1. How did you make the leap from performing onstage to shaping the work as a producer with Music Theatre Philly, and what surprised you most about this transition?

Music Theatre Philly is a nonprofit theater school dedicated to making theater education accessible to every child. We never turn a child away and provide thousands of dollars in scholarships each year. Growing up with a single mother, I was fortunate to receive similar support, which inspired me to give back and help others in similar situations. The guidance and encouragement I received from educators who recognized my potential planted a seed in me to create opportunities for others.

While performing on Broadway in “Gypsy,” I began my master’s studies in theater education at New York University, fully aware that I wanted to deepen my involvement in the arts in the future.

After the birth of my second daughter, I felt a strong desire to create a theater school that would engage my children in the process. My first class was inspired by “Frozen,” where my daughters joyfully sang and danced to the songs. From there, I gradually built the program based on their interests and developmental needs.

What surprised me most about this transition was how much I loved being an entrepreneur. I started with just four students – two of whom were my own children – and now we serve thousands. I had to build each aspect of the business from the ground up. As a performer, I always believed that was my identity. However, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that I am also a businesswoman capable of achieving whatever I set my mind to. The joy and fulfillment I find in nurturing talent and creating a supportive environment for young performers have made this journey incredibly rewarding.

2. How and why did you expand your platform to producing on Broadway?

Transitioning into Broadway producing felt like a natural progression after my experiences with Music Theatre Philly. As I deepened my understanding of the arts and mentorship, I realized I wanted to expand my influence on a larger scale. Producing on Broadway allows me to bring compelling stories to life while creating opportunities for emerging talent, much like those I once received. This call resonates with me because it merges artistry and entrepreneurship, enabling me to contribute to projects that not only entertain but also inspire.

My background in nurturing young talent has equipped me with insights into what makes a production resonate. I aim to shape stories that reflect the richness of human experience. Ultimately, this pivot is driven by my commitment to fostering creativity, supporting artists, and continuing to give back to the community.

3. At Rise Creative is known for pairing storytelling with design and technology. How do you decide when an innovation elevates the story vs. distracting from it?

Navigating the balance between innovation and storytelling is a delicate art. We always start with the heart of the narrative. Does the innovation enhance the emotional connection, or does it pull the audience out of the moment?

I love collaborating with my creative team to explore these questions. Together, we brainstorm and test ideas, ensuring that every technological advance feels like a natural extension of the story. For me, it’s about creating a shared experience that resonates deeply with audiences, allowing them to immerse themselves fully in the world we’ve crafted.

4. When you think about what you’re building for the long term, what do you hope your work makes possible?

With Music Theatre Philly, my dream is to create a warm, welcoming community where people of all ages can discover their voices and build confidence. I want every participant to feel safe exploring their creativity, learning not just the art of performance, but also the importance of connection and support.

This program is about more than just musical theater; it’s about building relationships and fostering a sense of belonging. We aim to empower individuals to grow into not only talented performers, but also compassionate, engaged members of society. Through our work, I hope we can touch lives and inspire everyone who walks through our doors.

At Rise Creative focuses on creating an inclusive space where diverse stories can flourish and resonate with audiences. My vision is to foster an environment that encourages innovation and collaboration, shaping a Broadway landscape that pushes boundaries and inspires change.

Theater is a powerful medium that fosters empathy and connection, allowing us to step into the shoes of others and recognize our shared humanity. This experience cultivates a more loving harmony within our communities.

As we develop groundbreaking productions, I’m also committed to empowering the next generation of artists. Through partnerships with organizations like Music Theatre Philly, my theater kids will gain invaluable insights into the business side of the arts, learning how shows are crafted from start to finish and having the opportunity to audition for roles. This bridge between education and professional experience nurtures their passion and creativity, ensuring they are well-prepared to make their mark in the industry. Together, we can build a brighter, more compassionate future through the transformative power of storytelling.

5. What advice would you give to your younger self?

If I could speak to my younger self, I would gently remind her that there’s no single destination in life; it’s a beautiful journey. I wish I had known that it’s the hard work that fills the soul, not the accolades. There were many times I felt uncertain, wondering if I would ever work again, but I kept pushing forward. I constantly asked myself, “What more can I do? What do I want? How can I use my mind and heart to help others grow?”

Life is more about the pursuit of passion and the dedication to growth than simply reaching a final goal. It’s in the slow and steady progress, the commitment to your craft, and the daily efforts that you find real joy and pride. Each small step enriches the journey, and that’s where fulfillment lies. Focusing on how I can contribute and uplift others has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my path.