Today we’d like to introduce you to Ursula O. Robinson
Hi Ursula O., thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
For as long as I can remember, the arts have been woven into the fabric of my life. My love for performance was sparked by family traditions, nurtured through childhood experiences, and deepened by my sister’s fascination with television and film. Looking back, I realize how these early influences shaped my journey into the world of theatre and storytelling.
It all began during the Christmas holidays. My youngest aunt gathered all the nieces and nephews to sing Christmas carols and took us caroling around the neighborhood. My second youngest aunt adored this tradition and decided to take it a step further. She had us perform for the family, adding a Nativity scene to our caroling. Soon, she introduced a new twist—a talent segment where each child had to showcase a special skill.
That was when I truly discovered my passion for performing. I began acting out my poems, singing, and even incorporating praise dances into our Christmas productions. While other children outgrew the tradition, I held onto it, performing in our holiday play until I was a sophomore in college.
My love for storytelling didn’t stop there. Around the age of six or eight, I wrote my first poem. My mother, recognizing my talent, arranged for me to recite it in front of a crowd at church. I was nervous, but as soon as I spoke my words, I felt an undeniable thrill. The experience was exhilarating, solidifying my love for the arts. That passion grew even stronger when, in second grade, my French class required us to perform in a play. That moment of stepping into a role, bringing a story to life, made me realize that theatre was where I belonged.
Beyond my own experiences, my sister played a huge role in shaping my love for performance. She was obsessed with movies, television, and Hollywood stars. Our home was filled with entertainment magazines, award shows playing on TV, and constant trips to the movies. Since she was the eldest, she controlled the remote—so whatever she watched, I watched. Through her love for the craft, I, too, became captivated by the magic of film and television.
One moment, in particular, stood out. I remember watching Sally Field win her Oscar and hearing her famous speech. There was something so powerful about that moment—her joy, her passion, the recognition of her talent. I wanted to experience that feeling. I wanted to create stories, move audiences, and be part of something bigger than myself. That desire stayed with me for years, fueling my love for acting and storytelling.
Looking back, I see how every piece of my journey—family traditions, school performances, and movie nights with my sister—played a part in shaping the artist I am today. The arts have always been a part of me, and they always will be.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I’ve faced my share of doubts and insecurities. As a plus-size African American actor, I often struggled with where I fit in and what path to take. There were times I felt lost, unsure of what to do next. But despite the uncertainty, I took bold risks and pursued opportunities that pushed me forward—even when they felt unconventional or daring.
Later in life, balancing work while chasing my dreams was incredibly difficult. But once I found my career, I was finally able to unleash my inner artist. The challenges never disappeared, but I’ve learned that no struggle will ever be bigger than my dreams again.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a multifaceted artist with a passion for storytelling in all its forms. My work spans acting, writing, and performance, with a strong foundation in theatre and spoken word. I specialize in crafting compelling narratives that bring authentic, emotional depth to the stage and screen.
I believe that art can heal—not just the audience, but the performers as well. I strive to create work that sparks change, challenges perspectives and evokes deep emotion. My goal is always to leave an impact, to move people in ways that inspire transformation.
I write one-person shows, powerful monologues, web series, and plays. As an award-winning playwright, I take pride in creating stories that resonate deeply with audiences. One of my most recognized performances is a powerful scene in *Tyler Perry’s Divorce in the Black*, where I play an angry mother who takes her son out of the casket. That moment connected with people on an intense emotional level and has opened doors to new opportunities.
What sets me apart is my fearless approach to storytelling and my commitment to representation. I say what others are afraid to say, which is why my company and hashtag are called **#UrsSaidIt**. As a plus-size African American artist, I embrace the beauty of authenticity, ensuring that my work not only entertains but also uplifts and empowers others.
Every performance, every piece I write, and every creative endeavor is a testament to my resilience and dedication to my craft. The challenges will always be there, but my passion and purpose will always be greater.
How do you think about happiness?
What makes me happy? People. I love being social, attending parties, and surrounding myself with energy and joy. Seeing others healed, happy, and thriving brings me so much fulfillment. The things that make me happiest are often tied to bringing joy to others and embracing my own happiness in the process.
Watching others’ creative works always sparks something in me—it fuels my own creativity and passion. I love creating, whether through storytelling, crafts, or performance. And above all, I love laughter—making people laugh, making myself laugh, and sharing moments of pure joy.
Happiness, for me, is about connection, creativity, and the ability to uplift and inspire.
Pricing:
- Varies according to the art form.
- Theatre: Writing, Director, and Actor
- Motivational Speaker
- Acting Coach
- Talent Coach
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @ursulaorobinson
- Facebook: @ursulaorobinson
