Spotlight On: Ashley M. Lyle: An Accomplished Michigan-Based Actor and Singer

Ashley M. Lyle

How Did You Get Started in the Arts?

I was just a wee child when I dipped my foot into the artistic pool! One of my fondest memories is from my kindergarten concert, where my classmates and I sang Carole King's "You've Got a Friend." The eruption of applause and the standing ovation we received sparked a hunger in me that I needed to satisfy.

Another core memory that solidified my commitment to this career was my 8th-grade performance in Shoemaker & the Elves. I played the dreadful Landlord who, after trying on the heavenly elven-made shoes, went berserk! The audience loved it, and I adored their love in return. That moment confirmed that I wanted to be an actor.

Dream Show: If You Could Direct or Produce One Show, What Would It Be and Why?

If given the chance, I would choose The Life: The Musical. Hands down, this gritty musical is set during the 80s amidst the drug and AIDS epidemic. It offers plenty of comedy while also touching on profound, real-life issues.

This show is rarely produced due to its intense content and diverse cast. Since its premiere in the 90s, it has undergone just one revival, and that was in London.

Most Desired Role: Who Would You Play?

Again, limiting myself to one role is nearly impossible! So I'll share three.

• Elphaba/Glinda fromWicked: This is my all-time favorite musical (pre-blockbuster movie). Both characters offer so much depth and complexity that I am eager to explore.

  
  

• Rafiki fromThe Lion King Musical: Having grown up loving this movie, I see myself fitting seamlessly into Rafiki's vibrant role on stage.

  
  

• Genie fromAladdin Musical: I had the pleasure of watching the talented James Englehart perform this character, and he was nothing short of incredible! I can envision myself in that role as well.

  
  

Artistic Role Models: Who Inspires You?

Selecting only two artistic role models is challenging, so I’ll mention four!

My main acting inspirations are Nathan Lane and Viola Davis. I have been captivated by Nathan's work since childhood. His effortless comedic timing and naturalistic acting style are worthy of deep study.

Viola Davis is truly otherworldly. Her ability to transform into every character she portrays is awe-inspiring.

When it comes to singing, my inspirations are Whitney Houston and Luther Vandross. I practiced singing Whitney's songs with my mother when I was younger. She taught me fundamental techniques to develop my voice. Whitney's vocal range is unmatched.

Luther Vandross's music has given me hope throughout my life. His soothing voice was a constant during my childhood, and still resonates with me today. After watching a recent documentary about his life and career, my admiration for him grew tenfold.

Childhood Dreams: Did You Fulfill Them?

As a child, I initially dreamed of becoming a doctor. However, the sight of blood quickly changed my ambitions! Acting has always been my true passion, and I am proud to say that my inner child is thrilled I am fulfilling that dream.

Artistic Guilty Pleasure: What Do You Indulge In?

Let me confess—The Rocky Horror Picture Show is my ultimate guilty pleasure. There’s a recording of the 35th-anniversary production on YouTube that I watch at least three or four times each year.

One of my very first roles was Riff Raff, performed with the now-closed Wyandotte Community Theatre. I loved that character and the show. I hope to be granted the opportunity to perform or direct it again!

A Vision for the Future: What is Your Dream for the Michigan Arts Community?

I have several dreams, so buckle in!

1. Livable Wages: I hope that professional theatres will acquire enough resources to pay actors and crew actual livable wages for everyone—equally—instead of only high wages for equity members.

   
   

2. Diversity on Stage: I'd like to see more actors of color on stage, telling their stories as well as those that aren’t defined by race or ethnicity.

   
   

3. Breaking Stereotypes: I wish to see more actors of color auditioning for roles that typically exclude us. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.

   
   

4. Inclusion Behind the Scenes: It’s vital to have more crew members of color. This may mean actors shadowing current crew members to learn about different aspects of theatre. Anyone can contribute beyond acting!

   
   

5. Support Each Other: I desire a community where actors of color, along with white actors, stand up for one another when grievances arise. Issues regarding racism should be taken seriously, and support should be offered.

   
   

6. Diverse Leadership: It’s essential for more board members of color and admin staff to be involved. Their input during the planning of seasons is crucial for ensuring inclusivity.

   
   

7. Invest in Local Talent: Theatres should invest in local talent rather than importing actors from other states. Rotating fresh faces would foster growth and diversity.

   
   

8. Directors of Color: More directors of color should be hired to tell our stories.

   
   

9. Expanded Narratives: I want to see more productions focusing on Black, Latino, Indigenous, Middle Eastern, and Asian stories and experiences. Also, we need narratives that center on disabled individuals.

   
   

10. Commitment to DEI Initiatives: Theatres must stay committed to their DEI and anti-racism initiatives. This is vital for the growth and healing of Michigan's Theatre and the broader theatre community.

Most Memorable Experience: What Stands Out on Your Resume?

Two experiences top my list of memorable moments.

The first is my debut professional show at The Matrix Theatre in Detroit, Who Will Sing for Lena, directed by Casaundra Freeman. This one-actor show truly changed me and pushed my limits. Memorizing an 18-page monologue? Talk about a challenge!

The second unforgettable experience was my directorial debut for Breaking Laws to Gain Freedom: Stories from Detroit at Open Book Theatre in Trenton. This opportunity stretched my abilities and helped me grow tremendously. Working with a new script while coming up with a set design without any prior inspiration was rewarding. And collaborating with such an amazing cast and crew made it even more special.