Today we’d like to introduce you to James Blair.
James, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I spent 48 years as a teacher of English, creative writing, speech, and drama–twenty-seven years in the Chicago public school system and 21 years in the Communication, Media & Theatre Department at Northeastern Illinois University, retiring in 2014. While at Northeastern in 2000, I helped to create one of the country’s most innovative teaching training initiatives which is beginning its nineteenth year. This initiative enabled students to begin their teacher training their first year of college instead of their third.
Grounded in the philosophy of looking at every creative opportunity as a learning experience to enhance my art and teaching, I am a published poet and short story writer, a humorist, a poetry slam winner. From 2005-2008 I spent weekends at radio station WGTD ( an NPR affiliate) in Kenosha, WI. While there I wrote and acted in live radio dramas. I also produced and directed live radio dramas and a two stage productions of one drama based on the “Scopes Monkey Trial.” I’m also the recipient of an Illinois Arts Council grant to support the publication of a book of my poetry–“The Blue Flame Lingers,” for which there was a book signing at Barnes and Noble in Evanston, IL.
Since retiring in 2016, my play “Lounging” has received two productions (Raven Theatre, 2015, Filament Theatre, 2016). My latest play, “Designer Genes” has recently received a reading by the “37 Players.” I’m currently developing a series of memoir writing workshops for those living in our condo development, and this week I participated in a presentation of the 10 Minute Play Festival project I founded at Northeastern Illinois University. For those interested, my colleague Steve Dundis and I have recorded three of our podcasts (Learning for Hell of it).
Has it been a smooth road?
One of my major struggles has been a life long struggle with depression. I had some very low points, where I felt I was on the brink of giving everything up–quitting my job even though I had a family to support. On one occasion, I felt it was my student’s faith in me and my love for them that brought me back. In another case, I went to a close friend for counsel. He encouraged me and convinced me not to give up even though things felt overwhelming. Also, I think I can be quite persistent about projects. I don’t think I necessarily possess grit, but my determination can be dogged. I don’t necessarily believe in luck, but I do believe in being open to opportunity. I’m eighty years old now and still quite active, exploring new things. Story News has published four of my articles during the past year and is scheduled to publish another one in early 2020. The first two stories were prize winners.
Three years ago a had open-heart by-pass surgery. Recovery has certainly been a challenge; however, I’m exercising regularly and trying to keep busy with new projects and creative endeavors. I’m also taking a class in medical ethics. Some times I wonder if I’m doing too much, but I don’t want to or can’t seem to stop. I just feel the need to be doing new things. Writing short non-fiction pieces, the playwriting festival, the podcast.
I was sure I’d be the oldest person in my medical ethics class, but there’s a wonderful older student in the class. Bob is 90 years old, and believe it or not he’s receiving a bachelor’s degree next May. He’s my inspiration.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
Well, as you know I don’t have a company. But what sets me apart from other people my age may be the activities I’m involved in and/or the new things I create. Most new people I meet think I’m much younger. Also, I don’t know many people my age who are doing the things I’m doing; however, I do try an encourage others I meet to take classes, and if I’m doing something new I make an attempt to included my retired friends. Somehow, I always feel the urge to engage others in creative activities. I once took a dentist friend of mine to the dinosaur lab at the University of Chicago, hoping I could interest him in working with dental equipment separating fossil from rock. He wasn’t thrilled with the idea even though I thought it would be very cool.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Chicago is a city that has much to offer if you’re willing to explore it. Our city needs to improve its housing policies because it is quite segregated. Fortunately, when I was teaching I had the opportunity to work in every part of the city–north side, south side, and west side. They all have something different to offer. I had the opportunity to work teach in schools that were all white, all African American, all Hispanic, and one which was totally diverse. I loved being able to do that.
Contact Info:
- Address: Northeastern Illinois University
5500 N. St. Louis
Chicago, IL 60625
ph. 773-442-4205 - Website: Neiu.edu
- Phone: ph. 773-442-4205
- Email: alumni@neiu.edu
Image Credit:
Jessica Mueller, Todd Crawford
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