Innovations in the Arts - Newark Academy

“It was so cool
to learn how to
create things
that weren’t there.”
18
Artist-in-Residence
Thanks to the Artist-in-Residence Program, teachers in the arts
department have also had the opportunity to learn along with the
students. The goal of the newly founded program has been to raise
funds to bring a professional artist to the school each year, for a designated
amount of time, to work with teachers and students and to share his or
her art with the entire community. Last fall, the Newark Academy community
welcomed its first artist-in-residence, Bill Bowers.
A professional mime, actor, storyteller and educator, Bowers was involved with visual
arts, drama, and dance classes for two weeks in October. Bowers has performed throughout
the United States, and his original mime shows, ‘Night Sweetheart ‘Night Buttercup and Under a
Montana Moon have been produced off-Broadway to critical raves. His Broadway credits include playing
Zazu in Lion King, and Leggett in The Scarlet Pimpernel. Working extensively with young people, Bowers has been
a guest artist for many organizations including City at Peace, Operation Smile, and the Make-A-Wish-Foundation. He
also has been involved with after-school programs through the New York Public Library System. Jacoby commented, “As
our first Artist-in-Residence, it is exciting to have a world class mime and educator who is so generous with his teaching.”
Bowers received enthusiastic reviews from the students. Acting student Carly Fischer ’10
explained, “I never would have experienced mime. It was so cool to learn how
to create things that weren’t there.” Liza Seiden ’11 was impressed
by “Mr. Bowers’ enthusiasm for his art.” Mike Mszanski ’09
said, “Bill Bowers brought a global perspective to IB
Theater Arts by introducing us to Butoh, Japanaese
dance theater.”
When a class of acting students was asked what
type of artist should become the next Artist-in-
Residence, enthusiastic answers ranged from
choreographer to music producer to puppeteer.
One student’s suggestion of a musical theater
director led to another student’s
suggestion of a casting director
which led to another student’s
idea of a music producer …
click!