Teaching Artists, with their commitment to both arts and education, play a pivotal role in P.S. ARTS as advocates for the transformative power of creativity in learning. Their work is instrumental in fostering critical thinking, creativity, and a love for the arts in the students and schools we serve. Today, it’s an honor to acknowledge the dedicated service of three P.S. ARTS Teaching Artists who have been a transformative force in P.S. ARTS classrooms for more than 20 years! Read our interviews with Tamie, Johanna, and David in our blog series. Here is the interview with Johanna McKay.
Johanna McKay started working for P.S. ARTS in 2002. She is a highly trained and experienced actor, director, and playwright as well as a theater teaching artist. Her enthusiasm for her work and love for her students is overwhelmingly clear through their energy and excitement in each class and their incredible performances.
Tell us about yourself, your arts practice, and what made you decide to be a Teaching Artist.
After working in the business world as a secretary/assistant while I auditioned and acted, I needed to find a way to be more creative on a daily basis. I had been directing shows up at the Idyllwild Arts Summer Program and had taught acting as a grad student at UCLA and wanted to see if I could find work like that during the year. I contacted P.S. ARTS in the fall of 2002 and spoke to a stunt woman (Shannon Qwan, I think?) who said they were looking for professional artists to teach kids – and I could still go to auditions – and that’s how it began! They had me watch and teach a bit for Kimberleigh Aarn and it was magical. Kimberleigh Aarn, the only drama teacher we had at P.S. ARTS when I started subbing, trained me… and we still get together from time to time! I bring a notepad with me because inevitably she’ll inspire me and I need to write it down! I also listened and learned from classroom teachers in the lunchroom. I still love to visit classrooms and take photos of signs and projects they have up.
What was your first year teaching with P.S. ARTS like?
My first year was fantastic! I laughed harder than I ever had, and found a place for my energy level. It was so much fun – still is! The thing that shocked me the most was the affection, of course. I kept saying, “They never greeted me like this at the law firm!” As a bonus, I found teachers to be so close to being actors. They hold an audience, project their voices, use their bodies and imaginations, and think creatively to engage students! Many are so darn funny, too. I love teachers! (I’ll also never complain about two-show days after teaching all day.)
Tell us about your art practice and the how you enrich your work.
Back in Chicago, I got my Actor’s Equity card from working with The Steppenwolf Theatre Co. after studying at an acting conservatory (The Theatre School, DePaul University). I was very lucky to work at great theaters there, as well as regional theaters around the country. I have acted in TV and film and continue to work with people I am blown away to be with on stage! I will be performing with some greats in “Bob’s Holiday Office Party” at The Beverly Hills Playhouse this December.
In addition to directing Shakespeare and musicals in Idyllwild every summer, I am an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Theater at Los Angeles City College, I mentor two classes at Otis College of Art and Design, just developed an arts integrated course for Cal State Northridge, and have an adaptation of “As You Like It” published by Playscripts, Inc.
What is your favorite thing about teaching with P.S. ARTS?
My favorite thing about working for P.S. ARTS is the freedom we have to teach creatively and see kids gain confidence and find their own joy in the arts.
Thank you, Johanna! To the Teaching Artists who have dedicated their knowledge, creativity, and expertise to enriching the lives of students in public schools for over 20 years: thank you. Your impact is immeasurable, and your legacy will endure in the hearts and minds of those you have inspired!
