THE HISTORY OF THE ARTS & LEARNING CONSERVATORY
WHAT BEGAN AS JUST A SUMMER CAMP
Coming from humble beginnings as the youngest of seven children, Founder Debora Wondercheck, saw the life-changing impact that music had on her family. Through hard work, and dedication, she and her siblings were able to attend the universities of their choice as string musicians.
Recognizing the profound effect that high-quality arts opportunities had on her own life and those around her, Debora used her passion to establish the Arts & Learning Conservatory (ALC). Inspired by her mother's faith in God, and determination to see that her children would have access to an arts education, Debora embarked on a similar journey to give all children this same exposure to the arts regardless of their background or experience.
What began as a summer camp for just thirteen string musicians and eight actors, has now grown to serve over 1,000 children every year, reaching over 10,000 in audiences annually. Debora's dream of "paying it forward" through creating arts opportunities to help children see and fulfill their potential, was realized and has become the heart of the Arts & Learning Conservatory.
NOW LEADS A LEGACY OF ARTS AND LEARNING IN ORANGE COUNTY
.jpg)
.jpeg)
_JPG.jpg)
ADVISORY BOARD
Charlene Ashendorf | Denis Cole | Jen Davies | Jeff Hittenberger | Pamela Hoffman | Andrew Horowitz | Chris Jones | John Kurth | Mary Lyons | Chris Lynch | Megan Lynch | Jeremy McEligot | Jim Mortensen | Ram Rao | Sandyia Rao | Irma Ruiz | Corrine Anderson Schoepe | Bob Taylor | Chris Trela
TEACHING ARTISTS
Jeremy Apodaca
Director
Jeremy Apodaca has a bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts with an Emphasis. Through his career, he has performed in several venues, including Knott’s Berry Farm and the Yost Theater. In recent years, he has shifted gears to teaching Theatre to students of all ages. For the last six years, Jeremy has worked at Public, Charter, and Christian Schools as well as Private Studios helping to foster the creativity and confidence of the next generation of performers.
Jeremy Apodaca has a bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts with an Emphasis. Through his career, he has performed in several venues, including Knott’s Berry Farm and the Yost Theater. In recent years, he has shifted gears to teaching Theatre to students of all ages. For the last six years, Jeremy has worked at Public, Charter, and Christian Schools as well as Private Studios helping to foster the creativity and confidence of the next generation of performers.
Keenah Armitage
Theatre
Keenah was a Broadway actress, musical theatre professor, choreographer, and director. She is now a Success Coach for spiritual-aligned, professional performing artists and the creator of the Thriving Artist Method. Keenah specializes in teaches her clients how to transform their subconscious identity, create clarity & vision, and build brand equity so that they can design a career on their terms while living their desired lifestyle offstage.
Keenah was a Broadway actress, musical theatre professor, choreographer, and director. She is now a Success Coach for spiritual-aligned, professional performing artists and the creator of the Thriving Artist Method. Keenah specializes in teaches her clients how to transform their subconscious identity, create clarity & vision, and build brand equity so that they can design a career on their terms while living their desired lifestyle offstage.
Jolene Automo
Teaching Artist
Jolene Automo just graduated California Baptist University in May 2022 with a B.A. in Theatre
with a concentration in Performance. Some of her past credits include, Dorothy Gale (Wizard of
Oz), Henrietta Leavitt (Silent Sky), Gabriella Montez (High School Musical), Florinda (Into the
Woods). When Jolene is not performing she also enjoys Directing, Writing and Creating original
music. Jolene has work experience teaching kids Musical Theatre Dance, Ballet, Tap as well as
Assistant Directing for several Children’s Musicals. She is so excited to get to know your kids
and have so much fun teaching this course with the Arts and Learning Conservatory!
Jolene Automo just graduated California Baptist University in May 2022 with a B.A. in Theatre
with a concentration in Performance. Some of her past credits include, Dorothy Gale (Wizard of
Oz), Henrietta Leavitt (Silent Sky), Gabriella Montez (High School Musical), Florinda (Into the
Woods). When Jolene is not performing she also enjoys Directing, Writing and Creating original
music. Jolene has work experience teaching kids Musical Theatre Dance, Ballet, Tap as well as
Assistant Directing for several Children’s Musicals. She is so excited to get to know your kids
and have so much fun teaching this course with the Arts and Learning Conservatory!
