Jessica Ervin is a Chicago-based actor, working in theatre, film, and television. An ensemble member at Rivendell Theatre, Jessica received an equity Jeff nomination for her portrayal of Ester in Dry Land and originated the role of Annie in Tuckie White's Motherhouse (Jeff Award - Best Ensemble; Jeff Award - New Work). She has also been seen on stage at Rivendell in other productions, readings, and as an understudy. Her theatrical work includes roles with Goodman, Minetta Lane, Strawdog, A Red Orchid, American Blues, Walkabout, Route 66, and Prop Thtr. On-screen, Jessica has appeared on Chicago Fire (NBC), and in the films Princess Cyd, Provo, Teacher, New Normal, and Appetite, in addition to other shorts. She also appears in a commercial for CDW NetApp.
Originally from Northern Kentucky, Jessica is a graduate of The School at Steppenwolf, and graduated Summa Cum Laude from Ball State University, where she received her B.F.A. in Acting. At School at Steppenwolf, Jessica focused on work in Viewpoints, Meisner, and improvisation, as well as coursework in movement, text analysis, and voice. During her time at Ball State, she spent several years studying Devised Theatre, Suzuki, Shakespeare, Grotowski, slow tempo, Lecoq, and contemporary drama. Her love of learning and work ethic has continued to flourish in Chicago where she has also taken classes at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre under Larry Yando and Kevin Gudahl, as well as workshops with J.C. Clementz, Maura Kidwell, and Nick Bowling. When not on stage or screen, Jessica writes, kickboxes, and plays the ukulele.
Jessica wrapped principal photography on Regret Like That, a feature film which she acted in, co-wrote, and co-directed.
Jessica originated the role of "Olivia" in the world premiere production of No Such Thing at Rivendell Theatre Ensemble.
Jessica served as a creative producer on Kalliope & Co.'s production of The Last Five Years.
Jessica was awarded Ball State University's Graduate of the Last Decade Award for her achievements as an actor and mentorship of recent alumni.
Jessica wrapped principal photography on Late Bloomer, a short film directed by Kyle Anne Grendys.
Jessica wrapped principal photography on Lucid, a short film directed by Brent Ervin-Eickhoff.
Jessica appeared in The Receptionist by Adam Bock, A Red Orchid Incubator production directed by Kyle Stoffers.
Jessica made her Off-Broadway debut covering the role of Dani in the NYC Premiere of Rebecca Gilman's Swing State at the Minetta Lane Theatre.