Judy Klingner retired from 34 years of teaching, directing, and choreographing from William Fremd High School in 2019. She currently freelances as the Musical Director at Palatine High School and as the Spring Play Director at Maine West High School. Judy is a lifetime member of the Illinois Theatre Association, serving on the ITA Board of Directors for fifteen years. She has been an Associate Director for the IHSTF Planning Committee in several capacities and was the Executive Director in 2021 and 2022. She was part of the production staff for the All-State Show 5 times: Director 2010, Choreographer 2002, and Associate Producer for Auditions and Casting 2012, 2009, and 2008. Judy was the 2022 Ann Thurman Mentorship Award winner. In 2019, she received an award for her Extraordinary Contributions to the Illinois High School Theatre Festival. 

I was a theatre and studio art major. I focused on lighting design and directing when I wasn't acting. I have been in education for 16 years and have moved from classroom teaching to building and district administration. I am looking to support others with the skills I have gained in education.

I have varied experiences in the theatre and teaching the arts. I would like to support some change to graduation requirements so students have the ability to engage with the arts.

I am a huge arts supporter and theatre is my biggest passion. I think serving on the board is a great way to give back to others and continue to encourage the growth of the arts.

The ITA is an integral part of the arts in Illinois; its existence is imperative to provide opportunities to those who might not otherwise have access to theatre. My involvement would assist in keeping an educational lens on the organization, as well as finding new ways to provide support statewide. My previous experience with non-profits, publications, and technology, and my dedication to centering people as the basis of my decision-making will help the ITA to continue to thrive and grow.

My main involvement has been with the Illinois High School Theatrefest. I have attended for 20+ years, responded to multiple productions, brought down a show I directed and a show I assistant directed, ran 2 workshops, and have been on the

IHSTF board for going on 4 years - 2 in technology, 1 in box office, and am currently in the Mentorship role. I have attended a few of the Gala's over the years as well

A lifelong lover of everything theatrical (and dramatic, if you ask their friends and family!), Samuel is passionate about making sure that theatre is accessible to everybody. They serve on the Board of Directors of Prairie Players Civic Theatre in Galesburg as Volunteers Chair, and love working with others to reimagine theatre to inspire and revive communities, relationships, and the world!

Jimmy (Director/ Actor) holds an A.D. in Studio Art and Design, a B.A. in Theater Performance, a B.A. in Art History and Design, and an M.F.A. in Performance in Society from Rhode Island College. He is a former adjunct faculty member and theatre director in the University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College, and the Community College of Rhode Island Theatre Departments. Jimmy served as the Director of Theatre Arts at the Narragansett Public School System in Rhode Island for 10 years where he directed The Wiz which was awarded the ’Moss Hart’ award for ’Best Youth Production’ in New England in 2018. Jimmy currently holds the position of Associate Professor of Theater (Acting, Musical Theatre, and Directing) at Providence College. Jimmy is the Artistic Director at Festival 56 in Princeton, Illinois.