Actor On Fire!

Cincinnati actor Montez Jenkins speaks to us about coming out and his role in the Cincinnati theatre scene. If you’ve been paying attention to up and coming actors glittering the stages here in greater Cincinnati, then chances are you’ve probably sat in one of Montez’s audiences; the drop dead gorgeous guy with a big smile and acting chops to match. Here, Montez exclusively opens up to Awesome City Magazine editor, Kareem A. Simpson, about acting in Cincinnati, coming out, and why he’s happy to be a gay role model AWESOME CITY: So Montez, what made you get into acting? MONTEZ: My father was an avid theater goer and took me to my first production when I was 11; Cats at the Aronoff Center and it's hard to admit now but I was obsessed then and there with the idea of being a stage performer. So I took voice lessons and dance classes to become what I saw on that stage. It wasn't until a few years later around 2008, when I saw Bare at The Know Theatre, that I knew the power of storytelling. That show inspired me to work on my craft as an actor and I've learned, as of late, the work never stops! AWESOME CITY: You’re an openly gay guy – were you ever advised not to be so open? MONTEZ: I’ve been lucky, in the circles I've been able to create, no one has ever asked such a thing. If it ever comes to me hiding who I am for a role... well then I guess I'll be out of a job for a bit. AWESOME CITY: Do you think that Cincinnati is more welcoming to gay actors – do you think it’s easier for gay guys to get acting work in Cincinnati? MONTEZ: One of the most beautiful things about Cincinnati theater is it's diversity; many theaters use this to their advantage when it comes to race, gender, and sexuality. I can't speak on how "easy" it is for gay men compared to other cities; but to get good work that's artistically fulfilling and financially prosperous is hard everywhere. AWESOME CITY: You’re a good looking guy – do you think people treat you differently​ because of your looks? MONTEZ: Ah, thank you! As much as I would like to say no based on my own insecurities, I'm sure that could be true. I grew up getting by on my humor, intelligence, and a lack of modesty, so I never learned how to use my good looks! We are taught in our training about the importance of health, physical and mental, and how it can benefit you. So, because I take care of myself and it shows.

AWESOME CITY: Was it an easy process when you came out? Any bad reactions? MONTEZ: I trickled out of the closet through the 'bi now gay later' method; giving all of my bisexual friends a bad rep. Sorry! I was blessed though that when I came out I was surrounded by supportive family and friends. My mom raised an eyebrow but when I brought home her first Louis Vuitton purse she saw the light. AWESOME CITY: Who was the first person you told? MONTEZ: My best friend in High School, Cayla. AWESOME CITY: What is your most memorable production in Cincinnati and why? MONTEZ: I would say Girlfriend the Musical at the Know Theatre. To tell the story (that so many of us have lived) of the first time falling love and especially between two men was such an honor and incredibly fulfilling. Working with Lindsey Mercer and Erin McCamley was a queer boy’s dream come true and being able to play and grow into the character of Will beside the amazing Cary Davenport was such an experience. That show will live in my heart forever just for the fact that it was just two young men falling in love, figuring themselves out like humans today are able to do. It subsequently honor those that fought and protested before us by highlighting a modern day love story with two men. Needless to say, I'm very proud of the work we all put in. AWESOME CITY: Are you going to be in any upcoming productions here in Cincinnati? MONTEZ: Not anytime soon. I'm currently working as a singer/dancer on the Carnival cruise ship Elation. I'll be home for a a little bit in June; we'll see what the future holds!

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