Volunteer Spotlight: Jada and Reese
This month’s Volunteer Spotlight shines on two talented student actors who are bringing THE DISPUTE to life on the QCT stage! Meet Jada Penick Fonza, a familiar face to QCT audiences who has appeared in several productions over the years, and Reese Foster, who is making his QCT debut in this thought-provoking comedy. We caught up with both students to learn more about their theatre journeys, their experiences working on THE DISPUTE, and what keeps them coming back to the stage.
Tell us a little about yourself!
Jada: I am in 10th grade, and I plan to be on Broadway in the future; my goal is to become an actress. I was last seen in SIX, and have been in 8 shows since moving to Quincy. During my downtime, I like hanging out with friends.
Reese: I’m 15 and a sophomore at QHS. I enjoy hanging out with friends and drinking coffee, and am thrilled to be in my first QCT performance!
What role do you play in THE DISPUTE?
Jada: Dina
Reese: The role I play in THE DISPUTE is Meslis.
How did you first get involved with QCT?
Jada: My Aunt, Dr. Frances Fonza, told me about Triple Threat Boot Camp, and I decided to sign up. I loved being on stage, and I auditioned for YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN and got the role of Peppermint Patty and have been obsessed ever since.
Reese: I first got involved with QCT when I took acting classes around age 10, and around that time, I was performing in THE NUTCRACKER on the big stage.
What has your experience at QCT been like so far?
Jada: It’s been amazing; everyone is very nice, and I love learning from them.
Reese: My experience so far at QCT has been amazing! I was able to make a lot of new friends and grow closer to current ones.
What is your favorite thing about being involved in theatre?
Jada: Being on stage and meeting new people.
Reese: My favorite thing about being involved in theatre is that the people who come to the show express how much they liked it! It is an amazing feeling.
What is something you’ve learned through participating in productions?
Jada: To be more comfortable trying new things and ideas.
Reese: Something I learned from participating in THE DISPUTE is that not only can words convey emotion, but so can body language.
What has been your favorite memory from rehearsals or performances?
Jada: During SIX, one of the little guests in elementary school wanted to take pictures with us and then during practice. My favorite part is when the cast gets comfortable with each other, sits in a circle, and talks about random stuff.
Reese: My favorite memory would be learning the opening scene and getting to play around with the youthful side of my character.
Why would you encourage other students to get involved at QCT?
Reese: I would encourage other students to get involved at QCT because it is an amazing way to find new friends, be creative, and also to just have fun!!
Jada: QCT allows you to be more of yourself because you don’t have to hide anything about yourself because there are a bunch of people surrounding you who have the same interests as you. It gives you opportunities to make new friends and meet new people.