Amber Iman
Joining us On The Couch this week is the incredible Amber Iman. Currently playing Persephone in Hadestown, Iman recently played Marimba in Goddess and was nominated for a Tony award for her portrayal of Rafaela in Lempicka. Read her full interview for a refreshingly honest conversation about faith, ambition, sugar, self-care, and the pursuit of a very large tax-free fortune.
What do you consider to be your best asset?
Faith. My belief that I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be, and that what is for me will not pass me.
What was your proudest moment?
My proudest moment is that I’m still here. I haven’t let this industry or this city break me or turn me cold.
What is your favorite drink?
I love a flavored bubbly water, or a frozen margarita (can be virgin – I don’t like liquor, I just like sugar)!
What is your favorite food?
Seafood, French fries, any dessert, bell peppers
What is your favorite condiment?
I am not a condiment girl.
What is your current obsession?
Not getting enough sleep, not stretching enough, not prioritizing self-care (I hope the sarcasm is cutting through)…
If you could give up one of your vices, what would it be?
Sugar, in all its forms
What is the one professional accomplishment you long for most?
Making enough money so that I can take a deep breath…
I’ve helped build two beautiful organizations, I’ve originated roles, I’ve been nominated for the trophy that spins, I’ve advocated for those in my community that needed it, I know film and TV will come in time…
But I’ve never made enough money to be able to save and build a future for myself and those that I love.
What is the one thing you waste too much money on?
I work in theatre. I don’t make enough money to waste.
What is the one activity you waste too much time doing?
Stressing about things I can’t control.
Being too shy to ask for what I need.
What do you consider to be the single greatest threat to your health?
Financial instability
What’s the single best trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
Compassion
What’s the single worst trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
Compassion
What in the world most thrills you?
Traveling to parts of the world I never dreamed of seeing
What current trend in popular culture most irritates you?
Content creation when it’s only for likes, views, and followers, not creation steeped in art, expression, storytelling.
People don’t care who they harm or whose content they steal in order to create, as long as they make money.
What was the most embarrassing moment you’ve ever experienced on the job?
I’ve never been embarrassed. I’m a comedian, I turn any mistake, flub, mishap into a bit. Last night, the microphone flew right out of my hand and into the front row at “Hadestown”. All I saw was an opportunity for comedy.
What is your favorite place in the world?
On a beach, in any body of water
What is the most important trait you seek in a romantic partner?
Awareness
Do you prefer the company of dogs or cats?
Doooooogs
What would have to happen to make today the best day of your life?
100 billion dollars fall into my lap, legally, tax free.
I would share it with my friends who are struggling, losing hope, trying to make ends meet.
So many people in my circle are losing the light behind their eyes…
What is your personal motto?
I have 2 that I live by:
We must lift as we climb.
I do not allow myself to complain about things I’m not actively working to change