January 2026 Newsletter – CSJ
As we step into a new year, I’m filled with gratitude and excitement for what’s ahead at Center Stage Jackson. January is a time to reflect – and then lean forward – and this season holds so much promise.
I’m excited to introduce our 2026 Board of Directors:
Melissa McElhone, Jaime Lawrence, Tom Spring, Caryn Shoening, Tiffany Layman, Kary Swiontek, Talon Baldwin, Matt Sneyd, and Brian Terry.
We’re especially pleased to welcome Kary Swiontek and Matt Sneyd as new board members. Their energy, experience, and love for CSJ will be invaluable as we move into the year ahead.
We also extend heartfelt thanks to Linda Weber, Preston Judd, and Lisa Cryderman for their service. Your leadership and dedication have helped shape Center Stage Jackson, and we look forward to seeing you around the theatre community in the seasons to come. A special thank-you to Lisa Cryderman, who leaves the President role with big shoes to fill – her steadiness and care for this organization have left a lasting mark.
As we move into 2026, I can’t wait to see what this community creates together – the stories told, the risks taken, and the moments that bring us together through theatre.
With gratitude,
Jaime Lawrence
Member Spotlight: Kary Swiontek
This month, we’re excited to spotlight Kary Swiontek – a longtime member of the Center Stage Jackson community and new member of our 2026 Board of Directors.
Kary joined her very first CSJ production at age 40, taking a leap into theatre after years of loving performance, laughter, and entertaining others. What started as a single show quickly became something much bigger – a place of connection, purpose, and community.
Since then, Kary has been involved with CSJ as a volunteer, actor, and now board member. She brings warmth, dedication, and a deep appreciation for the people who make theatre possible both on and off the stage. Her journey is a reminder that it’s never too late to try something new – and that community theatre has a way of changing lives.
We’re grateful for all the ways Kary shows up for Center Stage Jackson, and we’re thrilled to have her help guide CSJ into 2026.
👉 LINK: Read Kary’s Full Member Spotlight
January Board Meeting
Thursday, January 15 | 6:30 PM
📍 Rocket Lab, Downtown Jackson
Please arrive at the side door off the east parking lot.
Open for members to attend. We will be holding cabaret director interviews at the start, so there may be a delay in start time.
Tickets Now On Sale: The Play That Goes Wrong
The cast is in full rehearsal mode, and tickets are officially available!
This fast-paced comedy delivers nonstop mishaps, mayhem, and perfectly timed chaos. Seats will go quickly, so grab yours early.
🎟 General admission tickets:
👉 LINK: https://centerstagejackson.org/purchase-tickets/
Performance Dates:
February 20-22 & February 27-March 1, 2026
Fridays & Saturdays at 7:00 PM | Sundays at 3:00 PM
Director: Diego Febres-Cordero
📍 Jackson College Potter Center – Baughman Theatre
Youth Audition Announcement: Twinderell
Cinderella… but with a long-lost twin brother named Bob? Yes – and it’s hilarious.
This musical spoof flips the classic fairy tale on its head with baseball games, royal galas, enchanted helpers, and lots of laughs. We’re looking for youth performers ready to have fun on stage.
Auditions (Attend one date):
- Monday, January 12, 2026 – 4:30 PM
- Thursday, January 15, 2026 – 4:30 PM
📍 Jackson First Presbyterian Church
(Open to Jackson County youth in grades 3-9)
No preparation required. New to theatre? You’re welcome here.
Spring Cabaret at Sandhill Crane Vineyards
Director applications have closed, and interviews are currently underway. We anticipate announcing the director by mid-January, followed shortly by audition information.
The Spring Cabaret will run two weekends in April at Sandhill Crane Vineyards.
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Productions
We’ll be sharing more information soon for two exciting productions later this season. If directing – or being part of the cast or crew – is on your radar, stay tuned.
Productions at Jackson College’s Potter Center – Baughman Theatre:
- Disaster! (Musical Comedy)
June 19–21 & June 26–28, 2026 - The Wizard of Oz (Musical)
October 2–4 & October 9–11, 2026
December Annual Meeting Recap
Thank you to everyone who joined us as we celebrated another outstanding year at Center Stage Jackson.
Adult Awards
- Rookie of the Year: Darin Palmer
- Techie Award: Caryn Shoening
- Hammy Award: Tori Bruce
- Outstanding Performer: Jessie Gerrild
- Ted Wood Award: Kary Swiontek
- President’s Award: Matthew Sneyd
- Shining Star Award: Lindsey Hemming
Youth Awards
- Rookie of the Year: William Holton
- Hammy Award: Pippa Best
- Outstanding Performer: Lily Pederson
Congratulations to all of our award recipients — your dedication and creativity are what make CSJ thrive.
