After working at Brimmer and May for 30 years, Creative Arts Department Chair Bill Jacob is taking a well-deserved sabbatical.

After striking down the set for Urinetown, the Upper School Musical, he will be heading to Puerto Vallarta and Mexico City to spend time with his family. 

Ugo Adiele ’23, an actor in Urinetown, looks forward to Jacob’s return.

“Mr. J is the most funny, energetic, and loud person I have met. He makes all rehearsals and performances so fun,” Adiele said.

Jacob will be away for the month of March, as well as a week in April when he will travel to New Orleans.

“I’m excited to explore Mexico City with my daughter, Chelsea, who will be traveling from her home in London to join us,” Jacob said.

He also looks forward to improving his Spanish and experiencing the NOLA Jazz Festival in New Orleans. Jacob has always wanted to attend the festival with his wife and is excited to enjoy the jazz, blues, and gospel alongside her.

Jacob’s absence will have a particular impact on seniors, who end classes at the end of April and will have little time remaining with Jacob upon his return.

Elias Kazin ’20 has been involved in numerous performances with Jacob and is sad that they have little time together this spring.

“Mr. J has been one of the biggest teacher influences in my life,” Kazin said. “He’s always supportive, funny, and nice to me when I need him most. He’s the reason I love the shows at Brimmer and he always makes me laugh when driving to Sumner. I hope he remembers me when I’m gone. I’ll definitely remember him.”

Brian Barrera ’22 also expressed gratitude to Jacob.

“Mr. J has pushed me outside of my comfort zone by encouraging me to do the musical, and I am grateful for that,” he said. “Without his encouragement, I wouldn’t have tried something new.”

In his absence, individuals who have worked closely with Jacob on performances will fill in for his classes.