Emily Morrison

*can create original residencies

BACKGROUND
Art Form: Creative Writing and Drama/Theatre
Experience: Education Director at the Missoula Children’s Theatre; Directed 30+ children’s plays; written 20+ short children’s plays and two full-length nationally touring children’s musical for the Missoula Children’s Theatre; taught English in Italy through theatre and play; Education, Creative Writing, English, and Theatre degrees

RAPIDFIRE Q/A
Three words to describe you? Goofy, Passionate, Creative
What was your first arts "aha" moment, including how old were you? When I was in 5th grade, I was cast in the school play as the Evil Stepmother in Cinderella. I was devastated. I wanted to be the princess, of course. But as I practiced, I realized that it was MUCH more fun to be big and creative. I cultivated a silly voice, I made big choices, and I found a poofy green wig. I had so much more fun in this role than I would have if I had been a silly ol’ princess. I learned that being bold, silly, and brave made me feel like me! I now have the privilege of teaching kids to be their boldest selves in my role at the Missoula Children’s Theatre and through Spark! Arts.
Why are you a teaching artist? Children all have a beautiful creative spark and connection to fun, something we sometimes misplace as adults. I am a teaching artist because I love to give kids space to play while they learn, so they keep that light burning brightly.
In five words or less, why do you love your art form? Theatre is for everyone.
Finish the sentence: "Because of Arts Ed..." I found my voice, my passion, my husband, my sense of humor, my flare for the dramatic, myself.
What does success look like during your residency? Success is seeing how much students bloom when given space to play while they learn.
What’s an important life skill you gained through the arts? Abstract and flexible thinking.
Who is an artist that changed your life? Nancy Morrison, my mother
If you were entering a talent show, what would be your specific talent? Sock-puppet Karaoke
Do you have a secret (or not so secret) obsession? “I Love Lucy” and thrifting to an athletic level.