Welcome!
Welcome to the Drayton Entertainment Youth Academy Pre-Professional Triple Threat Advanced Training Intensive! If you’re on this page, it means you have received an email confirming your acceptance into the program and have been registered through the Academy portal.
We are very excited to welcome you to the program this July! This page contains all of the information you need regarding participation in the Intensive.
PLEASE NOTE: All participants must come prepared with audition cuts of one song and one monologue (each under 2 minutes) to present. We also ask that you bring one additional song and monologue as backups, in case the instructor would like to explore something else with you.
Please bring printed copies of your sheet music and monologues on the first day. If you’d like us to print your materials, please send them to us ahead of time or arrive early to have them printed.
Check out the Materials tab if you need guidance or suggestions.
About the Triple Threat Intensive
In this auditioned course led by the Youth Academy’s Education and Outreach Manager, Chad McNamara, students will work with highly skilled, working industry professionals to learn multiple unique song and dance production numbers in addition to participating in Virtual Broadway Mentor Q&A’s and special in-person workshops in acting through song, monologue performance, audition technique, improv, theatrical intimacy, and more.
On the final night of the program, Friday, July 25, students will celebrate graduation by attending Drayton Entertainment’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hamilton Family Theatre Cambridge as part of their tuition.
Location Information
The Triple Threat Intensive will be held at the Drayton Entertainment Youth Academy facility:
Accessible Access
The DEYA facility is accessible to those with mobile disabilities. There is a ramp leading to the front entrance as well as automatic door controls on the main doors. To access the second floor, there is an elevator located at the rear of the facility.
Both all-gender bathrooms (main floor and second floor) are wheelchair accessible and have automatic door controls.
Parking and Transportation
There is free parking available onsite at the Academy facility. There is also an ION train stop (Northfield) and a bus stop (Parkside/Northfield) within a 5 minute walk of the Academy.
Graduation, Pizza, and a Show!
On the final night of the Intensive, participants are invited to attend dinner and a performance of Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hamilton Family Theatre Cambridge:
Participants must arrange their own transportation to and from the theatre. It is a 28 minute drive or 1 hour and 30 minutes by public transit from the Drayton Entertainment Youth Academy.
Intensive Schedule
Dates: Monday, July 21st – Friday, July 25th
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Please arrive at the Youth Academy by 9:00 am on July 21st to begin the program. The Academy doors will be open from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm to accommodate early arrival and late exit.
Graduation, Pizza, and a Show!
Date: Friday, July 25th
Time:
5:30 pm – Tour of the Hamilton Family Theatre Cambridge
6:00 pm – Dinner
7:30 pm – Performance of Jesus Christ Superstar
9:45 pm – Talk back with cast
Booking Residence Accommodations
Dormitory-style residence accommodations are available at The University of Waterloo, 20 minutes away from the Academy on public transit.
Summer accommodations at the University of Waterloo are located in both Ron Eydt Village (REV) and Mackenzie King Village.
Mackenzie King Village
Mackenzie King Village is the air-conditioned residence with four bedroom suites. Each bedroom includes a twin sized bed and mattress, desk, desk lamp & chair, dresser & closet, bookshelves & wastebasket (its measurements are approximately 3m x 2.4m). All suites come fully-furnished and include living room (two chairs, loveseat & end tables), kitchen (table with four chairs, fridge & stove), two full bathrooms and two storage closets. The suite is split into two sections with two bedrooms on each side. Each side has its own bathroom and storage closet. The living room, kitchen and entrance are placed between the two sections.
Rates
Regular 2025 rates are $112.00/night for a 2 bedroom, $126.00/night for a 3 bedroom, or $160.00/night for a 4 bedroom apartment plus applicable taxes.
This rate includes free WiFi, parking for one vehicle, linens & towels upon check in, and weekly linen/towel exchange.
Parking
Free parking is available to guests staying overnight at Mackenzie King Village in Lots “S” & “V” with overflow parking in Lot J. Day guests are also welcome to park in these lots for a fee of $7.00/day. Parking pass can be purchased through the Pay & Display machine located in Lot “S”.
Ron Eydt Village
Summer Accommodations at the University of Waterloo are located in Ron Eydt Village with a selection of double rooms for single/double occupancy. Each floor consists of 24 double rooms with 2 large communal washrooms per floor (1 male and 1 female) along with a common lounge for after-hours networking. Guests are welcome to use the weight room, TV lounge and games area, all located in the Ron Eydt Village. Please note that meeting rooms are air conditioned but guest rooms are not. There are a limited number of fans available on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Rates
Regular 2025 rates are $64.00/night single/double occupancy for a Double Room plus applicable taxes.