Kat Balboa
Director/Choreographer
Kat Balboa has spent the last six years teaching middle school theatre and directing the after school theatre program that she began on her school campus in Culver City, CA. Her favorite directorial credits include Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, S.E. Hinton’s The Outsiders, and Meredith Wilson’s The Music Man. Her favorite role as a performer so far has been playing Camila Rosario in Lin Manuel Miranda’s In the Heights. Kat is thrilled to be joining the Arts and Learning conservatory this summer, directing Willy Wonka. She is passionate about bringing theatre to people of diverse identities, particularly those who do not already see themselves represented or belonging in the theatre space. She hopes to contribute to the incredible work being done here by facilitating a supportive community where all feel welcome, supported, and encouraged to thrive.
Kat Balboa has spent the last six years teaching middle school theatre and directing the after school theatre program that she began on her school campus in Culver City, CA. Her favorite directorial credits include Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, S.E. Hinton’s The Outsiders, and Meredith Wilson’s The Music Man. Her favorite role as a performer so far has been playing Camila Rosario in Lin Manuel Miranda’s In the Heights. Kat is thrilled to be joining the Arts and Learning conservatory this summer, directing Willy Wonka. She is passionate about bringing theatre to people of diverse identities, particularly those who do not already see themselves represented or belonging in the theatre space. She hopes to contribute to the incredible work being done here by facilitating a supportive community where all feel welcome, supported, and encouraged to thrive.
Jennifer Bales
Theatre
Jennifer graduated from Chapman University in 2012 with a B.A. in English Literature and minors in vocal music and dance. Jennifer has been involved in performing arts from a young age. She began dancing at the age of 3. At 6 she joined the Pacific Chorale children’s chorus program. Around the same time, Jennifer discovered her passion for musical theater by participating in theater summer camps. Jennifer is equally in love with singing, dancing, and acting, so musical theater quickly found a very special place in her heart and remains a huge part of her life to this day. Stage credits include Oklahoma!, Man of la Mancha, Grease, Fiddler on the Roof, Li’l Abner, and Beauty and the Beast. Additionally, Jennifer has been a member of two dance companies and has also used her dance skills performing in and choreographing music videos for local LA artists. When Jennifer is not teaching, she can be found on stage at Teatro Martini on the weekends, an OC-based dinner theater of which she is an original cast member.
If anything matches her passion for the performing arts, it is being able to share that passion with her students. Jennifer has been teaching since 2008-everything from ballet to hip hop to voice to musical theater. Arts education is incredibly important, and Jennifer can attest to the huge role performing arts has played in her development, confidence, and happiness. She is thrilled to be able to share that passion and joy with her students!
Jennifer graduated from Chapman University in 2012 with a B.A. in English Literature and minors in vocal music and dance. Jennifer has been involved in performing arts from a young age. She began dancing at the age of 3. At 6 she joined the Pacific Chorale children’s chorus program. Around the same time, Jennifer discovered her passion for musical theater by participating in theater summer camps. Jennifer is equally in love with singing, dancing, and acting, so musical theater quickly found a very special place in her heart and remains a huge part of her life to this day. Stage credits include Oklahoma!, Man of la Mancha, Grease, Fiddler on the Roof, Li’l Abner, and Beauty and the Beast. Additionally, Jennifer has been a member of two dance companies and has also used her dance skills performing in and choreographing music videos for local LA artists. When Jennifer is not teaching, she can be found on stage at Teatro Martini on the weekends, an OC-based dinner theater of which she is an original cast member.
If anything matches her passion for the performing arts, it is being able to share that passion with her students. Jennifer has been teaching since 2008-everything from ballet to hip hop to voice to musical theater. Arts education is incredibly important, and Jennifer can attest to the huge role performing arts has played in her development, confidence, and happiness. She is thrilled to be able to share that passion and joy with her students!
Alison Bassett
Theatre
Alison Bassett is a recent graduate from Vanguard University and has been performing in musicals for over 10 years and has been teaching musical theatre for over 5 years. She has grown up participating in multiple youth theatre programs and loved every minute of it. She has experience in teaching jazz, tap, musical theater camps, and choreographing full musical productions. Alison is so excited to be a part of the Arts and Learning Team and provide kids with the resources to participate in high-quality performances!
