About Me
I’m a theatre artist, music director, and arts educator who loves helping students discover their creative voices and connect through storytelling. Based in Virginia, I’ve directed, taught, and performed in a range of educational and community settings, combining strong artistic standards with a genuine passion for collaboration. I perform and direct under my stage name, Jackie Adonis, and I’ve found that embracing both teaching and performance allows me to bring a fuller perspective to each. In my work with Arts for Learning Virginia and as a music director for various theatre productions, I’ve seen how the performing arts can spark empathy, curiosity, and confidence in learners of all ages. I believe the arts not only teach valuable skills but also cultivate truth, imagination, and connection—both on stage and beyond it.
Featured Production: Twelve Angry Jurors (Juror Five) directed by Marcieanna Klaustermeyer
My thesis for the M.F.A. in Acting Program chronicled the process of creating the character of Juror Five from rehearsals through performances. The thesis, titled "Turning Sorrow to Service: Juror Five" can be found in ProQuest. Exploring this play by Reginald Rose served as a key case study in exploring character transformation, the complex pressures of group dynamics, and the pursuit of justice within a high-stakes environment.
TEACHING
Philosophy of Teaching
At the heart of my work in theatre is a belief in the power of story, character, and craft to inspire and uplift people. I approach students and audiences with respect, high standards, and a commitment to excellence in performance, music, and storytelling. I see theatre and music as vital tools for building discipline, confidence, and empathy, and I design experiences that challenge students to grow as artists while connecting them to enduring human values and shared experiences.
Teaching Samples
Explore a curated selection of curriculum designs and pedagogical materials, reflecting a commitment to academic excellence and artistic rigor across theatre disciplines.
Production Photos
Discover the intensity and craft behind recent theatrical productions. These moments capture the collaborative spirit and character explorations that define the many facets of my work as a theatre artist and educator.