This rate includes free WiFi, parking for one vehicle, linens & towels upon check in, daily cleaning of the common areas and weekly linen/towel exchange.
Parking
Free parking is available to guests staying overnight at Ron Eydt Village in Lots “S” & “V” with overflow parking in Lot J. Day guests are also welcome to park in these lots for a fee of $7.00/day. Parking pass can be purchased through the Pay & Display machine located in Lot “S”.
Check In & Check Out
The Front Desk, located in Ron Eydt Village, is open 7 days a week from 7:00am to 12:00am with on call support outside of these hours. Guests check-in is 4:00pm and check-out is prior to 11:00am. For the convenience of all guests “Quiet Hours” are designated from 11:00pm to 7:00am.
Accommodations Roommate Organization
If you would like to organize booking accommodations alongside a roommate from the program, please reach out to youthacademy@draytonentertainment.com.
We will add your name and email to the list below for participants to contact each other. If you are looking for accommodation roommates, please reach out to those below to coordinate.
| Name | |
Materials
All participants must come prepared with audition cuts of one song and one monologue (each under 2 minutes) to present. We also ask that you bring one additional song and monologue as backups, in case the instructor would like to explore something else with you.
Please bring printed copies of your sheet music and monologues on the first day. If you’d like us to print your materials, please send them to us ahead of time or arrive early to have them printed.
Click the link below to access additional materials that can be added to your repertoire:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/5ytdmqivd8kc3a3nuwib1/h?rlkey=h7z30q8x5x3x6pv42jqnwcy0n&dl=0
Please find material to the group musical production number excerpts we will be studying during the week below:
- All Shook Up
- Pajama Game
- Jesus Christ Superstar
- The Great Gatsby
You will be given hard copies of all the material on your first day.
Disney In-Person Audition Workshop
Our Team:
- Lindsay Avramidis – Casting Director
- Hayley Pickess – Casting Coordinator
- Craig Whitcombe – Resident Director
- Katelyn Parrish – Resident Choreographer
Draft Schedule:
| 9:00- 9:30 | Disney Team Arrive/Setup |
| 9:30-9:45 | Check-in, Introductions, Quick Q&A |
| 9:45-11:15 | Dance Audition |
| 11:30 – 12:50 | Vocal Auditions (approx. three singers every 10-mins) |
Info for Candidates:
1. Create/Update Profile: Please create/update a Disney Auditions profile before the audition by visiting DisneyAuditions.com. Include an up-to-date headshot, resume, and any available links to reel or performance footage that could benefit the casting team.
2. Dance Audition:
- What to prepare: Please wear appropriate athletic or dancewear. If comfortable, female-presenting dancers are asked to wear heels. During the audition, candidates may be asked to change their shoes for different styles (including demonstrating available tap or tumbling).
- Schedule: Please check in at 9:30. You will have an opportunity to meet the team and ask questions before beginning the dance audition.
3. Vocal Audition:
- What to prepare: Please prepare 16 bars of your choice with sheet music. Your selection does not need to be from the Disney catalogue – choose something you love to sing. Select material you have a connection with that you bring to life in an honest way. Please bring your audition book, should the team wish to hear additional material.
Policies and Procedures
Please review our DEYA Code of Conduct and Policies prior to the start of the Intensive.
Virtual Workshop Leader
Jenna Bainbridge
Jenna Bainbridge is a New York city-based actor, singer, and disability rights advocate who was the first wheelchair user to originate a role in a new musical on Broadway, Suffs. She then went on to be the first authentically disabled person to play Nessarose in Wicked on Broadway.
When Jenna was 16 months old, she suddenly became paralyzed, and the cause of the paralysis has never been determined. Over time she regained mobility and strength, she now utilizes a wheelchair, cane, and crutches frequently, as well as walking unaided with a pronounced limp. Jenna hopes to normalize the experiences and existence of ambulatory wheelchair users through her acting. She says, “We can only accept and embrace our differences if we can publicly see and talk about them, and what is more public than the performing arts?”
