Jessica
Suda Baab

Jessica Suda Baab
  • Area of Study: Theatre
  • Current City: Kingston, PA
  • Graduation Date: 2010
  • Current Occupation: Artistic Director, KISS (Kids Innovation Stage and Sound) Theatre Company

Why did you choose WCU and/or the Department of Theatre and Dance?
Growing up in North Eastern Pennsylvania, I had few opportunities to really learn the basics of theatre arts. The Theatre Department at West Chester University had an incredible faculty and numerous opportunities for me to explore all areas, including, but not limited to, performance, technical, and administrative. I also loved the location of WCU; I could take a quick ride to check out the Philly Theatre scene, or to hop an inexpensive bus ride to New York.

How has the quality of education you received from WCU prepared you for life after graduation?  
The very best thing West Chester has offered, and I often tout this to my current students, is that I was able to explore every option, and really get an idea of what I enjoyed most. Even if I didn't pursue costuming, scenic art, or performance, I still have a vast knowledge to share with my students. Additionally, I was given opportunities to work with professional Guest Artists on the production team to learn some tricks of the trade, different styles, and approaches in design and execution.

What is a typical day like for you?
I spend afternoons corresponding with patrons, advocating KISS's mission in our area, researching shows, creating new inclusive programming, networking, and small grant writing. Our program takes place primarily evenings and weekends. Our theatre is open 6 days a week for rehearsals, and we average 10 productions a year, all of which I staff, oversee, and on occasion, direct.

What advice would you give to someone who would like to enter your field?
When you work with children, it's important to know how to work with difficult and unique personalities, especially parents. They want what is best for their child, and you have to keep in mind what is best for every child. Sometimes all someone needs, whether it is a parent or a child, is a little patience and understanding for their talents to truly shine.

What advice would you like to give to graduating seniors?
Go Big, go above and beyond, and be kind to everyone, even the ones who really get your goat. You never know who you may run into during an interview process. Your reputation should be your strongest asset, do not let it be your weakness.

What makes our college stand out to you?
To this day, I say West Chester University is my favorite place on the planet. Not just because of what it is, but what it provided for me as a scared, nervous, and undecided freshman. The beauty of the town, the student driven activities, and how I always felt like I had support and encouragement every step of the way really made WCU the perfect fit for me.

What is your favorite memory of being a student at WCU and/or in our college?
My favorite memory was University Theatre's production of Stephen Sondheims's Assassins. Everything from the choreography, performances, and orchestra, to set design, dramaturgy, and lighting design was Broadway level in my eyes. It was a positive and education experience through and through, and remains one of my favorite shows today.

What's the most interesting thing about you that we wouldn't learn from your resume alone?
A goal of mine was always to use my love of theatre and help people. I never thought it was possible, I spent a lot of time looking at other career options, and somehow, after a lot of hard work and dedication, I found myself managing an inclusive non profit children's theatre, with the mission of enriching young lives through theatre arts.