Artist Spotlight
Featuring: Jason Briggs
Jason Briggs (he/him/his) is a prolific actor, singer, director, and arts administrator whose work has been seen on stages across Michigan.
How did you get started in the arts?
I started as a musician learning to play the trumpet in 6th grade! In 7th grade, I was in my first musical as Mr. Bundles in Annie. I attended summer camp at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp for many summers. Music and theatre have always been a part of my life since I was a child.
If you could direct/produce one show, what would it be and why?
Angels in America. My absolute favorite and one of the most important pieces in theatre history. The characters and the dialogue are larger than life and I would love to bring that story to audiences.
If you could play one character in all of theatre or film, who would it be and why?
Sondheim's Sweeney Todd! The singing and acting challenge of Sweeney has always appealed to me, the music that Sondheim writes for him gives me chills every time I hear or sing it. The twisting journey for revenge he takes is wild and I would love to explore that journey.
Name two artistic role models and why you look up to them.
The first would definitely be the incredible actor Andre De Shields. He is a true performer in every sense of the word! The first performance I ever saw him in was a video recording of The Viper's Drag from the musical Ain't Misbehavin', the style, nuisance, and his attention to detail with every move he makes his pure genius. His performances inspire me to always give 110% and leave it all out on the stage!
The second would be Director and dear friend, Michael Lluberes. Working with Michael over the years has made me not only a better artist, but a better human as well. Each production I was able to be in with him, he pushed me to my limits with each project, made me brave, made me proud of myself and my ability, and gave me the artistic tools to always dive head first into the work. I am very grateful for him.
What did you want to be when you were a child? Are you fulfilling that dream?
A DENTIST! Hahahaha, no! I haven't even played one on stage! As a child I loved to go to the dentist, so much that I wanted to be one.
What is your artistic guilty pleasure?
VAMPIRE MUSICALS like Dance of the Vampires, Dracula, Lestat, and coming soon...THE LOST BOYS!
What role/show/experience on your resume is most memorable and why?
I've been so blessed with all of the roles I've gotten to do, but the show Godspell has followed me through my career. It was the first show I did in college, it was the first show I did professionally (Meadow Brook Theatre), and it was also the first show that I have ever performed in a pool!!! Three separate Godspell productions but all incredible in their own way.
What is your dream for the Michigan Arts Community?
That it continues to grow and thrive, we have seen some theatres shutter or reduce production since the pandemic. Would love to see the community come together, collaborate more, and create art that includes stories for all.