In-Person Workshop Leaders
Brian Barber
Brian Barber is a freelance musician based in Waterloo. With over twenty years of experience performing, Brian has a highly diverse and extensive musical background. From weddings and corporate events to restaurant patios and backyard concerts, Brian enjoys sharing his love of music with anyone who will listen. He spent two years entertaining international crowds from the piano bar on Australia-based cruise ships.
Ken Chamberland
Ken Chamberland holds a Masters in Community Music from Wilfrid Laurier University along with a teaching degree and a High Honours degree from the Sheridan College Music Theatre Performance program.
Ken believes in balancing the voice to provide students an opportunity to improve and expand their vocal toolbox. He follows solid belcanto vocal pedagogy by Cornelius L. Reid as well belting and creating mixed voices.
Some of Ken’s performing highlights include Peter Quintin Turn of the Screw (Grand River Opera Company), Judas in Jesus Christ Superstar (KWMP), Michael in Tick, Tick, BOOM! (Angelwalk Theatre), Matthew in the Toronto debut of Altar Boyz (Toronto Centre for the Performing Arts), chorus in Aida with the Canadian Opera Company (Four Seasons), Frankie in Plaid Tidings (Neptune Theatre), Jack Scott in High School Musical (Drayton Entertainment), Prince Charming with Disney Cruise Lines, and Frederic in Pirates of Penzance (Operetta Confidential, 2017).
Sierra Holder
Sierra Holder (she/her) is a Dora-winning Tkaronto-based performer who has been lucky to spend the last decade working in Theatre and Film. After graduating from Sheridan College, she has continued to expand herself both as an artist and a person, believing that living life is key to honing her craft. Sierra is deeply grateful for the community that has found her over the years and knows that nothing would be possible without being surrounded by such love, kindness, and fun. She is excited by stories and performances that are complex, joyful, and human. Credits include: A Strange Loop (Soulpepper), Beaches: The Musical (Theatre Calgary) Robyn Hood, Wizard of Oz, Peter’s Final Flight (Ross Petty Panto/ Canadian Stage), Gen V (Prime), The Madness (Netflix), Locke & Key (Netflix), Bring It On: Cheer or Die (Universal/SYFY). She is so excited to be doing the Triple Threat workshop!
M.J. Johnson
Having spent the beginning of her career as a performer, M.J. now works regularly as a voice teacher, vocal coach, pianist, and vocalist. She spent 7 years on the Vocal Faculty at Sheridan College in the Music Theatre Performance program and has taught at Randolph Academy for the Performing Arts, and Wilfred Laurier Conservatory’s Music Theatre Academy. Her voice and vocal coaching students have performed in Mirvish Productions, the Stratford Festival, Drayton Entertainment, and many other theatres across Canada and the US.
M.J. has worked as a Vocal Director for Disney Cruise Line and has music directed numerous stage shows for theatre companies including Thousand Islands Playhouse, and Silver Mist Productions. As a keyboardist, she has performed with the Broadway Across Canada tour of “Wicked“, Drayton Entertainment’s production of “Les Misérables”, and the Toronto production of “Jersey Boys“.
M.J. is the owner of M.J. Johnson Voice Studio in Kitchener.
Anthony MacPherson
Born and raised in Fall River, Nova Scotia, Anthony has been a Toronto based performer, creator, and educator since 2010. After graduating from Sheridan College with an Advanced Diploma in Music Theatre Performance, Anthony has traveled all over North America courtesy of two national tours: Matilda and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Wizard of Oz. He has also spent five summers at the Charlottetown Festival in Prince Edward Island, danced for Canada’s most established opera companies, starred as Peter Pan in The Ross Petty Panto: Peter Pan in Wonderland and even returned to his alma mater in 2018 to join the dance faculty.
Anthony is currently in his third consecutive season at The Stratford Festival, this year as the Assistant Choreographer, Co-Dance Captain and Swing for Annie. Previous projects at the Festival include Something Rotten!, Frankenstein: Revised and Dance Captain/Swing on both Monty Python’s Spamlaot and La Cage Aux Folles. Having started as a young performer himself, Anthony has a passion and dedication of working with the next generation of performers and is thrilled to be joining Drayton Entertainment’s Youth Academy for the first time!
Robert Markus
Robert is a Stratford based Actor and Singer. He is most recently known to audiences for performing the titular role in Dear Evan Hansen presented by Mirvish Productions with Stacey Mindich. Robert received a Toronto Theatre Critics Award and a Dora Award nomination for his portrayal of Evan.
