Having started my Wildcat journey in 2011 as a guest artist that ended up staying, I’m announcing that this spring 2025 will be my final semester. at K-State. I will be retiring from teaching at the end of this school year to return to Kansas City and serve as an Associate Producer for the New Theatre in Overland Park. Know that you can always contact me for audition, career or any other information as my K-State email will remain active BUT you do have this last semester to stop by my office for coffee chats, to pick my brain or simply plunder my musical theatre scores. I know I’ll see many of you working around Kansas City in the future so for now, a big thank you to the wonderful faculty, staff and students of K-State MTD. Let’s spend this semester being kind; nurturing respecting and protecting each other as we continue the excellent, necessary work of educating, entertaining and connecting with audiences in new, inventive ways.
Cheers-Jerry Jay Cranford
Jerry Jay Cranford is a true professional, a great colleague, and someone wholly invested in the art and practice of theatre. His dedication to his craft, his students, and his colleagues has been nothing short of inspiring. Jerry’s presence at K-State Theatre has left an indelible mark, and his leadership and creativity have shaped countless students and productions. As he prepares for the next chapter in his career, I know his impact will continue to ripple through the Kansas City theatre community and beyond. While he will be deeply missed here, we are excited to see all that he will accomplish. All the best, Jay!