The Paramount’s Jim Corti on Creativity and Shaping Culture Through Theater

HERE TO CREATE || WEEK 13

This week we are thrilled to sit down with Jim Corti, the Artistic Director of Aurora’s Paramount Theater. Jim has been a transformative force in theater since launching the Broadway Series in 2011. Under his leadership, Paramount has won 16 Jeff Awards, including Best Large Musical and Best Director titles for iconic productions like Les Misérables and Sweeney Todd. A Broadway veteran himself, Corti's career spans acting, choreography, and directing, making him a triple-threat in the industry. His influence extends from the New York stages of Ragtime and A Chorus Line to critical acclaim in Chicago theater.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

• Jim Corti talked about how directing felt like a "calling" to him, a responsibility for something moving through him that had a "greater reach." Have you ever felt a similar calling in your life? What was it, and how did you respond?

• Jim mentioned the British study about how audiences can synchronize their heartbeats during a powerful performance. Have you ever had a moment where you felt truly connected to others while witnessing art or a significant event? How did that experience impact you?

• The 'Bold Series' is known for presenting plays that don't shy away from difficult issues. What topics or stories have you encountered that you think deserve more attention in the creative arts?

• Jim talked about the importance of asking yourself, "What do I really care about?" Take a moment to ponder this question. What is it that you truly care about, and how are you expressing that in your life?

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

• The Paramount Theatre in Aurora, Illinois

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