SaRee's Journey: Shaping a Bold Future in the Arts
SaRee Grimes’ artistic journey affirms the power of giving into one's passion and welcoming every opportunity for growth. From childhood performances to spearheading major marketing campaigns, her path is one characterized by a deep love for storytelling and commitment to rewriting narratives within the entertainment industry.
The Spark of Passion: A Life Onstage
For Grimes, the stage has been a place of belonging. Since she was little, she was captivated by how stories came to life through performance—whether it was movement, voice, or emotion, she felt most seen when on stage. This love for performance didn’t just inspire her to act; it ignited a broader passion for creating and sharing stories in all their forms. Watching Broadway shows and films, Grimes "realized I didn’t just want to participate in stories, but to shape them behind the scenes." This desire led her to explore acting, producing, marketing, and content creation—tools she now uses to communicate the world around her.
Grimes' time as a Theatre and Performance major at Spelman College marked a turning point in her creative aspirations. While initially focused on acting, her experiences at Spelman opened her eyes to the broader world of the arts. She says, "I learned the value of storytelling as a strategic tool and how the intersection of arts and entrepreneurship could change the landscape of entertainment." Spelman empowered her to grow as a multidisciplinary artist, blending creativity with business savvy. She left the program not only with acting skills but with a broader vision of her role in the industry and a confidence in her ability to shape narratives from the stage to the boardroom.
The Role of Mentorship: A Support System for Growth
Mentorship has been a key component of Grimes' success. Her journey at Spelman was deeply influenced by the Spelman Pathways program, where she found a community that believed in her from day one. Through mentorship, particularly from Ms. Ladiamond, Grimes says she was "encouraged to step outside of her comfort zone and lead with purpose." The guidance she received through this program propelled her into leadership roles and connected her with industry professionals who opened doors to opportunities like the Showtime/MTV Storytellers Lab. Saree credits these experiences with shaping both her personal and professional growth, creating a foundation built on genuine relationships and support.
Industry Experience: From Warner Bros. to the Alliance Theatre
Interning at Warner Bros. and the Alliance Theatre has been transformative for Grimes' career trajectory. At Warner Bros., she led marketing campaigns for major films such as Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, Joker: Folie à Deux, and Minecraft. These experiences allowed her "to fine-tune my strategic marketing skills and develop my ability to connect people with stories through innovative campaigns." Meanwhile, her internship at the Alliance Theatre allowed her to explore various aspects of theatre production, from managing logistics as a stage manager to organizing community engagement events. These roles reinforced her passion for producing and marketing, showing her that her strength lies in connecting audiences to stories through both creative and business strategies.
Overcoming Challenges: Embracing Redirection
Like many creatives, Grimes has faced challenges along the way. One of the biggest hurdles was transitioning from acting to embracing other roles within the industry. At first, the shift felt like a setback, but over time, Grimes realized it was a redirection toward broader opportunities. Embracing the unknown led her to a passion for producing and content creation, areas where she could combine her love for storytelling with strategic thinking. Another challenge came from navigating an industry where opportunities aren’t always clearly defined. But through her authenticity and dedication, Grimes has built genuine relationships that have helped her secure positions and grow in the industry. Her advice to others? "Lead with intention, stay curious, and always be prepared," Saree said.
Juggling acting, producing, and content creation might seem daunting, but Grimes has learned to balance these roles by staying intentional with her time. She believes in committing only to opportunities that align with her values and bring her joy. Producing, in particular, excites her the most because it allows her to combine creativity, strategy, and leadership. For Saree, every role she takes on—whether acting, marketing, or producing—feeds into her ability to shape stories and create meaningful impact.
Building a Legacy: Creating Space for Black Voices
Looking to the future, Grimes is determined to create a production company that amplifies Black voices in the entertainment industry. Her vision is to build a space where Black joy, complexity, and imagination are at the forefront—across theatre, film, and television. Beyond just producing content, she says "I hope to invest in arts education for underserved youth, empowering the next generation of storytellers." Saree sees her company as a creative hub where future creatives can develop their talents and make a lasting impact in the industry.
One of the most memorable moments of Grimes' journey came during her time at the Showtime/MTV Storytellers Lab. In this space, she was encouraged to develop her authentic storytelling voice alongside other emerging creators. The experience was transformative, as it reaffirmed her passion for storytelling and gave her the opportunity to learn from industry giants like Nick Cannon and members of Tyler Perry Studios. At Warner Bros., leading campus marketing efforts for major films further solidified her dedication to how stories are told and shared with the world.
Leaving a Legacy at Spelman
Grimes' time at Spelman has shaped her into the multidimensional artist and leader she is today. She hopes to leave a legacy that encourages future students to embrace their full potential without feeling confined to one path. Through her work at Sisters Chapel, the Alliance Theatre, and Spelman Pathways, Saree has been committed to building community and creating spaces where students feel empowered to chase their passions. Her message to future generations: “Your voice matters in every room you enter.”
Grimes' biggest motivation is representation. She is driven by the idea that the stories she helps tell will open doors for others, especially Black girls with big dreams and limitless potential. She envisions a future where Black voices in entertainment are expansive, bold, and unstoppable. Saree wants to be a part of that movement, not just as a creative force but as a leader who helps create opportunities for others to thrive.
Advice to Young Creatives
To young creatives looking to carve their own paths in theatre, film, and television, Grimes offers this advice: “Stay curious, stay prepared, and never dim your light. Your journey doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s, and your voice matters. There is space for you, and the world is waiting for your perspective.”
Grimes' journey is a powerful reminder that with passion, mentorship, and determination, anything is possible. As she continues to break barriers and create meaningful change, she is paving the way for the next generation of storytellers to follow in her footsteps.