SJS: Facing the same lockdown situation, he knows plenty of people are dealing with feelings of isolation
the path that I want to do music or theatre or both.” Afterwards, he joined Kitchener-Waterloo Musical Productions (KWMP), followed by more Glee and then an audition for Sheridan College’s musical theatre program, renowned in the theatre world and known as one of the best in Canada. After auditioning twice, he was successfully able to get in and achieve a degree in musical theatre. Since graduation, he has participated in theatre productions and performed concerts.
Live performances are on hold just now, of course. As with others, James is dealing with the lockdown, noting the situation can bring with it loneliness, anxiety and depression – conditions some people may be experiencing for the first time.
“Almost every morning I try to wake up, I’ll say [this] on my Instagram story, and Facebook: ‘I want everyone to know, that you are worthy, you are loved, and you are perfectly you,’” he said, noting it’s a message he sends to himself, as well.
Such issues can be especially prevalent in the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly in rural areas.
“Start googling the LGBTQ community and learn more about who you are and where this community comes from, and the struggles we’ve had to endure,” James suggests. “It’s kind of wild that many still feel ostracized in our rural community, but if we google things like Stone Wall, there were huge riots and police raids – people had to fight to be in private spaces with other queer people.”
James is open to people looking for support and communication about rainbow community issues to message him. What helped James was “trying to find people like you in your community so you don’t feel stigmatized.”
He also recommends taking on new hobbies and trying creative things that will keep your brain busy. For James, he has started collecting wildflowers, started making canvases out of dried flowers, and started baking and dying his hair.
“This isn’t forever, it is very serious, and the virus can still mutate, but this isn’t forever.”
To find James’ music, you can visit streaming services such as Apple Music, Youtube and Spotify, as well as his social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.