Carly Jae always knew she was destined for the world of theatre. From a young age, she filled notebooks with imaginative skits for herself and her sister to perform, begged her parents to sign her up for dance and singing classes, and auditioned for every show she could find. That passion never wavered. She arrived at Eastern University as a communication studies major with a concentration in interpersonal communication, but she also immersed herself in the university’s theatre department, where she found a second home away from home.
One of her favorite memories at Eastern was during her senior year when she helped produce Performing Arts Living Room, a show composed of a multitude of performance media that gave Eastern students a chance to showcase their talents and gifts. “It was my greatest joy to curate a performance that felt like a homecoming, and a fond farewell all in one,” she shared.
Leaving Eastern was bittersweet for Carly, as she had built a community and found a home within its welcoming buildings and picturesque campus, but she was ready to step into the next chapter of her life. Eastern had prepared her for this leap by teaching her to be adaptable, true to herself, and above all else, to truly listen to others’ stories and backgrounds. After graduation, she went on to be a part-time bank teller and then moved into insurance as a temporary job before she found a position that aligned with her goals and dreams.
After tirelessly job searching and waiting patiently for the right opportunity to come up, she came across a job opening for Director of Marketing at Civic Theatre in Allentown, Pennsylvania. As she read through the description, it felt almost too good to be true. Not only could she use the knowledge and skills she learned during her time at Eastern, but she could combine her two passions: communications and theatre. She built up the courage to apply and landed the job—a testament to her hard work, undeniable talent, and passion for the industry.
Since stepping into her role at Civic Theatre, Carly has embraced the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of theatre marketing. Her days are filled with crafting compelling copy for emails and promotional materials, curating engaging social media content, and collaborating with designers to produce visually striking playbills. Beyond these creative tasks, she manages key relationships with marketing vendors and trade sponsors, ensuring that each production receives the visibility it deserves. Carly also works closely with the artistic and development departments, brainstorming innovative campaigns to generate excitement for upcoming performances, fundraising initiatives, and community programs.
With each project, she leans on the adaptability and interpersonal skills she honed at Eastern, pivoting quickly when a marketing approach needs adjustment. For Carly, no two days are the same, but that’s what she loves most—being at the heart of a theatre that not only entertains but amplifies diverse voices and stories.
During a theatre course at Eastern, Carly heard a quote that still impacts her daily life as she works at Civic Theatre. “You are the walking wounded, the Imago Dei, seen and loved.” She carries this with her as she emphasizes the importance of showcasing all humans’ stories on stage to help others feel seen, known, and loved.
The arts don’t discriminate; they are for everyone to create and for everyone to watch. Carly echoes Eastern’s mission of faith, reason, and justice. “Modern theatre is pushing boundaries and telling bolder narratives of injustice, oppression, and strife, while amplifying underrepresented voices and untold stories. This is a very exciting time to be making theatre. Please go see a show, any show.”
Carly encourages students to pursue their interests, even when the path seems uncertain, because, as she puts it, “Everything you invest your time in can benefit your career—not just your GPA, courses, or studies.” Her journey is a testament to the power of passion, proving that when you follow what truly inspires you and have a little patience, the right opportunities will follow.
This year, Carly embarked on another life-changing journey—motherhood. Civic Theatre has become more than just a workplace; it has become a family to her, offering encouragement and support throughout her motherhood journey. Her daughter, Lydia, has already shown a love for music, singing, and dance, which is no surprise since she was on stage with Carly for two productions before she was even born.
Balancing her career and family has been both challenging and rewarding, but Carly takes comfort in knowing that her work is setting an example for her daughter. “I want her to see that women can do anything when they follow their passion, use their gifts, and listen to God’s calling on their lives.”