Recently Robert played the role of Mark Cohen in The Stratford Festival’s production of RENT. Also at The Stratford Festival, he appeared as Calvin O’Keefe in A Wrinkle in Time.
Robert will be playing Jesus of Nazareth in Jesus Christ Superstar and played Mary Sunshine in Chicago (Drayton Entertainment). Selected other credits include Joseph in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat (Theatre Aquarius), Judas in Jesus Christ Superstar (Mayfield Theatre), Gabe in Next to Normal (Theatre Calgary and Citadel Theatre), Pinnochio in Shrek, and Denny in Dream a Little Dream (Grand Theatre), and appeared in productions at The Shaw Festival, Young People’s Theatre, Ross Petty Productions, and The Musical Stage Company.
Jade McLeod
Most known for their critically acclaimed run as Jo on the Broadway National Tour of Jagged Little Pill, Jade McLeod is a Toronto-raised, New York-based performer, writer, teacher and activist. Recently, their focus has been developing new work that centers queer stories, with shows such as A Trip To The Moon (Parkside Lounge, NYC), Wakeman (Village Theatre, Seattle), WINNER (New York Theatre Barn), and Half World (East Village Basement). As a teacher, they love helping students find their authentic voice, both in a technical sense and through a storytelling lens.
Chad McNamara
As a proud member of Canadians Actors Equity and ACTRA, Chad McNamara is best known for creating and originating the role of Rooney Doodle on the Juno and Gemini nominated series, The Doodlebops. As a Doodlebop, Chad has recorded 3 albums with Universal music and toured across North America playing sold out shows at Madison Square Garden and LA’s Staple Centre. Selected TV: Doodlbops (3 seasons (Disney/CBC), How to solve a Problem Like Maria (CBC), Bomb Girls (Bravo),Walt Disney Christmas Parade (ABC), The Ron James Show (CBC), The Today show (featured performer/NBC), Queer as Folk (Showcase). Director/Choreographer: Recent: The World premiere(s) of Let’s Dance and Let’s Bop (Terra Bruce Productions) Anne &Gilbert (Island Theatre festival, PEI), Rock of Ages, 9 to 5, the Musical, Disenchanted, Bitter Girl The Musical, American Idiot (Stephenville Festival) Regional: In Common, a new musical, The 25th… Spelling Bee, 9 to 5… the Musical, Legally Blonde, Rent, Crazy for you/ Fight choreography, The Canadian premiere of Be More Chill.
Philip Pace
Philip Pace (he/him). Philip has spent the past two summers performing with the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival (Oberon/Theseus in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Lady Bracknell in The Importance of Being Earnest, King Alonso in The Tempest, and George Hastings in She Stoops to Conquer). Selected credits include Romeo & Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, My Fair Lady, Gigi, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, The White Devil (Stratford Festival), King Lear, As You Like It, Arcadia (Colorado Shakespeare Festival), The Winter’s Tale (Shakespeare Link Canada in Mozambique), Annie, Grease, Oklahoma! (Montana Summer Theatre), The Tempest (Nipissing Stage Company and Tour), Forever Plaid (Ontario Tour), Kilt (New Stages Peterborough), Romeo & Juliet (ShakespeareWorks), and Shakespeare Abridged (US National Tour). Training: Philip holds a Bachelor of Arts from McGill University and a Bachelor of Education from York University. He is a graduate of the Stratford Festival’s Birmingham Conservatory for Classical Theatre Training and the 2-year Professional Music Theatre Program at Circle in the Square Theatre School in New York City. As an educator, Philip taught acting for 6 years in the Music Theatre Performance Program at St. Lawrence College and has taught elementary school for the past 18 years for the Toronto District School Board.
Adam Sergison
Adam is thrilled to join the Pre-Professional Musical Theatre Intensive! Recent credits include: Choreographer for Cabaret, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at the Al Green Theatre; Assistant Choreographer for Sheridan’s Mary Poppins, and Associate Choreographer for Musical Stage’s production of Kelly V. Kelly. Adam also choreographed Aqsarniit, the Charlottetown Festival’s historic Young Company performance, and was also the Assistant Choreographer to Linda Garneau for their production of Jesus Christ Superstar. Other choreographic works include Newsies, Disney’s Beauty & the Beast, Little Mermaid, Anne of Green Gables, Jesus Christ Superstar, Spring Awakening (Randolph Theatre/LOT). Some selected performing credits include: Priscilla: Queen of the Desert, 9 to 5: The Musical, Music Man (Drayton); Swing in Rock of Ages (More Entertainment); Swing in Damn Yankees, Chitra, White Christmas, Holiday Inn (Shaw Festival); Otello, Tadzio in Death in Venice (Canadian Opera Company); Wizard of Oz, We Will Rock You (Mirvish), Elf (Theatre Aquarius); Jesus Christ Superstar, Charlie and Swing in Anne of Green Gables, Eddie in Mamma Mia! (Charlottetown Festival); Mr. Mistoffelees in Cats (Rainbow Stage); West Side Story (Neptune, Vancouver Opera) and An American Hymnal (Terra Bruce).
