Ask an Apprentice: Kelly Simmons

Say 'hello' to 2025 Acting Apprentice Kelly Simmons and learn about her summer adventures at APT!

Acting Apprentice Kelly Simmons plays precocious younger sister Millie in William Inge's Picnic this season. When not dancing in the Kansas heat, she can also be seen in A Midsummer Night's Dream as part of the fairy chorus.

APT: Hey, Kelly! Tell us about your journey to APT! Where are you coming from and how did you first hear about American Players Theatre?
Simmons: I grew up in Portland, Oregon, but have been living in Chicago for the past five years! In 2024, I graduated from the Theatre School at DePaul with a BFA in Acting. I had heard about APT from numerous professors in my program. In my Junior year, Alys Dickerson auditioned my cohort. I remember my professor saying the actors didn’t use microphones, so she told us to project during the audition. I am embarrassed to say I might have just shouted my entire monologue at Alys. Since then, APT has always been at the back of the head as a pipe dream. Fast forward to last October, I received an audition invitation for Picnic, directed by Brenda DeVita! I don’t have representation, but was recommended by a past director. Five auditions later, and here I am! Being part of the acting company has been a dream come true, and I could not be more grateful to have had this experience.

APT: Very full-circle. We're happy you're here! How did you become interested in performing? Any impactful memories that helped you establish your passion?
Simmons: I first caught the performance bug when I was in second grade. We were tasked with presenting a 10-minute-long biography of our favorite historical person, performing as them. I chose Amelia Earhart- borrowing a leather jacket and goggles, gloves that were way too large for me, and an exuberant attitude that surprised everyone. Even at that age, I remember falling in love with finding the technicality of living as that character, in that moment. I love stepping into someone else's shoes and trying to figure out how they walk, talk, and think. When you play a character, I think, regardless of whether you want to, you carry a bit of that character within yourself! There are so many qualities of Millie that I just adore, specifically her resilience. Don’t worry, Mom, I’m not going to take up smoking!

APT: Share more about your first season at APT! What discoveries did you make? Any surprises come with working in the outdoors?
Simmons: I have learned so much this summer. Of course, how to be a better actor, but also how to be a better person (and how the two influence each other). Working with icons like Brenda, Ledo, Tracy, Dee Dee, and so many more who tackle the work with such dedication and joy, I see what I want my future to look like. Most of all, how to have fun with the work, make choices, and show your humanity. I have fallen in love with acting since working here. I just love it so much. Coming out of APT, I have this feeling of excitement, passion, maturity, and hope that I haven't felt for a long time.

In regard to working outside, I would consider myself a very outdoorsy person, so combining ACTING with NATURE is INSANE. Finishing a show, then looking out and seeing the stars peak through the trees and stage lights is an image I will never forget. I have always been a mosquito magnet, I swear, no matter how much bug spray I put on, they will find me! I’m still learning the art of staying in character while brushing a giant beetle or moth off your arm.

APT: It's a learned thing, for sure. What's been your favorite thing about summer at APT or in Spring Green?
Simmons: My favorite thing about Spring Green is easily all the bunnies. They are everywhere, and every time I see one I squeal. I love how peaceful it is here, especially coming from the city.

APT: Love it. Outside of performing, what else do you enjoy doing? Any other passions or side hustles we should know about?
Simmons: Outside of performing, I love writing! It's my dream to be a published author someday.

APT: Fantastic! Just like Millie! Any special shout-outs you'd like to give to mentors/friends/family?
Simmons: Huge shout-out to all my fellow apprentices! I love each and every one of you so dearly, and I am so proud of the family we have created. And of course, my Mom for being my biggest fan! And of course, Alys for being our Mama Bear!