StageTime Theatre School: A Legacy of Youth Theatre
StageTime Theatre School has been a cornerstone of youth theatre in Chewelah, Washington, providing generations of students with a rich and immersive experience in the performing arts. Founded and led by the passionate and dedicated Janet Bresnahan (formerly Janet McLaughlin), StageTime has instilled in young performers not only the technical skills of theatre but also a lifelong appreciation for the arts, teamwork, and self-expression.
The Beginnings of a Theatre Legacy
Janet Bresnahan’s journey in theatre education began with an unexpected opportunity. Encouraged by a close friend, she took on a part-time drama teaching position at Jenkins Middle School, working out of a small closet in the band room with eager students who shared her enthusiasm. Over the next two decades, she became a driving force in Chewelah’s theatre scene, shaping young talent and elevating school productions to professional levels.
Janet's passion for theatre was evident from an early age. Growing up in Chewelah, she attended St. Mary's Elementary School, Jenkins Junior High, and graduated from Jenkins High School in 1970. She went on to study Speech Pathology and Audiology with a minor in Drama at Eastern Washington State College, where she met and fell in love with Don McLaughlin. The two embarked on their first theatre adventure together as part of the Southeast Asia USO Tour before marrying in 1973. Their shared love of the performing arts led them to South Carolina, Spokane, and eventually Helena, Montana, where Don became the Executive Director of Grandstreet Theatre and Janet created and directed the Grandstreet Theatre School for students from preschool through 12th grade.
A Mentor and Inspiration
Bresnahan’s impact extended far beyond the stage. She was more than a teacher; she was a mentor, a motivator, and a second family to many of her students. Her ability to create a safe and inspiring environment allowed students to grow both as performers and individuals. Her former students frequently credit her with shaping their confidence, work ethic, and love for the arts, with many pursuing successful careers in theatre and education.
Her dedication to her students was evident in everything she did, from organizing trips to New York City to late-night rehearsals accommodating student-athletes. Her productions ranged from large-scale musicals like Les Misérables to powerful dramas such as Of Mice and Men and One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, challenging students to push their artistic boundaries.
The Birth of StageTime Theatre School
In 1993, Janet and Don had the opportunity to return to Chewelah, and they embraced it wholeheartedly. Soon after, Janet founded StageTime Theatre School, providing a structured and professional program dedicated to youth theatre. She also introduced theatre education at Jenkins Middle School and later took over the Jenkins High School drama program upon the retirement of Sherrie Frizzell in 2000. Janet became a full-time drama and dance teacher, bringing energy and expertise to the Chewelah schools.
StageTime quickly became a vital part of the community, with each production enrolling 40 to 75 local students. With Janet at the helm, the program flourished, offering students the chance to develop their skills in a supportive, creative, and rigorous environment. She encouraged older students to take on leadership roles, directing and working behind the scenes, helping them gain hands-on experience in all aspects of theatre production.
Under her guidance, StageTime students consistently delivered performances that exceeded expectations, leading to a well-earned reputation for excellence. The program’s influence was so profound that Eastern Washington University theatre faculty often referred to Chewelah as a "farm system" for their theatre program, with StageTime alumni arriving college-ready and frequently landing leading roles as freshmen.
A Lasting Impact on the Community
Bresnahan’s legacy is woven into the fabric of Chewelah’s artistic community. Her contributions paved the way for the establishment of a true performance venue—the Chewelah Performing and Cultural Arts Center—a project she and Don envisioned and brought to life alongside a dedicated group of community volunteers. Even as she transitioned from teaching, Bresnahan remained committed to StageTime and the local theatre scene, continuing to mentor young actors and support productions.
Her work extended beyond Chewelah, as she served on state committees developing essential learning standards for performing arts in Washington. She also played a role in shaping Classroom-Based Assessments used statewide for drama programs, ensuring high standards for theatre education.
Janet’s passion for theatre has touched countless lives. Many former students, now educators and artists themselves, often reflect on the invaluable lessons they learned from her. Her high expectations, unwavering support, and boundless enthusiasm have left a lasting imprint on generations of young performers.
Continuing the Tradition
Though Don sadly passed away in 2016, Janet’s commitment to theatre remains steadfast. Even after retiring from full-time teaching in 2017, she continued to run StageTime Theatre School and helped further develop the Chewelah Performing and Cultural Arts Center. She has left an indelible mark on Chewelah, ensuring that theatre remains a cherished and transformative part of the community.
StageTime Theatre School stands as a testament to Bresnahan’s dedication and vision. Through her work, she has shaped not only talented performers but also resilient, creative, and compassionate individuals. As new generations step onto the stage, they do so with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration passed down from one remarkable educator.
