Izzy Jones is an actress, theatre-maker and writer who stars as aspiring singer Sarah Jones in Purple Beatz.
Purple Beatz is a coming-of-age, music-driven, romantic drama, set in the underground drum ‘n’ bass music scene of 90’s London. Written and directed by London-born Writer/Director Lola Atkins Purple Beatz Atkins’ directorial debut feature.
We spoke to Jones about her role in the film, its themes and what audiences can expect …
Please introduce yourself …
I’m Izzy Jones, a British Southeast Asian actor, singer, and writer originally from Singapore, now based in London with a northern twang.
Describe your life right now in a word or one sentence …
Evolving in exciting ways.
What’s your role in Purple Beatz?
I play the lovely lead SJ.
How did you hear about the role?
It came through my agent, and it was one of the first things as we were still figuring out covid that sparked my interest. Lola and I had an initial chat, fired ideas and feelings about the character and then I auditioned. That was that.
How did the story resonate with you?
I have a deep connection to music and it was an exciting chance to mesh singing with screen work which feels rare. I also felt a vibe with SJ and her journey, going to London to chase after something she wanted. I think a lot of artists have that story, so it felt close to home. She’s hopeful, and spirited has flaws as we all do and most importantly, she’s an old soul. Like myself.
When on set – who are the people who are most important to you in getting your job done?
A lot of the time the other actors, what choices they throw you really helps with your performance. Also, the DOP Violetta who had visuals to deliver so it was about working together to capture the right performance in the way she wanted to capture it.
Tell us about a memorable moment on or off set?
I wrote a jazzy, blues song to perform on top of a drum and bass track for SJ’s final performance. It was a buzz because when I got up and sang it in front of a crowd it was the first time I’d done it. Lola had heard it and it just worked. That was a special moment.
What’s your current plan B?
I don’t believe in plan B’s. Fall forward not back you know? Wherever that takes you.
What’s made you Sad, Mad, Glad this week
Glad – Getting to the coast, and being by the sea is a welcome breather.
What are you watching right now?
I try to keep multiple things cooking, but season four of Killing Eve, Ozark, The Great and probably some documentaries, I love a documentary.
What are you reading right now?
I’m reading The Body Keeps The Score by Bessel van der Kolk, I’m fascinated by psychology and it’s part of my research for a play I’m writing.
What are you listening to right now?
An eclectic mix but Sam Fender, Little Simz, a song by Raina Sokolov-Gonzalez called Better Half, Throw in some classical, Bob Dylan, Tracy Chapman, and Alabama shakes that’s a glimpse of my shuffle.
The last thing you saw on stage?
A play called Manic Street Creature at the Edinburgh fringe was a highlight, a gorgeous blend of original music and story exploring relationships and mental health. It was chef’s kiss
What’s on your bucket list?
In life – Go to the Netherlands and get the full cold exposure experience with a man called Wim Hof (The Ice Man), doing mad icy dips in the middle of winter and snow hikes in shorts and a tank top. That. In work – put on my own play in a London theatre.
Celebrate someone else …
I rate, Jameela Jamil for continually speaking up against ridiculous notions the media might promote around people’s bodies. We’re an array of glorious shapes and colours. Ask what our bodies can do, not what they can fit into.
Celebrate yourself …
I’m always evolving, leading with what sparks my creativity and I’m writing my own work with the aim of showing up and making my mark. I’m also grateful for my ability to be content with the simple things.
Where can we find you?
You can follow me and any updates on Instagram or Twitter
Purple Beatz is available to watch on Prime Video, Apple TV, Sky Store, VUDU, Google Play, and Microsoft Store.