CARROLLTON, GA — Carrollton High School seniors Jasnia Jordan and Morgan Lee became the first students to each direct a one-act play on April 21 at the Mabry Arts Center. Drawing on their performance experiences, Jasnia and Morgan embraced challenges and demonstrated their leadership capabilities. 

Inspired by the power of creative storytelling, both seniors jumped at the opportunity to learn more about directing. 

Their performances consisted of single acts selected from larger works. Jasnia chose to direct part of “Too Many Detectives at the Murder Mansion” by Ian McWethy, and Morgan selected a key scene from Marian de Forest’s “Little Women,” an adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s famous novel. 

Learning the art of directing requires skills that translate beyond the stage as well. As they guided the actors through practices and rehearsals, Jasnia and Morgan encountered obstacles such as forgotten lines, stage light planning, and tight deadlines for dress rehearsals. With each challenge, the aspiring directors persevered to thoughtfully solve problems and encourage their peers. 

“The biggest challenge was transitioning from being an actress and crew member to running the entire show,” said Morgan. “Taking on the responsibility of a director was a whole new experience, but it pushed me to grow in ways I never expected.”

Fellow student director Jasnia said she enjoyed seeing other actors shine and show off their strengths. With the comedic moments in her one-act, she was able to help the cast lean into their characters’ traits to make the play a success.

Out of the spotlight, Jasnia and Morgan reflected on ways they can continue to grow as actresses while pursuing opportunities to direct again. 

“This was a great opportunity for them to learn firsthand the organizational and leadership traits needed to direct,” said CHS Performing Arts Director Tommy Cox. “Working with a fixed schedule and leading a team of individuals toward a common goal are skills they can take with them into any field.”

As the curtains closed, applause could be heard throughout the auditorium, leaving these student directors with a sense of accomplishment and marking a milestone achievement on their theatre resumes and for the performing arts program as a whole.

CHS seniors Morgan Lee (left) and Jasnia Jordan (right) took on the role of director and led their peers through selections of one-act plays. Their directing debuts took place on April 21 at the CHS Mabry Arts Center.