TJ Chester (they/them)

Work

Growing up in a very binary theatre world led TJ to believe there was no place for them as a Black non-binary performer. TJ redirected their passion to Theatre and Performance Studies scholarship. Their scholarly work has illuminated that people like them have always carved out space for themselves and others in the industry.With Hollywood and theatre increasingly recognizing the benefits of inclusive storytelling, TJ has made a professional return to performing. In 2022, they were 1 of 8 actors selected for the Hillman Grad Mentorship Lab.

TJ has worked with talented directors like Aquarius Ester Alegria in their Afro-Surrealist satire New Hire. In New Hire TJ starred as the lead in Omari Stone, a gender non-conforming, queer person from the South Side of Chicago who signed over their spirit to an afterlife gig company, Anubi, to pay off their wife's medical debt. The short film has been an official selection in several film festivals including the Black & Brown Femme Film Festival (2024) and Bijou Film Festival (2024).

TJ’s legendary smile is responsible for booking commercials and print ads from brands such as HP, Michelob Ultra, Clover, PECO, Baptist Health, Slack, etc.

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Reader

The popularity of self-tape has made it possible for more casting directors and actors to connect with each other. However, as an actor it can be frustrating to find a self-tape reader. TJ is an amazing reader and would love to help you book your next job. Any tips they receive are used to support mutual aid causes.You can find them on We Audition, find time on their calendar or send them a message using the contact form.

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