Today we’d like to introduce you to Arius West.
Hi Arius, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
I was always an “extra” and outspoken kid and one day at the fair I was doing me and someone said, “you are so dramatic, you would be perfect for Missoula’s play that’s coming to town.” I asked about it and the rest was history.
I was in tenth grade at that time, but finding and tapping into the art form made me want to continue it in college and life. I went to UCF and studied & graduated with my degree in Theatre, Education, and Stage Combat.
Directly after graduating, I interviewed for an assistant teaching artist position at The Orlando Repertory and put my degree to work! Over the years of working at The REP, I’ve been able to connect with different art companies to teach and work on my craft by auditioning & being able to perform.
In addition to that, I’ve really plugged myself into the Orlando theatre, dance, and art scene overall so I’ve built great connections and rapport with so many artists that they have literally made me the freelance artist I am today.
I currently coach step at Lake Mary High School, I Co-Direct my own adult step team, I choreograph for various projects, I perform virtually and in-person, I am a casting director and, I am an arts integration specialist, and I perform & direct; and I’ve auditioned for some, but most of these positions have been through my connections and them recommending me and I couldn’t be more grateful!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Not at all!
As Erykah Badu said, “I’m an artist, so I’m sensitive about my shit,” and that applies to everything I’m a part of, especially artistically. I put 100% effort in all things I do.
Along the way, I can become frustrated or dissatisfied with my results. When those things happen I have to remind myself about grace and patience and that’s what practice is for. Every struggle is a lesson for me in some way, shape, or form.
Another struggle is being able to do what I love and still thrive financially. It has been the hardest thing to do and even though it’s difficult to balance, I never give up. It gets so hard that at points I’m like, man a regular 9-5 doesn’t sound bad right now, but the fulfillment and growth and therapeutic feels I get from the work I do is so worth it!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
To be honest, I do a little bit of everything artistically, to be as well rounded as possible; a Jack of All Trades, if you will.
But overall, I think I’m an artistic director at my core. For my step teams, I create the show and make sure it flows and looks good and I choreograph too.
With The Orlando REP, I direct theatre camps or performance workshops, and a slew of other things, but the end product is like a mini show of everything they’ve learned and worked on.
With ArtReach Orlando, I serve as a teaching artist who integrates drama and movement into art workshops where they build confidence, an art gallery of their own art, and a performance to showcase their work and creativity.
I think I’m known for my youth and energy and connections with children. Maybe also my loving spirit and passion for everything I do, it goes into my work and the way I interact with people.
I am most proud of my go-getting spirit. I never feel like I’m working and the only way I know I’m working is because of bills, lol. I’m also proud of the things I’ve learned and applied; like asking for what you want.
I think what sets me a part from others is my versatility and adaptability. I am able to chameleon myself in or take lead of any situation, within my realm of expertise when it comes to the arts, of course.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Children.
I learn so much from them. I want to be a part of that generation that influences greatness and love in the next. They are literally our future.
Pricing:
- Choreography – depending on project, time, commitment, etc. Can be hourly or one time payment.
- Private Sessions – $25/hr (Dance, Act, Audition prep)
- Art Sessions – $35-$50 (Therapy, Healing, For Fun, Relaxation
Contact Info:
