“I hope you are proud of yourself for the times you’ve said “yes,” when all it meant was extra work for you and was seemingly helpful only to someone else.”

This Mr. Rogers quote fits Jacob Blue perfectly, he has been a leader in Lancer Media and stage manager for drama. He is also focused on helping others become their best.

Jacob Blue is one of seven contestants competing for the annual Mr. Linganore title. He decided to participate in this competition portraying the American television icon, Mister Rogers. Blue is sponsored by Brownie’s Auto Repair.

“I saw the new movie A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood where it talks about his life, what he meant to people and the impact he’s had on his community. These are all core values that I admire, which is why I wanted to portray him,” said Blue. 

Blue appreciates the warmth and comforting nature of Mr. Rogers. He believes that Mr. Rogers’ life lessons and core values can be taught not only to children, but also adults nationwide. 

Blue thanks part of his decision to enter the competition to Lincoln Robisch, a 2017 Mr. Linganore competitor. Robisch asked Blue to be a part of his opening on the night of the competition. This experience inspired Blue, as he gradually intensified his love of theater throughout his years of high school. His notable drama appearances include his role of Lumière in the Spring 2019 production of Beauty and the Beast, Dave in the Fall 2018 production of Almost Maine, Jeter in the Spring 2018 production of Footloose  Asher in the Fall 2017 production of The Giver and Lucas in the Spring 2017 production of The Addams Family.

Audiences can see Jacob Blue as Race in the spring production of Newsies.

“Jacob Blue is the total package. He is charismatic, he is funny, he is hardworking, and definitely worthy of being Mr. Linganore. He’s blown me away since he was a freshman, but particularly this year, he was one of my student directors for the fall and he showed such confidence and student leadership. He’s definitely a great kid,” said drama teacher Angela Smithhisler.

Blue’s escort/dance partner is Rhiannon Seyfreid, and his manager is Elizabeth Gilmore. They both will help Blue to make his performance in the contest unforgettable. 

Blue plans to major in communications for television, film, and emerging media. His life goal is to write for movies. Blue is also an Eagle Scout and a part of the National Honor Society, the National English Honor Society, and the president of the International Thespian Society.

Mr. Linganore is a yearly event that raises funds for academic awards programs.