Chiara Klein, Artistic Director, MaineStage Shakespeare

To Whom It May Concern:

I am pleased to submit this letter of recommendation for James Alexander Bond in connection with your theater company. I most recently worked with James on productions of Othello and Romeo and Juliet, which he directed for MaineStage Shakespeare’s first two seasons. James is an extremely talented, intelligent director and a huge asset to any show or company.

The first thing anyone who works with James will tell you is that he is a director who truly cares for his casts like family. He creates tight ensembles and is equally invested in the whole company. James runs rehearsals in an extremely professional and efficient style, while also maintaining a safe and relaxed atmosphere—a difficult balance to achieve. He is acutely aware of the strengths and weaknesses of his actors and is able to target exercises and give direction that will draw out the best possible performances from everyone. In a cast of disparate abilities, he manages to make those with less experience comfortable while still challenging those with more experience. In addition to his excellent rapport and professionalism, his vast knowledge of and appreciation for text work is one of his greatest strengths. Particularly in Shakespeare, he is a brilliant detective who genuinely loves dissecting text in search of underlying motivation, feeling, and intention. His obvious passion for his work is contagious and makes his plays really shine.

James is an invaluable member of any artistic staff. My company, MaineStage Shakespeare, being a young company in its first seasons, obviously ran into some common beginning obstacles and challenges. James’ professionalism and expertise proved extremely helpful while never bordering on condescending. His advice on everything from set construction to public relations to development has helped shape our company and seasons. He is one of the reasons why we have been successful.

James is a fantastic director and a great person to work with. Any company would be more than lucky to have him direct a show or to round out an artistic staff. He is a wonderful person to work with, a true team player and, to put it simply, just makes good plays.

If you have any additional questions, please feel free to call or e-mail at any time.

Sincerely,

Chiara Klein
Artistic Director
MaineStage Shakespeare, Kennebunk, ME

914-261-6333
[email protected]
www.mainestageshakespeare.com