Storytelling Philosophy:

• Theatre, music, and dance exist all around us and are the fabric of human consciousness. Deftly using all the dimensions of human expression can allow everyone present to experience a shared and elevated reality, reflecting their own experiences back at them or connecting them with unfamiliar ones, inspiring insight, appreciation, and change.

• An actor’s imagination engenders belief in the audience. Imagination is most engaged when an actor’s reality and actions align with the circumstances, language, and style/form of a story. Imagined reality can be just as palpable and truthful as physical—theatricality comes when storytelling diverges from physical reality. Imagining is a bodily process, not an intellectual one.

• Playful and patient exploration of a script or story inevitably yields a unique interpretation. Rushing or forcing a choice can damage the story’s integrity. Spontaneity is also essential but requires structure to be effective.

• Anyone can be a storyteller and storytelling is for everyone. I practice inclusive storytelling that uplifts human potential. My approach to collaboration is “accessibilty-first” and flexible, built around individual ability, experience, and need.

• All storytelling is worthwhile and important. Communal storytelling is a foundational part of human mindfulness, connection, and civilization. Simple and entertaining stories can be life-affirming, and I especially appreciate storytelling with ambitious theatricality, profound questions, connection to tradition and community (whether venerational or subversive), multi-layered dramaturgy, and/or (at the the very least!) a good sense of humor.

Directing:

Spring Awakening

Tennessee Williams One Acts