Magik Theatre’s production of Rick Riordan’s “Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief.” Image credit: Magik Theatre
Jessica Willis, a theatre senior, shares the ancient tales of Greek mythology in Magik Theatre’s production of Rick Riordan’s “Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief” in San Antonio, Texas.
Jessica Willis, a theatre senior.
Playing multiple roles, Willis joins a cast of talented actors who will perform the production for children and families throughout the summer. “We will bring Rick Riordan’s books to life,” she said. “I absolutely loved the books, and still read them, so I want to share that love with other people.”
Willis got involved in theatre because she loves telling other people’s stories. “I think storytelling is a great way to bring others together and make people feel part of something, even if it is just for a second.”
Q&A with Willis
How have your studies and time at TCU prepared you for this role?
The TCU Department of Theatre has pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way possible. Through the program, I’ve made new friends and learned to work with others in different environments. Theatre is about learning new things and adapting to changes, and TCU has helped me grow in this way as an artist.
Willis with her fellow Magik Theatre castmates.
How did the opportunity arise to perform with Magik Theatre?
Magik Theatre posted the casting call on their Instagram. I was so excited and jumped at the opportunity to send in my audition tape. I received a callback and flew to San Antonio for a final audition. I got the call the next day, and the rest is history.
What made you want to pursue your area of study?
Theatre was not my original career path. I got into it because of an accidental schedule change. I could not swap the class and back to band, so I stuck with it for a year and never looked back.
Theatre has been a great way for me to challenge myself, make friends and channel my energy into something that makes people happy. After watching myself grow, I realized that hard work and practice pay off. I know that performing is my purpose; I feel the most like myself when doing it.