Get to Know Corey Mitchell and the TGI Team

I am a passionate advocate for the arts, education, and wellness, with a career that reflects the ways these disciplines intersect to create transformative opportunities for individuals and communities. I hold a BA in Communications with a minor in Theatre Studies from Queens University of Charlotte and also pursued studies in Musical Theatre at Wagner College and Educational Theatre at NYU.

My professional journey began in New York City, where I transitioned from a Musical Theatre major at Wagner into the entertainment industry, first working at a NYC-based talent agency, then in advertising headhunting, and later as an administrative assistant at Headquarters Films. These experiences grounded me in the business side of the arts and media industries, while also deepening my understanding of how creativity and opportunity shape careers.

After returning to school for Educational Theatre at NYU, I relocated to Charlotte and began teaching at Northwest School of the Arts, where I nurtured young talent and saw firsthand the impact of arts education in shaping confidence, discipline, and self-expression. Seeking to expand my work in holistic wellness, I went on to open and operate NoDa Yoga for 14 years. There, I collaborated with organizations such as Yoga Warriors, Love Your Brain, and Veterans Yoga Project to make yoga accessible to diverse communities, including veterans through the VA system, bridging the healing power of movement with mental health and resilience.

The pandemic reignited my passion for theatre, leading me back to my roots in arts education as Program Director for Theatre Gap Initiative. In this role, I bring together my commitment to education, advocacy, and creative expression to support BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ students as they prepare for competitive BFA programs. Under my leadership, TGI has maintained a 100% success rate in college BFA acceptances, underscoring the power of intentional mentorship, rigorous training, and community care in breaking down barriers to higher education in the arts.

Tia Robbins is a Charlotte, North Carolina native whose artistry and passion for theatre and vocal performance have guided her from a young age into a thriving career as both a performer and an educator. Her love for the stage began in the third grade, where she first immersed herself in theatre, chamber choir, and drama clubs. What started as a spark of curiosity quickly became a lifelong pursuit, shaping her identity as both a performer and a mentor dedicated to cultivating the next generation of artists.

Tia graduated from Seton Hall University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Performance and Vocal Performance. During her time there, she immersed herself in both classical and contemporary performance, refining her vocal technique and acting skills while exploring the intersections of storytelling, music, and movement. One of the defining moments of her early career came when she made her opera debut in Narnia, Italy, an international experience that not only expanded her artistry but also solidified her commitment to pursuing theatre and performance on a professional level.

After completing her degree, Tia transitioned into arts education, securing a number of internships and teaching opportunities that allowed her to merge her love of performance with her passion for mentorship. She worked with well-regarded organizations including George Street Playhouse, Performers Theatre Workshop, and Spotlight Performing Arts Academy, where she specialized in helping young actors and singers build confidence, technique, and artistic expression. In these roles, she developed a reputation for her ability to create supportive, skill-driven learning environments that empower students to grow both on and off the stage.

Currently, Tia serves as Program Assistant and Resident Advisor for the Theatre Gap Initiative, a nonprofit dedicated to providing intensive training and resources for students preparing to transition from high school into collegiate theatre programs. In this role, she mentors and supports students not only in honing their craft but also in navigating the personal and professional challenges of pursuing a career in the arts.

Tia’s career reflects her belief that theatre is more than performance—it is a space for growth, self-discovery, and community building. Whether performing, teaching, or advising, she approaches every opportunity with dedication, joy, and a deep commitment to helping others discover the transformative power of the arts

Born and raised in “The Gateway City” of St. Louis, Dr. Hayes now resides in Charlotte. She holds a PhD from Southern Illinois University, where she also received a Distinguished Alumni Award from the College of Liberal Arts. Dr. Hayes is currently a faculty member in the Division of Arts and Communication at Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) in Charlotte.

Previously, she served as Chair of the Theatre Department at Morgan State University (MSU) and Livingstone College, and as head of the Drama Program at Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU). Dr. Hayes is also a faculty member at The Theatre Gap Initiative—a nonprofit group that helps high school students prepare to apply for BFA and conservatory programs. She serves on the Board of Directors of Theatre Charlotte as Chair of The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee, and also serves on the Advisory Board for Free Reign Theatre Company.

