Theatre News Wire

Filament Theatre, Chicago's innovative theatre for young audiences since 2007, is proud to announce the addition of longtime collaborator Reji Simon (he/him) as associate artistic director.

Simon will join Filament's three staff members: Founder and Artistic Director Julie Ritchey, Managing Director Krissi McEachern, and Education Director and Resident Artist Molly Bunder.

A Resident Artist at Filament since 2017, Simon has performed in the theatre's beloved productions of "The Van Gogh Cafe" and "The Snow Queen." But his impact goes far beyond the stage."At Filament, Reji has been an actor, a casting director, served on board committees, and everything in between," Ritchey said. "He is a deeply generous leader and collaborator who enriches every space he's in."

Simon will play a vital role in advancing Filament's long-term goal to decentralize artistic leadership through centering the perspectives of young people. "Reji's commitment to elevating youth voices and stories makes him a crucial partner to Filament's vision of becoming a truly youth-led theatre." Ritchey continued. "It's impossible to imagine a future at Filament without him at the helm."

Despite the pandemic, Filament has continued its commitment to supporting artists. The theatre provided income to more than 40 independent artists in 2021 through its virtual and outdoor workshops and performances. And as the theatre looks toward reopening to the public in March, Simon's role will focus on making Filament a vibrant, equitable and collaborative artistic home for professional artists and young people to work together.

In addition to his work with Filament, Simon has also worked with the Illinois Caucus for Adolescent Health and Cleveland Playhouse. Simon, a graduate of the Theatre School at DePaul University, is committed to developing artists through community building and deconstructing the barriers meant to keep people from making art.