WILLOW JAMES is a Chicago-based arts leader, DJ, and multidisciplinary artist working in photography, sound design, and composition. He uses art as a platform for community healing and work that uplifts Black identity–building spaces where art and purpose meet. He currently serves as Civic Engagement Director at Definition Theatre (where he is also an ensemble member), a teaching artist with Court Theatre, and Adjunct Faculty at DePaul University. Court Theatre: Miss Julie, Antigone, Stokely: The Unfinished Revolution, A Raisin in the Sun. Additional credits include: Windfall (Steppenwolf Theatre), English (Indiana Repertory Theatre), Anna in the Tropics (American Players Theatre), Black Cypress Bayou (Definition Theatre), The Brief and Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao (Goodman Theatre), Sanctuary City (Next Act Theatre), The Band’s Visit (Writers Theatre/TheatreSquared), and Hymn (Chicago Shakespeare Theater), among others. Representation: Michael Moore Agency. worksbywillow.com | @worksbywillow.
Photo by Felton Kizer
Bio as of 7/2026