Meet Teaching Artist, Willow James
We’re highlighting the incredible Teaching Artists who contribute their skills, energy, and enthusiasm to Court’s Education Initiative. These artists have a wealth of experience in both education and theatre, and we feel honored to partner with them for our Artists-in-the-Schools program. In this post, we’re featuring Teaching Artist Willow James!
When did you know you wanted to work in theatre? At what age did that become clear?
I knew I wanted to work in theatre after I almost majored in neuroscience in college. As a kid, I only had one goal for what I wanted to do when I grew up—help people. That took many forms: a doctor, a firefighter, a lawyer, etc., but it wasn’t until my pre-major advisor encouraged me to sign up for classes based on my passion, that I even thought about what my passion was. It only took one semester for me to realize that a career in the arts was just as much of a career as any other—and that I could both help people and feel fulfilled through art.
Was there a teacher, teaching artist, or mentor that helped you find your love of theatre? Tell us about them and how their guidance still helps you today.
Yes! Kathy Carter-Young led the after school program I was in throughout my primary school years. One day, she came up to me and said, “I think you should sign up for the musical.” I avoided it for days until she held my hand and walked with me to the sign up sheet and said, “Go ahead!” The rest is history. I’ll never know exactly what she saw, but somehow she noticed my love for theatre before I did, and I’m forever grateful.
Why did you want to become a Teaching Artist?
Honestly, I don’t think I knew the real reason until I was one. The thought of me being anyone’s teacher was intimidating, but ultimately I knew that I didn’t have to be an expert and that I would be working with students who had varying experiences with theatre. The latter excited me the most because I saw an opportunity to (hopefully) pique their interest and provide some clarity during what is often a confusing part of life.
What’s your favorite thing about being a Teaching Artist at Court, specifically?
The accessibility. The South Side has created some of the country’s greatest artists and changemakers, yet over time the ability to explore the arts close to home has dwindled there. Through our work as Court TAs, we can share our experiences, help welcome young South Siders into the theatre without barriers, and most importantly, bring the opportunity to explore their creativity in the classroom, if no place else.
Willow James is a Chicago-based artist, educator, and arts administrator with a profound commitment to inspiring future generations of theatre artists to challenge the world around them. He centers his work around exploring Black identity, new works, and activism. He’s worked locally and regionally as a sound designer, collaborating with Goodman Theatre, Steppenwolf Theatre, American Players Theatre, TheatreSquared, and others. In addition to his role with Court, he is also Adjunct Faculty at DePaul University and serves as Civic Engagement Director at Definition Theatre, where he is also an ensemble member.