Alison Bassett is a recent graduate from Vanguard University and has been performing in musicals for over 10 years and has been teaching musical theatre for over 5 years. She has grown up participating in multiple youth theatre programs and loved every minute of it. She has experience in teaching jazz, tap, musical theater camps, and choreographing full musical productions. Alison is so excited to be a part of the Arts and Learning Team and provide kids with the resources to participate in high-quality performances!
Haley Bess
Theatre
Haley Bess has been working in choir and theatre for her whole life, first as a performer, and then as a stage manager and director for the past six years. She loves working with kids, and now that she has one of her own, she hopes that her daughter will love the arts as much as she does. We’re very excited to have her as a part of our Arts & Learning team and you can find Haley teaching our after school theatre classes, bringing her love of theatre and education to the classroom.
Haley Bess has been working in choir and theatre for her whole life, first as a performer, and then as a stage manager and director for the past six years. She loves working with kids, and now that she has one of her own, she hopes that her daughter will love the arts as much as she does. We’re very excited to have her as a part of our Arts & Learning team and you can find Haley teaching our after school theatre classes, bringing her love of theatre and education to the classroom.
Agnieszka Borzuchowski
Strings Teacher
Agnieszka was born in Warsaw, Poland and has been playing the violin for 21 years. She was trained in Classical violin and is finishing her Master’s Degree in Violin Performance at the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music where she held the position a Principle 2nd Violin and Concertmaster. She has been part of the Young Peoples Symphony Youth Orchestra, Berkeley Youth Orchestra, Oakland Youth Orchestra and the University Symphony Orchestra at CSU Long Beach. She has traveled with orchestras and played all over the world including Italy, Poland, Greece, China, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and South Korea. Agnieszka teaches violin to people of all ages, at schools and privately, and is the conductor of the Long Beach Chamber Music Group. She performs with the La Mirada Symphony and the Plaza String Quartet in addition to focusing on her contemporary violin endeavors with the Vicious Kinids. She also plays with the Celtic band Craic in the Stone.
Agnieszka was born in Warsaw, Poland and has been playing the violin for 21 years. She was trained in Classical violin and is finishing her Master’s Degree in Violin Performance at the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music where she held the position a Principle 2nd Violin and Concertmaster. She has been part of the Young Peoples Symphony Youth Orchestra, Berkeley Youth Orchestra, Oakland Youth Orchestra and the University Symphony Orchestra at CSU Long Beach. She has traveled with orchestras and played all over the world including Italy, Poland, Greece, China, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and South Korea. Agnieszka teaches violin to people of all ages, at schools and privately, and is the conductor of the Long Beach Chamber Music Group. She performs with the La Mirada Symphony and the Plaza String Quartet in addition to focusing on her contemporary violin endeavors with the Vicious Kinids. She also plays with the Celtic band Craic in the Stone.
Drew Boudreau
College Audition Instructor
Drew Boudreau is the founder of College Audition Pros. Since founding the company, he’s been featured in Playbill, Broadway News, Broadway.com and many more. His students have been accepted to Pace, Boston Conservatory, Point Park, Baldwin Wallace and many others. He’s an also an actor and comedian with credits including Off-Broadway, national tours & regional.
Drew Boudreau is the founder of College Audition Pros. Since founding the company, he’s been featured in Playbill, Broadway News, Broadway.com and many more. His students have been accepted to Pace, Boston Conservatory, Point Park, Baldwin Wallace and many others. He’s an also an actor and comedian with credits including Off-Broadway, national tours & regional.
Maddie Bourgeois
Choreographer/Vocals
Maddie Bourgeois has been a theatre artist for over a decade in Southern California. She is currently pursuing her BFA of Theatre Performance and Musical Theatre at Chapman University. She is a recipient of the National Youth Arts award for Best Lead Actress in a Musical, as well as Chapman University College of Performing Arts’ Henry Kemp Blair Award for Best Lead Actress. In her free time, Maddie enjoys exploring Disneyland, vintage shopping, and spoiling her quarantine kitten, Bean. She is so excited to lead students through a fast-paced and fun musical theatre camp this summer!
