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Sophomore Joel Jackson shares experience in theater

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By Megan Johnson

Sophomore theater student Joel Jackson takes a deep breath, running over his lines in his head a thousand times over to ensure he does not make a mistake. It’s only minutes away before he steps upon the stage to perform for hundreds of people. For most teenagers, this situation would be extremely stressful. However, for Jackson it is just another day.

Jackson has been involved in theater for approximately 12 years. He got started through watching his sister perform ballet.

“I was interested whilst watching her perform. So, I started taking the acting classes that they offered. From then on I just started working at different places and fell in love with it.”

Jackson shared that since that time, he has had the opportunity to be a part of many different shows all over the country. This includes Indiana, Kentucky, New York, Georgia and Florida.

Out of the many Jackson has participated in, he shared the most memorable.

“My top three would have to be ‘Music Man’ at the Oldham County Arts Center, ‘Aladdin’ in Atlanta, Georgia and ‘Wizard of Oz’ at Derby Dinner,” said Jackson.

Not only has acting affected Jackson’s memories, but it has inflicted upon his personality as well.

“It’s made me really confident. I’m really outgoing as well and I’m not afraid to talk to people,” said Jackson.

Jackson’s personality shines through to those around him, at least it does to one of his closest friends junior Bonnie Hopkins.

“The first time I met Joel was one day during lunch. He came up to me and said ‘Let’s go, Bonnie.’ Then we walked around the school together just talking. We’ve been best friends ever since,” said Hopkins.

Hopkins shared that she had seen only a few of Jackson’s performances, but every one she had seen was fantastic.

“He’s a phenomenal actor. He just connects so well with the audience,” said Hopkins.

Sophomore Ashley Denny shared that she believes Jackson’s acting skills are that of a professional.

“I definitely see him going places with such talent.”

Since theater has become such a major part of Jackson’s life, he plans on pursuing a career with it.

“Theater is great if it’s your passion, which for me it is. My main goal is to be on Broadway someday. But just in general, I want to be paid to do what I love.”

Jackson ended with a strong statement to sum up his love of theater,

“I cherish it.”

Students can observe Jackson in his latest performance in “Les Miserables.” The showing times are Nov. 1,2, 8 and 9th at 7:30, and Nov. 3 and 10 at 2:30.

Jackson and junior Madeline Coffey at rehearsal for Les Miserables. Photo by Rachel Lamb
Jackson and junior Madeline Coffey at rehearsal for Les Miserables. Photo by Rachel Lamb
Lexi Burch, Uncategorized

Theater director prepares for fall show

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By Lexi Burch

As theater director Robbie Steiner wraps up his first play, “Miracle Worker,” he is not wasting any time with firing out a second show, “Music Man.”

Theater director Robbie Steiner

“[On choosing ‘Music Man’] I wanted to choose a family musical that would involve lots of high school, middle school, and elementary students,” said Steiner. “It has been a long time since we have done ‘Music Man’ and I thought the community would enjoy seeing this old classic revived.”

Steiner said he is very excited for this show, mostly to watch the growth of his cast.

“The most thrilling thing about being a teacher for me is watching my students develop their talents and discover what they can do together,” said Steiner.

Another person who is excited for this show is sophomore Bonnie Hopkins.

“I am excited for everything,” said Hopkins. “Putting a show together is very stressful but it is the kind of stress that only makes you want to better.”

Theater may seem like all fun and play, but Steiner said the cast is working very hard to make this show great.

“The cast is currently attending lost of rehearsals and working hard to memorize lines, choreography, blocking, and to develop their characters,” he said.

Hopkins, being a part of the cast, said Steiner is putting them to the test. They are all working hard everyday.

“Because the show is a musical, I am working on my harmonies in the music because when I see professional show it’s one of the things I notice the most,” said Hopkins.

“Music Man” is a show in progress and will be coming to FC’s stage during the first two weekends in November.

“Reservations can be made by calling our box office at 812-542-2284,” said Steiner. “Ticket prices are $12 for adults $10 for senior citizens, and $6 for students.”