Jackson Herrera '23

“The biggest lessons theatre has taught me is not to give up and to surround yourself with people you love,” Jackson reflects. “I was a part of PVI Players since my freshman year and I made some of my best friends there. In my earlier years, I didn’t always receive the role I was going for, but the work I did in those smaller parts earned me my larger parts later on.”

Throughout his high school career, Jackson’s favorite roles were Dr. Lyman Sanderson in “Harvey,” Adam in “Freaky Friday,” Colonel Arbuthnot in “Murder on the Orient Express,” Archie Feldon in “Double Exposure,” and Jimmy Winter in “Nice Work If You Can Get It.”

Of all his favorite roles, Jackson shares that working on “Double Exposure” was particularly rewarding. “The rehearsal process, the performances, and just spending time with my friends strengthened relationships and created new ones. I couldn’t be more grateful.”

Jackson is also proud of his six star International Thespian Society career (having earned 60 points from various roles in and out of shows, including director, lead, and supporting character), as well as his appointment as “The Wizard” in the group who serves as a role model for all the boys in PVI Players. “Something people might be surprised to know about me is that I can do a really good impression of Louis Armstrong, as well as a trumpet.” 
Jackson’s involvement in theatre has helped him grow and evolve in many areas. “I’ve grown spiritually, intellectually, and socially though theatre. Taking and giving advice from my friends has shaped the person I am today and I’ve learned so much from everyone involved.”

Jackson will attend Virginia Tech and plans to major in Sports Media and Analytics. We may even be seeing him on a different type of stage in the future. He shares, “I hope to become a broadcaster.”