In July of 2020, during the pandemic, Justin Baldridge returned to California where he is now the Theater Teacher at Van Nuys High School.

Previously, Justin Baldridge moved to New York City from California in 2016 to pursue his directorial career, with a plan to eventually start his own theater company.

Prior to this, he taught for 10 years and directed/musical directed more than 20 shows. During this time, he aimed to inspire and nurture the creative spirit of his students and cast through the art of acting. Through his efforts, his program at Redondo Union High School received nominations from the Jerry Herman Awards for acting and technical theatre and as well as awards at the Drama Teacher Association of Southern California’s Annual Festival. In addition, he taught private acting lessons for individuals and small groups.

Justin has also been a guest workshop presenter at the Florida State Thespian Conference teaching Laban movement and Shakespeare to high school students from all over Florida.

He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Theater and English from California State University, Fullerton and studied at Roosevelt University, Chicago earning his MA in Theatre Directing.

He was musical director for Polaris Productions from 2017 to 2020 and music directed Polaris’ Fiddler on the Roof Jr., Les Miserables, Once on This Island Jr., The Addams Family and Thoroughly Modern Millie. He also music directed Legally Blonde until March 2020, when it was postponed a month before opening night due to the pandemic.