We are delighted to feature the headshots and bios of our adjudicators for the 2025-2026 Shea's Wonder Awards!
Anika is a Buffalo native and holds a BFA in Theatre Performance and a minor in American Sign Language and Deaf Studies from Niagara University. Some of her regional credits include: Ensemble in Dreamgirls at Shea’s 710 Theatre, Nettie in The Color Purple at Shea’s 710 Theatre, Ann Johnson in African Company Presents Richard III at Ujima Theatre, May in Junie B. Jones Batman Smells at TOY Theatre and Zoe in The Niceties at Second Generation Theatre (Artie Nominated). In addition, Anika is a teaching artist at various theatres around Buffalo and a member of the MahatamMoho Collective Dance Company. Anika would like to thank Jesus and her tribes for their endless love and support. FB: Anika Pace IG:theanikapace
Growing up just a block up from the theater district, Arianna Morris was unavoidably called to by the arts. Throughout her life she always ached to get involved, but due to her schooling placement and family hardships she never had a chance to actually do theater. Still, she saw a play at Shea’s whenever she was able, listened to soundtracks at home and performed one-woman shows in her living room often. Theater felt like a faraway dream for her, but even as she aged she never let up on it. When college came around, she took the plunge, and even though she had no prior applied experience she applied to major in theater. She spent her first two years at Fredonia State University learning fundamentals, and then transferred to Buffalo State University where she was in every production, reading and extracurricular she could be, forging her own path as she always knew she would. After graduating in May of 2025, she shortly made her professional debut with Ujima Theater Company and remains active in the community. Some of her favorite credits thus far include LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS (Chiffon, BSU), ANTIGONE (Chorus, BSU), RIDE THE CYCLONE (Constance, BSU), and GODSPELL (Arianna, Ujima Theatre Co.).
Cameron Tragesser is a Music Director, accompanist, and private music educator who recently moved to Buffalo from Chicago. Selected credits include Cats, Spelling Bee, The Full Monty, Billy Elliot, Little Shop of Horrors, Next to Normal, and Into the Woods (Paramount Theatre) White Christmas, A Christmas Story (Marriott), Earnest Shackleton Loves Me (Porchlight), Last Stop On Market Street, Three Little Birds (YPT). Tours: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Spongebob Musical, Elf the Musical.
Caroline Parzy-Sanders has been working in the theatre community since she was 12. An avid performer, singer, director, and teacher, she does it all. Caroline works with the CARE program during the day, teaching a combination theatre and emotional development course to local Middle School students. She teaches voice, acting (stage and screen) and improv at Personal Best Talent. Caroline's 2 children are also very involved with sing8ng and acting, have performed at many WNY theatres. Caroline still gets the chance to perform herself with any extra time she has.
Chris has performed in numerous productions, including performances at the Historic Palace Theatre in Lockport, New York, through Curtain Up Productions. such as Fiddler on the Roof (Motel), Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Joseph). Chris has also directed Scrooge the Musical ( 2004-2022), Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, the 5th Anniversary Broadway Review, Jesus Christ Superstar, Peter Pan, West Side Story, Into the Woods, Oklahoma, Wizard of Oz, Annie Get Your Gun, Seussical the Musical!, Hairspray, Songs for a New World, Legally Blonde, “JOSEPH,” Les Miserables!, SHREK!, Addams Family, Guys & Dolls, Mary Poppins, All Shook Up!, Little Mermaid, Footloose! Billy Elliot, Singin in the Rain, Young Frankenstein, 42nd Street, Pippin! Million Dollar Quartet, Cinderella, White Christmas, Tarzan, Jersey Boys. Chris has also directed for DeSales Catholic School, GO-ART Youth Theatre,, NCCC & Buffalo State School Productions, SJCI (Hair and makeup Designer) Artpark’s Beauty and the Beast (Hair and Makeup Designer) and numerous pre-production and make-up and hair jobs for the area shows. Chris has worked as a Hair and Makeup artist for Paul Mitchell, doing runway shows with Hard Rock Orlando, a personal stylist to celebrities such as Gloria Gaynor, Jennifer Hudson, Larry King and cast members of American Idol. Chris is very excited to be the Executive Director for 23 years at the Historic Palace Theatre.
