Jillan Hanel, Artistic Director
Jillan Hanel received a BFA in technical theatre with a specialization in costume design from Texas State University-San Marcos in 2003. She has worked as a costume designer and theatre producer in Austin and surrounding areas for over 20 years. Jillan has been working on children’s theatre productions in Georgetown, Tx since 2014.
From Jillan: I found community theatre at the ripe old age of 7 in a small town in West Texas. I begged my parents to let me audition, so my dad decided to join alongside me. This began a tradition of community theatre in my family that would last through high school. I applied to Texas State as a musical theatre major, but quickly discovered the world of costume design and changed course. After college, I designed costumes for several productions in the San Antonio area before starting my first theatre company in Austin, Imagine That!, with playwright A. John Boulanger. As my family continued to grow, I decided to turn my focus towards family theatre to provide my kids with the same rich experiences I enjoyed as a child. Theatre is a beautiful collaboration and I watched my children benefit from working alongside me. This inspired us as a family to create a community theatre in our own home town. I am so excited for this next adventure and can’t wait to see what we can to do collaborate with the Liberty Hill community!
Jennika Cook Johnson, Producer
Jennika Cook earned her Bachelor of Arts in Technical Communications (English) from Texas Tech University and worked as a technical writer and editor in the tech industry before becoming a mom and embarking on the homeschool journey.
Jennika brings her varied professional and personal skills to her role as Producer. Her enthusiastic support behind the scenes helps fuel the creative fires and keeps them burning!
Lillie Hanel, Media Manager
Lillie is a high school junior who enjoys working with animals and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Her favorite roles onstage include Ursula in The Little Mermaid, Jr and Taylor in High School Musical, Jr.
Jacey Johnson, Media Manager
Jacey is a high school junior whose favorite roles include Ryan in High School Musical, Jr. and Rumplestiltskin in Princess Whatsername. When he is not onstage he enjoys playing video games and studying voice acting.