Georgia Southern Theatre welcomes alumna director for “Sweat”
Georgia Southern University’s theatre program will bring an alumna-directed production of the Pulitzer Prize-winning drama “Sweat” by Lynn Nottage to the stage at the Performing Arts Center in Statesboro April 9-11.
In her first directorial role at the University, Teresa-Michelle Jackson (’04) will serve as the guest artist director for the production, which explores themes of class, race and labor.
Jackson studied under Georgia Southern Assistant Professor Emeritus of Theatre Mical Whitaker, who she credits with broadening her view of theatre and inspiring her to pursue directing. She grew to love productions that are rooted in emotion.
“I’m a creative storyteller who likes to tell really hard stories,” Jackson said. “Black Theater will always have a special place in my heart, but it doesn’t have to be Black Theater. It’s more about sharing a perspective of a lived experience.”
Jackson hopes that through the telling of this story, the audience will walk away with a better understanding of the importance of differing points of view.
“We are definitely in a place in our world where this play is hitting on a lot of hot topics we’re experiencing today,” said Jackson. “And it’s not to be political, but it’s to really think, what are people’s points of view to get them to land where they are?”
Jackson brings professional experience in theater and television to share with students working on the production. Working with students and giving back to a community that gave so much to her has been “like a dream,” Jackson said.
“As much as I hope I’m pouring into the students, it’s really pouring into me,” said Jackson.
After graduating from Georgia Southern, Jackson went on to earn a Master of Fine Arts from Savannah College of Art and Design, where she now serves as a communication coach. Previously, she was a theatre professor and associate dean in the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences at Savannah State University for 16 years. She has worked in the film and television industry with companies such as Warner Brothers and Showtime.
“Sweat” will begin at 7:30 p.m. each day during its run. To purchase tickets for “Sweat,” visit Georgia Southern’s Performing Arts Center box office, order them online at PAC Box Office, or call 912-478-7999.