Jessica Johnson is a Philadelphia-based actor and theatremaker. She began her artistic journey as a Dorothy Haas Acting Apprentice at the Walnut Street Theatre. Throughout her career, Jessica has showcased her talents in readings, workshops, and full-length productions across the region. Her recent performances include “Chris” in POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive; “Mayme” in Intimate Apparel; “Papa Ge” in Once On This Island at the Arden Theatre Company, "Opal" in Fat Ham at The Wilma Theatre.

Jessica's work has earned her recognition, including a Barrymore Award for Outstanding Lead Performer in a Musical for her role as “Celie” in The Color Purple (2019), a Barrymore for Outstanding Supporting Performance in a Musical for her role as “Papa Ge” in Once On This Island and 3 Barrymore nominations for her work throughout the city (“Opal” in Fat Ham, The Wilma Theatre; “Kylia” in STEPMOM, STEPMOM, STEPMOM, Interact Theatre; “Gina” in a hit dog will holler, Azuka Theatre)

In addition to her stage achievements, Jessica has been honored with several prestigious fellowships and residencies, such as the Independence Foundation Fellowship (2019), the Jilline Ringle Residency (2019), and the HATCH Residency (2021) to develop her independent work.