Theatre; Just Because is honoured to have had Jenny Bowie included in every year of our Youth Players program since the program’s inception. In her years in the program, Jenny has proven herself to be a brilliant actor, director, and improviser. This year, we celebrated her graduation. We asked Jenny if she would share some of her reflections on her years with the company.

***

Theatre has been a huge part of my life since 2016 when I was 11. The first Youth Players production of Fantastic Mr. Fox was in the 2016-2017 season and was the first play I had ever acted in. It was scary to jump into something I had never done before, but after the production ended, I realized I wanted to do this for the rest of my life. I met many amazing life-long friends and experienced things I would never have experienced elsewhere. Throughout the first production, I knew I wanted to continue doing this program, as there was something about the program that was unlike any other thing in town. Now finishing my final year and aging out of the program lets me reflect on what I’ve learned and done and how excited I am to watch the program continue from the outside.

The Youth Players Program is wonderful for youth wanting to get into the theatre scene and looking for more experience. The program administrators have taught me something new every year, and I am glad I rejoined. Because of them, I have become a better actor, socializer, and person. Every year I have met new people from all different kinds of life that I will never forget, that I can’t forget. This program has taught me much about myself as an actor and a human being, and without it, I know I would be a much different person. I will always cherish the memories I have made throughout the years, being in all the shows they have produced.

Finishing my final year has been a weird experience for me. I have been doing this program for seven years, and now I feel unsure how to let go. It has been a constant routine in my life since 2016. At every job I worked, I told them I was unavailable every Tuesday and Sunday between November and April. It was my second home for years, and now, knowing I’m going off into the world, I am forever grateful for what Theatre; Just Because has taught me. I want to thank all the program administrators I have worked with over the years, especially Emma and Bailey. Since I started working with them, they have made my second home feel special. They have taught me so much, and I know they will continue to give youth the same amazing experience I had been a youth player for seven years.

If you are a youth or a parent looking for a program to put your child/yourself into to learn social skills, theatre, and other talents, I would strongly suggest the Youth Players Program. Even after so many years of joining and rejoining, I never was tired of it, and I am forever grateful. If you are considering putting yourself or your child into this program, I would advise being yourself. Though the first few days may be scary, once everyone comes out of their shell the experience is life-changing. You will meet amazing people, learn spectacular life lessons, and will have so much fun along the way!

- Jenny Bowie