Jeremy Franklin’s Final Curtain Call at CMU 

Beloved Theatre Instructor to Direct Ride the Cyclone Before Departing CMU in May

After 18 years, music theatre instructor Jeremy Franklin is preparing to take his final bow at Colorado Mesa University. Franklin has been a fixture in CMU’s music theatre program, shaping the artistic journeys of countless students and serving as their director, vocal coach and mentor.

Franklin’s journey to Grand Junction and CMU began in 2006. That year, he arrived in town for a three-month acting contract with the Cabaret Dinner Theatre. Soon, he joined CMU as an adjunct professor, teaching various music theatre classes while working as a producer at the Cabaret Dinner Theatre and managing its Academy of Performing Arts.

At the time of Franklin’s arrival, CMU’s music theatre program was still in its infancy. Over the span of nearly two decades, he helped turn it into the thriving, dynamic music theatre BFA program CMU has today, carefully structuring coursework and performance opportunities to ensure that students receive a comprehensive and professional music theatre education.  

Over the years, hundreds of students have been privileged to learn under Franklin. Franklin's mentorship has been extremely valuable for students like Caymie Crone, a junior double majoring in music theatre and biology.  

“He’s always so supportive and challenges his students to get where they want to be. He makes us feel seen, providing the guidance we need,” Crone explained.

Associate Professor of Theatre Arts Mo LaMee, a longtime colleague and the head of CMU’s Department of Theatre Arts, praised Franklin’s ability to combine academic instruction with hands-on experience. 

“He’s such a good teacher and an extraordinary artist. He recognizes the potential in his students and helps them grow beyond their expectations,” said LaMee. “Jeremy creates opportunities for students to immerse themselves in the arts and to leave as prepared professionals.” 

Franklin has directed numerous CMU productions and founded Mesa OutLoud!, a student a cappella performance group that has become a staple on campus and in the community. He also played a key role in revitalizing the Bravo Club, CMU’s donor club that helps generate scholarship funding for the Department of Theatre Arts. Franklin’s involvement in both initiatives has helped strengthen the connection between the university and the broader performing arts community in Grand Junction.   

Franklin’s influence extends beyond his duties and passion for the arts. His investment in students’ well-being has made him a teacher, mentor and friend whose presence will be dearly missed.  

“It will be sad to see him go,” said Crone. “We spend so much time in the theatre, voice lessons, classes and rehearsals, and he always takes the time to get to know us. He notices when something’s off, pulls us aside, and makes sure we’re okay.” 

LaMee echoed Crone’s sentiment, emphasizing Franklin’s impact on students and colleagues alike.

“He’s a friend, a collaborator and such a creative person,” LaMee said. “His presence has been a foundation of the music theatre program for so long. It will be hard to fill his shoes.” 

While Franklin’s departure from CMU is bittersweet, he’s looking forward to new opportunities. Those at CMU are equally excited about his future and celebrating his legacy. Mesa OutLoud! is organizing a farewell concert on May 4 to honor his contributions. The concert will unite current Mesa OutLoud! members and alumni to celebrate Franklin’s impact. While his departure marks the end of an era, his influence on CMU’s music theatre program will continue for years to come. 

“The great thing about my time at Mesa has been providing high-level theatre opportunities for the community thanks to all the wonderful colleagues I’ve had in this program,” said Franklin. “That’s what I’ll take with me, the stock in people. The dear colleagues, friends and former students who are now colleagues. The culmination of my time here is the people and connections I’ve gained.” 

Before he leaves, Grand Junction audiences will have one last chance to see Franklin’s work on stage, directing Ride the Cyclone. Ride the Cyclone runs from February 27 to March 8 in the Asteria Theatre. Tickets can be purchased at CMUStages.com/tickets.