About Samuel E. Wilkes

I have been acting and directing for over 18 years as well as performing as a singer since before grade school. Theatre, performance, and film are my home and continue to be a wellspring of inspiration for my life. I have worked in small and large venues in Phoenix, Portland, New York, and Los Angeles and all of my experiences continue to shape me as theatre and film artist. My passion is in socially engaged, original theatre and film and I thrive when presented with work that is challenging for the artists and the audience.

 

Here are some words from some of my favorite teachers and mentors:

 

“Sam as an actor is a unique and vibrant talent and a favorite for Valley audiences. Navigating the emotional landmines in WOLVES, the absurd satire of HEDDATRON and the dark fantasy of MILKMILKLEMONADE would be a stylistic challenge for almost any actor. Sam handled them all with aplomb and complete ease and was really terrific in them all.” - Ron May, Artistic Director, Stray Cat Theatre

“He possesses an innate ability to inspire others with his vision, speaking articulately and passionately about the intersections of his craft with issues of equality and justice. He is forging a path as a role model for how to place the arts at the center of one’s convictions, utilizing theatre as not only a creative outlet, but also as an avenue to meaningful employment and societal transformation.” - Julie Holston, theatre director and mentor