Hi theatre lovers,
February has me excited about what’s happening at Center Stage Jackson. The Play That Goes Wrong is almost here, and hearing how much care and creativity is going into this incredibly complex set has me counting down the days. I’m planning to catch this performance with my whole family. My kids have been talking about it for weeks (they still laugh about Escanaba last year… though they did keep asking when the actors were going to start singing 😉).
I’m also loving the energy around our Youth Theatre production this March and am grateful for our partnership with East Jackson High School to bring Twindarella the Musical to life. Community partnerships like this are what keep CSJ growing.
As we move through the season, we’d love your feedback. A 2025 CSJ Community Survey is live, and your voice truly helps shape what’s next. Also, if you’ve been thinking about becoming a CSJ member, now’s a great time – memberships include ticket benefits perfect for our upcoming season of shows.
Thank you for being part of this community. We can’t wait to see you at the theatre.
Jaime Lawrence
Secretary, Center Stage Jackson
Newsletter Editor
Opening This Month: The Play That Goes Wrong
The show that can’t go right is almost here!
The Play That Goes Wrong is a fast-paced comedy filled with collapsing sets, missed cues, misplaced props, and actors desperately trying to hold it all together – and failing spectacularly.
📅 February 20, 21, 22 & February 27, 28, March 1
📍 Jackson College Potter Center – The Baughman Theater
🎟 Tickets: $20
👉 Tickets available online or at the door
🔗 https://centerstagejackson.org/purchase-tickets/
If you’re ready for a night of nonstop laughter and brilliantly timed chaos, this one’s for you
Audition Update: Cabaret – Raise Our Voices
We’re excited to share updated performance dates and times for Raise Our Voices and invite performers to audition for this powerful cabaret exploring the responsibility – and courage – of being heard.
Through songs drawn from across musical theatre, Raise Our Voices traces the journey from quiet questioning to collective action, asking: When the moment calls for it, will we speak – or stay silent?
🗓 Audition Dates & Times
Tuesday, February 10 | 7:00–10:00 PM
Wednesday, February 11 | 7:00–10:00 PM
📍 Audition Location
Jackson’s First Presbyterian Church
743 W. Michigan Ave, Jackson, MI 49201
What to Prepare
• 32 bars or less of music (song may fit the theme or not – bring something you enjoy singing)
• Sing a cappella or bring a backing track (Bluetooth speaker provided – no live accompanist)
Performance Dates & Times
April 17–19 & April 24–26
Friday & Saturday: 7:00 PM
Sunday: 3:00 PM
All voices welcome. Come raise yours.
📩 Questions?
Kim Forde, Director – kimforde@yahoo.com
Tiffany Layman, Producer – tiffany.m.layman@gmail.com
Youth Theatre: Twindarella the Musical
Our Youth Theatre cast is hard at work on Twindarella the Musical, a clever and high-energy twist on the classic Cinderella story. With humor, heart, and plenty of personality, this production celebrates individuality and finding your own voice.
📅 March 13, 14 & 15, 2026
Fri & Sat: 7:00 PM | Sun: 2:00 PM
East Jackson High School Auditorium
We can’t wait to share the work these young performers are creating.
Now Seeking Directors for 2026 Productions
Center Stage Jackson is accepting Director Applications for two upcoming 2026 productions. If you’re excited to lead a creative team and bring a story to life, we invite you to apply.
Disaster! (Musical Comedy)
Production Dates: June 19–21 & 26–28, 2026
Application Deadline: February 20
Interviews: Within two weeks
A high-energy musical comedy inspired by 1970s disaster films, Disaster! is packed with outrageous characters, physical comedy, and iconic pop hits. Perfect for a director who loves ensemble work and bold, comedic storytelling.
The Wizard of Oz (Musical)
Production Dates: October 2–4 & 9–11, 2026
Application Deadline: March 20
Interviews: Within two weeks
This timeless classic follows Dorothy’s journey to the Emerald City, celebrating courage, heart, and home. A wonderful opportunity for imaginative staging and multi-generational storytelling.
Welcoming Our 2026 Executive Board
We’re excited to introduce the 2026 Executive Board of Center Stage Jackson:
• Caryn Schoening, President
• Talon Baldwin, Vice President
• Jaime Lawrence, Secretary
• Tom Spring, Treasurer
This leadership team brings experience, collaboration, and a shared commitment to strengthening CSJ and supporting meaningful, community-driven theatre. Read their bios on our website any time!
Member Spotlight:
Caryn Showerman-Schoening
“Theatre started as an outlet for me in high school. Now, it’s part of who I am.”
Meet Caryn Schoening, our newly elected 2026 Board President, and read the story behind her journey with Center Stage Jackson – from onstage beginnings to leading our community forward. 🎭
👉 Read the full Member Spotlight
Board Meetings Update
Beginning in 2026, CSJ Board meetings will be held on the first Monday of each month at 6pm.
📍 Jackson College – Bert Walker Hall | 2111 Emmons Rd, Jackson
Guests are welcome.
CSJ members are invited to attend, observe, and learn more about how CSJ operates. Not a member? Join now!
Help Shape Our Future: 2025 CSJ Community Survey
Center Stage Jackson is entering a new chapter, and we want your feedback.
Our 2025 Community Survey takes under 3 minutes and asks about your experiences with CSJ, what’s working, what makes it harder to attend, how you hear about our shows, and what you’d like to see next.
Whether you attend often, occasionally, or haven’t been in a while – your voice matters.
Your feedback helps shape the future of Center Stage Jackson.
Thank you for supporting Center Stage Jackson. We look forward to seeing you in the theatre this month – laughing, listening, and creating together.
