Ariel W.

Theater Artist, Director & Creative Writer

Philadelphia

• My first Broadway show was The King and I, and I cried during most of the second act.
• I am Spoken Word Artist and like to spontaneously pop into open mic nights.
• The book from my childhood that I return to the most is The Phantom Tollbooth.

I’m a dynamic, joyful educator with over 15 years of experience designing and facilitating arts programs that foster creativity, self-expression, and relationship-building. My work lives at the intersection of art, culture, and education, and I’ve had the honor of creating with young people across 18 U.S. cities and internationally in South Africa, Croatia, India, and Rwanda. I’ve lived and worked in Washington, DC and New York City, and I’m thrilled to now be back in my hometown of Philadelphia—bringing my skills home to continue community-based work and encourage the next generation of storytellers and change-makers. When I’m not in the classroom or rehearsal space, you can often find me singing in my car, starting a new craft project, or walking my sweet pup, Winnie.