Among Dr. Hayes’ college/university directing credits are THE MIRACLE WORKER, THE PIANO LESSON, FENCES, and MA RAINEY’S BLACK BOTTOM at CPCC, A SOLDIER’S PLAY at MSU, and FOR COLORED GIRLS WHO HAVE CONSIDERED SUICIDE/WHEN THE RAINBOW IS ENUF at JCSU. She has also directed shows for several local theatre companies, including KING LIZ for Three Bones Theatre, TOP DOG/UNDER DOG for Shakespeare Carolina, and TWILIGHT: LOS ANGELES for On Q Productions. Dr. Hayes has received numerous awards for her work. They include two Best Drama Awards from Creative Loafing: 2014’s SIZWE BANSI IS DEAD (Carolina Actors Studio Theatre), and 2017’s JITNEY (Brand New Sheriff Productions). She received a 2020 Broadway World Award (Best Play and Director) for FENCES, and a 2019 Metrolina Theatre Association Award (Best Play and Director) for TWO TRAINS RUNNING, both with Brand New Sheriff Productions. In 2022, she received another Metrolina Theatre Association Award (Best Director) for MA RAINEY’S BLACK BOTTOM. Other honors for Dr. Hayes included being one of several guest speakers invited by The Charlotte Postmaster to speak at the virtual dedication of the “August Wilson Black Heritage Stamp” in 2021. In addition, she is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women-Queen City Chapter.

Emily Hunter is a freelance choreographer who holds a BA in Dance Education and Choreography from Winthrop University. Before shifting full time to choreography, Emily performed regionally with the Merry Pranksters, in New York and Charleston with Meredith Monk’s dance company House, and locally with Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte, Central Piedmont Summer Theatre, and Theatre Charlotte. With over 100 choreography credits, Emily is currently the artist-in-residence choreographer for Northwest School of the Arts Musical Theatre Department and choreographer for Charlotte Latin School’s Performing Arts Department. She is also a dance instructor and choreographer for Davidson College and Theatre Gap Initiative.

CarlosAlexis Cruz holds an MFA in Physical Theatre (2007) from the Dell’Arte International School of Physical Theatre where he studied a range of movement techniques including Commedia dell’Arte, Laban, Lecoq-based theatre dynamics, Alexander Technique, as well as an extensive voice training in the Linklater voice method.

As part of his thesis project, Cruz went on to train Circus Arts and Chinese Acrobatics under the tutelage of Master Coach Lu Yi at the San Francisco Circus Center. He specialized in the disciplines of Aerial Straps (Sangles Aériennes) and Acrobatic Rope (Corde Lise), and developed his thesis on the study of the convergence between Circus and Theatre.

In the professional realm, he was a fulltime company member of the Do Jump! Dance Theatre, and Imago Theatre, touring nationally and internationally and was awarded a Princess Grace Acting Fellowship prize in 2011 for his unique physical acting work with the Miracle Theatre Group, the premier Latino Theatre Company in the Pacific Northwest.

Out of the desire of creating new work that would perhaps reflect what now has become his main research area, he founded Pelú Theatre. Pelú is a company mainly interested in finding ways of telling urban stories, particularly through a Latino lens, in more physically engaging ways. Mixing pre-conceived notions such as Commedia and Melodramas, Circus and Theatre, Clowns and Death… the company blends, twists and flips up to deeper social subjects.

Cruz is the 2014 Arts and Science Council McColl Award-winner with which he developed a community-powered contemporary circus company/show, the Nouveau Sud project, from and about the city of Charlotte and the evolving concept of what is often referred to as the New South. The Nouveau Sud project had its debut production in April 2016, and it has been an ongoing initiative, with shows in 2017 and 2018. In 2019, Nouveau Sud received a $25,000 Celebrate Charlotte Arts grant from the Knight Foundation and in 2020 received the prestigious Creation and Touring Grant from the New England Foundation for the Arts (NEFA).

Professor Cruz also led an initiative for community engagement through the arts with the development and deployment of MAX (Mobile Arts and community eXperience), a traveling stage suited for outdoor performances and workshops that can range from the minimal to the spectacular.

Cruz received a 2017 Works in Progress Residency Award from the Princess Grace Foundation. The award funded a residency in March 2018 at the Baryshnikov Arts Center in New York City. During his residency, Cruz developed his one-man show, Pícaro, a physical theatre take on the journey of a Central American immigrant, which premiered at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte in April 2019.

Mere words can only capture the refrain of her awesome talent. She is the ballad of beauty and elegance. The melodies flowing from the petite vocalist are truly amazing. While casting a spellbinding smile, she mesmerizes her captive audience with incredible harmonies and rhythms.

