SAY Theater announces new directors
MARQUETTE — A program in Marquette which specializes in youth theater productions has announced a change in leadership.
With the Superior Arts Youth Theater’s Artistic Director, Nikke Soni, moving away, a search to fill her shoes began. The program’s growing popularity meant it would take two people to continue the legacy.
Ishpeming–born Jalina Olgren was announced as the Managing Director and is excited to start working more with the public and watch the program grow.
“It’s a really great opportunity for families to get involved in the arts,” said Incoming Managing Director Jalina Olgren. “I think it’s really important for kids in our community to have this opportunity because arts in school budgets are getting cut and a lot of kids don’t have the kind of experience anymore and I just think it’s really important to be able to let students be creative in our community.”
The other position was filled by Marquette native and retried Gwinn teacher Dave Dagenais, who brings with him years of directing and performing experience.
“I think the sky is the limit for a company as large as this,” said Incoming Artistic Director Dave Dagenais. “So many youth have been involved and I’ve seen so many lives changed by this program. This is really a dream job in my retirement. I love theatre and I love working with young people and it’s really going to be just a tremendous opportunity for me at this stage in my life.”
The two will work side by side in the upcoming productions, including the soon to be announced fall play.