Maddie Bourgeois has been a theatre artist for over a decade in Southern California. She is currently pursuing her BFA of Theatre Performance and Musical Theatre at Chapman University. She is a recipient of the National Youth Arts award for Best Lead Actress in a Musical, as well as Chapman University College of Performing Arts’ Henry Kemp Blair Award for Best Lead Actress. In her free time, Maddie enjoys exploring Disneyland, vintage shopping, and spoiling her quarantine kitten, Bean. She is so excited to lead students through a fast-paced and fun musical theatre camp this summer!
Ethan Boyle
Director
Ethan is making his Arts & Learning debut and is blessed to be doing so. He is nearly a college graduate from Vanguard University majoring in theatre and film. He would like to thank everyone at Arts & Learning Conservatory for giving him this amazing opportunity to direct such amazing children. Big shout out to his entire team, Gabrielle (who also happens to be his beautiful fiance), Ali, Zach, Kelly, and Art! God bless.
Ethan is making his Arts & Learning debut and is blessed to be doing so. He is nearly a college graduate from Vanguard University majoring in theatre and film. He would like to thank everyone at Arts & Learning Conservatory for giving him this amazing opportunity to direct such amazing children. Big shout out to his entire team, Gabrielle (who also happens to be his beautiful fiance), Ali, Zach, Kelly, and Art! God bless.
Teresa Brubaker
Choreographer
Teresa began her training as a dance instructor while she was in high school, performing with the Delaware Dance Company in Newark, DE. She received her BFA in Dance Education at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, PA, where she studied under many great dancers. During and after college, Teresa worked as a dancer, and puppeteer at Sesame Place in Langhorne, PA, and two National Tours with Sesame Street Live. For the last 25 years, Teresa’s focus has become preparing and supporting the next generation of artists. She has done this with her teaching and award-winning choreography on both the East and West Coasts, in high schools, colleges, private dance studios, churches, and musical theater companies. Upon coming to Orange County, she developed the Entertainment Department at Adventure City theme park, where she auditioned, hired, and trained the original puppeteers, wrote and directed the shows, and was the Director of Entertainment. In order to best serve her students, Teresa is always continuing her education, researching new training and education techniques, and studying with some of the best performers and directors in the world, including the Broadway Teachers Workshop in New York City, where she attends lectures, and participates in sessions led by the professionals currently working on Broadway.
Teresa began her training as a dance instructor while she was in high school, performing with the Delaware Dance Company in Newark, DE. She received her BFA in Dance Education at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, PA, where she studied under many great dancers. During and after college, Teresa worked as a dancer, and puppeteer at Sesame Place in Langhorne, PA, and two National Tours with Sesame Street Live. For the last 25 years, Teresa’s focus has become preparing and supporting the next generation of artists. She has done this with her teaching and award-winning choreography on both the East and West Coasts, in high schools, colleges, private dance studios, churches, and musical theater companies. Upon coming to Orange County, she developed the Entertainment Department at Adventure City theme park, where she auditioned, hired, and trained the original puppeteers, wrote and directed the shows, and was the Director of Entertainment. In order to best serve her students, Teresa is always continuing her education, researching new training and education techniques, and studying with some of the best performers and directors in the world, including the Broadway Teachers Workshop in New York City, where she attends lectures, and participates in sessions led by the professionals currently working on Broadway.
Kristin Camacho
Choreographer
Kristin Camacho is thrilled to be working with the Arts & Learning Conservatory for the first time this summer. She is a recent graduate of St. John’s University in Queens, New York where she studied English and Theatre. With a lifetime of dance and theatre experience both onstage and off, Kristin is excited to share her love for the arts with her students.
Kristin Camacho is thrilled to be working with the Arts & Learning Conservatory for the first time this summer. She is a recent graduate of St. John’s University in Queens, New York where she studied English and Theatre. With a lifetime of dance and theatre experience both onstage and off, Kristin is excited to share her love for the arts with her students.
Shaun Carmer
Band Teacher
Brianne Pantalone Civitillo
Theatre
Originally from Glenville, New York, Brianne is a graduate of Teachers College, Columbia University and Westminster Choir College of Rider University. During her time at Westminster, Brianne was a member of the GRAMMY nominated Williamson Voices and the world renown Westminster Symphonic Choir. She has performed around the globe including legendary locations such as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, the Kimmel Center, and Oxford University where she made her international solo debut. While living in New York City, Brianne taught Special Education and worked with children with Autism at the Center for Opportunities and Outcomes for People with Disabilities as an instructor for the Chinatown Project. She is a former member of the Manhattan Choral Ensemble and a current active artist with The
Same Stream Choir. Brianne recently performed as Nellie Forbush in South Pacific, Urleen in Footloose, and Sophie in Annie. She also recently directed Frozen Jr. and Seussical Jr., and did the music direction for Addams Family Jr., Spamalot, and Peter Pan.