Eric is a proud member of Western New York’s theatre community, where he works as a music director, pit conductor, accompanist & keyboard programmer. He has recently collaborated with Theatre of Youth, Niagara Regional Theatre Guild, and MusicalFare, bringing music to life in productions such as Mamma Mia, Lucky Stiff, 9 to 5, Go Dog Go, and Wicked (tour). Eric holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Technical Theatre & Design and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University at Buffalo. Eric is especially passionate about mentoring young performers and helping them discover confidence through music. Whether in the pit, behind the piano, or working one-on-one, he strives to create an atmosphere where artists feel supported, challenged, and inspired. For him, the greatest joy in theatre comes from seeing a community grow together through collaboration and storytelling.
Gianna Gould is a Buffalo native and a recent graduate of Liberty University where she graduated with her B.S. in Theater Arts: Production and Design. She has been a Shea's Teaching Artist the past three years as the Assistant Choreographer for the Shea's Summer Musical Theater Intensive. Most recently, she stage managed Alluvion Stage Company's production of Into the Woods. Gianna has experience with props, wardrobe, lighting, choreography, and stage managing theatrical productions at both educational and professional levels. As someone who grew up doing theater in the Buffalo area, Gianna believes that it is so important to support the growth of the performing arts in schools.
After loving in Florida for 13 years, Heather is glad to be back in Buffalo. Heather holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre From Buffalo State University. She has performed in parades and meet and greets as a character performer at Walt Disney World. Heather also directed children’s theater for Wekiva River Players in Longwood, Florida. Recently, she has worked with the Lancaster Middle School making props and sewing costumes for the Middle School Musicals.
Jackie Gould has been a Director, Choreographer, Vocal and Drama Coach for over 25 years for both High School and Elementary School productions in several area WNY School Districts, including Hamburg Central Schools, where she is a full time teacher. She has three music degrees from SUNY Fredonia, including a Masters in Vocal Performance. Jackie is thrilled to be a part of this program that continues investing in the next generation of young artists.
Jay has toured extensively since 1994 with concert tours including The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, Glee Live, American Idols, and TransSiberian Orchestra and Disney On Ice. Locally, Jay is the resident Lighting Designer for O'Connell and Company, Spotlight Studios, and Production Manager for Asbury Hall. Jay is also the auditorium director of Mt St Mary’s Academy. Some of his more recent productions have been: Pippin, Into the Woods, Refer Madness, Kahn, Bye Bye Birdie, The Lightning Thief, The Little Mermaid, and Beauty and the Beast.
Jennifer is a passionate arts coordinator, educator, and performer with over 30 years of stage experience. She’s performed nationally, regionally, and locally, and has spent just as many years sharing her love of theatre with students of all ages and abilities. She’s all about creating inclusive, creative spaces where everyone gets a chance to shine. As an adjudicator, she’s excited to cheer on young performers, offer helpful feedback, and remind them that a career in the arts isn’t just possible—it can be an incredible adventure.
Katie Dunne is a classically trained vocalist, with a Bachelor's in Music Education and Theater from SUNY Buffalo State University and a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction from SUNY Empire State. She currently works in the Buffalo Public Schools as a K-6 vocal/general music teacher and is the Music Director/Co-Director/Producer of the St. Christopher's Bound for Broadway program. She has music directed at Buffalo State University (Pippin, Little Shop of Horrors, First Thursday Cabaret), Cardinal O'Hara High School Summer Camps (Seussical Kids, Willy Wonka Kids, Schoolhouse Rock Jr), at Shea's Sing Your Story camp, and the Wonder Awards ceremony opening/closing performances. Katie served as assistant vocal technician for the 2025 STAGE program, sending two deserving students to the Jimmy Awards in NYC. Katie has been an adjudicator for the Shea's Wonder Awards for two years, and has been teaching private piano, voice, and flute lessons at Matt's Music for six years.
