Blue Jesters Backstge: A High School Theatre Podcast

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Looking to get started in high school theatre or want to share in your experiences? Go behind the curtain with Northeast Early College High School's Blue Jesters Theatre program in Austin, Texas. Each episode features students, teachers, and special guest sharing stories, tips and tricks, and the real backstage ups and down of high school theatre.  From rehearsals to performances, to teamwork and creativity, this podcast shines a spotlight on the voices of the next generation of theatre makers.  

  1. May 25

    Season 1 Finale: Passing the Torch to Next Year's High School Theater Class

    And just like that, another school year is officially in the books! While our graduating seniors are busy packing their bags and heading off to their next big adventures (we’ll miss you!), the rest of us are officially stepping up. In this final episode of the season, the returning crew looks ahead to what’s next. We’re talking about the bittersweet feeling of becoming the "old wise ones" on campus, our personal goals for next year, and how we plan to survive junior/senior year. Plus, we drop our ultimate survival guide for the incoming freshmen. To the Class of 2030: welcome to the den! We promise the hallways aren't actually that scary, and we've got your backs. What’s inside this episode: The Changing of the Guard: How it feels to watch our seniors leave and taking over the leadership reins. Looking Forward: Our biggest goals, hopes, and manifestations for next school year. Freshman 101: Crucial advice, unwritten school rules, and warm welcomes for the incoming newcomers. Summer Plans: A quick look at how the crew is spending the break to recharge. A massive thank you to everyone who tuned in, laughed with us, and supported the pod this year. Have an incredible, safe summer break, stay hydrated, and we will see you right back here in the fall for a brand-new season! ☀️🌊

    6 min

  2. May 18

    The Drama of College Drama

    We are one week away from the finale of our high school theater podcast! In our penultimate episode, we're joined by Austin Community College Associate Drama Professor Jamie Rogers. From the audition room to the director's chair, Jamie gives us an inside look at ACC’s vibrant theater department and shares what students and audiences can expect from their upcoming productions. Whether you're looking to break into the industry or just love local theatre, this episode is packed with expert insights.

    9 min

  3. May 11

    Senior Look Back: Messiah and Hailey Reflect on the Year

    As we wind down Season 1 of Blue Jesters Backstage, Seniors Messiah and Hailey look back at the ups and downs of their senior year in High School Theater.

    19 min

  4. May 4

    Senior Send-Off: Teagan and Charles on Building the Blue Jesters Workshop

    As the curtain begins to close on Season 1 of Blue Jesters Backstage, we’re passing the mic to the Class of 2026. In this bittersweet episode, theater seniors Teagan and Charles join us to reflect on four years of rehearsals, opening nights, and the inevitable "post-show blues." But it’s not all nostalgia—we’re diving deep into the legacy they’re leaving behind. Teagan and Charles share the inside story of developing the new department workshop, from the initial "what if?" to seeing it become a staple for underclassmen. In this episode, we discuss: The Early Days: Their favorite memories from freshman year and the shows that shaped them. The Workshop Project: The challenges and triumphs of creating a new space for theatrical growth within the department. Leadership & Legacy: What it means to lead the Blue Jesters and the advice they have for the next generation of performers. The Next Act: Where Teagan and Charles are headed next and how high school theater prepared them for the "real world." Whether you’re a freshman just starting your journey or a fellow senior preparing for your final bow, this episode is a heartfelt look at what makes the Blue Jesters department more than just a theater troupe—it's a family.

    4 min

  5. Apr 27

    Behind the Blackout – The High School Theater Techie Wrap-Up

    In this episode, the "unsung heroes" of the auditorium—the High School Light and Sound Crew—finally step into the spotlight (metaphorically, because we hate being seen). We’re looking back at the 2025-2026 school year of high school theater. Whether you're a fellow "theatre kid," a curious parent, or a tech geek, join us as we break down our favorite shows, our biggest "oops" moments, and why we wouldn't trade the 12-hour Saturday shifts for anything.

    4 min

  6. Apr 13

    What Does A High School Theater Musical Director Do?

    In this episode of Blue Jesters Backstage, Avril interviews Mr. Cason, our music director, about what does what led him to work with musicals, his experience so far, and what he has learned from past mistakes.  Check out the latest episode and comment your thoughts! Recorded at Northeast Early College High School in Austin, TX.

    9 min

  7. Apr 6

    How To Return To High School Theater After A Long Break

    In this episode of Blue Jesters Backstage, Bernardo interviews Dom who after a strong start to the year had to leave our school during the production of Little Shop of Horrors. Now, Dom is back and he shares his personal story of what it feels like to return to a theatre program in progress and advice he’d have for anyone in the same situation.  Recorded at Northeast Early College High School in Austin, TX.

    4 min

  8. Mar 30

    The Good, Bad, And Ugly of the UIL One Act Play Contest

    Step into the high-intensity world of competitive theatre with the Blue Jesters! In this episode, we’re breaking down our journey to the Texas UIL One-Act Play (OAP) contest with our production of The Killing Game. From the grueling rehearsals to the adrenaline-pumping "7-minute setup," we share what it’s really like to compete in one of the most prestigious high school theater competitions in the country. We discuss the creative choices that brought our dark comedy to life, the results of the theatre competition and our key takeaways from the experience.

    7 min
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Looking to get started in high school theatre or want to share in your experiences? Go behind the curtain with Northeast Early College High School's Blue Jesters Theatre program in Austin, Texas. Each episode features students, teachers, and special guest sharing stories, tips and tricks, and the real backstage ups and down of high school theatre.  From rehearsals to performances, to teamwork and creativity, this podcast shines a spotlight on the voices of the next generation of theatre makers.  

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