With StageTime Theatre School continuing its mission, Bresnahan’s impact will be felt for years to come, ensuring that theatre remains a vital and cherished part of the Chewelah community.
The Beginnings of a Theatre Legacy
Janet Bresnahan’s journey in theatre education began with an unexpected opportunity. Encouraged by a close friend, she took on a part-time drama teaching position at Jenkins Middle School, working out of a small closet in the band room with eager students who shared her enthusiasm. Over the next two decades, she became a driving force in Chewelah’s theatre scene, shaping young talent and elevating school productions to professional levels.
Janet's passion for theatre was evident from an early age. Growing up in Chewelah, she attended St. Mary's Elementary School, Jenkins Junior High, and graduated from Jenkins High School in 1970. She went on to study Speech Pathology and Audiology with a minor in Drama at Eastern Washington State College, where she met and fell in love with Don McLaughlin. The two embarked on their first theatre adventure together as part of the Southeast Asia USO Tour before marrying in 1973. Their shared love of the performing arts led them to South Carolina, Spokane, and eventually Helena, Montana, where Don became the Executive Director of Grandstreet Theatre and Janet created and directed the Grandstreet Theatre School for students from preschool through 12th grade.
A Mentor and Inspiration
Bresnahan’s impact extended far beyond the stage. She was more than a teacher; she was a mentor, a motivator, and a second family to many of her students. Her ability to create a safe and inspiring environment allowed students to grow both as performers and individuals. Her former students frequently credit her with shaping their confidence, work ethic, and love for the arts, with many pursuing successful careers in theatre and education.
Her dedication to her students was evident in everything she did, from organizing trips to New York City to late-night rehearsals accommodating student-athletes. Her productions ranged from large-scale musicals like Les Misérables to powerful dramas such as Of Mice and Men and One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, challenging students to push their artistic boundaries.
The Birth of StageTime Theatre School
In 1993, Janet and Don had the opportunity to return to Chewelah, and they embraced it wholeheartedly. Soon after, Janet founded StageTime Theatre School, providing a structured and professional program dedicated to youth theatre. She also introduced theatre education at Jenkins Middle School and later took over the Jenkins High School drama program upon the retirement of Sherrie Frizzell in 2000. Janet became a full-time drama and dance teacher, bringing energy and expertise to the Chewelah schools.
StageTime quickly became a vital part of the community, with each production enrolling 40 to 75 local students. With Janet at the helm, the program flourished, offering students the chance to develop their skills in a supportive, creative, and rigorous environment. She encouraged older students to take on leadership roles, directing and working behind the scenes, helping them gain hands-on experience in all aspects of theatre production.
Under her guidance, StageTime students consistently delivered performances that exceeded expectations, leading to a well-earned reputation for excellence. The program’s influence was so profound that Eastern Washington University theatre faculty often referred to Chewelah as a "farm system" for their theatre program, with StageTime alumni arriving college-ready and frequently landing leading roles as freshmen.
A Lasting Impact on the Community
Bresnahan’s legacy is woven into the fabric of Chewelah’s artistic community. Her contributions paved the way for the establishment of a true performance venue—the Chewelah Performing and Cultural Arts Center—a project she and Don envisioned and brought to life alongside a dedicated group of community volunteers. Even as she transitioned from teaching, Bresnahan remained committed to StageTime and the local theatre scene, continuing to mentor young actors and support productions.
Her work extended beyond Chewelah, as she served on state committees developing essential learning standards for performing arts in Washington. She also played a role in shaping Classroom-Based Assessments used statewide for drama programs, ensuring high standards for theatre education.
Janet’s passion for theatre has touched countless lives. Many former students, now educators and artists themselves, often reflect on the invaluable lessons they learned from her. Her high expectations, unwavering support, and boundless enthusiasm have left a lasting imprint on generations of young performers.
Continuing the Tradition
Though Don sadly passed away in 2016, Janet’s commitment to theatre remains steadfast. Even after retiring from full-time teaching in 2017, she continued to run StageTime Theatre School and helped further develop the Chewelah Performing and Cultural Arts Center. She has left an indelible mark on Chewelah, ensuring that theatre remains a cherished and transformative part of the community.
StageTime Theatre School stands as a testament to Bresnahan’s dedication and vision. Through her work, she has shaped not only talented performers but also resilient, creative, and compassionate individuals. As new generations step onto the stage, they do so with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration passed down from one remarkable educator.
With StageTime Theatre School continuing its mission, Bresnahan’s impact will be felt for years to come, ensuring that theatre remains a vital and cherished part of the Chewelah community.