Christian DeWayne Watts, a junior at JSU, is originally from Gadsden, AL. He is currently majoring in Theatre with a concentration in performing, while minoring in English. He was recently nominated for the Irene Ryan Award for his performance in the online production of The Laramie Project at JSU.

Why did you choose to attend JSU?

I saw a lot of shows at JSU when I was in high school, and I was already accepted to other schools, but I was hoping that I could get accepted into JSU. When I was, my gut was telling me that I could really learn a lot here and going with it was the best decision I’ve ever made.

Why did you choose your major?

I started theatre when I was 10 and thought it was just a hobby, but, when I got to high school, I decided I wanted to do theatre as a career. I had seen so many shows at JSU, and I was so hooked on the amazing productions they’ve done. I’ve been here for a while, and I’m having blast with the Theatre and Film Department.

In your opinion, what is the coolest thing about the Theatre and Film Department?

It’s a safe place to be yourself. We’re all very open to each other, and you’ll just be an instant family member in our Department, and we would love to welcome you.

What is your favorite performance that you have done?

That’s a very hard question! I would say my favorite performance I’ve ever done was playing Chuck Biggs in She Kills Monsters; I loved playing that role and it was the first show I had ever done at JSU.

What is The Laramie Project about? Who did you play?

The Laramie Project is about the true story of an American town in the wake of the murder of Matthew Shepard. Moisés Kaufman and members of New York’s Tectonic Theater Project [the creators of the play] went to Laramie, Wyoming, after the murder of Matthew Shepard. I played a bunch of characters, but my favorites were Rulon Stacey and Rob Debree.

How do you feel about your recent nomination for the Irene Ryan Award?

It feels awesome! I was shocked, honestly. I’m so happy I got nominated.

What clubs/organizations are you involved in?

I’m in the theatre honor society Alpha Psi Omega.

What is your favorite thing to eat and/or drink on/off campus?

I like Cookout and Starbucks from the Rec Center.

Where is your favorite place to hang out on campus?

The theater in the Stone Center (because I feel like I live there every day).

Who is your favorite actor/actress?

Actors: Denzel Washington, Chadwick Boseman, Patrick Stewart, Ian Mckellan

Actresses: Viola Davis, Judy Dench

What are your hobbies?

I like playing video games, reading, singing, writing, and working out in my spare time.

What are your post-grad plans?

I want to move out of state and travel with a professional theatre… maybe move to Atlanta or live in New York. We’ll just have to see what happens. I’m thinking about going to graduate school for theatre, too.

What advice would you give a student who is new to JSU?

Come in as yourself and come with an open mind. I know that’s cheesy, but it’s as simple as that.

What is a course you would recommend to a freshman at JSU?

Introduction to Theatre or Acting I with Dr. Mike Boynton.