Mercer Artist: Stevie Watson

Stevie Watson has found a new love at Mercer. Four years ago, the young actress traveled South from her home in Chattanooga, Tennessee to take Mercer’s stage by storm.

Having only performed in one show and two short plays at her former high school, Watson had no idea she would evolve into the seasoned thespian she is today.

Watson simply “showed up” to her first open audition during her second semester at Mercer. She knew no one and hardly anything about the show.

The young Mercerian was called back, made the cut and soon joined the cast of Hedda Gabler.

“It was like the best day ever,” Watson said.

That was just the beginning.

Now, the senior marketing major spends most of her days on campus attending class and rehearsing several hours a night for her next theatrical production.

She has even performed professionally while living in Macon.

Last January, Watson was hired as an extra in “I, Tonya” which filmed in the Macon Centreplex. The feature film is about competitive ice skater Tonya Harding.

“I’m not afraid to talk in front of people,” she said.

Watson said the Mercer theater department has taught her to let loose. She has become comfortable giving presentations in academic classes and is not afraid of making mistakes.

Although she dedicates her academic focus primarily to the Stetson School of Business, Watson said it is important to cross over into other areas.

Watson said she likes Mercer’s ability to foster students into expanding their interests.

As of now, Watson would like to complete her studies in the business school and take on a job in marketing.

However, she still wants to continue performing. She says it is a part of her. She calls acting an artform, because of its ability to make people feel things.

Her favorite place at the theater is the house where the audience sits.

“I immediately feel different when I walk in the building,” she said.

When she is in her space and doing her art, Watson said it is easier for her to step into her character.

Once the final curtain has closed, a part of that character sticks with her.

She said that acting has allowed her to understand people and herself.

Watson would like to end up somewhere where she can work in her field and also participate in the community theater.  

She advocates for others to step outside their area of study and experience new ventures.

“Don’t be afraid to branch out and try new things,” she said.