By Tine Roycroft

Josh Bardier, Worcester native and theatre talent extraordinaire, splits his time between New York, where he is the director/choreographer of “Holding Out For A Hero,” and London, where he recently helped produce “Betwixt! The Musical.” He’s what you’d call a quintuple threat ~ he can act, dance, sing, direct and choreograph. And at 24, this guy could be a one-man show without breaking a sweat.

In March, Bardier finished up guest directing/choreographing “Footloose” at Clark University. He’s graced the stage in major roles including Cornelius Hackl in Lyric Theatre Company’s “Hello, Dolly!” and Joseph in the Sterling Players’ “Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat.” Bardier earned his degree in Theatre at St. Michael’s College in Vermont, but as a grad of Venerini Academy and Saint Peter Marian High School, he loved coming home.

“’Footloose’ was an incredible experience,” says Bardier. “It was refreshing to work with a group of talented college students who were passionate and trusting enough to allow me to lead them on our version of the story. I am most grateful for the tremendous support we received and I cannot thank my entire cast and team enough for a wonderful journey.”

Despite a busy schedule, Bardier still found time to drive down Shrewsbury Street and stop by Yo Way on Park Avenue. But apart from a quick fro-yo break, he has no plans to relax. Bardier is already scheduled to direct and choreograph two musicals this summer and is also in talks to direct a Shakespearean comedy, one of the most challenging types of shows to tackle.

It’s no secret that theatre can be cutthroat. Each day, fresh talent is stepping on the stage, just waiting to be discovered. Bardier keeps his head above water with inner strength and determination. For those who are just starting out, he suggests avoiding “tunnel vision.”

“Challenge yourself and go beyond your comfort zones to face different means of expression and art,” Bardier says. “You may just surprise yourself and fall in love with another aspect of theatre, and life in general, that you never knew before.”

Through both the big parts and small, Bardier stresses the importance of keeping a journal.

“[Journaling] will sort out all of the things going on inside your head, allow you to process and cope with the challenges that are before you and it will help you face them with strength and dignity,” he says.

“And when you fall down, pick yourself up. Simple as that,” Bardier adds. He finds balance in his own life by keeping healthy and staying in contact with loving friends and family. During the tough times, he refreshes his spirit by going to see a production or enjoying a bit of chocolate. And as far as he’s concerned, he’ll never be too successful or busy to check in with his supportive mother at least once a day.

Follow Bardier’s exciting theatre life on Twitter: twitter.com/#!/joshbardier