New Theatre Club Takes Center Stage With Ribbon Cutting

From left, Vermilion and District Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Aiyana Thompson, Jazmine Penz- Spotlight Theatre Productions, Town of Vermilion Economic Development Manager Mary Lee Prior. Photo Sonya Lee

On October 2, Spotlight Theatre Productions and its Director, Jasmine Penz, were welcomed at the Town of Vermilion chambers for a ribbon-cutting and plaque presentation. Penz was warmly welcomed by Mary Lee Prior, Town of Vermilion Economic Development Officer, and Aiyana Thompson, Executive Director of The Vermilion and District Chamber of Commerce. Marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in local arts and youth programming.

Spotlight Theatre Productions has already seen an enthusiastic response from the community. In its very first year, 35 members have signed up, far exceeding initial expectations. “I was planning a production for 8 to 10 people, and it tripled,” said Penz. “So now we have two productions, which is amazing for our first year.”

Rehearsals are held on Wednesday evenings at Parkview Alliance Church, where energy and creativity fill the space. Two major productions are planned for May at the Alumni Theatre at Lakeland College. The teen and adult group (ages 13 and up) will perform Little Shop of Horrors, while the all-ages company production will bring The Lion King to the stage.

Penz, who launched the program with a wealth of experience in musical theatre, expressed her gratitude for the community’s support. “When I first dreamed of starting this program, I never imagined we would have such an incredible response. So many talented individuals eager to be part of this journey is truly beyond anything I could have hoped for,” she shared.

Her background includes 13 years in musical theatre as a performer, assistant, and teacher. She studied theatre production at MacEwan University and holds a youth counselling diploma as well as a Level 3 certification in Early Childhood Education. Currently serving as a Program Director at a local daycare, Penz is reconnecting with her creative roots through this new venture.

Beyond the stage, Penz believes theatre offers something even more powerful: the chance to grow social skills and confidence. “Participants learn to communicate effectively, collaborate with a variety of personalities, and support one another through the ups and downs of rehearsal,” she explained. “It’s about more than just performing; it’s about building empathy, friendships, and life skills.”

As the debut season begins, excitement is running high. “I am filled with so much joy and gratitude for the families who believed in this new program, for the cast members ready to dive in, and for the behind-the-scenes support that has made this possible,” Penz said. “This season is already shaping up to be something magical. I can’t wait to see the growth, the friendships, and the stories we bring to life on stage together.”

Spotlight Theatre Productions is now officially underway, and with the community’s continued support, this first season may indeed be the beginning of something extraordinary.