The recently revived LJCC Youth Theater is excited to announce that its next production will be Xanadu Jr. under the direction of Jill Marlar. Auditions for key roles will open the week of May 15 (for online submissions) and in person May 22-23. All youth and children who want to participate will be able to join the Xanadu Jr. ensemble without auditioning.
Performances will be August 24 at 7 p.m. and August 27 at 2:30 p.m.
“This is a big magical show with lots of roles,” says Jill. “I anticipate that we’ll have everyone singing along and dancing in their seats. It will be memorable.”
As LJCC members, Jill, husband James, and 11-year-old daughter Ruby are already very familiar with The J, which makes all of them even more excited about what Jill’s new role means for increased involvement with The J community.
“It’s an honor to have been asked to lead youth theater at The J,” she says. “Creative expression is essential and it’s important to nurture that in others.”
Stage and classroom experience
Formally trained in singing and voice-over, Jill has long used her talent in local choir and musical theater performances. She began her acting career on the stage with Terrific New Theatre with a number of notable roles. In addition, her work with the local film and corporate community has resulted in Jill being credited with several short films featured in film festival circuits.
Nearly three decades of teaching have given Jill experience with all ages of students — from preschool to middle school, mostly at Independent Presbyterian Day School and Highlands School. Her classes specialize in music, art, and drama through group learning experiences.
“What I teach is also part of my life as a singer, performer, and visual artist,” she explains. “It’s a full-circle experience, and putting that into action on a stage is my favorite place to be. Working with young children and youth is life’s greatest teacher.”