Brianne currently teaches elementary special education in the Newport-Mesa Unified School District and fills her free time by training for marathons, working on her photography, traveling, and researching how students with disabilities can use music as a means
for communication.
Originally from Glenville, New York, Brianne is a graduate of Teachers College, Columbia University and Westminster Choir College of Rider University. During her time at Westminster, Brianne was a member of the GRAMMY nominated Williamson Voices and the world renown Westminster Symphonic Choir. She has performed around the globe including legendary locations such as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, the Kimmel Center, and Oxford University where she made her international solo debut. While living in New York City, Brianne taught Special Education and worked with children with Autism at the Center for Opportunities and Outcomes for People with Disabilities as an instructor for the Chinatown Project. She is a former member of the Manhattan Choral Ensemble and a current active artist with The
Same Stream Choir. Brianne recently performed as Nellie Forbush in South Pacific, Urleen in Footloose, and Sophie in Annie. She also recently directed Frozen Jr. and Seussical Jr., and did the music direction for Addams Family Jr., Spamalot, and Peter Pan.
Brianne currently teaches elementary special education in the Newport-Mesa Unified School District and fills her free time by training for marathons, working on her photography, traveling, and researching how students with disabilities can use music as a means
for communication.
Liz Coppin
Theatre
Born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, Liz grew up watching theater in local community stages. Her mother was a well known community theatre actress in their neighborhood and brought the love of musicals and productions into their home. "On any given day, my mother would be playing Hello Dolly or Evita or Grease, and all 6 of us kids would be performing and singing along," recalls Liz with a huge smile. "It seemed so natural to us. Little did I know, my mother gave us such a gift of music and theatre that would change the trajectory of my entire life."
Liz attended Columbia College with a major in Public Relations and Strategic Communications and a minor in Theatre Arts. "Being first generation Mexican American, I was usually the only Latina auditioning for plays in those years and would come home so frustrated because the directors would never know where to cast me. My parents and grandparents supported me and taught me that, in time, my hard work and discipline would pay off. Within two years, I was able to secure roles like Masha in Checkhov's Three Sisters and Nora in Ibsen's A Doll House." A few years after graduation, Liz moved to Los Angeles and had a successful career in film and television securing roles on popular shows like Days of our Lives, CSI Miami and Disney Channel sitcoms.
Liz is a proud mom to her 18 year old daughter, Samantha, and 8 year old son, Jackson Bear. Liz has continued to pursue her love of acting focussing more on her passion for theatre. She was most recently seen performing at the Long Beach Playhouse's production of Lend Me A Tenor where she played the loud and jealous Italian wife, Maria. Liz is grateful for the opportunity to be a small part of the Arts and Learning Conservatory's mission. She is beyond excited to share her passion for theatre arts with her students and fellow teachers. "I hope to help children realize their full potential using theatre techniques as the tool to begin planting their seeds of confidence as this art form did for me from 7 to 47."
Born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, Liz grew up watching theater in local community stages. Her mother was a well known community theatre actress in their neighborhood and brought the love of musicals and productions into their home. "On any given day, my mother would be playing Hello Dolly or Evita or Grease, and all 6 of us kids would be performing and singing along," recalls Liz with a huge smile. "It seemed so natural to us. Little did I know, my mother gave us such a gift of music and theatre that would change the trajectory of my entire life."
Liz attended Columbia College with a major in Public Relations and Strategic Communications and a minor in Theatre Arts. "Being first generation Mexican American, I was usually the only Latina auditioning for plays in those years and would come home so frustrated because the directors would never know where to cast me. My parents and grandparents supported me and taught me that, in time, my hard work and discipline would pay off. Within two years, I was able to secure roles like Masha in Checkhov's Three Sisters and Nora in Ibsen's A Doll House." A few years after graduation, Liz moved to Los Angeles and had a successful career in film and television securing roles on popular shows like Days of our Lives, CSI Miami and Disney Channel sitcoms.
