Why Do Theatre?
"If there is anything worthwhile doing for the sake of culture, then it is touching on subject matters and situations which link people,
and not those that divide people. There are too many things in the world which divide people, such as religion, politics, history, and nationalism.
If culture is capable of anything, then it is finding that which unites us all.
And there are so many things which unite people. It doesn't matter who you are or who I am—if your tooth aches or mine, it's still the same pain.
Feelings are what link people together, because the word "love" has the same meaning for everybody.
Or "fear," or "suffering." We all fear the same way ... and we all love in the same way.
That's why I tell about these things, because in all other things I immediately find division."
Film director Krzysztof Kieslowski
Jim's contributions to the cultural and artistic life of Edmonton can be measured by the breadth and depth of his output. His productions as the Artistic Director of The Phoenix Theatre satisfied the hunger Edmonton audiences had for edgy, provocative theatre in the mid-eighties to nineties. His numerous independent productions have showcased and nurtured countless established and emerging theatre artists. His current work with Wild Side Productions continues that work and will do so well into the future.