On this episode of The PHYS Podcast, Tyson Martin sits down with Jonathan Pitts-Wiley, a Rhode Island–based portrait photographer, Yale graduate, writer, director, actor, and Artistic Director of Mixed Magic Theatre.

Jonathan's creative life is built around one central idea: telling stories that reveal the complexity, strength, vulnerability, and humanity within us all. Whether working behind the camera as a portrait photographer or on stage as a director, playwright, and performer, his work consistently explores what it means to be human.

As a portrait photographer, Jonathan creates images that balance strength and vulnerability, capturing authentic moments that allow people to be seen beyond the surface. His thoughtful approach to portraiture reflects the same storytelling instincts that have guided his decades-long career in the performing arts.

Since 2010, Jonathan has served as the Artistic Director of Mixed Magic Theatre, where he has directed, written, adapted, and acted in numerous acclaimed productions. His body of work includes August Wilson's Fences, The Spirit Warrior's Dream, The Baghdad Tale of Romeo and Juliet, Moby-Dick: Then & Now, Misery's Fiend: Frankenstein, The Tempest, Art of Attack, King Lear, Great Holiday Traditions, and Dutchman, which was recognized as one of the Top 10 Shows of 2017.

In this episode, Tyson and Jonathan explore the connections between photography and theatre, discussing how both mediums rely on observation, empathy, storytelling, and the courage to reveal deeper truths.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Jonathan Pitts-Wiley's journey from Yale University to portrait photography and theatre leadership
• How portrait photography can reveal both strength and vulnerability
• His role as Artistic Director of Mixed Magic Theatre
• Insights gained from directing, writing, and performing on stage
• The creative parallels between photography and theatrical storytelling
• Why empathy is essential to creating meaningful art
• The importance of representation, authenticity, and human connection
• How storytelling can inspire understanding, healing, and community
• Lessons learned from a lifetime dedicated to artistic expression

This episode is a powerful conversation about creativity, storytelling, leadership, and the shared human experiences that connect us all. Jonathan's perspective demonstrates how photography and theatre, though different in form, ultimately serve the same purpose: helping people see themselves and one another more clearly.

Whether you're a photographer, actor, director, writer, artist, or storyteller of any kind, this conversation offers valuable insight into the transformative power of creativity and the responsibility that comes with telling meaningful stories.

Art has the ability to reveal who we are, challenge what we believe, and remind us of our shared humanity.

Follow Jonathan Pitts-Wiley
Instagram: @jpittswiley