As Virginia Stage Company and Public Works Virginia gears up for THE TEMPEST, we sat down with Public Works coordinator Philip Odango and talked travel, theatre, and sewing.

How would you describe your job to someone who might not be familiar to the title?

As Public Works Coordinator, I have the rewarding opportunity to connect members from communities across Hampton Roads with Virginia Stage Company's professional theatre artists. I help facilitate the logistics needed for them to collaborate and co-create theatre experiences together. 

Tell us a little about yourself.

As a traveling teaching artist myself, I aim to foster in others a sense of inner imagination and willingness to create opportunity for themselves. 

Before working at Virginia Stage, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?

Before working at Virginia Stage, I took a creative sabbatical from my ten-year career in marketing and advertising to travel the world full-time as a professional cosplayer. I learned to sew my own costumes, fabricated props, taught panels and workshops to aspiring artists in universities and maker spaces. and was invited as a guest to comic conventions in South Africa, Austria, Philippines and more. 

What kinds of hobbies and interests do you have outside of work?

I consider myself a life-long learner and am always trying new experiences. I am a brand ambassador for SINGER™ Sewing Company and still teach cosplay panels and sewing workshops at comic cons

What would be the title of your autobiography?

The title of my autobiography would be "Son of the Mountain" and it would explore my journey of self-discovery as a child immigrant.  

Favorite travel spot?

My favorite travel spot is Morocco. I've enjoyed traveling through Fez, El Jadida, Marrakech and Casablanca trying the variety of Moroccan food, and absorbing the rich cultural diversity.  

Eager to learn more about Public Works? Are you bracing yourself for THE TEMPEST? Visit the Public Works page and the THE TEMPEST page on our website!