Half A Soul is a performance and production collective dedicated to telling stories that cut deep—work that lingers in the body long after the curtain falls.
Born out of the collaborative spirit of 35mm: A Musical Exhibition, our name is inspired by the song “Cut You a Piece,” a haunting reflection on connection, vulnerability, and creative imprint.
We believe that live performance is a soul exchange. Every time an artist steps onstage, they give a piece of themselves to the audience. And when it works—when it’s honest and alive and undeniable—the audience gives something back. Half A Soul is about creating that space: a shared emotional core that binds artist and audience together through fearless storytelling.
We are driven by:
Intimacy: creating work that feels personal and alive
Collaboration: honoring every artist’s voice in the room
Innovation: using multimedia, movement, and music in conversation
Accessibility: welcoming audiences from all walks of life to see themselves reflected in our work
Our goal is to foster theatrical events that move with power and resonance—whether a fully staged musical, a concert performance, or a hybrid of visual and sonic storytelling. We want to hold space for artists who lead with heart and for audiences who are ready to feel something real.
About the team:
Claire E. Mercier is a versatile actor, writer, and emerging producer based in New York City. She holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from CAP21 Conservatory at Molloy College and is an alum of Interlochen Arts Academy. A proud member of Actors' Equity Association, Claire brings a bold and honest voice to her original theatrical works, with a focus on connection, authenticity, and transformative storytelling.
She has collaborated with renowned artists including Luis Villabon (A Chorus Line), Angelo Fraboni (Cats, The Full Monty, Dreamgirls), and songwriting team Kerrigan & Lowdermilk (The Bad Years, Henry and Mudge), and has contributed to the development of new musicals such as The Mad Ones Lab: Virtual Road Trip, Rainbow Ring, and more.
www.claireemercier.com | @finding.claireity
Jimmy Schumacher is a New York--based actor and writer. Born in Long Island, he studied musical theatre at CAP21/Molloy University. Jimmy has appeared off-Broadway in the rock musical Between Gods and Kings, toured the US in Rosie Revere, Engineer and A Christmas Carol with TheaterWorks USA, and most recently sailed around the world with Azamara Cruises as a lead vocalist. VO credits include Yu-Gi-Oh! Sevens. Represented by FSE Talent and CTC Talent Group. So much love to K, mom, dad, and Amanda.
PAST EVENTS
PAST EVENTS
35mm: A Musical Exhibition
August 2025
This genre-defying song cycle by Ryan Scott Oliver transforms photography into live performance. It’s emotional, electric, and unlike anything you’ve seen before — and we’re so excited to bring it to life with an incredible team of NYC artists.
This show was the result of big dreams, deep heart, and the unwavering belief that live performance still matters. Whether you bought a ticket, sent a donation, or have been cheering us on from afar — thank you.
Your support is so meaningful.
