Jennifer McHugh is the Artistic Director of Parker Players Theater Company, where she leads a fearless creative team that has grown PPTC into a regionally respected destination for compelling, actor-driven theater-drawing talent and audiences from Barrington and across Chicagoland.

A lifelong storyteller, Jennifer has been an avid reader, "pretender," performer, and theater-lover since childhood. Whether acting, singing, dancing, or directing, the stage has always felt like home.

Jennifer pairs her artistic instincts with a strong business background. She began her career in the production department at Steppenwolf Theatre, earned her MBA from the University of Chicago, and later worked in advertising at Leo Burnett. She believes this blend of strategic thinking and creative vision is the perfect recipe for leading a modern nonprofit theater company.

Jennifer and her husband, Dan, raised their three daughters in Barrington-now grown and pursuing paths from a BFA in acting to medical school. And while Jennifer now spends most of her time behind the scenes bringing great theater to life, she still loves stepping into the spotlight, including her upcoming turn in 2026's Dancing with the Barrington Stars. She is delighted to support Bacoa through this fundraising event-and hopes you'll cheer, laugh, and give generously to this extraordinary nonprofit.