Liz is a proud mom to her 18 year old daughter, Samantha, and 8 year old son, Jackson Bear. Liz has continued to pursue her love of acting focussing more on her passion for theatre. She was most recently seen performing at the Long Beach Playhouse's production of Lend Me A Tenor where she played the loud and jealous Italian wife, Maria. Liz is grateful for the opportunity to be a small part of the Arts and Learning Conservatory's mission. She is beyond excited to share her passion for theatre arts with her students and fellow teachers. "I hope to help children realize their full potential using theatre techniques as the tool to begin planting their seeds of confidence as this art form did for me from 7 to 47."
Kristin Cortines
Theatre
Kristin Cortines started her theatre career at the young age of 4. She started out in the film industry acting in commercials, music videos, and modeling for doll boxes. It wasn’t much later that she realized her true home is on the stage acting in live productions. She’s been involved in at least two shows a year ever since mostly on stage but also dabbling in technical theatre and stage management.
Kristin is currently an undergraduate student at University of California Irvine with a major in Drama and a minor in Education. She is thrilled to be able to peruse both her passions, theatre and teaching, with Arts and Learning
Kristin Cortines started her theatre career at the young age of 4. She started out in the film industry acting in commercials, music videos, and modeling for doll boxes. It wasn’t much later that she realized her true home is on the stage acting in live productions. She’s been involved in at least two shows a year ever since mostly on stage but also dabbling in technical theatre and stage management.
Kristin is currently an undergraduate student at University of California Irvine with a major in Drama and a minor in Education. She is thrilled to be able to peruse both her passions, theatre and teaching, with Arts and Learning
Calista Domingcil
Vocal/Asst. Choreographer
Calista was born and raised in the Central Valley where she found her passion in music, dance, and teaching. Calista has been performing as long as she can remember. She grew up doing competitive dance and singing with her dad. She started choreographing at the age of 16 and still helps with her high school with their annual spring show. She recently graduated from Vanguard University with a bachelor’s in music education. She will be continuing her education at CSU Long Beach to attain her Single Subject Credential.
Calista was born and raised in the Central Valley where she found her passion in music, dance, and teaching. Calista has been performing as long as she can remember. She grew up doing competitive dance and singing with her dad. She started choreographing at the age of 16 and still helps with her high school with their annual spring show. She recently graduated from Vanguard University with a bachelor’s in music education. She will be continuing her education at CSU Long Beach to attain her Single Subject Credential.
Sherry Domerengo
Theatre
With over 150 theatrical productions to her credit, Sherry has been involved in the magical world of theater for more than 30 years. In the recent past, she was a theater class instructor for the Orange County Children’s Therapeutic Arts Center in the Santa Ana School District and she has also taught classes for Arts & Learning Conservatory. She is overjoyed to now have opportunity to share her passion for the performing arts with children and to watch the children thrive and grow. Proud to be part of the Arts & Learning Conservatory.
With over 150 theatrical productions to her credit, Sherry has been involved in the magical world of theater for more than 30 years. In the recent past, she was a theater class instructor for the Orange County Children’s Therapeutic Arts Center in the Santa Ana School District and she has also taught classes for Arts & Learning Conservatory. She is overjoyed to now have opportunity to share her passion for the performing arts with children and to watch the children thrive and grow. Proud to be part of the Arts & Learning Conservatory.
Eddie Drayton
World Percussionist
Eddie Drayton is originally from Bayonne N.J. and was a snare drummer for seven years with the 3-time DCI champions Bayonne Bridgemen drumline. Relocating to Los Angeles in 1987, Eddie taught high school and college percussion in addition to his position as the Pit Percussion Arranger/Instructor for the Velvet Knights Drum Corps, Anaheim, CA for several years.
Eddie began working in the LA music scene, his work ranging from radio voiceover commercials, drum and dance ensembles, animated kid shows for Saban Entertainment (Battle Tech, Power Rangers, and the Mouse and The Monster), and playing in several of the best house bands in town. His work includes performing and/or recording with such artists and producers as Gerald LeVert, David Rudder, Calypso Rose, Maxx Benitt, Rick James, Gap Band, Ivan Neville, Preston Smith, Robert Grenich, Jeff Kashiwa, Antonio Banderas, Ricky Martin, Charo, Jackie DeShannon, Beth Hart, Antigone Rising, Oliver Leiber, Desmond Childs, and Jerry Goldsmith
Eddie continues to record and perform, recently recording music for MBC comedy “Super Store” and is percussionist on the latest Fdeluxe recording “Am Static” produced by Oliver Leiber. He is also a percussionist for World Ensemble “Panjive”.
