LJ Woodard

I was born into a family that loved artists. My mother was a Talent Agent in Southern California which launched me into booking commercials, television and local theater at the age of 8 years old. My entire youth involved dancing and acting classes plus time spent at the Agency learning the ways of the entertainment business,  After receiving my BA in Business from Richmond University in London, I returned to work in the Agency. The business side always intrigued me from development, marketing, promoting to managing the finances. To stay current, I continued my education at UCLA Extension where my professors were business professionals in the entertainment industry. 

My family also owned a local entertainment review newspaper which gave us access to every concert, tour and show that came to town. I was always surrounded by a variety of artists. We attended the theater on a weekly basis and this exposure planted the seed for my love of performance and its' venues. I believe the experience of going to see any performance starts the minute you enter the building. Preserving and sustaining our historical theater venues is not only very important to me, but vital for our community.

Once I became a parent, I found myself naturally leading my kids and their friends with theater games and orchestrating little shows on the coffee table during their play dates. My friends encouraged me to form an after school performance club where all students could theatrically "learn by playing and play by acting"!  The Performance Club became so popular that it extended its reach to other schools across the county, local community centers and eventually its own studio theater space. We have produced some of the best semi-professional productions at the historic Thalian Hall. With clear rules that encourage positivity and a safe place to be yourself - the Performance Club's style is known for creating positive experiences while having a whole lot of fun!

Teaching, coaching, producing and directing kids and teens is so rewarding.  It is an absolute thrill to see them grow and shine! And now nearly two decades later, some of my students have gone on to star in television, film and even Broadway! I am very proud of my children's theater company. The Performance Club Studio Theater for Young Actors has grown into one of top children's theater companies in the country!  

  As a lifelong participant and experienced executive in the arts - my passion to develop youth programs and high quality children's theater continues! As I enter a new chapter of my life, I am open to explore more opportunities in the cultural arts. Over the years, I have managed creative teams of teachers in dance, music, voice and acting with a success record of sold-out productions. Promoting, marketing and fund-raising comes natural to me. I recently took an enneagram test, turns out, and no shock, I am a (7) the Enthusiast! This personality test helps you recognize your true self and only reassures me of my super powers as a Director/Producer and Educator.  I have always felt like an energetic Ring Leader, encouraging those around me, multi-tasking and keeping it all together...but more importantly, the creator of opportunities!  You've got goals? Inspirations? Dreams? 

Let's make it happen!

I will continue to support the advancement of the arts. The positive ripple effects are endless both economically and socially.  It's what brings people together, it's what inspires us and motivates me to be a never-ending, constant advocate for the ARTS!