Carol Jordan, an Instructor of Theatre in the WKU Department of Theatre and Dance, grew up in a family that both encouraged and practiced public service and the arts. As an advocate for high quality arts education at all levels, for all kids, in all communities, Carol believes in the power of theatre as an educational tool to change the lives of young people
Carol, heavily influenced by her minister father and novelist mother, believes the act of doing theatre teaches critical skills, including creative problem solving, textual analysis, self confidence, teamwork, quick thinking and responsibility. ‘Leadership isn't about power or giving orders - it's about responsibility. It's about taking care of those who are working for and with you, and creating an environment where they can excel. I believe all of us have a responsibility to make our communities better and I believe that the arts can be a powerful way to do that.’
Over the years, Carol says she has learned, ‘When you're doing educational theatre, it has to be about the students. Their growth, safety, and well being have to come first. If it becomes about your ego, your genius as an artist, about parents or selling tickets or having the coolest set, bad things happen.”
Carol stated, ‘I'm incredibly proud of the amazing shows I've done with teenagers and college students both in Bowling Green and elsewhere. I believe theatre changes lives and I've been lucky to be part of many exciting artistic processes and to watch young people grow and learn from them.’
This past fall at WKU, Carol did get the opportunity to translate and direct Euripedes' Greek tragedy Medea, which she referred to as an amazing experience. Catherine Harris, a professor in the WKU music department, composed original music for the choral odes and Carol, along with a fantastic production team and cast, brought it to life. As an undergraduate, Carol designed her own major in Theatre and Ancient Greek Studies, so this became a culmination of all of her previous training.
Moving forward, she would like to see full-time theatre teachers hired in all local high schools (and ideally, in all local middle and elementary schools as well). She would also like to see WKU offer a path for students to obtain theatre as a secondary certification area. ‘More and better theatre teachers are always a good thing.’
When asked what advice she has for our readers, Carol said, ‘Surround yourself with smart, talented people in your field. I've learned the most from amazing collaborators - they not only do their jobs well but they teach me new things and push me to do my job better. Also, focus on what people can actually do, not what their resumes say. Fancy credentials do not necessarily equal competence.’
Carol asks that you support your local theaters and push for good arts programs in your local schools, as they do make communities better and change kids' lives.
Oh, and in her spare time, Carol loves watching K-dramas (South Korean television shows), reading, and hanging out with her cats.
To contact Carol, email her at: carol.jordan@wku.edu
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