Meet our Board of Directors

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Executive Director/Artistic Director/ Production Manager

Jenna Lyons is a dedicated performer, technician, and arts leader currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Music degree at Old Dominion University. She has over four years of experience in stage management and live audio engineering, working on a variety of productions ranging from marching band shows to full-length plays to choral productions. Jenna has volunteered her technical skills for local churches and school events, balancing artistic creativity with logistical precision. As Executive Director and Artistic Director of Act 1 Initiative, she leads with vision and care, mentoring peers and managing complex productions. Jenna plans to pursue a Master’s in Arts Administration in 2026 to further support and uplift emerging artists.

Technical Director

Jacob Owens is a violinist and sound engineer from Norfolk, VA. He's currently on the path to getting his Bachelor's in Music with an Emphasis in Sound Recording Technology. With a passion for the arts and performance, he brings experience from the stage to the sound booth. His background as an electrician adds a unique layer to his technical expertise. Whether managing live sound, engineering in the studio, or performing as a classically trained violinist, Jacob is committed to delivering powerful and polished productions. He aims to pursue graduate studies in a music-related field after his graduation in 2026.

Marketing Director

Sidney A. James is a violist, sound engineer, and artist. With a strong eye for design and aesthetics, she loves to find beauty in every detail of her work. Sidney is passionate about the arts, and has multiple compositions and visual works. She has also recently entered the world of theater, and currently works as a Mixing Engineer for the Historic Wells Theater. Sidney is currently a senior in the Diehn School of Music's Sound Recording Technology program, from which she will receive her Bachelor's of Music with an Emphasis in Sound Recording Technology in May 2025.

Development Director/Music Director

Kristian Quilon is a multi-instrumentalist with extensive performing experience and a producer/composer who graduated from Old Dominion University with a B.M. with an Emphasis in Sound Recording Technology in 2024. He currently works as the Facilities Manager of the Diehn School of Music, where he organizes event logistics, coordinates and mentors student workers, and works as an audio engineer and post-production engineer. He has additionally worked as a keyboard accompanist for the DSoM and Hampton Roads area; woodwind, percussion, and audio technician for the First Colonial HS Marching Patriots; audio engineer and technical director for SJI Media; private music teacher; and pit musician for musical theatre. 

Advisory Chair

Dr. Larry Jay Giddens is a distinguished baritone, educator, and director with over 25 years of experience in the performing arts. He serves as an Instructor of Vocal Music and Director of Opera Theater at Old Dominion University, where he mentors the next generation of vocal artists. Larry holds a Bachelor's degree in Vocal Performance, a Master's degree in Music Education, and his Doctor of Music Education. Beyond the classroom, he has performed nationally and internationally with companies including Virginia Opera, Opera Carolina, and Washington Philharmonic, while also offering guidance as an artistic consultant and advocate for arts education.