My name is Jackie, and I'm the creator and performer of "Spirit of a Baton Twirler," a one-woman show born from the loss of my mother to stage 4 lung cancer in 2014. Her final words have echoed in my mind ever since, prompting deep reflection on our life together, my childhood, and the complexities of our relationship. Through years of personal exploration and the support of mentors like FAB, The Barrow Group, Arlene Malinowski at Chicago Dramatists, and my director Donna Jean Fogel, this show has taken shape. After four years of development, "Spirit of a Baton Twirler" is making its debut at LimeFest at The Tank in NYC on August 8, 2025, and will also be featured at the Emerging Artist Theater’s Spark Festival at The Chain Theater in September.


This project is deeply personal, but it’s also universal. It speaks to anyone who has navigated the challenges of growing up in the 1960s-70s, dealt with divorce, moved between schools, faced step-family dynamics, or experienced the pain of losing a loved one. The show explores the journey from the safety of childhood through the confusion of adolescence and into the uncertainty of adulthood, touching on joys, regrets, forgiveness, and the things left unsaid. My hope is to spark laughter, reflection, and meaningful conversations—encouraging people to reach out to their loved ones while they still can.


As a self-producing artist, I’m seeking support to cover artistic fees, production team costs, theater rentals, and marketing. My goal is to give this show a longer life in New York City in 2026. Balancing my career as an actor, a day job, and new health challenges at 63, I’m determined to keep twirling and sharing this story. Your support will help bring "Spirit of a Baton Twirler" to more audiences and keep its message alive.