Eddie is currently the Director of Percussion at Saddleback High School in Santa Ana, CA.
Eddie Drayton is originally from Bayonne N.J. and was a snare drummer for seven years with the 3-time DCI champions Bayonne Bridgemen drumline. Relocating to Los Angeles in 1987, Eddie taught high school and college percussion in addition to his position as the Pit Percussion Arranger/Instructor for the Velvet Knights Drum Corps, Anaheim, CA for several years.
Eddie began working in the LA music scene, his work ranging from radio voiceover commercials, drum and dance ensembles, animated kid shows for Saban Entertainment (Battle Tech, Power Rangers, and the Mouse and The Monster), and playing in several of the best house bands in town. His work includes performing and/or recording with such artists and producers as Gerald LeVert, David Rudder, Calypso Rose, Maxx Benitt, Rick James, Gap Band, Ivan Neville, Preston Smith, Robert Grenich, Jeff Kashiwa, Antonio Banderas, Ricky Martin, Charo, Jackie DeShannon, Beth Hart, Antigone Rising, Oliver Leiber, Desmond Childs, and Jerry Goldsmith
Eddie continues to record and perform, recently recording music for MBC comedy “Super Store” and is percussionist on the latest Fdeluxe recording “Am Static” produced by Oliver Leiber. He is also a percussionist for World Ensemble “Panjive”.
Eddie is currently the Director of Percussion at Saddleback High School in Santa Ana, CA.
John Espino
Theatre/Film
John Espino teaches acting for the camera from child to adult. Being an actor himself he is just as at home on stage as he is being in front of the camera. He has acted in many stage productions, works on production and sound, video and special effects, and has directed many of youth productions. John has also written and directed several national commercials and automotive how-to television shows. He is also a capable cameraman, recording stage performances and working on independent films.
John Espino teaches acting for the camera from child to adult. Being an actor himself he is just as at home on stage as he is being in front of the camera. He has acted in many stage productions, works on production and sound, video and special effects, and has directed many of youth productions. John has also written and directed several national commercials and automotive how-to television shows. He is also a capable cameraman, recording stage performances and working on independent films.
Roz Esposito
Voice
Roz graduated the Mannes College of Music in New York City as a voice major and went on to sing professionally as a soloist and background singer for national TV and radio commercials, including, I Love New York, which she sang with the late Luther Vandross. Her voice and original songs have been featured on national TV, on the Lifetime channel, in daytime drama and in Off-Broadway productions.
Studying with the top vocal coaches in New York City gave Roz a deep understanding of how sound is produced and how to break through our inhibitions and allow our “true voice” to emerge. She’s been teaching children and adults, both privately and in schools and centers, for 30+ years. While still living in New York City, she coordinated the music program at The Jewish Guild for the Blind and The Bridge, a halfway house for adults with mental challenges. After moving to Los Angeles in 1998, Roz became the music teacher at the Frances Blend School for visually challenged elementary children. Roz approaches everything with enthusiasm, encouragement and patience. She believes that self-expression is vital to us all, and can be easily accessed in a safe supportive space.
Roz’s songs have been featured on The Young and The Restless, the Lifetime channel, in daytime drama and in Off-Broadway productions. Roz’s original musical, Living Over the Rainbow, was a Semi Finalist in the 2018 Eugene O’Neill Nation Musical Theatre Conference and is currently being produced by a two-time Tony-nominated Broadway producer.
Roz graduated the Mannes College of Music in New York City as a voice major and went on to sing professionally as a soloist and background singer for national TV and radio commercials, including, I Love New York, which she sang with the late Luther Vandross. Her voice and original songs have been featured on national TV, on the Lifetime channel, in daytime drama and in Off-Broadway productions.
Studying with the top vocal coaches in New York City gave Roz a deep understanding of how sound is produced and how to break through our inhibitions and allow our “true voice” to emerge. She’s been teaching children and adults, both privately and in schools and centers, for 30+ years. While still living in New York City, she coordinated the music program at The Jewish Guild for the Blind and The Bridge, a halfway house for adults with mental challenges. After moving to Los Angeles in 1998, Roz became the music teacher at the Frances Blend School for visually challenged elementary children. Roz approaches everything with enthusiasm, encouragement and patience. She believes that self-expression is vital to us all, and can be easily accessed in a safe supportive space.
