Meet Christopher Hartway, Jr.

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Christopher Hartway, Jr.. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Christopher below.

Hi Christopher, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

I firmly believe that my purpose found me, I just had to flow with the journey. Since I was 8 years old, I have always been involved in the performing arts. I was born to a creative family. My mother is a writer, educator, and dancer of many disciplines, and my father is an author and multimedia designer specializing in all
visual art forms. I have two amazing brothers who are both phenomenal recording artists, visual artists and music producers. My parents encouraged my brothers and I to consistently perfect and pursue our respective crafts and artistic passions. I knew at an early age that a life in the arts was inevitable for me. My very first experience as a performer was actually that of a dancer, winning my first talent show in elementary school. The euphoric experience of having an audience’s full attention and receiving thunderous applause as a result of my hard work and practice was life changing. For the first time in my life, I did something that gave people a cathartic feeling of joy and excitement. I felt powerful and knew that I wanted to feel this way for the rest of my life. This moment encouraged me to continue performing. Eventually, I found myself pursuing acting all through grade school and eventually earned scholarships to study Drama at Morehouse College as well as the British American Drama Academy (BADA). With my experience and degree, I was able to pass on what I’ve learned to youth grades Pre-K through College level, as an artist educator. I have been truly blessed to make an impact with companies such as Andrew Bell Performing Arts, Penumbra Theatre Company, Columbus Children’s Theatre and, The King Arts Complex. Over time, I realized that I could use my artistry to inspire others and instill confidence in them, opening their minds to new possibilities. There is something truly special about helping someone discover something significant within themselves. Today, I work as an Actor, Director, Writer, Voice Over and Educator in the worlds of Film and Theatre. I work to inspire, educate and entertain through my artistry. The journey continues.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

My work consists of reimagining blackness via art by showing how a black man can positively impact others through artistry in a unique way. I believe that everyone has their own calling, purpose, and or ministry. The performing arts serve as the vehicle for my calling, purpose, and ministry. I am the Artistic Director of Andrew Bell Performing Arts and have been striving to bridge gaps between visual and performing arts and community empowerment for over 10+ years. I utilize my art forms to uplift, entertain and educate others.

You can stay updated of my latest news by subscribing to my Youtube channel –> Christopher Hartway Jr, and following my page on Instagram –> @officialchartwayjr

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Patience, Practice, and Persistence! Be patient and know that if you’re meant for something, then things will happen in the timing that they’re supposed to. Practice your craft and stay ready so that you won’t have to get ready once an opportunity presents itself! Remain persistent and know that consistency of your pursuit is key. These three P’s keep me pushing !

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?

Be kind to yourself. Know that you have made it as far as you have for a reason and that you have a 100% survival rate. It is valuable to pace yourself and remember that you DO NOT have to handle everything at once. Do all that you can, and God will take it further and make it enough (yes, I value God!). “To Do” lists have always been my friend, sometimes I’ll write something on a list that I’ve already completed, just to check it back off. This always gives me a kickstart of motivation. Lastly, never forget to utilize your community, friends, and family. You are never alone.

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