Senior Artist Spotlight: Jane Shindnes ‘26

By Shreshta Agrawal ‘27/The Lawrence

Whether you have seen her onstage at a Dance Series performance or strike up a conversation with her at the Costume Shop in the Kirby Arts Center, Jane Shindnes ’26 is known as both an artist and a friend. Since arriving at Lawrenceville as a Third Former, Shindnes has explored the acts both old and new.

Before coming to Lawrenceville. Shindnes had built up a passion for dance, music, and theatre design. She remarked that she is “really interested in being as involved [in all aspects of the arts] as [she] can be.” Indeed Shindnes’ long-standing eagerness to explore the arts has drawn her into a variety of activities at Lawrenceville. After being at a dance conservatory for 12 years, Shindnes joined the Lawrenceville School Dance Company (LSDC).

“I dedicated my entire life to dance,” Shindnes said. “Dance here is intense but also the community I was looking for.”

She highlighted the supportive culture of arts at Lawrenceville, adding “There is always going to be a community here for you. I’ve met everyone through some form of the arts.”

For Shindnes, the arts have been a way to build both connections and self-confidence.

In spring 2025, Shindnes served as the assistant stage manager for the spring play, “Kodachrome.” She reflected, “I have never been in that kind of role before, but it was such a good group … it brings me back to the play’s last line, ‘I have loved.’”

Shindnes went on to remark, “I learned how to find my passion, which gave me a lot of motivation to pursue what ai wanted instead of what others wanted me to do.” Shindnes emphasized the importance of embracing every chance you get – or at least dipping a toe in every possible facet of opportunity. Shindnes recalled first entering the School’s Costume Shop as a makeup artist during Tech Week for the 2023 fall musical, “Amelie.”

Fascinated with the technical processes involved in producing a show, Shindnes recalled, “I just started going back and I haven’t left since.” In fact, Shindnes mentioned plans to pursue theatre in the future. “The arts . . . have given me a direction,” she said.

In her free time, Shindnes often watches theatre rehearsals or goes backstage to help or learn in any way possible. She values small acts of appreciation as sources of inspiration and social connection. She noted that “just reaching out to people” has helped her meet a wide variety of artists and leaders who have inspired her to step into the most unexpected of roles. Shindnes advised Lawrentians to “try and try again,” whether it be for an audition or any other opportunity offered on campus.

“If you want something, go for it,” she said. “The best thing that can happen is you get a lead role and, at worst, you make some great memories and friends and you don’t have any regrets.”

Shindnes is an artist unafraid to try. By seeking out opportunities at every turn and embracing unexpected possibilities, she immerses herself in spaces that are both passionate and supportive, modeling the inviting community she first joined at Lawrenceville.

For more information, contact Lisa M. Gillard H'17, director of public relations, at lgillard@lawrenceville.org.