Center Stage Jackson September Newsletter
As we step into September, I’m reminded how many hats each of us wears at Center Stage Jackson. Board members, performers, producers, crew, ushers, and audience members – our community thrives because so many people share their time and talents in different ways. That’s the magic of community theatre: it’s not just about putting on a show, it’s about coming together to create something bigger than ourselves.
This month’s newsletter reflects that spirit with a spotlight on one of our Full Monty cast members, the excitement of tickets now on sale for this bold and heartfelt October musical, and a look back at our time supporting the community at Jackson Pride Fest. We’re also looking ahead with excitement for our 2026 season, which promises another year of theatre that brings people together.
As someone juggling a few roles myself this season – co-producing The Full Monty, performing in it, serving on the board, and helping behind the scenes – I’m grateful every day for the team and community that makes this work joyful. Theatre in Jackson is alive and well because of people like you. Click here for volunteer information.
Here’s to a fall filled with stories, laughter, and connection… both on stage and off!
With gratitude,
Jaime Lawrence
Editor, CSJ Newsletter
⭐ Member Spotlight: Talon Baldwin
This month we shine the spotlight on Talon Baldwin, who is stepping into his biggest role yet as Jerry Lukowski in The Full Monty! Jerry is the heart of the story – an out-of-work, down-on-his-luck dad who’s desperate to turn things around. It’s a powerhouse role that demands stamina, emotional depth, and a strong vocal range. Talon has been hard at work embodying Jerry’s complexity: the humor, the frustration, and most importantly, the love he has for his son.
Read more about Talon! We can’t wait for audiences to see him bring this unforgettable character to life on stage this October!
🎟️ Tickets On Sale Now: The Full Monty
Center Stage Jackson presents The Full Monty at the Jackson College Potter Center, Baughman Theatre
Directed by Charles Packard Produced by Talon Baldwin and Jaime Lawrence
📅 October 3–5 & 10–12, 2025
Six unemployed steelworkers take a bold leap to turn their lives around – and discover courage, friendship, and plenty of laughs along the way. It’s bold, funny, and full of heart. Whether you’ve seen the film or not, this stage musical will surprise you with its energy, honesty, and unforgettable music.
🌈 CSJ at Jackson Pride Fest 2025
In August, Center Stage Jackson was proud to host a table at Jackson Pride Fest in downtown Jackson! We had the joy of connecting with our diver
se community, celebrating love, authenticity, and inclusion through the arts. Theatre has always been a space where every story matters, every voice is welcomed, and every person belongs.
As part of the celebration, we gave away two tickets to The Full Monty to new subscribers who joined our email list. It was inspiring to see how many people believe in the power of theatre to bring people together.
At CSJ, we know the stage isn’t just about entertainment – it’s about building a community where all can shine.
📢 Announcing Our 2026 Season!
We are thrilled to share our 2026 season lineup, packed with stories that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer for more. From beloved classics to bold new favorites, there’s something for everyone to experience in the year ahead.
Stay tuned as we reveal more details about each show, audition opportunities, and ways to get involved both on
and off stage. Whether you’re in the audience, behind the scenes, or in the spotlight, we can’t wait to make theatre magic with you in 2026!
🎭 Now Accepting Director Applications 🎭
Center Stage Jackson is seeking dynamic, creative directors for our upcoming 2025–2026 Season! This is your opportunity to bring bold vision and leadership to the stage.
📌 Directors Needed For:
The Play That Goes Wrong (Comedy/Play)
Spring Cabaret
Disaster! (Musical)
The Wizard of Oz (Musical)
If you’re passionate about storytelling, collaboration, and creating unforgettable theatre experiences, we want to hear from you!
✨ Join us in shaping a season full of laughter, music, and magic!
If you have a vision for storytelling and want to make an impact on our stage and community, we’d love to hear from you!
📩 Submit your application to admin@centerstagejackson.org
💛 Support Community Theatre
Center Stage Jackson is proud to bring high-quality community theatre to Jackson – but we can’t do it without you. Ticket sales cover only a portion of production costs. Every dollar donated and every sponsorship pledged goes directly into things like royalties, costumes, sets, props, and keeping ticket prices affordable for our community.
Why give? Because when you support CSJ, you’re supporting local performers, volunteers, and the next generation of artists right here in Jackson. Together, we can keep theatre alive, accessible, and thriving.
