We look to the past to shape our future. Who are you? Where are you going from here?

A.J. Baldwin, one of a kind. Actor, fun lover, experiencer, and overall charmer, I hail from Montgomery, AL. I will be returning to Cincinnati, OH, where I am currently based, and beginning rehearsals immediately for my next ventures. Apparently I’m someone who doesn’t like to sleep…

What most excites you about being a part of TAM’s 50th Anniversary Season?

I’m most excited by the fact that I got the privilege to bring to life one of my favorite plays, Intimate Apparel by Lynn Nottage, and take on the challenge of “Esther”. It was one of those once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, and I’m even more excited about what I got to learn from my cast mates& crew during the process. 

We’re all about making old things new and new things classic. Why are you drawn to Classic Theatre? How do you shake it up?

I love the intricacies. Why those people said those words specifically. There is just a depth, and honestly, I love doing the “homework”, looking up references, learning lines surrounded by notes and scholar material. I love learning the rules, and finding as many ways as possible to make them my own. Giving it a new life! The classics provide such large worlds and they are some of my favorite places to play.

Who inspires you and why?

I’m inspired by the people that I’ve gotten to work with on my journey. I am so fortunate to know so many talented artists of varying ages and backgrounds, and I take every opportunity I can learn from them. They help me grow.

You can have dinner with any three influential people. Who are your dream guests, why them, and what is the topic of conversation?

Michelle Obama. Viola Davis. Lynn Nottage. (Tracee Ellis Ross came over for desert). I feel like these women know who they are, what they stand for, what their passions and goals are, aren’t afraid of taking risks, ask for what they need, say what they feel, love themselves, and look good while doing it. We’d talk about life, I’m trying to learn from them!

What recent accomplishment are you most proud of?

This! We rehearsed and performed (in rep!) six shows as a company, three for myself. It took stamina and focus from everyone involved. It’s magical and I’m super proud of it.

What’s your super power?

The eyes. It’s all about the eyes.