Brian Douglas James

Brian Douglas James is a New York–based actor, director, choreographer, and educator who is thrilled to join the KJK team! Originally from West Virginia, Brian holds degrees in Theatre and Music Education and is a graduate of the two-year Musical Theatre Conservatory at AMDA in New York City.

As a performer, Brian has appeared Off-Broadway and in film and television, including The Intern, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. For nearly 20 years, he has directed and choreographed in educational and professional settings. Most recently, Brian helped build a theatre program across four Harlem charter schools, directing and producing a full-scale musical at each school annually.

Favorite directing credits include Little Women, Shrek Jr., Matilda Jr., and Seussical. Brian is passionate about creating joyful, inclusive spaces where young performers can build confidence, take creative risks, and discover just how much they’re capable of onstage.