Group shot with Jeremy Jordan and students in front of stageThe Hylton Performing Arts Center launched its 2025–26 season with an evening featuring Broadway and television star Jeremy Jordan. Known for his acclaimed performances as Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby, Jack Kelly in Newsies—earning Tony, Grammy, and Drama Desk nominations—and Clyde Barrow in Bonnie & Clyde, Jordan brought his powerhouse vocals to a sold-out Merchant Hall audience.

Before the concert, students from Forest Park, Patriot, and Woodbridge High Schools, along with their choir teachers, enjoyed an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience. The day began with a 60-minute sound check, offering students a rare glimpse into the preparation behind a professional performance. Following this, Jordan hosted a 30-minute Q&A session, sharing candid advice about confidence, preparation, and embracing imperfection.

“His advice was really helpful, especially about preparation and being confident about who you are,” said Brooklyn Rayner, a senior at Forest Park High. “Something that stuck with me is he told our group that his doubt never goes away and probably never will. To me, that was special because as a student who always strives to be better, it meant that you will never be perfect, but you can always be true to yourself, learn to grow, and overcome your inner thoughts.”

Other students echoed similar sentiments:

“Knowing who you are and what you bring to the table is something I will carry forward as I pursue theatre,” shared Isabella Melendez, a senior from Woodbridge High.

“The doubt we may feel in our lives, I think helps push us forward and helps us remember that we are human and that mistakes will always be made,” added Emily Juarez Montoya, junior at Patriot High.

“It was nice to know that Jeremy Jordan still gets nervous too! I do still get nervous sometimes, but, as he told us, when you’re prepared, it will come out the way it should,” concluded Megan Bergeron, a junior from Patriot.

Teachers were equally inspired:

“Jeremy Jordan sang in his high school choir—now he’s a professional performer, but he is still retaining and refining the lessons we teach every day: be prepared, be confident, and most importantly, be the best version of yourself,” said Lara Brittain, choir teacher at Forest Park.

After the Q&A, students received complimentary tickets to attend Jordan’s sold-out concert, where he delivered a mix of Broadway classics and pop favorites, leaving the audience captivated.

Events like this showcase the power of the arts to connect, inspire, and educate. PWCS remains committed to providing students with opportunities that spark creativity and prepare them for thriving futures.

 

Photo by Du Col Portraits / Abram Eric Landes