Lana is an actor, director, intimacy director, and educator. Currently, she is an Assistant Professor of Theatre at University at Buffalo, directing a production of The Wolves by Sarah DeLappe this semester. Originally hailing from Alberta, Lana has worked on stages across Canada and the US and was most recently seen as Queen Elizabeth in Richard III with Shakespeare in Delaware Park. Lana is a member of Seat of the Pants, an ensemble-based, process-driven theatre company based in Cleveland. Much of her creative research is focused on the development of new plays. Lana is also a certified teacher of the Michael Chekhov Technique and has taught yoga and mindfulness for over 15 years. http://lanasugarman.com
Laura has directed programs and musical productions at several local schools over the last thirty-eight years as well as been the director for Lackawanna Middle/High School for the last 25 seasons (developing and running the program with a fantastic team of highly qualified professional local performers). Over the last fifty-one seasons, she has been on the board of directors, directed for, produced as well as performed with such local community theatre groups as Aurora Players, South Buffalo Community Theatre, Hamburg Little Theatre, West Seneca Community Theatre, Lackawanna Community Theatre, Niagara Falls Community Theatre, Phoenix Players as well as Amherst Community Theatre (where she was adjudicated by two NYC/Off-Broadway judges with a score of 100% -she says proudly) for her performance as Maggie in Neil Simon's Jake's Women. Laura did a live radio broadcast of A Christmas Carole on WHTT with Danny Neaverth in 1997 (playing various roles) and presently sings with the OLV Basilica's Folk Group as well as teach Theatre Appreciation class at Lackawanna High School/ECC Advanced Studies Program.
Lauren Helper received her Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from SUNY Fredonia, and her Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology from the University at Buffalo. She also holds a specialized music certification from SUNY Fredonia in Orff-Schulwerk. Lauren teaches general/vocal music at West Elementary School in West Seneca, NY. In addition to teaching kindergarten through 5th grade music classes and chorus, she directs the 5th grade musical. Her musical theater program was the recipient of the Disney in Schools Stage Connect Award this year. She is a member of the Erie County Music Educators Association, and recently conducted the 2025 Chautauqua County Elementary All County Chorus. She teaches private voice and piano lessons for the South Buffalo School of Music, and is the music director for the Musical Theater Intensive Summer Camp at the Walh Performing Arts Studio in Orchard Park. Lauren is a member of the Buffalo Alumnae chapter of the Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity, and has served as the president and vice president of membership.
Linda Pew is a lifelong performer and educator with deep roots in the Western New York arts community. In high school, she was part of Spirit of Youth swing choir and later studied musical theatre at Dean College. Linda has dedicated much of her career to working with children in the arts, teaching musical theatre and dance throughout the Buffalo region. Her instruction has spanned jazz, ballet, tap, acrobatics and Afro-Caribbean styles. Beyond the classroom, she has supported productions backstage, assisting with makeup, hair design and costuming for the Greater Buffalo Youth Ballet and other local organizations. Currently, Linda is a member of Buffalo Choral Arts Society, one of Western New York's premier choral ensembles and she recently performed in the production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat with Starry Night Theatre. Her combined experience as a performer, teacher and production assistant gives her a well-rounded perspective on all things theatre.
Lissette is a theater practitioner with over a decade of experience in the arts. She has performed on local stages, worked in commercial projects, and shared her love of theater by teaching young thespians. Outside of theater, Lissette has lended her talents to Marketing and building a career in Advertising. Lissette is proud to lend her support to Shea’s Wonder Awards and program initiatives alike!
Lucinda started her work in theatre as an actress and dancer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts for Children from Brockport. Is permanently certified K-12 Art teacher in New York State. She has minor studies emphasis in children’s dance, theatre and music. She has worked in children’s theatre for over 30 years as a choreographer and director for schools and church programs in three states. For the past 22 years as a member of the Eden Central School District faculty Lucinda has been part of the high school musical team. During that tenure she has been choreographer, costume designer and stage manager for the majority of the shows. Lucinda has made it a priority to add children’s theatre and drama studies in her life. The past three years she has been part of the professional team offering a week-long Summer Theatre Camp in Eden for students in grades 6 – 12.
Maria is the current Performing Arts Director at The Park School of Buffalo. Previously, she has worked at the Tarrytown Music Hall as well as many schools in Westchester, NY, in educational theatre! She attended Ithaca College studying Music (Voice) and Theatre with a minor in Dance. Maria has also adjudicated for the Metro Awards in Westchester.
María is a multifaceted artist, cultural advocate, and community leader. As Managing Director and honorary founding member of Raíces Theatre Company, she has brought Latino stories to life through her work as an actor, writer, director, and costume designer. A gifted singer-songwriter and award-winning writer/author, María’s storytelling blends themes of identity, resilience, and cultural pride. Her acclaimed children’s book, The Magical Closet Mystery: A Puerto Rican Adventure, evolved from a 10-minute musical with Raíces Theatre Company into a celebrated full-length literary work. She holds a B.A. in Communications and Vocal Technique and has contributed to numerous productions, cabarets, and short films. María also serves as the Director of Vive, a homeless shelter, where her leadership reflects the same compassion and commitment that define her artistry. Through every role, she inspires connection, belonging, and a deep appreciation for the transformative power of storytelling.
