Next up on our “Directors Assemble” series, Jazz B. takes center stage. After spending years at Encore Stage & Studio both on stage and behind the scenes, Jazz makes zis debut as a director with Jackie and the Potato Stalk by D. M. Larson. We got to interview zim and get insight on a new take on a classic story. We hope you enjoy zis story.
We can’t wait for you to make your directorial debut at Encore! How are you feeling and what play will you be directing?
I am so excited to be directing for the first time! I am directing Jackie and the Potato Stalk, a fun and comedic take on the classic fairy tale, Jack in the Bean Stalk. I am so excited to work with actors to make this play come to life!
What Encore productions may we know you from and what has been your favorite part of the experience?
I have been a part of an Encore summer camp in 2023, Looking Glass Land, and many productions, including Finding Nemo JR. (2024), The Lion King JR. (2024), The Twelve Dancing Princesses (2025), Flip the Script: Jamila’s Table (2025), The Wizard of Oz (2025), and High School Musical JR (2026). One of my favorite aspects of theatre is working with others to create a fun and entertaining show! I am very proud of myself for trying something new in The Twelve Dancing Princesses, and working on sound for the first time!
Why did you chose to direct Jackie and the Potato Stalk?
I chose to direct Jackie and the Potato Stalk because of its witty humor, and I am hoping audiences will take away new lessons about problem-solving.
What are your goals for taking on a leadership role? Are there any directors who have inspired you in your directing process?
I am excited to take on a leadership role at Encore, and help kids find their voice through theatre! My high school theatre teacher inspires me. I admire the way he listens to actors, and brings a cast together. My goals for this production are to create the best show possible, and for everyone to have fun! To do this, I will communicate clearly with actors, and create a positive environment. I am very excited for the audiences to see our cast and crews hard work!
What advice do you have for future student directors at Encore Stage & Studio?
Don’t be afraid to try something new! Also, snacks are always appreciated.
Thanks for sharing your goals for your upcoming production, Jazz! We’ve now have four more directors assembling, so check back with us soon to see who is next. And be sure to get your tickets to Student Directed One-Act Plays, running April 17-19 at Theatre On the Run.
Jazz B. (Ze/Zim, They/Them) has been involved in theatre since ze was 11, participating in shows with school and Encore. This is their first time directing an Encore show. Jazz’s previous Encore credits include acting in Finding Nemo JR. (2024), The Lion King JR. (2024), and The Wizard of Oz (2025). Ze has also participated in crew for The Twelve Dancing Princesses (2025), Flip the Script: Jamila’s Table (2025), and High School Musical JR. (2026).