Ashlea (she/her/hers) is a classically trained actress with a profound love for new and original work.

She began her training at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she received her BA in Theatre Arts and Social Philosophy. She continued working in Milwaukee post-undergrad, working specifically in original devisal and physical theatre, creating some of the most daring and visceral new work in the region.

From there, she pursued and received her MFA in Acting at DePaul University’s renowned The Theatre School, studying with industry giants, who regularly appear not only in the Chicago theatre scene, but in LA and New York as well.

Ashlea holds the belief that theatre should be as diverse as the individuals with whom she has worked in her community. In addition to her training and practice as an actor and deviser, she has taught both adults and children with different abilities as a teaching artist and as a special educator, holding a Master’s degree in Special Education from Cardinal Stritch University. A fierce advocate for individuals with different abilities in all performance media, she lives Picasso’s words: “There is only one way to look at things until someone shows us how to look at them with different eyes.” 

. A self-proclaimed mover and doer, the heartbeat of Ashlea’s work lies in free play and original devisal.

She is proudly represented by Dream Team Talent.

Check out What’s New to learn about her latest creative endeavors.

Photo by Ian McLaren