Person Biography:
Jessica, a native New Yorker born and raised in Brooklyn, is a Latina of mixed heritage with parents from the Dominican Republic. She is a talented actress, musician, and practitioner of Tibetan Buddhist philosophy.
Acting Career:
Jessica gained recognition for her role as Maria Ruiz on the Netflix original series Orange Is the New Black, earning three Screen Actors Guild Award wins and one nomination. She graduated from the High School for the Performing Arts and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, where she holds a degree in Theater Arts and was awarded the Cleavon Little scholarship.
Music Career:
Jessica is a classically trained violinist and heavy metal musician, having performed at notable venues such as CBGB, Landmark's Mayan Theatre, and Carnegie Hall. She is the lead vocalist and recording guitarist for the Brooklyn-based heavy metal band Alekhine's Gun and has also worked with bands such as Brujeria and Black Heart Sutra.
Other Interests:
Jessica is a practitioner of Tibetan Buddhist philosophy, logic, debate, and meditation, having studied under the former abbot of Sera Mey Monastery, H.E. Sermey Khensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tharchin. She is also a lover of mathematics and science, having taken classes with Neil DeGrasse Tyson and Michio Kaku. Additionally, she is a student of various dance and martial arts styles.
Theatre Credits:
Jessica has appeared in numerous theatrical productions, including the American Stage production of Anna in the Tropics, the Shakespeare Theater's production of A Very Old Man With Enormous Wings, and the Seattle Repertory Theater's production of The Cook. She has also played leading roles in productions such as The Clean House, Romeo and Juliet, and Aliens with Extraordinary Skills.
Personal Life:
Jessica considers both New York City and Stockholm, Sweden to be her homes.
