Jhalana J.

Jhalana, known artistically as Lotus Serene, is a passionate vocalist, performer, and educator with years of experience on stage and in the classroom. She has starred in leading roles such as Joanne in Rent, Sarah in Ragtime, Lucy in You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, and Aida in Aida, and has appeared in musicals like Cabaret, Hello, Dolly!, and Mamma Mia at local theaters including Joe Jefferson Playhouse. Outside of theatre, she’s performed at events like the Wavy Tour, Hoodstock Festival, and Night of the Rockin’ Dead concert, and has also been featured as a live vocalist at OWA. She is often hired to sing at private parties, special events, and community functions. She also spent a semester teaching children’s music at Craighead Elementary through CLCC and is excited about working with students of all ages. Her teaching style is rooted in the belief that anyone with a voice can sing, and that with time, encouragement, and guidance, anyone can grow into their sound.Her musical influences are as diverse as her experience. She draws inspiration from gospel and R&B artists like Mary Mary, Tamela Mann, and Tyrese; classical and operatic styles; powerful musical theatre voices like Cynthia Erivo and Sara Bareilles; Broadway shows like Hairspray and Dreamgirls; mainstream pop icons like Beyoncé, Ariana Grande, SZA, and Lizzo; and spiritually grounded artists like India Arie, Jhené Aiko, and Erykah Badu. These influences shape both her sound and her teaching approach, allowing her to support each student in finding their own voice and style. She is currently working toward her Associate of Arts in Music and has future plans to combine her love of music with holistic wellness through music and art therapy. She previously ran a small herbal tea and wellness business under the name Lotus Serene, and continues to center her creative work around helping people feel, heal, and express themselves. She’s truly excited to connect with others through music and to help each student grow in confidence, creativity, and joy.