Mavis Jennings

About Mavis

Mavis Jennings (AEA) brings a rich blend of performance experience and academic insight to his role as a dedicated theatre professional. Beginning his journey with Cirque du Soleil's acclaimed touring productions of Quidam and Varekai, Jennings honed his craft through over 20 years of performance, totaling more than 5,500 shows.

Transitioning into academia, Jennings pursued further education, earning a master’s degree in acting through the Kent State University returning professional program. Since then, he was actively involved in shaping the theatrical landscape of northeast Ohio, serving as both Assistant Professor of Theatre and Theatre Director at Kent State University at Stark, while also contributing to various professional and community theatre endeavors in the region.

Most recently, Jennings embraced the challenge of serving as a Substitute Teacher in a Traverse City Public School system elementary school. In this role, he discovered a great deal more about the purest fundamentals of teaching and the dedication required in a classroom filled with young students. He describes this experience as a teaching boot camp of sorts, where he learned invaluable lessons about the student/teacher dynamic.

In 2023, Jennings had the privilege of directing the Young Actors Workshop at Interlochen's renowned summer camp, where he found joy in guiding and inspiring the next generation of theatre enthusiasts. Encouraged by the positive impact of his work, Jennings is eager to return for the 2024 camp to continue fostering young talent.

With a genuine passion for both performance and education, Jennings embodies the values of artistic excellence and mentorship, striving to enrich the lives of students and colleagues alike.

As an educator of young actors, I believe that theatre can provide a transformative experience for personal growth and self-expression. My approach is to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where students can explore their creativity and take risks without fear of judgment. I prioritize individualized instruction that recognizes and celebrates each student's unique talents and challenges. My ultimate goal is to inspire a lifelong love and appreciation for theatre in my young actors, and to equip them with the skills and confidence to pursue their creative passions both on and off the stage.