Meagan Millar has been performing and pursuing musical theatre since she was a young girl in elementary school. She received her BFA in Theatre Performance from Niagara University and eventually 2 Master's Degrees in Education with certification to teach K-12 Theatre. As an actor, Meagan has toured the US and been involved with numerous local shows in Buffalo. She started her own theatre company, Open Door Productions, where their mission is to bridge the gap between professional and student actors. Meagan currently teaches Theatre in the Niagara Falls City School District where she started a program from the ground up in their middle schools and then also began teaching a full time theatre class for elementary aged children, implementing a scaffolded program linking elementary and prep level Theatre programs with the existing high school program.
Melissa Kate Miller is a multi-faceted artist in the performing and literary arts. As international jazz vocalist and songwriter, she has two decades on stage with Taylor Made Jazz (Buffalo Music Hall of Fame) and the George Scott Big Band, in addition to her own jazz & blues band. As a stage and voice actress, Melissa holds a BFA in musical theater from Fredonia with a resume that includes co-founding a Manhattan-based non-profit that produced original works and several East Coast premier plays, film work with Green Tater Productions, and shows in multiple NYC and local venues--including weekly performances at Forest Lawn Cemetery. Voiceover work includes United Health Services in Binghamton, Mighty Taco, and Applebees. As a creative writer and Teaching Artist, Melissa has authored several novels currently being shopped, is a credentialed teaching artist with Young Audiences National and Arts for Learning WNY, and has educated thousands of young people in the creative work of developing characters for writing and theatre, especially in the American art form of improvisation, along with residencies featuring the history of the Erie Canal and dystopian fiction. She is passionate about theatre, and all arts, as a source of expression for the self, and also as a collective storytelling vital to humanity’s wellbeing and growth.
Moriah graduated with her Theatre Performance BFA at the University at Buffalo. Her recent credits include Directing PUFFS! at the University at Buffalo, Eurydice in EURYDICE (Irene Ryan Acting Nominee), Dotty Otley in NOISES OFF! (Irene Ryan Acting Nominee), and Maria in TWELFTH NIGHT. Moriah has also served as a teaching artist for Shea's Arts Engagement and Education summer programming for the last two years. Moriah is currently pursuing her MA in Theatre Administration and hopes to continue acting, teaching, stage managing, and directing.
Nicolette Navarro is a seasoned director, intimacy director, and educator with extensive experience in both Buffalo, NY, and New York City. She currently serves as the Artistic Director of Bellissima Productions in Buffalo, NY, and is a classroom educator in Lockport, NY, teaching English and directing their musical productions. Nicolette holds an MS in Differentiated Education and a BA in Education & Theatre from Canisius University. As a proud recipient of the Intimacy in Practice Grant, she is passionate about advancing the field of intimacy direction and is dedicated to establishing standard practices for this vital work in educational and professional theatre throughout Western New York and beyond. She is deeply committed to integrating consent-based practices in her rehearsals and classrooms, empowering artists to embrace collaboration and joy in the creative process.
Obediya Jones-Darrell is a music composer & playwright, based in Tonawanda, New York. He studied music composition in Canada at Simon Fraser University, & sound engineering at Douglas College. He broke into Cleveland's theater scene by collaborating with companies like Cleveland Public Theatre, where he held the position of music composer fellow. In addition to directing for the largest professional Radio drama company in Ohio, Radio on the Lake Theatre, he also composed music for Cleveland Playhouse, and the oldest African-American theater company, Karamu House. His music has also been performed in New Orleans and the Atlanta theatre festivals. His work has been performed in over 60 theater and film festivals on 5 continents. As a classically trained music composer he has written and orchestrated music performed by the Grammy award-winning Czech National Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Nova Scotia, Budapest Symphony Orchestra & Vancouver's Art Song Lab. His first operatic Radio Drama production 'Monk of Adwa' won Outstanding Sound Design & Production from the National Community Radio Association in Canada, followed by his production 'Salvation: A Gospel Ontario' winning - BEST SCRIPT - Christian Film Festival in Richmond, VA. In addition to black box style performances in Cleveland, Ohio and Halifax, Canada, he directed the film version of his musical ‘Jacket of Blue’ which won BEST MUSICAL SHORT in Halifax’s Emerging Lens Cultural Film Festival. With a cast of Cleveland based actors he performed his murder mystery “Cyn of Omission” in the Atlanta Fringe. That project was selected by Screen Nova Scotia’s Amplified Voices program and is currently being developed as a TV series. As a supporter of his local Art’s community he has sat on the Board of Directors of one of Vancouver Canada’s premier theatres to uplift Indigenous and diverse voices, Urban Ink Productions, and Burnaby Canada’s CJSF Radio Society.
