Director/Writer,
Creative Director of Firsthand Films
Kymberly Harris is a visionary director and playwright whose work consistently captivates audiences with its depth and insight. Her award-winning short films, including Rose's Turn, showcased at Cannes, and FAITH, which won Best Short at the NYCIFF, highlight her ability to tell compelling stories through the female gaze. Now and Never garnered acclaim with The Rising Star Award at CineGearExpo, further solidifying her status as a provocative figure in independent cinema.
Her feature film, I Heard Sarah, received the prestigious Robert Rodriguez Best Indie Auteur Filmmaker of the Year Award at the Bare Bones International Music and Film Festival and is now distributed by Good Deed Entertainment, streaming across all major platforms.
Kymberly’s theatrical directorial work spans prestigious venues like Rogue Machine Theatre, Theatre for the New City, and the Marilyn Monroe Theatre in both NYC and LA. As a published playwright, her works have graced respected stages such as Cherry Lane and La MaMa. Her play FAITH stands out as the sole drama published in the anthology Proofread or Die!, celebrating the legacy of David Foster Wallace.
Additionally, her contributions to film extend to assisting notable directors like James Ponsoldt and Jason Segel on The End of the Tour. Kymberly's on-screen performances have included originating the role of Holly in Eric Simonson's Bang the Drum Slowly and participating in the workshop of Terrence McNally's It’s Only a Play. Kymberly Harris's body of work exemplifies the power of storytelling as a means of connection and empowerment, marking her as a distinct voice in contemporary arts.
Themes of Interest: I find myself deeply drawn to narratives that explore how our families and society shape our identities and significantly influence our connections with others. These intricate dynamics reveal the profound impact of our upbringing and cultural context on our relationships and interactions, providing fertile ground for compelling storytelling.
Acting Coach: Select private clients (including Emmy winners, Oscar nominees).
Member: AEA, AFTRA, SAG, Dramatists Guild, Women in Film, Alliance of Women Directors, Free the Work, Film Independent, Women in Motion Pictures
Voter: Spirit Awards, Ovation Committee
BA: Knox College in French
MA: Illinois State University in Theatre
Double MFA: The Actors Studio Drama School at the New School, Acting and Playwriting.
Reps: Ramo Law