Natassia Dominique
If you saw Natassia Dominique as Nehebka in Lyric Stage’s recent AIDA, you are aware of her show stopping power. Her vocal prowess, stage presence, and skillful acting all say “Future Broadway Diva.” Dominique has that unique quality that makes her unforgettable on stage. I first saw Natassia as Young Marley in DTC’s A Christmas Carol and ,even in that large ensemble, she made a lasting impression. Off stage Dominique is a kind, friendly, and intelligent young woman who is dedicated to her craft. Take a few moments to read all about this wonderfully talented young performer and her journey in the performing arts so far.
When was your first time on stage?
My youngest memory on stage was my first solo in church. I was 7 years old, my hair was curled, and baby those kitten heels were strapped tight! I remember my mom helping me record my voice on a tape recorder so I could hear myself and make “adjustments” lol. I was ready! I practiced and practiced until I couldn’t anymore. When I finally performed the solo, I was filled with so much pride! I had worked so hard for something and accomplished what I set out to do. It was just the beginning of my journey!
When did you know you wanted to be an actor?
From a young age, I’ve always been super inspired by films and theatre. I was always left with these indescribable feelings and emotions. I knew I wanted to be a part of something that magical. I’ve just always been in love with telling stories and connecting with people. Whether it be through a play, song, or fashion, storytelling has always resonated in a deep way. It feels like a calling and a responsibility. It’s what burns inside of me to do!
Who is your greatest mentor?
My mother, Cynthia Maria Diggs from Colón, Panama!! ICON. I am who I am because of her. My sense of self, my fashion sense, my belief in myself and others, I owe it to her. She has instilled so much love, confidence, and drive in me. She is such a champion of others and wants people to win and that inspires me to walk out my life that way. She is a go getter. She is such a beacon of light. I couldn’t have asked for a better mom. I LOVE YOU, GIRL!!
What role have you enjoyed the most in your career so far?
Honestly, Young Marley in A Christmas Carol! It was such a cool process navigating a role that was originally a man. I had so much fun making it my own and I feel like Marley’s story holds a different weight as a woman. I also loved being a Storyteller in Once on this Island. That show was a marathon! Once that first note hits, it's go time. Nonstop! So much fun going in and out of characters to drive the narrative.
Do you have a dream role?
It’s an absolute dream of mine to originate a role and deliver a performance that inspires succeeding actors to also want to star in that role. Leading Player from Pippin is also a dream role of mine. Patina Miller and Ben Vereen’s performances are etched into my brain! I remember staying up late my sophomore year watching every Pippin YouTube video under the sun being completely in awe of their magic. So thrilling and layered. It will be such a beautiful moment when these roles come into fruition in my life!
What person(s) would you like to be on stage with?
Viola Davis, Oscar Isaac, Jonathan Majors, Liz Mikel, Florence Pugh, Lillias White, Heather Headley, Michelle Yeoh, Solea Pfeiffer, Beyonce and Chaka Khan, just to name a few. I have an entire list in my notes app of people I’d like to share both the stage and screen with. I recently worked with Rachel Nicole Poole and Jayden Russell again and we joked about playing The Schuyler Sisters but quickly concluded that it actually needs to happen! Putting it out into the universe now.
What performances have you seen that impressed you?
Watching Sally Vahle as Marley in rehearsals for the first time was unlike anything I’d experienced. She is absolutely otherworldly!! She is a masterclass of an actor and so kind. Her, “HARRRRK!” lingers with me still. I loved learning from her on and off the stage!
DTC’s HAIR and Les Mis still live with me. Those were very transformative and inspiring experiences for me.
Ain’t Too Proud was absolutely incredible. That show legitimately almost got me out of my seat. I couldn’t contain myself. It was too good! I wanted to experience what they were experiencing. I wanted to be up there with them.
What are your career goals?
My desire is to have a career full of colossal projects that transcend time and space, to be a part of art that becomes a monument of hope and inspiration in people’s lives. Through film, theatre, fashion, and music, I want to be a vessel of love and connection. My desire is to be a forever-evolving artist. I want to be as versatile as I possibly can be, never boxed in. I think it’s important for different art forms and mediums to collide and overlap. I just want to be an orchestrator and curator of change. I would love to tackle some Shakespeare in the near future. I am all about experiences that are going to press, challenge, stretch me in the best way possible. I never want to be stagnant!
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I can basically recite the entire movie of “School of Rock.” I’m also a huge fan of Harry Potter. I love the fantasy, period pieces, and dystopian genres. Lord of the Rings, Game of Throne, Hunger Games! Give it to me!! I eat it up every time lol. I’m trying to get more into reading. Currently getting through the Children of Blood and Bone book series. I’d love to be in the film adaption! I’m waiting patiently for those auditions.
