The Many Faces of Patrick Watterson By Parker Norris
Actor. Composer. Dancer. Musician. Pianist. Set Designer. Peer Mentor. Office worker. Student. Individually, these titles would be significant on their own in explaining aspects of a person’s identity. When viewed together, they paint a complete portrait of a talented student whose experiences at Indiana University South Bend have shaped him into who he is today. The student is Patrick Watterson, BFA ’20 Musical Theatre, whose time in college has expanded his ability and talent in the performing arts. However, such an avenue seemed like a long shot to Watterson several years ago. He was home-schooled for almost all his primary and secondary education. As a result of his home education, he turned to other approaches of trying to develop a social identity. The most significant of these undertakings was his discipline of learning how to play multiple instruments, such as guitar, organ, and piano. “I remember that my church’s band already had a keyboardist when I became interested, so instead I learned how to play the guitar, as that spot was open, 28
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and I just wanted to feel like I had a place where I belonged,” Watterson says. This yearning to belong is one of the core values that has led Watterson through his many artistic endeavors beyond music, including his prolific work in theater both as an actor and a musician. “Theater came into my life when I really had not much else outside of homeschool and I learned not only about acting or set building, but I also learned how to interact with others. This helped me socially become aware of how to be a better person and react in life, as I did not experience many of the typical emotional moments that occur in school,” he recalled. Watterson’s abundant work in theater throughout his adolescent years and his passion for music ultimately led to him applying to and being accepted into the Theatre and Dance program in the Raclin School of the Arts at IU South Bend. This not only gave him a place to hone his many artistic and creative skills, but also allowed him to have many opportunities in various clubs and organizations on campus.
“Although initially daunting to me, I found that college was a place where I could be in control of my selfeducation. I have had experiences at IU South Bend, specifically in the School of the Arts, which have given me a greater understanding of art. Whether it be through music, acting, or anything else; I want to touch people’s emotions and allow them to truly feel through performing arts,” Patrick says. This included joining the campus Tap and Kick Line, where Watterson was introduced to Karen Pajor, Dance Instructor at IU South Bend. The Kick Line performs all over campus and at numerous local community events. “Patrick is one of the kindest students I have ever met. He is talented in so many areas and is always willing to share his talents when asked. He is very hardworking and a great role model to other students. I feel very fortunate to have had him as a member of the IU South Bend Tap and Kick Line” Pajor, explained. While Watterson is known for his many stage talents, he has also worked as a Peer Mentor during the