Anisa Tejpar
Anisa Tejpar (she/her), a Dora Mavor Moore Award winner, hails from Toronto and is a graduate of Canada’s National Ballet School. She has showcased her talent in performances of various choreographers including Guillaume Côté, Matjash Mrozewski, John Neumeier, Ginette Laurin, Mauro Astolfi, Peggy Baker, Robert Derosiers, Robert Glumbek, Roberto Campanella, D.A. Hoskins, James Kudelka, Christopher House, Hanna Kiel, and William Yong. Anisa has performed with esteemed dance companies such as Toronto Dance Theatre, Zata Omm, ProArteDanza, Against the Grain Theatre, and Human Body Expression.
Anisa is recognized as an Intimacy Coordinator and Director, with a particular focus on dance and dancers. She has collaborated with prestigious institutions such as The National Ballet of Canada, Ballet BC, and various film and television productions. Furthermore, Anisa serves on the Board of Directors for Canada’s National Ballet School as well as their Foundation Board. She has also made significant contributions to Dancing with Parkinson’s, where she has served as a choreographer and director for their Intergenerational Dance Project, which aims to connect youth and seniors through dance.
Sarah Vance
A creative powerhouse, Sarah is a choreographer and triple threat performer from Waterloo Ontario. Her most recent credits include: choreographing the world premier of the musical Chris. Mrs, at the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Toronto and appearing in Season 2 of the hit tv show Reacher, on Amazon Prime.
With a love for theatre, Sarah has established herself as an industry elite in the musical theatre world. Select theatre credits include: Spamalot – Rehearsal Swing (Stratford Festival), Grease the Musical – Associate Choreographer (Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre Toronto), Joseph, Hairspray, Grease, Elf the Musical, All Shook Up, Spamalot, High School Musical (Drayton Entertainment), Anne of Green Gables, Mamma Mia, Alice Through The Looking Glass, Canada Rocks! (Charlottetown Festival), Crazy For You (Theatre Calgary/Citadel Theatre), and Beauty and the Beast, Music Man (Capitol Theatre).
In between theatre contracts Sarah has also accumulated impressive credits in the film and television industry. FILM/TV credits include: American Gods (Starz) The Next Step (FAMILY), Assistant Choreographer The Moblees – Season 2 (CBC), Assistant Choreographer Ukelele U – Pilot Episode (CBC), Warrior (NBC), CARRIE (SONY), One Starry Christmas (CTV), Canadian Country Music Awards (CBC), Warehouse 13 (SYFY), Reign (CW), In the Tall Grass (Netflix), The Next Star (YTV), King of the Camp (YTV), SYTYCDC (CTV).
Along with working in the entertainment industry, Sarah graduated from York University with an Honours Science Kinesiology Degree and is a Registered Kinesiologist. During her studies she was a member of the NBA Toronto Raptors Dance Pak for four seasons, dancing in front of 20,000 fans.
When not performing, Sarah can be found spending time with her sons, husband and puppy. She continues to share her passion for dance while teaching and choreographing at studios across Canada
Additional Summer Guest Artists & Faculty
To Be Announced Soon!
A look back at our 2024 Pre-Professional Triple Threat Advanced Training Intensive
Virtual Workshop Leaders
Kerry Butler, who has appeared in twelve Broadway shows, is best known for originating the roles of Barbara Maitland in Beetlejuice, Penny Pingleton in Hairspray, and Clio/Kira in Xanadu, the latter of which earned her a Tony Award nomination for Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical.
