From Apprentice to Director: John Perez’s Full-Circle Moment I Arts Passport Podcast
American Stage’s new Director of Education, John Perez, is here—and yes, it’s a full-circle moment: he went from apprentice to education associate to teacher to director (and somehow still finds time to do shows, direct readings, and sit in his car in silence for five minutes like a veteran of the arts). We talk about what the Education Department actually does—from classes for adults and young performers, to the Write On playwriting initiative in Pinellas County schools, to student matinees...
American Stage’s new Director of Education, John Perez, is here—and yes, it’s a full-circle moment: he went from apprentice to education associate to teacher to director (and somehow still finds time to do shows, direct readings, and sit in his car in silence for five minutes like a veteran of the arts).
We talk about what the Education Department actually does—from classes for adults and young performers, to the Write On playwriting initiative in Pinellas County schools, to student matinees and talkbacks, to the beloved School Tour (this year: “Polka Dots: The Cool Kids Musical”), built around acceptance, anti-bullying, and getting live theatre in front of kids who may be seeing it for the first time.
We also get into the behind-the-scenes reality: teaching artists who are working local performers, why that matters, and how theatre skills are—surprise—also life skills.
Also: quick Arts Passport Book Club notes
We’re taking January off
Back in February with Florida + a Botanical Gardens visit
In March, we’re heading to The Studio@620 for an all-female Julius Caesar (book TBD—sign up and we’ll tell you soon)
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