As AN ACTOR, she has appeared in hit TV shows such as (Lifetime’s), “Army Wives”, and Marc Cherry’s, “Devious Maids”. Eric Kripke and J.J. Abrams’ apocalyptic, “Revolution”, and “Aquarius”, starring X-Files’ David Duchuvny, both on (NBC), and “Criminal Minds”, on (CBS), alongside Joe Mantegna. She has also guest starred on “The Resident” (FOX), and “Delilah” (OWN). Theatrical credits include, “The Blind Side”, “Addicted”, starring Sharon Leal and Boris Kodjoe, “Hunger Games: Catching Fire”, as Seeder, and “Christmas Wedding Baby”, by Award-Winning Writer/Director Kiara C. Jones. She also stars in Writer/Director, Shea Sizemore’s “The Next Day.” In addition, she recurred in Bounce TV’s, “Saints & Sinners” as Lt. Hawkins, and as Ms. Sumner in the Oscar nominated film, “Hidden Figures”. She also worked with Eric Close and Kristin Chenoweth in the Hallmark Hall of Fame TV movie, “A Christmas Love Story”. Maria also utilizes her vocals as a voiceover artist, on numerous radio and TV commercials, video games, narrations, not to mention her all-time favorite thing…animation.

A SONG STYLIST in her own right, Maria has shared the musical stage with such legendary artists as Nancy Wilson, George Benson, Ray Charles, Earl Klugh, and Ronnie Laws. After a very successful 6 year stint in Asia, Maria relocated back to the U.S. and performed at Sambuca Jazz Café for 9 consecutive years. She and pianist Bill Wilson (son of legendary jazz pianist, Teddy Wilson), held the distinction of being the longest-running act at the Atlanta, GA location. Maria hosts her own live music series (which originated in Hollywood, CA), called #DUETS, featuring artists performing “songs to soothe your soul”. In the most recent 11 years, she has collaborated and recorded with the wonderfully talented pianist/arranger/singer, Noel Freidline and his band, NFQ.

Maria is not only a song stylist and actor, but a very devoted supporter of several charities. Students Without Mothers, where she has served on the BOD and Advisory Board for over 10 years. She also serves as a Board Member of Tosco Music, and supports another important organization called Ava’s Heart.

I am a passionate advocate for the arts, education, and wellness, with a career that reflects the ways these disciplines intersect to create transformative opportunities for individuals and communities. I hold a BA in Communications with a minor in Theatre Studies from Queens University of Charlotte and also pursued studies in Musical Theatre at Wagner College and Educational Theatre at NYU.

My professional journey began in New York City, where I transitioned from a Musical Theatre major at Wagner into the entertainment industry, first working at a NYC-based talent agency, then in advertising headhunting, and later as an administrative assistant at Headquarters Films. These experiences grounded me in the business side of the arts and media industries, while also deepening my understanding of how creativity and opportunity shape careers.

After returning to school for Educational Theatre at NYU, I relocated to Charlotte and began teaching at Northwest School of the Arts, where I nurtured young talent and saw firsthand the impact of arts education in shaping confidence, discipline, and self-expression. Seeking to expand my work in holistic wellness, I went on to open and operate NoDa Yoga for 14 years. There, I collaborated with organizations such as Yoga Warriors, Love Your Brain, and Veterans Yoga Project to make yoga accessible to diverse communities, including veterans through the VA system, bridging the healing power of movement with mental health and resilience.

The pandemic reignited my passion for theatre, leading me back to my roots in arts education as Program Director for Theatre Gap Initiative. In this role, I bring together my commitment to education, advocacy, and creative expression to support BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ students as they prepare for competitive BFA programs. Under my leadership, TGI has maintained a 100% success rate in college BFA acceptances, underscoring the power of intentional mentorship, rigorous training, and community care in breaking down barriers to higher education in the arts.

Tia Robbins is a Charlotte, North Carolina native whose artistry and passion for theatre and vocal performance have guided her from a young age into a thriving career as both a performer and an educator. Her love for the stage began in the third grade, where she first immersed herself in theatre, chamber choir, and drama clubs. What started as a spark of curiosity quickly became a lifelong pursuit, shaping her identity as both a performer and a mentor dedicated to cultivating the next generation of artists.

Tia graduated from Seton Hall University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Performance and Vocal Performance. During her time there, she immersed herself in both classical and contemporary performance, refining her vocal technique and acting skills while exploring the intersections of storytelling, music, and movement. One of the defining moments of her early career came when she made her opera debut in Narnia, Italy, an international experience that not only expanded her artistry but also solidified her commitment to pursuing theatre and performance on a professional level.

After completing her degree, Tia transitioned into arts education, securing a number of internships and teaching opportunities that allowed her to merge her love of performance with her passion for mentorship. She worked with well-regarded organizations including George Street Playhouse, Performers Theatre Workshop, and Spotlight Performing Arts Academy, where she specialized in helping young actors and singers build confidence, technique, and artistic expression. In these roles, she developed a reputation for her ability to create supportive, skill-driven learning environments that empower students to grow both on and off the stage.