Butler also originated the role of Belle in the Toronto production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, which she later performed on Broadway. Other Broadway credits include Eponine in Les Misérables, Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors, Penny Pingleton in Hairspray, Sherrie in Rock of Ages, Marianne in Disaster! and Brenda in Catch Me If You Can. She is a mother of two, accomplished teacher, plant enthusiast, musical theatre geek, Disney nerd, and believer in the power of laughter and the magic of music to bring people together. Her solo album is entitled Faith, Trust & Pixie Dust. Insta @KerryBulterCoach
Disney Casting Director, Dave Bennett
Dave Bennett became the Casting Director the Shanghai Disney Resort after a successful two-decade career as a talent agent. He represented actors for film, television and theatre, and directors, choreographers, music directors, writers, and composers for theatre.
In 1999, he opened a Manhattan talent office for a Canadian agency where he represented not only American talent but was also known for bringing the best of Canada to Broadway. He placed clients in supporting roles in TV and Film, and in leading/supporting roles in over three dozen Broadway and National Touring Companies including Book of Mormon, Chicago, Jersey Boys, Les Miz, Lion King, Mamma Mia, Mary Poppins, Once, Phantom of the Opera, Rent, and Wicked.
Dave has a degree from Queen’s University and is a proud graduate of the Broadway Commercial Theatre Institute’s “Producing for the Commercial Theatre Intensive Program” (NYC).
In-Person Workshop Leaders
George Absi
George has been a professional dancer and choreographer for over 15 years. He was born and raised in Ottawa, ON where he trained in Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap and Contemporary including A.D.A.P.T and R.A.D. He has danced for PSY, Deborah Cox, Kreesha Turner, Fefe Dobson, Aleesia and Classified, to name a few. George has appeared on Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist and Zoey’s Extraordinary Christmas, Once Upon A Time, Handmaid’s Tale, Shitt’s Creek, Breakfast Television, Threads, and most recently appeared on PBS Kids, “Let’s Go Luna” as “Hakim” a principal role. Theatre credits include: Beauty and the Beast, Neptune; Mamma Mia! (Dance Captain/ Asst Choreographer) Aquarius/ WCT; Priscilla, Queen of the Dessert (Canadian Premiere – Jimmy ), Sleeping Beauty, The Panto, Newsies (Buttons), Kinky Boots (Canadian Premiere – Angel/ Dance Captain) Drayton Entertainment. George landed the role of assistant choreographer in the upcoming motion picture “Slumberland” starring Jason Mamoa and was assistant choreographer for the brand-new show “Ukulele U” on CBC focussing on children’s learning and diversity.
Rachel Fairbanks
Rachel Fairbanks was most recently seen on Broadway in Lincoln Center Theatre’s Revival of Camelot (Dance Captain/Female Swing). Other Favorites include: Hoagy Carmichael’s Stardust Road (Off-Broadway: York Theatre Company & World Premiere: Temple Theatre), Cinderella (U/S Ella/ Gabrielle – 1st National Tour), First Wives Club (Young Elise/Patton – Chicago Premiere) as well as many shows regionally with NSMT and PCLO. BFA Musical Theatre: Penn State University. Originally from Boston, Rachel lives in NYC with her husband where they run their small business: @sparkandedge. You can follow along for updates and upcoming projects @rachelgeorgea
Kae Kae Lee
Malyssa Kae Lee (better known as “Kae Kae” Lee) discovered her passion for dance at just 7 years old, eventually joining Performing Dance Arts in Vaughan, training extensively in Jazz, Musical Theatre, Ballet, Acrobatics, Contemporary, Tap and Hip Hop.
Kae Kae’s talents began to take her across the world, taking on unique roles in various shows, such as Royal Caribbean’s Aqua production “The Fine Line”, Emmy award-winning Debra Brown’s “Brace Yourself” and Family channel’s “Big Ticket Summer Tour”. She has worked alongside artists such as Emeli Sande, Aloe Blacc, Natalie Imbruglia, Dave Stewart, and James Blunt, whilst touring with “Art on Ice” Switzerland, a show choreographed by Sean Cheesman.
