Brianna Fallon, a resident of Mesa and a dedicated theater professional, is making waves in the Arizona theater scene. With an impressive array of talents ranging from directing plays to managing stages, designing sound, conducting music classes, and writing scripts, Fallon's career aspirations center around becoming an artistic director. Her journey has brought her closer to this goal as she now serves as the interim artistic director at Mesa Encore Theatre.
Fallon’s commitment extends beyond her own success; she actively fosters inclusivity within theater productions and advocates for anti-racist practices. Through workshops, self-training, and hands-on experience, she continues to grow both personally and professionally while inspiring others through her passion for theater arts.
From Passion to Profession: Fallon's Journey in Theater Arts
Brianna Fallon's love for theater began unexpectedly during her high school years when she enrolled in a theater course at Scottsdale Community College. This pivotal moment ignited her interest in pursuing theater as more than just a hobby. By age 19, she was already teaching at Mesa Arts Center's arts camps, nurturing young talent and further developing her skills. Today, Fallon balances multiple roles, including managing acting classes for youth at Child’s Play Theatre in Tempe and contributing creatively across various productions.
Her extensive background includes directing, sound design, music direction, and even acting. For instance, last summer, she portrayed Truvy Jones in "Steel Magnolias" with Places! Productions in Mesa, showcasing her versatility on stage. In December, she directed "Narnia," demonstrating her ability to transition seamlessly between different aspects of theatrical production. Additionally, Fallon designs sound for performances such as Mesa Community College's upcoming "Sister Act." Each role adds depth to her portfolio, preparing her for leadership positions like that of an artistic director.
Promoting Diversity and Inclusivity in Theater Leadership
As one of the few Black women holding an artistic leadership role in Arizona theaters, Brianna Fallon uses her platform to promote diversity and inclusivity. At Mesa Encore Theatre, where she serves as interim artistic director, she champions anti-racist initiatives aimed at transforming traditional theater environments into inclusive spaces. She creates resources such as TikTok videos explaining anti-racist work in theater and defining critical terms like systemic racism. Furthermore, she encourages hiring diverse artists and amplifying their voices within the community.
Fallon believes that fostering inclusivity not only enriches the creative process but also reflects the true essence of the communities served by these theaters. Her efforts extend beyond advocacy; they include practical steps such as eliminating problematic phrases commonly used in theater settings. Recently commissioned to write a full-length play titled "Emmett's Art Project," Fallon continues to amplify BIPOC voices in theater arts. This dedication ensures that future generations see representation and opportunity within the industry, aligning perfectly with her vision for equitable artistic leadership.