Currently, Tia serves as Program Assistant and Resident Advisor for the Theatre Gap Initiative, a nonprofit dedicated to providing intensive training and resources for students preparing to transition from high school into collegiate theatre programs. In this role, she mentors and supports students not only in honing their craft but also in navigating the personal and professional challenges of pursuing a career in the arts.

Tia’s career reflects her belief that theatre is more than performance—it is a space for growth, self-discovery, and community building. Whether performing, teaching, or advising, she approaches every opportunity with dedication, joy, and a deep commitment to helping others discover the transformative power of the arts

Emily Hunter is a freelance choreographer who holds a BA in Dance Education and Choreography from Winthrop University. Before shifting full time to choreography, Emily performed regionally with the Merry Pranksters, in New York and Charleston with Meredith Monk’s dance company House, and locally with Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte, Central Piedmont Summer Theatre, and Theatre Charlotte. With over 100 choreography credits, Emily is currently the artist-in-residence choreographer for Northwest School of the Arts Musical Theatre Department and choreographer for Charlotte Latin School’s Performing Arts Department. She is also a dance instructor and choreographer for Davidson College and Theatre Gap Initiative.

Jacqueline White has been sharing her love of dance as a teacher and performer for over 25 years. Her training began with Arnot Mader of the Richmond Ballet and continues today, as she attends workshops and teacher training annually with teachers and schools, including; Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, Finis Jhung, ABT and Bill T. Jones, among others. Jacqueline has performed with numerous regional companies, including; Martha Connerton/Kinetic Works, Kim Robards Dance Co., Echo Contemporary Dance Arts, and as a founding member of Movement Migration. She has taught in public schools, private studios, and as a visiting lecturer at UNCC. Jacqueline White is an ABT® Certified Teacher, who has successfully completed the ABT® Teacher Training Intensive in Primary through Level 6,7, and partnering of the ABT® National Training Curriculum. When she is not at the studio, she is busy with her other job, “Mother” to two children, a dog and 2 cats.

Renèe Welsh-Noel is a teacher, choreographer, and performer based in Charlotte, NC. With a BA in Choreography and Dance Theory from UNC Charlotte, she provides choreography for productions in and around Charlotte She is a life-long performer and has made appearances on stage in countless shows throughout North America including the touring production of the Drama League Award nominated GRIMMZ Hip Hop fairytales. When Renee is not on or backstage she is a studio artist working with collage and paper creations.

Born and raised in “The Gateway City” of St. Louis, Dr. Hayes now resides in Charlotte. She holds a PhD from Southern Illinois University, where she also received a Distinguished Alumni Award from the College of Liberal Arts. Dr. Hayes is currently a faculty member in the Division of Arts and Communication at Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) in Charlotte.

Previously, she served as Chair of the Theatre Department at Morgan State University (MSU) and Livingstone College, and as head of the Drama Program at Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU). Dr. Hayes is also a faculty member at The Theatre Gap Initiative—a nonprofit group that helps high school students prepare to apply for BFA and conservatory programs. She serves on the Board of Directors of Theatre Charlotte as Chair of The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee, and also serves on the Advisory Board for Free Reign Theatre Company.

Among Dr. Hayes’ college/university directing credits are THE MIRACLE WORKER, THE PIANO LESSON, FENCES, and MA RAINEY’S BLACK BOTTOM at CPCC, A SOLDIER’S PLAY at MSU, and FOR COLORED GIRLS WHO HAVE CONSIDERED SUICIDE/WHEN THE RAINBOW IS ENUF at JCSU. She has also directed shows for several local theatre companies, including KING LIZ for Three Bones Theatre, TOP DOG/UNDER DOG for Shakespeare Carolina, and TWILIGHT: LOS ANGELES for On Q Productions. Dr. Hayes has received numerous awards for her work. They include two Best Drama Awards from Creative Loafing: 2014’s SIZWE BANSI IS DEAD (Carolina Actors Studio Theatre), and 2017’s JITNEY (Brand New Sheriff Productions). She received a 2020 Broadway World Award (Best Play and Director) for FENCES, and a 2019 Metrolina Theatre Association Award (Best Play and Director) for TWO TRAINS RUNNING, both with Brand New Sheriff Productions. In 2022, she received another Metrolina Theatre Association Award (Best Director) for MA RAINEY’S BLACK BOTTOM. Other honors for Dr. Hayes included being one of several guest speakers invited by The Charlotte Postmaster to speak at the virtual dedication of the “August Wilson Black Heritage Stamp” in 2021. In addition, she is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women-Queen City Chapter.

