Jack the Genie

ASB President and former starting offensive lineman participates in a new activity that leaves the audience gasping for breath.

When SMCHS students think of senior Jack Jennison, they think of the ASB president whose musical speech left them laughing and voting for the one-of-a-kind man. They also may think of the massive offensive lineman whose blocks helped the football team break school records. They may think of the ball of sweat whose numerous dance moves are both hilarious and surprisingly agile for a big guy. They think of the leader of this year’s Eagles’ Nest whose raspy, half-gone voice can be heard trying to lead the “I BELIEVE” chants at the games.

The Genie is back - Jennison's unforgettable appearance brings the whole audience to laughter.
Ethan Crocker
The Genie is back – Jennison’s unforgettable appearance brings the whole audience to laughter.

But on Jan. 31, Jennison added another title to his iconic list: the Genie in Aladdin. He participated in a play that was put on by Ladera Ranch and took place at Tesoro High School. His larger-than-life personality and hilarious one-liners killed the audience with laughter until they could no longer breathe.

“My initial reaction when I saw him on stage was to laugh,” said senior Katie Gast. “He was so blue. I laughed until I was crying because I was not expecting him to look like that.”

Laughter turned into tears was a widespread reaction to Jennison’s grand entrance. The suspense exploded into applause after the crowd patiently waited for their beloved offensive lineman to come onto the stage.

“The crowd went crazy since almost half of the crowd was there for him,” said senior Cassidy Toller.

Out of the 350 people that attended the production, over 150 of them were there just for the sole purpose of seeing Jennison up on stage. Friends, family and fans were stunned when the huge blue shadow appeared on the stage.

“The play was honestly one of the greatest things I have ever seen,” said senior Ally Carey. “I was so happy I got to experience Jack in his outfit. That was by far the best part and all the dance moves that he added in.”

Jennison had an idea that he would one day be on stage. The reasons and the way he found his way to fame were a little less clear to him.

“I joined because my mom always wanted me to do a play,” he said. “I told her I would do it if I could be the Genie, and sure enough the role opened up. I never doubted me doing a play, but I never expected it either.”

Although Jennison made it look natural and easy being up on stage, it was quite a struggle for him to keep his cool — physically and mentally.

“First of all, I am a larger man and I sweat like crazy,” he said “So being up there under the hot lights singing and dancing, I became a fountain of sweat. Also, I accidentally kicked my magic lamp into the first row of the audience.”

Ethan Crocker

Perhaps the most hilarious part of the play was the size difference. Jennison, a 17-year-old 275-pound offensive guard, was the oldest and heaviest actor by four years and about 150 pounds.

“Tears were running down my face seeing a lineman participate in a kick line with 10-year-olds,” said senior Lindsey Narkchareon.

Jennison proved himself a crazy and funny character to many kids and adults alike as he stole the show that weekend. His funny, witty and sweaty humor left the audience rolling in their seats. Jennison brought the house down and brought the audiences to their feet.