Patrick Towey has been active in the WNY theatre community for over two decades. He has music directed productions with Artpark & Company, and the Taylor Theater. Towey has served as the Music Director and Pit Orchestra Conductor for the Ken-Ton Summer Theatre Arts Group Experience (STAGE) since 2008. He has served in many combinations of roles in musical theatre productions including music director, pit orchestra conductor, rehearsal and performance pianist, vocal coach and acting coach. Towey currently serves as the Director of Bands at Kenmore West High School, where he directs three concert bands, teaches instrumental music lessons and conducts the musical theatre productions. He is also the Founder and Music Director of the Western New York FEWE (Future & Fellow Educators Wind Ensemble). Towey will be presenting on his experience with musical theatre productions at the 2025 New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) Annual State Winter Conference, giving a session entitled: "A View from the Pit: An Instrumental Look at the Musical."
Rhiannon holds a BA in Theatre from Buffalo State University, an MBA in Business Administration, Management, and Operations from Medaille University, an MA in Psychology from Medaille University, and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Capella University. With a number of years of experience as a college professor, she has dedicated her career to guiding students through the intricacies of higher education. Her academic journey includes a rich background in stage management, acting, and technical support. Beyond the classroom, she has actively participated in high school and collegiate theatre productions, contributing in various roles as a performer, assistant director, stage manager, and more. As an avid theater consumer with multiple perspectives, she fosters a deep appreciation for the arts and is committed to staying engaged with the evolving landscape of local theatre at all levels. Rhiannon is passionate about fostering young talent and supporting the growth of students in the performing arts. With her passion, she is always eager to contribute to the development of aspiring artists. She has previously served as an adjudicator for the Shea's Wonder Awards. She loves to celebrate the hard work and creativity of students and inspire them to pursue their artistic passions with confidence.
Riley is a theatre artist and practitioner born and raised in Buffalo. He is an audience services coordinator at Shea’s Buffalo Theatre during the Broadway Season, and a five-time stage manager of the Shea’s Summer Musical Theatre Intensive camp (SSMTI). During the summer months, Riley works at Shakespeare in Delaware Park. He is also the house manager at Road Less Traveled Theater. He recently completed his M.A. in Arts Management in May 2025 from the University at Buffalo and received a B.A. in Theatre with an English minor there in 2022 as well. During his time as a student at Depew High School, Riley performed in three musicals (Thoroughly Modern Millie, Annie, The Little Mermaid) and received the Director’s Award for his contributions to the Concert Choir upon graduation (June 2018). Additionally, he was involved with the annual talent show for three years and co-starred as The Beast in an extracurricular music studio production of Beauty and the Beast Jr. during his senior year.
Rita Sirianni (she/her) currently serves as Executive Assistant at Shea's Performing Arts Center. Her previous experience in the arts includes with the Kimmel Cultural Campus (Philadelphia ,PA) , Walnut Street Theatre (Philadelphia, PA) , Eugene O'Neill Theatre Center (Waterford, CT), Hangar Theatre (Ithaca, NY) and locally with Shakespeare in Delaware Park and the Lancaster Opera House. Rita studied theatre and movement with the Moscow Art Theatre School and National Theatre Institute; she earned her B.A. in Theatre and English at Case Western Reserve University. Rita also co-produces and hosts Cast Party, a Shea's Performing Arts Center podcast, and is a rookie Improviser at Buffalo ComedySportz.
Dr. Robyn Lee is an Assistant Professor of Acting and Directing at Niagara University, who regularly directs in Buffalo Theatre. Robyn has received three Artie Award nominations for Directing (SWEET CHARITY at the Kavinoky Theatre, and BERSERKER and THE ALEPH COMPLEX at Alleyway Theatre) and one nomination for acting (Adult Alison in FUN HOME at MusicalFare). She was also nominated for a IRNE (Independent Reviewers of New England) Award for Eliza Doolittle in MY FAIR LADY at The Greater Boston Stage Company. Before moving to Buffalo in 2018 to pursue a PhD in Theatre and Performance at UB, Robyn acted in NYC and regional theatre and taught at the Academy for Performing Arts, a public magnet high school in NJ. Robyn published a chapter in the edited collection, THEATRE AND THE MACABRE, and contributed chapters to two forthcoming collections.
