The Journey of a Teaching Artist: Embracing the Stage and the Classroom

From Bartender to Educator

I teach theater to kids, teens, and young adults with big eyes, fast questions, and hearts on fire. But I didn’t arrive here gracefully. I didn’t walk into teaching with purpose and poise. Instead, I was dragged in—kicking, screaming, exhausted, and bruised.

A Struggle in Los Angeles

It all began in L.A. years ago. I was bartending just to make ends meet—too tired for auditions, too drained to be myself. I closed up the bar at 3 AM. Then, I had to rally for 10 AM callbacks. Casting directors would look me up and down, whispering: too old, too gay, not Black enough, too Broadway, too big. Nothing came my way.

I spiraled downwards. I gained weight and lost confidence. I sank into a deep depression, struggling to name it for a long time. I felt like a failure. It seemed the dream had passed me by while I wasn’t looking. I was broken.

Finding My Path in Teaching

And then came teaching.

What started as a side hustle with no clear plan became something divine. I began working with children—many of whom were celebrities' kids, growing up fast under the weight of famous last names. Yet, there they were, wide-eyed and eager, looking to me for guidance, truth, and art. And I gladly gave it to them.

What I didn’t expect was how much they would give back to me.

The Joy of Educating

I found joy in teaching. I found healing. I remembered who I was. Teaching pulled me back to myself. I realized I was a natural at this—at giving back what I’ve spent my life chasing, loving, and breathing: theater.

But I must admit there was a time when I tried to hide it. I whispered “teaching artist” under my breath as if it were something to be ashamed of. It felt like I was confessing to a scarlet letter rather than wearing a crown.

Embracing Dual Identities

That was then. Now, I know better.

Now, I say it with pride. I can be both. I am both. An artist and a teacher. A dreamer and a doer. A vessel for the work and the Word. I can love the stage while giving back to the next generation. I can nurture dreams while still pursuing my own.

Watching my students rise? Seeing some of them soar higher than I ever dreamed? That’s a reward beyond words. That’s legacy.

The Challenge of Balancing Dreams

But let’s be real. There are days when the lyric from A Chorus Line hits me right in the chest: “I am tired of teaching people what I should be doing myself.” Yeah, that part resonates deeply.

When I step on stage—or face a camera—or even film a sketch in my kitchen for YouTube (even when nobody's watching)—my body lights up. I feel a jolt in my soul. In those moments, I feel God, my ancestors, and the essence of who I am. I know I’m doing what I was born to do.

Teaching fills my cup, but performing overflows it.

Trusting the Journey

This calling is not random. It’s not accidental. Only God could plant a dream this deep. Some days, trusting that purpose? Whew, it’s a challenge, especially when the world only sees one side of you.

But I know my gifts. I understand the power I hold and the love I pour into what I do. I know this: I will be seen. One day, I will be fully recognized. For all aspects of my identity. For both the teacher and the star. The griot and the flame.

God told me so. It’s ordained.

The Path to Fulfillment

I’ve done it before—I know I can do it again. But this time, armed with patience (my forever nemesis), trust, and faith (my holy guides), I’ll ascend to the throne I was meant to occupy. The one my ancestors carved out with hard work and brilliance.

And until then? I’ll be here. A prince in waiting. An older prince, sure—but still dreaming. Still teaching. Still creating. Still loving. Still becoming.

The crown is mine. I’m simply walking toward it one step, one scene, one soul at a time.

The Importance of Encouragement in the Arts

Art is not just a performance; it's a form of healing and connection. Encouraging creativity in young people lays the foundation for future generations. When we give them the tools to express themselves, we foster not only artists but also confident individuals.

Making a Lasting Impact

Each class, each rehearsal, and each performance is an opportunity to instill confidence. I want my students to embody the spirit of the art they love. They have the potential to touch lives, not just their own but also the lives of those who will come after them.

Encouraging our youth to pursue their passions helps create a brighter future for the arts. It allows new voices and stories to emerge, enriching the cultural landscape for everyone.

Whether you're an artist, a teacher, or simply someone who loves the arts, remember that every moment spent encouraging creativity is a step toward a richer, more aligned world.