Johann George
Quick note from Peter: I recently worked with Johann at Actor’s Theatre of Louisville as he portrayed the humble, earnest, and pure Bob Crachit. It’s a good look on him; he naturally has all of those qualities in spades.
From his perspective on productivity and humanity to his relation and empathy to our healthcare workers, Johann has great thoughts on living in the now and how we move forward. He lifted our spirits today and hope he does the same for you.
What were you looking forward to that you lost because of COVID-19?
I did not have a show coming up before COVID-19 hit, but I was really finding some momentum in the audition room. I was doing a better job of clearing the noise and making brave choices. Recently, I got down to the end for the lead in a musical when I had less than 24 hours to prepare 20 pages of sides. That felt like such a win! After a bunch of co-star auditions, I was looking forward to jumping into On-Camera class with Bob Krakower. I guess I lost some momentum and a learning opportunity, but I have been taking this time to simplify, show gratitude, and remember why this work is so important to me.
What’s something (a thought, a family member, a hope, a piece of art, a meme, a song, ANYTHING) that is getting you through?
My mom is a hematologist and an oncologist at a hospital outside of New York City, and she just told me that about 50 out of the 90 beds in her hospital are filled with COVID-19 patients. It makes me so proud to see my mom doing such important work in a time of crisis. She is so brave and clearheaded. It astounds me. When I get frustrated at how much of our lives have been put on hold, talking to her makes me remember that there are so many good people in this world fighting to do the right thing for others. And that gives me hope.
What do you think has an opportunity to change as a result of this time to reset?
I think this time is going to help all of us see each other as human beings first and not as product making machines. Some people may exit this industry when they realize that they are in this for the wrong reasons or that there is something else that means more to them. That's not something to look down upon. That is something to celebrate! The artistic organizations that are going to thrive after this is all over will be those that put people before dollars, lead with empathy, and make their own rules.
Anything else you'd like our readers to know during this time?
I want people to know that you're allowed to do nothing right now. And that you're allowed to feel lost. There is an abundance of content out there right now telling people how to feel and manage their time during this crisis, and it can be so exhausting. There is no right way. Doing your best means something different every day. We are going to be okay.
Quarantine Quickly:
Favorite snack: Meat sauce in my InstantPot
Home workout routine: Lots of pushups on my yoga mat.
What are you watching? Two words: TIGER. KING.
What are you reading? On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong
Yes or no...Out of pajamas before noon: Yes! Doing my best to get up and showered by 10:30