Roz’s songs have been featured on The Young and The Restless, the Lifetime channel, in daytime drama and in Off-Broadway productions. Roz’s original musical, Living Over the Rainbow, was a Semi Finalist in the 2018 Eugene O’Neill Nation Musical Theatre Conference and is currently being produced by a two-time Tony-nominated Broadway producer.
Ryan Fredericks
Director
Ryan Fredericks has been directing and teaching all over Orange County for the last 6 years.
Some of his credits include Addams Family, High School Musical Jr, Alice Jr and Singing in the
Rain Jr. He also just came off directing Shrek this past spring/early summer. Besides directing,
he also is a seasoned performer with over 75 credits to his name. He graduated from AMDA LA
with a Bachelor’s Degree in Acting. Directing and teaching have become a huge passion of his.
He loves to help people of all ages find a love for acting and to come alongside and help
people find their characters in an authentic and truthful way. He is so excited to be a part of
ALC and can’t wait to see what’s in store!
Ryan Fredericks has been directing and teaching all over Orange County for the last 6 years.
Some of his credits include Addams Family, High School Musical Jr, Alice Jr and Singing in the
Rain Jr. He also just came off directing Shrek this past spring/early summer. Besides directing,
he also is a seasoned performer with over 75 credits to his name. He graduated from AMDA LA
with a Bachelor’s Degree in Acting. Directing and teaching have become a huge passion of his.
He loves to help people of all ages find a love for acting and to come alongside and help
people find their characters in an authentic and truthful way. He is so excited to be a part of
ALC and can’t wait to see what’s in store!
Evie Halopoff
I love to perform and I love to teach. I've been fortunate enough to spend most of my life doing both. As a performer I have traveled the world singing and dancing in shows such as West Side Story, where I played the role of Anita. I performed as a dancer and singer with Disney's "Kids of the Kingdom," touring and performing in their theme parks. I performed with the world famous Young Americans as well as with many famous artists such as Bob Hope, Donald O'connor, Crystal Gayle, and many more. My experiences as a singer have crossed over many musical genres from Broadway, Big Band Jazz, Top Forty, to Opera. I worked for Opera Pacific singing Puccini & Verdi operas. All of which have been wonderful, but my love of teaching tops them all. I have been teaching and sharing my passion for the arts for 30 years. I have directed many plays and musicals like The Diary of Anne Frank, "The Music Man," "Aladdin Jr.," "Beauty and The Beast," and "Mary Poppins," to name a few. I have directed award winning Concert Choirs and Show Choirs. My groups have been invited to perform at Disneyland, Knott's Berry farm, The Marion Geddes Concert Hall and New York's Carnegie Hall. I feel extremely blessed to be able to take my past experience as a performer and teacher and now direct "Annie Kids " this summer with "The Arts and Learning Conservatory." I'm looking forward to an amazing summer working with the ALC Kids!
Haven Hanson
Costumer
Haven focuses on Costume design, theatrical/camera makeup, scenic painting, and wig styling. Haven was the Musical Theatre West Costume-Design Scholar of 2022 and has designed for many productions this year including: Tustin's Broadway in the Park of the Wizard of Oz, Costume Coordination/ Makeup/Hair, Performing With the Pros-OCSA, costume Design, Little Mermaid-The Music Room, Co. costume Design, Makeup/Wig/Scenic Painting, Little Shop of Horrors-Yorba Linda Spotlight, Wig/makeup. Check out his work at Stitchxhaven.com.
Haven focuses on Costume design, theatrical/camera makeup, scenic painting, and wig styling. Haven was the Musical Theatre West Costume-Design Scholar of 2022 and has designed for many productions this year including: Tustin's Broadway in the Park of the Wizard of Oz, Costume Coordination/ Makeup/Hair, Performing With the Pros-OCSA, costume Design, Little Mermaid-The Music Room, Co. costume Design, Makeup/Wig/Scenic Painting, Little Shop of Horrors-Yorba Linda Spotlight, Wig/makeup. Check out his work at Stitchxhaven.com.