J.R. was born and raised in California. After high school, he had the honor of touring around the world performing and teaching kids throughout 20 different countries including Japan, Russia, Germany, China, and South Africa. He then taught at a performing arts high school where he was instrumental in building the dance department, increasing male participation from just three to over 50! J.R. has choreographed many school musicals including Hairspray, Shrek The Musical, and Aida. He has had the opportunity to write, produce, choreograph, and direct three original circus-style shows—one of which, Blazing Tide, went on to be performed in Scotland at the Aberdeen International Youth Festival. More recently, J.R. was Associate Director, Choreographer, and a member of the college dance faculty for the non-profit performing arts organization, The Young Americans.