October 30, 2025
Prince Graduate Makes Directorial Debut with Middle School Production
Written by Amy Frierson
This year’s Prince Avenue Christian School middle school production of Descendants: The Musical featured entertaining music, excellent acting, engaging costumes, and creative choreography—all under the direction of a familiar face. Kaylor Jones, Class of 2023, took the stage in a new role this year—not as an actor or dancer, but as director.
It was fitting that Kaylor’s directorial debut took place at Prince, the school where she spent countless hours acting, singing, dancing, rehearsing, choreographing, designing, and developing her craft. Over the years, she performed in 15 productions at Prince, beginning in third grade. Her notable roles included Polly Baker in Crazy for You, Kathy Selden in Singin’ in the Rain, and Chava in Fiddler on the Roof. She also choreographed several productions during her time as a student.
Kaylor describes the experience of returning to Prince as both surreal and meaningful.
“I’m directing a show in the same theatre where I performed for so many years,” she said. “It’s an odd but special feeling, knowing the history and impact the space holds. Without Prince, I wouldn’t be where I am today or the performer I’ve become.”
Kaylor’s goal in directing Descendants was to inspire students and show them the joy of theatre.
“I’ve loved watching the students work together, problem-solve, and take initiative,” she said. “They played a huge role in shaping the final product of the show, and I’m so proud of them.”
Prince Director of Fine Arts LaMurl Morris shared that Kaylor’s years of involvement at Prince uniquely prepared her for this next stage of her artistic journey.
“Kaylor’s experience as a student assistant to Prince director Hannah Hunt, along with the connections she made through the Georgia Thespian Conference and Shuler Awards, have opened many opportunities for her,” Mrs. Morris said. “It was a joy to work with her on Descendants.”
Kaylor is now a junior at the University of Georgia, majoring in theatre and entertainment media studies with a certificate in musical theatre. While she dreams of moving to New York to pursue professional acting, her long-term goal is to open a youth theatre company that offers students access to high-quality productions and intensive training.
“I hope to inspire young performers and show them how fun and transformative theatre can be.”
