Launched in 2022, Theatre at the J is a relatively new program, but its growth has been remarkable, with the number of participants involved tripling. In just a short time, the program has produced several plays and musicals. But the magic of these performances doesn’t just happen on stage—it’s in the hours of class and rehearsal time, and the transformation that takes place behind the scenes.
Theatre at the J founder and director, Eliana Rantz, who has been closely involved in every step of the journey, is especially proud of how the program nurtures students, helping them build confidence and discover their individual talents.
“The change is striking—many children who started out shy and reserved have developed into strong, self-assured performers. It’s clear that each student, whether outgoing or more introverted, finds their own unique voice within the program,” said Rantz.
The program houses two classes, Everyone’s a Star and Everyone’s a Star Mini, which are designed to be both fun and educational, with activities that encourage creativity, teamwork, and personal growth. Rantz uses a mix of games, acting exercises, and breathing techniques to help the students relax, connect with each other, and grow as performers. For some, it’s an opportunity to bond with friends, while for others, it’s a chance to step out of their comfort zone and build new connections.
“Our program is centered on educational theatre philosophies, with a strong emphasis on the personal development of our students, both as individuals and performers. We strive to create a safe, supportive environment where every student feels encouraged to take risks and explore new opportunities,” Rantz said.
The upcoming classes for the different age groups are slated to begin early January, and will cover the basics of musical theatre, vocal performance, choreography, character development and ensemble building. The session is particularly exciting: the students will take the stage in a performance of Disney’s Frozen JR. Registration for this is open on the website: MayersonJCC.org/Theatre.
This production marks another great milestone in the program’s evolution.
