Good People of Playback (Leslie Jones)

Playback Memphis Professional Ensemble and new staff member, Leslie Jones.

Professional ensemble Member and new staffer Leslie Jones
Pioneer Edition – Celebrating ten years

How long have you lived in Memphis?

Three plus years.

How long have you been a part of Playback Memphis?

Two plus years.

What/who inspired you to be an artist?

Whoopi Goldberg, Cecily Tyson and Paul Robeson.

Pets?

Yes, an aquatic turtle named Bunni.

 What is calling you to be brave these days?

My faith and my will to be happy.

What do your friends and family think about your Playback-ing?

My family and friends don’t understand it, but they know that it’s been good for me and great for others.

Where do you find joy in your life these days?

In my relationships and all the work that I do creating.

What are you most proud of in your life and work?

I am proud that the work I do incites impactful change.

What audience would you like to engage through Playback that Playback hasn’t yet? 

Youth Villages, Juvenile Intervention and Faith Based Follow-Up,  within the Soulsville Community and Do Re Mi Music Therapy.

What do you appreciate about Playback as an artist?

I was never fully comfortable with improvisation as an actress, but performing with Playback has stretched my improvisation skills.

Do you have a story about a favorite Teller experience? 

The story of the first black female Memphis Bus Driver was inspirational.

What’s your favorite Playback form- fluids, pairs, etc? Why?

I love fluid forms because it’s never guaranteed how an emotion like joy will be presented but its a cool way.

Favorite cocktail?

Only mocktails for me….Pineapple Ginger Sparkler.