“This is such a full circle moment for me,” says Jamie Pavlofsky, assistant director of the JCC Children’s Theatre production of Tarzan!. Tamar Fishbein, choreographer for this same production, agrees. Both women got their first theatre experiences with the JCC’s production of Fiddler on the Roof in the 1998-99 season.
The JCC Children’s Theatre is open to all children in the community grades 2-12, regardless of experience. The program not only provides for a fun theatrical experience, but gives participants a chance to learn some valuable life skills. And these life skills carry through with participants into adulthood. Pavlofsky and Fishbein credit their Children’s Theatre experiences for teaching them valuable lessons they use today as professionals.
“Be organized, be on time, be respectful, and write everything down. If you have questions, ask! Be flexible – things might, and often do, change. Give 110% in everything you do,” says Pavlofsky. Fishbein adds, “As a teacher, I use the confidence that theatre has given me on a daily basis.”
In addition to the life skills attained during theatre, the program also allows participants to grow. “It’s one of the best feelings in the world to watch someone develop into a new person,” says Tamar.
For the first time in many years, the 2018 JCC Children’s Theatre production will perform a full length show instead of a junior version. Tarzan! is set to hit the stage on February 10 – 11, 2018.
For more information about Children’s Theatre, please contact Meryl Hattenbach, JCC Program Manager at (937) 401-1550 or mhattenbach@jfgd.net.