About Me
PAST
In 2015, I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in theatre with a minor in music from James Madison University (JMU). Attending a liberal arts college provided me with a comprehensive arts education, particularly emphasizing directing in the performing arts. While at JMU, I had the opportunity to direct three major productions; the first was the world premiere of Our Glorious Cause. I collaborated closely with the writers as a creative consultant, supporting the development of the show from the initial workshop reading through to opening night. Additionally, I spearheaded a successful new program at JMU that focused on the development and production of new works in theatre. The inaugural production of this series was the collegiate premiere of Ryan Scott Oliver's 35mm: A Musical Exhibition. Following that, I directed a staged reading of a student-written work called Dead Puffins. In conjunction with my senior thesis, I utilized my knowledge of theatre to create a theatrical event aimed at educating the community about the history of AIDS, highlighting how far we've come as a society and the ongoing fight today. The Out of the Darkness: A Broadway Cares Equity Fights AIDS Benefit brought together over 100 community members and raised funds to support BC/EFA. My education, love of theatre, and passion for inspiring others have set me on the career path I am on today as a theatre director.
PRESENT
I currently serve as the Associate Artistic Director and Education Director at the Titusville Playhouse in Brevard County, FL. This significant position has allowed me to grow as an artist, manager, educator, and person since I joined the Playhouse family. As the theatre's first intern in 2015, I have witnessed the theatre's remarkable growth, establishing it as a leading force for the arts education and performing arts in Central Florida. I've had the privilege to direct a diverse range of productions, from mainstage musicals and black box plays to educational theatre performed by and for students. The role of Education Director has been particularly fulfilling as I work with and inspire my students to cultivate their love of theatre through our Rising Stars program, many of whom have gone on to perform in mainstage shows or pursue further training in the theatre arts. Collaborating and creating alongside such amazing talent fuels my inspiration and motivates me to reach for the stars. In 2020, I was honored to receive the Arts Educator of the Decade Award from BroadwayWorld Orlando for my work with these students. Alongside my directing and management responsibilities, the Titusville Playhouse has also provided me the opportunity to enhance my skills in production and graphic design.
Being part of a positive change in the Central Florida community, where I have found a home for myself and my dog Maisey (who starred as Bruiser Woods in our production of Legally Blonde the Musical), has been the most rewarding aspect of my time in Titusville.
FUTURE
My hopes for my career as a theatre director are to continue to learn and grow by creating performing arts that inspire change. I want to be part of an inclusive and diverse community that believes in the importance of arts education, bringing the arts to all different types of people and cultures. By sharing stories from all walks of life and collaborating with other artists, I will continue to step out of my comfort zone and think outside the box. I will persist in spreading my love for the theatre, because creativity can change the world.