what excited you most about working on this particular production?

I play Mr. Blake. He’s a man of strong convictions—though whether that’s a good thing, I’ll let the audience decide. I love productions that stay with people long after the final blackout, and The Minutes absolutely delivers on that.

What has been the most enjoyable or unexpected part of the rehearsal process so far?

The cast. The talent. The absolute absurdity. I don’t think I’ve ever laughed this much during a rehearsal process. Even when things get intense, the camaraderie is incredible.

What has been the most challenging part of bringing this character to life?

Not breaking character when my fellow actors are at their most delightfully ridiculous. There have been some truly heroic efforts to keep a straight face.

What makes The Minutes a unique kind of play to work on?

The entire cast is onstage for the full performance, which means every actor gets to build their character in real-time—no exits, no offstage resets. It’s an actor’s dream (and maybe a little bit of a nightmare).

Why do you think The MINUTES is significant or relevant to audiences today?

Well, that depends… which way is the wind blowing?

What is your favorite moment or scene in the show, and why does it stand out to you?

Blocking ________ was a wild ride. I wish I could say more, but—spoilers!

If you could swap roles with any other character in this play for a day, who would it be and why?

Ms. Johnson—because my GWAM is phenomenal!

What is your favorite play and/or musical?
Waiting for Godot for that essential existential crisis, Reefer Madness for the campy chaos.
What is your favorite role you’ve played in the past?
I do not have a favorite! Ensemble? There are no small parts and I love singing me some harmony.
What upcoming projects or roles are you excited about?

I’m thrilled to be working with Audacious Immersive this October on an original piece inspired by H.P. Lovecraft’s stories. Expect some eldritch horror and unexpected musical surprises.

What do you like to do in your free time, when you’re not working on theatre projects?

I love making music and board games—and sometimes, I even try to merge the two! You can follow my attempts at www.enter-course.com.

 

Crow with yellow beak, yellow legs, broken gavel, holding 3 cherries in beak, one rooten, standing on minutes

The Minutes

By Tracy Letts

Directed by Sydney Parks Smith

March 22-April 19, 2025
Playing at The Lincoln Center Magnolia Theatre

 

Come see Jysten take the stage in The Minutes, March 22-April 19!

Community, the Founder’s Day celebration, the coveted privilege of reserved parking— Business as usual for the Big Cherry City Council. But… where are the minutes from last week’s meeting? Newcomer Mr. Peel has some questions… What is “Lincoln Smackdown”? And where is council member Mr. Carp? This razor-sharp comedy by the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of August: Osage County, exposes the underbelly of civic duty in a small town…with BIG secrets.

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