Some of Kae Kae’s TV and film roles include Disney’s “Zombies 3” and “Spin”. Fox’s “What We Do In The Shadows”, Lifetime’s “A Christmas Dance”, CBC’s “Frankie Drake Mysteries”, and Family Channel’s “The Next Step”, as well as the music videos for artists including Rupaul’s Drag Race star, Priyanka, Liz Lokre, and Jade Eagleson. Kae Kae branched out into musical theatre appearing in Rock of ages as Dance Captain at Toronto’s Elgin Theatre, and various roles for Drayton Entertainment
Hailey Lewis
Hailey Lewis (she/her) is an Afro-Canadian triple-threat artist and graduate of the Music Theatre degree program at Sheridan College. Select Theatre credits include: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (Mirvish); Alice in Winterland Virtual Panto (Ross Petty Productions); Hairspray (Drayton Entertainment & Theatre Aquarius); Anne of Green Gables (Charlottetown Festival); Mary Poppins (YPT); Shrek: The Musical (Globe Theatre); Grease (Irregular Entertainment); Prom Queen (Segal Centre). Select TV/Film credits include: The Boys (Amazon); Zombies (Disney); American Gods (Freemantel). Hailey is currently a “Standby Slayer” and dance captain for Mirvish’s production of Six: The Musical, while also teaching the first- and second-year Music Theatre Styles dance course at Sheridan. When not performing, you can find Hailey cuddling her dog Rigley, getting lost in a good book, facetiming her friends, spending time with her family (especially her mama) and eating lots of chips! As always: many thanks to her agency, her friends and most importantly her family for their on-going support and love. @haileyalexislewis
Nestor Lozano Jr
Nestor Lozano Jr is appearing as Tink in Wendy and Peter Pan and appears in Salesman in China during his second season at the Stratford Festival. Last year, he appeared there as Angel Dumott Schunard in Rent and Mrs. Whatsit in A Wrinkle in Time. Elsewhere: The Wizard in The Wizard of Oz: The Panto (Drayton Entertainment); Miss Understanding in Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (Stage West Calgary); Derrick in Peter Pan: The Panto (Neptune Theatre); Papa Ogre/Bear in Shrek The Musical (Globe Theatre). Training: Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance, Sheridan College; Wexford Performing Arts. Online: @nestorlozanojr.
Julia McLellan
Julia McLellan is a Canadian theatre performer currently in SIX the musical at Mirvish productions, alternating the roles of Jane Seymour, Katherine Howard, and Anne Boleyn. She has performed on stages across North America, including three companies of the Tony award winning hit Kinky Boots- at Mirvish, on the 1st national tour, and on Broadway. She has lead companies on some of Canada’s most prestigious stages, starring as Val Clark in The Stratford Festival’s A Chorus Line, originating the role of Persephone in the North American premiere of Mythic, and alternating the role of Dorothy Gale in the North American premiere of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Wizard of Oz.
Her stage career intertwines with her climate activism, as she is the co-founder and Executive Director of the Canadian Green Alliance, the national not-for-profit dedicated to bridging the gap between theatre and sustainability.
Vanessa Sears
Raised in Deep River, Ontario, Vanessa Sears is a Dora Award, Toronto Theatre Critics Award, BroadwayWorld Award and Critic’s Pick Award winning artist. She has starred on stages across Canada and recently made her Broadway debut as an original cast member of the new musical ‘New York, New York’ – working alongside legendary artists John Kander, Susan Stroman, and Lin-Manuel Miranda to name a few. During her time in NYC Vanessa performed on The Tony Awards, at 54 Below, The Green Room 42 and Classic Stage Company in addition to singing at many concerts and benefits. Currently, she is starring in the Stratford Festival’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’ as Juliet, as well as playing Olivia in ‘Twelfth Night’. Vanessa’s previous acting credits include Mirvish, several seasons at the Shaw Festival, The Musical Stage Company, Soulpepper, Obsidian Theatre, Young People’s Theatre and more. Vanessa has also appeared in film and television on Suits, Sex/Life, Y The Last Man, and has starred in several movies like 14 Love Letters, Sappy Holiday and others. Next up, she will be making her Panto debut with Canadian Stage’s ‘Wizard of Oz’, causing chaos and mayhem as the Wicked Witch. Vanessa is also an emerging director, an educator, and serves on the board of the Canadian Green Alliance. Instagram @vanessa_sears
Anisa Tejpar
Anisa Tejpar (she/her), a Dora Mavor Moore Award winner, hails from Toronto and is a graduate of Canada’s National Ballet School. She has showcased her talent in performances of various choreographers including Guillaume Côté, Matjash Mrozewski, John Neumeier, Ginette Laurin, Mauro Astolfi, Peggy Baker, Robert Derosiers, Robert Glumbek, Roberto Campanella, D.A. Hoskins, James Kudelka, Christopher House, Hanna Kiel, and William Yong. Anisa has performed with esteemed dance companies such as Toronto Dance Theatre, Zata Omm, ProArteDanza, Against the Grain Theatre, and Human Body Expression.
