Meet Julia Nelson | Shakespeare Scholar, Artistic Director, Freelance Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Julia Nelson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Julia, what’s one piece of conventional advice that you disagree with?
I was told over and over again not to start my own company. The well-meaning people who gave me this advice were well into their careers and they had come to the conclusion that it was just not worth it — too much effort for too little reward. Well, as you can see, I politely ignored them and did my own thing, and I would never look back. Bare Bones Shakespeare has been the best thing I ever did. The main difference between me and the people dissuading me was that Bare Bones Shakespeare has never purchased our own venue. We are artistic nomads, and we go where there is work. We also adopt a minimialist style so that we can stay within our budget. While we have occasionally accepted private donations when offered, we have never applied for grants, because we didn’t need to. Our touring performances pay for most of our expenses.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When I was a child actor, I felt like I was pushed from one place to another. I was given very specific blocking, costumes, hair design, and I honestly felt like a puppet — not like a collaborator. As I grew up, I realized that what I wanted more than anything was to treat the artists who worked with me as collaborators. Bare Bones Shakespeare works hard to give its actors a say in what the shape of the play will turn out to be. We play games in rehearsal and we use those games to collaborate on the ideas that become the play. It isn’t always easy, and not every actor finds the process to be in line with their goals. Our audition process helps us find like-minded individuals who will exuberantly collaborate with us every step of the way.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Since COVID has changed the nature of outings in DFW, I would probably entertain my friend my ordering takeout, having picnics in public parks, and asking them about their favorite recipes to cook at home. When sightseeing has reopened safely, I would probably take them to my favorite sushi restaurants and museums. I love museums and I have greatly missed them during the shutdown. Then, if my company had started rehearsals again, perhaps I would invite my friend to sit in on one.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Rover Dramawerks, Margo Jones Theatre, The Core Theatre, Susan Sargeant, Anne Bogart, The Viewpoints Book, Mary Baldwin University, The Blackfriars Playhouse, and Hip Pocket Theatre

Website: http://www.barebonesshakespeare.com/

Facebook: facebook.com/bareboneshakespeare

Image Credits
Dave Westbrook Burford