Jesmille Darbouze’s career continues to be in the upward trajectory. The multitalented actress who’s also a dancer and singer has an extraordinary work in experience in television, film and stage. Some of her Broadway credits include BETRAYAL (Tony nominated) and the musical KISS ME KATE (Tony nominated). The accomplished actress’ current project, A DOLL’S HOUSE, is one of the top’s shows on Broadway. The hit show is directed by Jamie Lloyd and also stars Oscar Winner Jessica Chastain.
Besides utilizing her skills in the performance arts, Jesmille is also a professor of Theater Arts at Marymount Manhattan College. There, she spends her time teaching, coaching and developing students in theatrical arts.
The AEA member and SAG/AFTRA actress sat down with Industry Rules to discuss her buzzing career.
AF: How did you get started in musical theatre and performing arts?
JD: I was involved with the arts starting at a very young age. In elementary school I played the flute and was a part of the school Choir and then began to explore theatre and musical theatre throughout middle school and then High School, where I attended a Performing Arts High School for Musical Theatre.
AF: What is it like working with Jamie Lloyd and the cast of A DOLL’S HOUSE?
JD: Working with Jamie and the entire cast has been an absolute dream. As a director, Jamie cultivates a safe and inspiring space to work in, where he encourages us as actors to trust ourselves and surrender to the work. Every single person in this cast is not only kind, generous and open, but also hard working and dedicated to the craft. Our show would not be a success without each person involved.
AF: What challenges have you experienced in your career. How were you able to overcome those said challenges?
JD: One of the biggest challenges in my career has been accepting the lack of control one has in this industry. It can feel at times that you are at the mercy of someone else deciding your fate. The more I was able to shift gears and find thing that I enjoy in my life that I can be in control of, the more I was able to embrace the unknown as an actor.
AF: Early on in your childhood, you moved from Long Island, New York to South Florida. What are some of the adjustments you had to make with the relocation?
JD: There were obvious adjustments like weather and lifestyle, but the hardest was having to make new friends. We also moved from a house with a backyard, in a neighborhood where everyone knew each other, to an apartment complex. Getting to know your community was much harder.
AF: Who has been your hardest critic? How have you been able to improve from that person’s criticism?
JD: My hardest critic has been myself. I can be critical and hard on myself, and I am working on reframing my outlook on mistakes and failure. They don’t define who I am, but they allow room for growth.
AF: What’s next for your career?
JD: I don’t know what’s next and I am ok with that. I am staying open to any opportunities that might come my way.
You can follow Jesmille’s journey via Instagram @jesmilled.
