Jackrabbit Theatre Company
Welcome to Mesa High School’s Jackrabbit Theatre Company! We are Thespian Troupe 1182 under the direction of Jere Van Patten. Mesa High is recognized for its award-winning theatre program, indicating a strong commitment to the performing arts.
Additionally, the school has participated in notable theatre events, such as the ASU Gammage High School Musical Theatre Awards, with students receiving accolades for their performances.
Welcome!
The Jackrabbit Theatre Company is a student-led club at Mesa High School based out of Mesa, Arizona. JTC is primarily organized by a council of 10 students as well as our director and sponsor. As a council, we prioritize the enjoyment and education of our members. We aim to produce at least three major shows a year, one straight play and one musical on our main stage and one straight play and/or one musical in our black box theatre. JTC also holds several fundraisers and club shows throughout the year.
From the Theatre Company to our Tech Crews, we have something for everybody’s individual interests. With an impressive repertoire, including recent musicals and plays such as Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Murder in the Heir, Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, You Can't Take it with You, and more, JTC has proven itself to be a dynamic and talented group of student artists.
JTC is always welcoming to new members and support from our audiences and community. If you are a student and are interested in JTC, feel free to join us at our next meeting! If you are a parent looking to support your child and our club, you can check out our JTC Boosters page and contact them for further information.
Here at Jackrabbit Theatre Company, we are always excited to see new faces! We are super excited for the 2025-2026 school year and our upcoming season!
Come PLAY with us!
JTC Meetings - 1:30 - 2:30pm every other Wednesday
Tech Theatre Crews - As needed on a show by show basis.*
* Each crew head will communicate with their crew about meeting dates and times.
Meet our Director, “Mr. V.”
Mr. Jere Van Patten, is an award-winning actor, director, educator, and founder of The Actor’s Ink Studio. With over two decades of professional experience and a passion for student success, Mr. V. brings real-world theatre training straight to the classroom.
He’s performed and directed with some of the Valley’s top theatres, including The Phoenix Theatre Company, Southwest Shakespeare, Hale Centre Theatre, and more. With degrees in Theatre, Education, and Directing, Mr. V. knows what it takes to thrive both onstage and off.
Favorite roles include "Edna" in Hairspray for MCC; "Clown 2" in The 39 Steps, and "Jinx" in Forever Plaid at Hale Centre Theatre; and "Peter Quince" in A Midsummer Night's Dream for Southwest Shakespeare Company.
Whether you’re brand new to theatre or ready to take your craft to the next level, Mesa High Theatre is the place to be! Expect high-energy classes, a welcoming community, and powerful performance opportunities. Under Mr. V.’s direction, you’ll grow in confidence, creativity, and collaboration — and have a ton of fun doing it!
