Jessica was born in South Africa and spent her formative years in Minneapolis, where she developed a strong foundation for her future endeavors. Her academic pursuits took her to Harvard University, where she earned a degree in Literature and Performance Studies, a testament to her diverse interests and passions. Her academic achievements did not stop there, as she went on to earn an MFA in Acting from Columbia University and an MFA in Directing from the University of Southern California.
As an actress, Jessica has had the opportunity to take on a wide range of roles, from Nina in Anton Chekhov's The Seagull to Viola in William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, and even Maude/Victoria in Caryl Churchill's Cloud 9. Her impressive repertoire of roles is a testament to her versatility and talent. In addition to her work on stage, Jessica has also appeared in feature films and has even produced and performed in performance-art parties, showcasing her creative range. Her experience in television includes playing a soap opera villain on the popular show One Life to Live.
As a writer and director, Jessica has made a name for herself in the industry, with her short films, including Shortage, executive produced by James Franco, winning awards and being screened at numerous festivals. Her feature film, Inheritance, which she co-wrote, directed, and starred in, premiered at the prestigious SXSW festival and was shot on location in Belize. Jessica is also an alum of the AFI Directing Workshop for Women and the Universal Studios Directors Initiative, further solidifying her credentials as a talented and dedicated filmmaker.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Jessica has a deep love for dance, having been a competitive figure skater in her youth. Her appreciation for dance extends to all forms, from the underground club scene to the classical ballet, and she continues to explore and express herself through this art form.
