Member Spotlight: Caryn Showerman-Schoening
Caryn’s involvement with CSJ has taken many forms. She currently serves as Board President and previously chaired the Stagecraft & Tech Committee, but her roots go far beyond the board room. Over the years, she’s worked as a Stage Manager, Tech Director, director, and performer, most recently Tech Directing The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Outside of productions, she’s also helped organize CSJ’s Downtown Christmas Parade float and Jackson Pride events, extending theatre’s presence well beyond the stage and into the community.
Her earliest CSJ memories come from being onstage in Summer Stage productions like Seussical the Musical and Fame the Musical. After more than a decade away, Caryn returned to CSJ in 2022 as Stage Manager for Something Rotten – a moment that reignited a deep connection to the theatre. From there, she was all in.
When she reflects on favorite experiences, two productions stand out. Stage Managing Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in 2023 remains especially meaningful – not just for the joyful cast (including her own dog), but for the opportunity to learn alongside director Lisa Cryderman, someone who has deeply influenced her growth over the years. Tech Directing The Hunchback of Notre Dame in 2025 was equally powerful. Seeing her vision for an elaborate and beautiful set come to life and watching people she’s known for years truly step into their roles, reminded her of the magic that only live theatre can create.
That role, in particular, pushed Caryn in ways that brought her full circle. It was demanding, exhausting, and at times overwhelming. There were moments when she questioned whether she could really do it. But on opening night, she quietly slipped into the catwalks and looked out at everything working together in perfect harmony. In that moment, she knew every tear, bruise, and swear word had been worth it – and she wouldn’t have changed a thing. It reminded her exactly why she went to school for theatre and why she keeps showing up for it, year after year.
Outside the theatre, Caryn has a surprising passion that speaks to the same patience and creativity she brings backstage: LEGO building. What started as her husband’s way of keeping her entertained has turned into a full-blown hobby, especially when it comes to Harry Potter sets. She’s completed the entire Hogwarts castle and proudly holds a personal record for assembling a 1,710-piece Tuxedo Cat in under three and a half hours – well below the average build time. She calls that a win, and we agree.
Though she’s often known as a tech powerhouse, Caryn’s theatre journey began onstage, and those roots still matter to her. Her dream roles include Velma Kelly from Chicago, Norma Desmond from Sunset Boulevard, and reprising her high school role as Reno Sweeney from Anything Goes. With a big voice and an even bigger personality, Caryn gravitates toward strong female leads who command attention and never apologize for who they are – something that feels pretty fitting.
At the heart of it all, Caryn believes deeply in the power of community theatre. To her, it’s not for the faint of heart. It takes dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. But whether you’re onstage or behind it, community theatre pushes people to become the best versions of themselves. It offers an escape into a different world – one filled with beauty, story, expression, and connection – while also bringing culture and diversity to the community around it.
As Board President, Caryn’s goal is simple but powerful: to embrace community and build something meaningful together.
“Theatre started as an outlet for me in high school,” she shares. “Today, it’s part of me – like my DNA. It’s who I am. It’s what I do.”
We’re grateful for Caryn’s leadership, passion, and steady presence, and we’re excited for the year ahead with her guiding Center Stage Jackson forward.
