Hi there!

I am Simonton, originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of California, Riverside, graduating in 2019 with a major in International Affairs and a minor in Theatre. In 2020, I obtained a certificate from the University of California, Los Angeles, in their film, television, and theater program. At present, I am actively involved in performances with Soul Sister Comedy and engage in improvisational theater at UCB and Pack Theater. I have had the honor of presenting my work in the diversity showcase at both Pack Theater and UCB.

What do you like to write?

My writing frequently addresses social issues, themes relevant to young adults, and the realm of animation. My articles explore subjects such as mental health, environmental justice, and homelessness. I also create one-hour shows that focus on young adult narratives within the science fiction and fantasy genres, akin to "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "The 100." Furthermore, I have developed a thirty-minute animated project featuring a mad scientist, along with a mini bible for another initiative. In addition, I have both written and performed in many short films. 

You do voice over and commercial too?

I am currently training in voice-over and commercial work; however, my extensive experience in improvisation allows me to bring a unique and essential flair to any scene. I possess demos in both areas and have completed a table read for an animated script.

Accolades

  • Quarter Finalist in the Los Angeles International Screenplay Awards Diversity Initiative vii! 2024

  • Honorable Mention, The Art of Brooklyn Flim Festival - The Art of Brooklyn Screenplay Contest 2024

  • Quarterfinalist, Filmmatic Inroads Fellowship Season 7

  • Quarterfinalist, Flimmatic Comedy Screenplay Awards Season 6

  • Official Selection, Big Apple Flim Festival Screenplay Competition Spring 2022

  • Quarterfinalist, Los Angeles International Screenplay Awards Summer 2021

  • Tope 100 (Feature or TV Pilot), Table Read My Screenplay Competition 2021

  • The Short List,  Barnstorm Fest 2021

  • Quarterfinalist, Los Angeles International Screenplay Awards Fall 2020

 

Festivals

  • Performed in the diversity showcase at the Pack Theater and at UCB

  • La Comic Con

  • Performed at the (Pack) Festival

  • Black Women in Comedy Festival

  • Performed at M.I.L.F.

  • Performed at L.A.I.I.F.

 

Schools and Programs

  • Voiceover: Animation - Kalmenson & Kalmenson (Andrew Racho)

  • Acting: Commercial Acting  Beginners - Bobby Decant (Josh & Kristeen)

  • Voiceover: Intro to Animation & VG  - Voicecaster (Dave Boat)

  • Voiceover: Voice Foundation - Kalmenson & Kalmenson (Amy Selma)

  • Published in Anthology 4.0 and 3.0: Written by Veterans and Families

  • Writing:  Sketch 101 - Pack Theater (Eric MoneyPenny)

  • Writing: TV Pilot - Writing: Ben Axelrad 

  • Improv and Storytelling: Advance - Upright Citizens Brigade

  • Improv and Storytelling: Graduate - Upright Citizens Brigade

  • Acting: Theater 101 - University of California Riverside

  • Certificate from University of California, Los Angeles in Theater, Film, and Television mentorship program

  • Completed  University of California Santa Barbara Veterans summer writing program