VTA 2024: Standing on the Shoulders of Giants

BleuJay Do'zia (Bleu) acts as the founder and creative director of Selah Theatre Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to educating and inspiring young actors in various locations across the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia. Known as the "Teen Whisperer," Bleu motivates young, aspiring artists to connect deeply with the art of theatre, encouraging them to explore the depths of humanity through emotional, physical, and character development. It is essential for all budding artists to establish authentic connections with audiences by reflecting genuine human experiences, fostering a space for constructive dialogues on social justice, community, and positive societal impact. With a rich background in both Regional and Community Theatre, including renowned venues like the Other Voices Theatre, Theatre of Shenandoah, Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, the Apollo Civic Theater, Winchester Little Theater, Ohrstrom-Bryant Theater, and The Kennedy Center, Bleu has showcased her talent in various productions such as Avenue Q (Gary Coleman), ‘Night Mother (Jessie), Chicago (Mama Matron Morton), Hairspray (Motormouth), Necessary Targets (J.S. Bach), and From Prison to Stage, a piece by the late Betty May. Alongside her acting, directing, and teaching expertise, Bleu introduced her original work centered on the historical Winchester site, Ruth's Tea Room. She is a graduate of the prestigious Governor's School for the Arts in Norfolk, VA, and continued her education at Shenandoah University in Winchester, VA, focusing on voice, theatre, and communications. Bleu also served as a Commissioner representing Region 4B for the Virginia Commission for the Arts, appointed by the Governor.