Rolando was born and raised in Puerto Rico and he knew from an early age that he wanted to be an actor. At the age of 22, he was inspired by the late actor Raul Julia and left for New York City to pursue his acting career. Rolando has a BA from Buffalo State University with a concentration in the performing arts. He has been an actor and founding member of Raíces Theatre Company for over 23 years here in Buffalo, New York. Since then, he has worked at theatre companies all across Western New York such as MusicalFare Theatre, Second Generation Theatre, Irish Classical Theatre, Road Less Traveled Productions, and many more. In 2012, he was the recipient of the Mayor of Buffalo Art award for his artistic contributions to the community.
Steven Maisonet is a versatile performer, educator, and advocate for the arts based in Buffalo, NY. He has appeared in productions including Oklahoma!, Rent, Sunset Boulevard, A Christmas Carol, and Junie B. Jones, working with companies such as O’Connell & Company, Theatre of Youth, Inclusive Theater of WNY, and Starring Buffalo. He has also contributed to workshop readings with Raíces Theatre (The Magical Closet Mystery Musical) and Theatre of Youth (Emily of New Moon), helping develop new works for young audiences. Trained in vocal performance, improvisation, technical theater, and story-based learning, Steven brings a comprehensive understanding of theater to every project. He is a Licensed Master Social Worker, integrating his expertise in mental health, empathy-based learning, and stage confidence-building into his work with emerging artists. His professional experience extends to scenic design, prop management, light operation, and intimacy coordination, reflecting his commitment to both creative excellence and safety in theater. In addition to performing, Steven shares his insights as a theater reviewer for Born Buffalo, supporting the local arts community and highlighting emerging talent. Dedicated to fostering inclusive and anti-oppressive arts practices, he combines artistry with advocacy, mentorship, and community engagement, helping to nurture the next generation of performers while strengthening Buffalo’s vibrant theater scene.
Sydney Conrad is a music educator in the West Seneca School District, as well as a Buffalo performer. A graduate of SUNY Fredonia and Buffalo State, Sydney is a proud member of the Buffalo community and enjoys any opportunity to celebrate the arts and education! In addition to teaching in public schools and performing, Sydney is also the soprano section leader in her church choir and teaches private voice and piano lessons. Sydney is so grateful to have these opportunities to celebrate music and music education in the community she grew up in!
TERRI FILIPS VAUGHAN is Professor and Chair of Theatre and Fine Arts at Niagara University, serving as the resident choreographer. She has choreographed over 60 musicals and over 30 concert works at Niagara University. During this time, she had the privilege of working alongside the great musical team of John Kander and the late Fred Ebb. Terri has worked as a freelance teacher, choreographer and theatre director for numerous schools, community groups, studios and professional companies. She has choreographed numerous musicals professionally, working at such places as; Artpark, Shakespeare in Delaware Park, Jewish Repertory Theatre, Hope Summer Repertory Theatre, Rochester Association of Performing Arts (RAPA) and OFC Creations. Highlights include South Pacific at Artpark staring Tony Award winner Mark Jacoby and choreographing world premiere musical Two Tickets to Paradise written by and starring rocker Eddie Money at RAPA. She has set concert choreography at SUNY Buffalo, SUNY Fredonia, Texas Woman’s University, Grand Valley State College and Hope College. She graduated summa cum laude with an MFA in Dance from the Texas Woman’s University and cum laude with a BA from Hope College. She received the Woman in the Arts Award 2019 from the YWCA of the Niagara Frontier.
Zoe Goñez is a local Theater Performer, Practitioner and Teaching Artist with her Bachelor of the Arts. Having graduated out of the Buffalo State's Theater Program in 2024 as the University's Valedictorian, she then began her vocational Theater career in 2025. Goñez' most notable credits thus far include 'G' in Sanctuary City at D'Youville's Kavinoky Theater, 'Abby' in Brilliant Works of Art at Bellissima Productions and 'Medea' in Medea at Buffalo State University. Additionally, Goñez became a Teaching Artist in 2023 for Shea's Summer Musical Theater Intensive camp and has since pursued her interest in teaching Theater. Having been an Adjudicator last year, Goñez is eager for the program to start up again and looks forward to the wonderful productions our WNY High School Theater Community will present!
