CONGRATS to the 2022 Developing Artists Studio Summer Productions:
Moana Jr. Cast
ARF Cast
Meet Our Team!
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Ms. Kyna
Ms. Kyna Simpson is so happy to work with the endless energy that kids bring. Her role as Developing Artists Director gives her a chance to showcase the many talents of our young people. Kyna performs in Spotlight productions, has been a primary school teacher for over 25 years and is excited to help the younger actors develop their “acting bug” and thespian skills!
Ms. Amanda
Ms. Amanda Mascarello is thrilled to be stepping into the director position for the upcoming production of Moana Jr. Amanda has been performing in theater over the last 20 years and has been directing theater over the last 8 years. She has previously directed productions at Lincoln-Way Central high school and The Drama Group Kids camp. She currently continues to direct theater at Martino Jr. High where she also teaches Language Arts and Reading. Developing children into becoming well rounded, knowledgeable and kind actors is truly where she finds her joy and passion.
Ms. Cait
Ms. Cait Palonis is excited to be returning to the stage with the Developing Actors this summer as the Director of Arf! You may remember Ms. Cait from past Developing Actor productions including Annie, Beauty and the Beast Jr., and our workshops throughout the year! As an educator within the Manhattan School District, Ms. Cait is thrilled to kick her summer off with our youngest rising stars!
Mrs. Gina
Mrs. Gina Torbett is happy to have found a home in the Lincoln-Way community where she can express her love of the performing arts. For two decades, she has worked with young people in music and theater, most recently at Martino Junior High where she teaches general music, conducts Chorus and Madrigals and is the assistant director for the school musical. Gina believes that participation in the performing arts enriches young people's lives in ways that can be achieved in no other way.
Ms. Kelsey
Ms. Kelsey is so excited to be working with the aspiring stars of the Developing Artists Studio. She has been dancing since age 5 and stepped into the choreographer’s role at age 16. She has been in several musical theater productions herself, but has choreographed for all ages: junior shows, high school, and adult age. Ms. Kelsey is currently a choreographer at The Dance Company in Frankfort and just recently choreographed Spotlight’s production of “Mamma Mia”. She hopes to inspire these young artists to see “how far they’ll go" with theater!