Justin Bell

about me

Justin J. Bell (Pan) is excited to be making relEASE debut. He is a Core Ensemble member with the Conciliation Project and has been a program leader with ART180—both based out of Richmond, VA.

Other credits include: Synetic Theater: Balthasar/Friar Francis/Ensemble in Much Ado About Nothing, Beast 1 in The Island of Dr. Moreau; The Conciliation Project: uncle tom: deconstructed, Genocide Trail; Heritage Ensemble Theatre Co.: Nat Love in Reflections of a Black Cowboy, Felix in One Monkey Don’t Stop No Show; TheatreVCU: Duance in Hairspray, Miss Roj/The Kid in The Colored Museum; Shafer Alliance Laboratory Theatre: Tybalt/Paris Puppet in A Romeo and Juliet, Tudor in [vampire] Medea. He would I love to thank his mom, family, and friends for their overwhelming support.

on growing up...

Growing up is doing what you need to do to get the job done. It’s going with your gut and trusting yourself.

on a personal note...

Who do you play? Describe your character.

I play Pan. Pan is the cocky leader of the Lost Ones. He can be a tough jackass, but he everything he does comes with his “family” in mind.
What is your favorite part of this process?

Talking with everyone involved with the show outside of rehearsals. Talking about what direction the show is going and where we want it be. It’s been an extremely fulfilling process, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed collaborating on this project.
What is the hardest part of this process for you?

The hardest part has been getting a handle of this world we’re creating. We discover new things about it every day and adapting to the changes has been frustrating.
Why is this show important to you?

The subject matter of this play is incredibly important. Justice, transparency, and understanding are nowhere in sight, and I want answers. I want people to start talking. Then turning that talking into action. Then Action into revolution and change. If this piece can spark the beginnings of conversations for those who see it, we’ve done our job.
What is one thing you have learned from making this show?

Give it time but continue to do the work.
If you could stay any age forever, what age would you stay and why?

Uh, I don’t think I’ve reached that age yet.
Was there ever a time when you were afraid for your life?

I’ve never really felt afraid for my life before, thankfully, but recent events have me thinking on occasion, “I hope my time isn’t coming up.”
What was your favorite bedtime story and why?

The one about the monkeys jumping on the bed.
Why did you want to be a part of SOTM?

Well, I fully trust any project that Tori is lead or is a part of. Also, as I already said, the subject matter is important. Why wouldn’t I jump on this project!?
If you feel you have privilege, have you ever used it in your favor? If so, for what?

I’m sure me being a man brings me a bunch of privilege, but I’m not fully aware of it. Thankfully, I have people in my life that are guiding me along that journey.