Anisa is recognized as an Intimacy Coordinator and Director, with a particular focus on dance and dancers. She has collaborated with prestigious institutions such as The National Ballet of Canada, Ballet BC, and various film and television productions. Furthermore, Anisa serves on the Board of Directors for Canada’s National Ballet School as well as their Foundation Board. She has also made significant contributions to Dancing with Parkinson’s, where she has served as a choreographer and director for their Intergenerational Dance Project, which aims to connect youth and seniors through dance.
A look back at our 2023 Pre-Professional Triple Threat Advanced Training Intensive
In-Person Workshop Leaders
Paul Alexander Nolan
Originally from Rouleau, Saskatchewan, is currently playing Hugh Dorsey in the Broadway revival of Parade. Prior to that, he played Jim in the most nominated play in Broadway history, Slave Play. For his Broadway performances, he’s been recognized by the Outer Critics Circle and Drama Desk Awards. His Broadway debut was as Jesus in the revival of Jesus Christ Superstar, followed by Guy in the Tony Award-winning musical Once. Subsequent New York roles include Pasha/Strelnikov in Doctor Zhivago, Jervis in Daddy Long Legs, Jimmy Ray in Bright Star, Billy Flynn in Chicago, Tully in Escape to Margaritaville, Jim in Slave Play and Hugh Dorsey in Parade. Paul is a graduate of the Randolph College for Performing Arts who is an avid outdoorsman and huge hockey fan. @paulalexandernolan
Andrea Macasaet
Originally from Winnipeg, Manitoba, is currently playing Mimi in the Stratford Festival Production of Rent. Previously, she originated the role of Anne Boleyn in SIX on Broadway after appearing in the same role at the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, American Repertory Theatre, The Citadel Theatre and The Ordway Center of Performing Arts. Andrea is a graduate from The Canadian College of Performing Arts whose other credits include Canadian productions of Heathers: The Musical, Avenue Q, Miss Saigon and Prairie Nurse. On TV and Film, you may recognize her from Propose We Never See Each Other… (Bed Bugs film); Ratatouille: The Musical (BCEFA); and Guest Performer appearances on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, The View, Late Night with Seth Meyers, Good Morning America, and the Today Show @andrea.cesyl.
Nestor Lozano Jr
Currently playing Angel Dumott Shunard in Rent and Mrs. Whatsit in A Wrinkle in Time at the Stratford Festival. Previously, he’s been seen as the Wizard/Wicked Witch U/S in Wizard of Oz: The Panto (Drayton Entertainment); Miss Understanding in Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (Stage West Calgary); Derrick in Peter Pan: The Panto (Neptune Theatre); Papa Ogre/Bear in Shrek The Musical (Globe Theatre); and Daddy Brubeck in Sweet Charity (Theatre Sheridan). Film/TV: Disasters at Sea (Discovery). Radio/Recordings: Guitar in Blues Clues & You! (Brown Bag Productions). Training: Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance, Sheridan College; Wexford Performing Arts. @nestorlozanojr
Jos N. Banks
a multi-award winning Visual/ Performing Arts Artist, Costume Designer, Stylist & Teaching Artist hailing from Chicago, IL. Tours: International (US, Canada, China & Singapore ) – KINKY BOOTS (Lola), North American/ Canadian – HAIR (Hud), THE COLOR PURPLE (Harpo). Regional: MS. BLAKK FOR PRESIDENT – Joan Jett Blakk & CHOIR BOY – Pharus (Steppenwolf), THE COLOR PURPLE (The Muny), SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD (Farmers Alley Theatre), Yale Dramatic Association, Drury Lane- Oak Brook, Paramount Theatre, The Second City, About Face Theatre, Porchlight Music Theatre, Congo Square, Windy City Playhouse, Farmers Alley, Raven Theatre, Apollo Theatre, Boho Theatre, Black Ensemble Theatre, Pride Films & Plays, Theo Ubique, Royal George, Open Door Rep, Strawdog Theatre & Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre. Film: “Ocean” in Showtime’s “THE CHI”, “Dr. Greg Martinson” in Showtime’s “WORK IN PROGRESS” & Rise Against’ music video “Make It Stop” (Lead). @JosNBanks
If you have any questions, please reach out to us:
youthacademy@draytonentertainment.com
519-804-1100 ext. 900