Kirsten Jones: A Dynamic Force in Theater

 

Kirsten Jones is a star on the Los Angeles theater scene, and she is noted for her powerful performances and flexibility as an actress. She has had quite an impact with various roles, particularly with the Loft Ensemble.

 

Early Career

Kirsten’s theater journey began with her play Case Number, brought to life by her 18-year-old self. Kirsten played the prosecutor in the play, which was presented at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and examined the culture of rape in England.

 

Notable Performances

La Cocina

Kirsten played Gwen, a sarcastic and combative waiter, in Tony Meneses' play La Cocina, which Adam Chambers directed. The production took place at the Loft Ensemble from January 19th to February 11th. La Cocina gained great acclaim for depicting a bustling NYC restaurant kitchen, including a dynamic ensemble cast of 19 individuals. Kirsten accepted the challenge of being a part of such a large cast and learned the nuances of ensemble work. Her performance added to the play's vibrant atmosphere, and she loved the new musical components included in the production, adding a distinct layer of amusement.

 

A Murder at Memory Manor

Here, Kirsten portrayed Edgar Teese, a compassionate butler in a murder mystery set in a timeless estate. The drama, written by Maddy Zambello and directed by Frank Tirimacco and Zambello, was performed at the Hudson Theaters from February 23rd to 25th. Although the play was not formally reviewed, audiences reacted positively. Kirsten, who has a history in dramatic acting, studied Commedia dell'arte to explore the humorous sides of her character, successfully blending genuine emotions and comedic flare.

 

The Year Without a Summer

Kirsten played Matilda Dembowski, the lead in Greer DuBois' The Year Without a Summer, at the Loft Ensemble from June 28 to July 21. The play, a satire of a period piece, required Kirsten to traverse the complexity of a character suffering from actual trauma while being humorous. Her portrayal of Matilda, a "fallen woman" seeking sanctuary in the Italian Alps, struck a chord with audiences, gaining her recognition for her ability to inject humor into complex topics. Despite her age difference with Matilda, Kirsten's captivating performance surprised both directors and playwright DuBois, who praised her for bringing Matilda to life as intended.

 

Upcoming Work

Kirsten will star in Something You Don’t Know, a play she co-wrote with Dani True, set to debut at the Loft in January 2025. Exploring themes of trauma, addiction, and family, the drama draws from Kirsten and Dani's individual experiences. Her portrayal of Sophie, a Silicon Valley engineer battling addiction, seems a decisive step up for her career.

 

With a commitment to crafting tales that connect with audiences and highlight significant societal issues, Kirsten Jones is making a lasting impression in the theater.