Amidst the excitement and applause, Jill felt a growing desire to give back to the community that had nurtured her talent. Then, about 10 years ago while directing theatrical workshops, she was approached by one of the participants’ parents—Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County’s Executive Director, Zane Smith. Zane was looking to start up a performance arts team to help build awareness and connections for the Club throughout the community. She accepted the challenge and brought along her colleague, Frank Sierra and the rest is BGCKC performing arts history—as in Stage Door Academy and Music Fusion!
In the heart of our community, there resides a woman whose talent and passion have not only graced the stage but also helped shape the dreams of the next generation. Meet Jill Burdick, a multifaceted performer turned performing arts instructor at the Boys & Girls Clubs. Jill’s journey into the world of performing arts began at a young age. She grew up in a musical family, being the youngest of four sisters. Jill’s family would often sing little tunes on road-trips and they would play instruments for each other during holidays at family gatherings where Jill’s specialty was the flute. Jill was born and raised here in Kern County, and she attended East Bakersfield High. She earned her AA degree from Bakerfield College and her BA degree from California State University, Bakersfield. While at Bakersfield College, Jill took theater class and voice class, and it was then that she felt like she had “found her people,” says Jill. She went on to say that “It was exhilarating to realize I could hone my skills and craft and that there was so much more that I had to learn.” Jill has performed throughout California both as a chorus member and as a soloist. She has also performed in New York, San Antonio, as well as Cairns and Sydney, Australia. She enjoys performing many music genres, but Frank Sierra and Jill Burdick her favorites are Opera and Jazz. In addition to choral performances, Jill has also held some local theatrical roles in As You Like It at the Kern Shakespeare Festival, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street at Stars Theatre, Into the Woods at Bakersfield College, and Goodbody’s Gold at Gaslight Melodrama Theater.
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Jill’s teaching style is a harmonious blend of discipline and creativity. She believes in providing a supportive environment where students can explore their talents, learn the fundamentals of acting and singing, and develop their own unique artistic voices. Through a mix of structured lessons, individual instruction, and group exercises, she empowers her students to step into their own spotlight, instilling confidence, and self-expression. Jill says that she, “loves getting to help the kids realize their full potential through performance. They are all so unique and talented, and I love seeing them thrive and learn about who they are through music, acting, and dancing. I love seeing them share themselves and their passions. I feel honored to get to be a part of their journey in some small way.” Jill expressed that the Club, “is not just a place for employment, but a place where you can grow and create. You get to be part of something bigger than yourself. Ultimately, if you allow yourself to give of yourself and help others, you will see that others will do the same for you in ways you didn’t realize you needed.” The ripple effect of Jill’s dedication to her students is evident in the blossoming young artists who have flourished under her guidance. Some have gone on to pursue careers in the performing arts, while others have gained invaluable life skills such as teamwork, communication, and selfconfidence. Jill Burdick, not just a singer, actor, or teacher, but a shining example of the profound impact one individual can have on a community. Through her passion, dedication, and unwavering belief in the transformative power of the arts, Jill is shaping the dreams of a new generation of performers. Her story is a testament to the enduring influence of local talent and the boundless potential that lies within us all.
Burdick family preparing for a group performance.
BGCBRIEF| www.bgclubsofkerncounty.org
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