Aurora Student to Perform as 'Mr. MacAfee' in Bye Bye Birdie

Written by Shawn Eident

For one last time, Jared Bailey(age 18) will be taking to the Spotlight Aurora stage for our upcoming production of Bye Bye Birdie. In his role as Mr. MacAfee, he shines with his quick wit and great humor. He portrays the father of Kim, a teenage girl, who has been randomly selected to receive “One Last Kiss” from Conrad Birdie, a music star, before Conrad is sent off to serve in the Army.

Jared has been with Spotlight Aurora for his entire theater career which includes an impressive 23 productions. Some of his favorite productions include “Seuessical” (twice), where he played a trouble making Wickersham brother, “Tall Tales” in which he played the role of Farkus, “Oliver” where he was the understudy for Dodger, and now, in this production of “Bye Bye Birdie”, he plays the role of Mr. MacAfee. However, Jared’s greatest role is one that happened behind the scenes, and that is one of a role model and friend. There are many students who look up to Jared and will miss this fun loving guy who is always ready to put a smile on someone’s face. In addition, many Spotlight parents will miss seeing him in the cast and up on stage.

So with that, please won’t you join us and cheer Jared on for his last Spotlight Aurora production of Bye Bye Birdie.

Aurora’s Spotlight Youth Theater offers numerous classes, and puts on three fully produced professional quality shows a year. The group, whose purpose statement is “Reflecting Christ through the performing arts”, stresses community as well as excellence.

Show times are as follows:
Friday, February 12th at 7pm

Saturday, February 13th at 2pm

Saturday, February 13th at 6pm

Sunday, February 14th at 3pm

Tickets may be purchased online at www.spotlight.org, or at the door.