Ericka is excited to join CTC Teaching Artist staff for the 2 nd year. Ericka has a MFA from London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art and has performed internationally and across the USA. Ericka has recently performed on several different stages in Charlotte, NC: August Wilson’s JOE TURNER’S COME AND GONE (BNS Productions), SCHOOL OF ROCK (Children’s Theatre of Charlotte) AND I AM QUEEN CHARLOTTE (Epoch Tribe). Ericka also had the opportunity to perform in Nashville, TN in I AM QUEEN NASHVILLE. After Raisin in the Sun with Matthews Playhouse, you can see Ericka at Narroway Productions in Lord of Light, Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s productions of Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer and Disney’s Frozen. Ericka gives all credit for her gifts to God and gratitude for the support from family and friends.

CarlosAlexis Cruz holds an MFA in Physical Theatre (2007) from the Dell’Arte International School of Physical Theatre where he studied a range of movement techniques including Commedia dell’Arte, Laban, Lecoq-based theatre dynamics, Alexander Technique, as well as an extensive voice training in the Linklater voice method.

As part of his thesis project, Cruz went on to train Circus Arts and Chinese Acrobatics under the tutelage of Master Coach Lu Yi at the San Francisco Circus Center. He specialized in the disciplines of Aerial Straps (Sangles Aériennes) and Acrobatic Rope (Corde Lise), and developed his thesis on the study of the convergence between Circus and Theatre.

In the professional realm, he was a fulltime company member of the Do Jump! Dance Theatre, and Imago Theatre, touring nationally and internationally and was awarded a Princess Grace Acting Fellowship prize in 2011 for his unique physical acting work with the Miracle Theatre Group, the premier Latino Theatre Company in the Pacific Northwest.

Out of the desire of creating new work that would perhaps reflect what now has become his main research area, he founded Pelú Theatre. Pelú is a company mainly interested in finding ways of telling urban stories, particularly through a Latino lens, in more physically engaging ways. Mixing pre-conceived notions such as Commedia and Melodramas, Circus and Theatre, Clowns and Death… the company blends, twists and flips up to deeper social subjects.

Cruz is the 2014 Arts and Science Council McColl Award-winner with which he developed a community-powered contemporary circus company/show, the Nouveau Sud project, from and about the city of Charlotte and the evolving concept of what is often referred to as the New South. The Nouveau Sud project had its debut production in April 2016, and it has been an ongoing initiative, with shows in 2017 and 2018. In 2019, Nouveau Sud received a $25,000 Celebrate Charlotte Arts grant from the Knight Foundation and in 2020 received the prestigious Creation and Touring Grant from the New England Foundation for the Arts (NEFA).

Professor Cruz also led an initiative for community engagement through the arts with the development and deployment of MAX (Mobile Arts and community eXperience), a traveling stage suited for outdoor performances and workshops that can range from the minimal to the spectacular.

Cruz received a 2017 Works in Progress Residency Award from the Princess Grace Foundation. The award funded a residency in March 2018 at the Baryshnikov Arts Center in New York City. During his residency, Cruz developed his one-man show, Pícaro, a physical theatre take on the journey of a Central American immigrant, which premiered at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte in April 2019.

Laura Suzanne Bock is a voice and singing coach from the UK, based in Ballantyne, Charlotte, North Carolina. With over a decade of experience teaching in London, Hong Kong, and Dubai, she offers lessons both online and in person, from her home studio in Ballantyne.

A seasoned performer herself, Laura is a graduate of the prestigious MFA Voice Studies course at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, London. Throughout her years of teaching Laura has been so proud to see her students graduate from conservatories such as Arts Ed (Arts Educational Schools London) and Mountview; go on to the West End stage; break on to Broadway; secure performing contracts at Disney; and yet her proudest achievement is always to hear, “Wow, I never knew that! My voice feels and sounds so much better!” The greatest accomplishment as a voice teacher is to know that your student has left the room with a better understanding of their own voice, and how to use it safely and effectively. To then witness those students excel in their chosen path is the icing on the cake. Let’s see how high these talented students soar!

Mere words can only capture the refrain of her awesome talent. She is the ballad of beauty and elegance. The melodies flowing from the petite vocalist are truly amazing. While casting a spellbinding smile, she mesmerizes her captive audience with incredible harmonies and rhythms.

As AN ACTOR, she has appeared in hit TV shows such as (Lifetime’s), “Army Wives”, and Marc Cherry’s, “Devious Maids”. Eric Kripke and J.J. Abrams’ apocalyptic, “Revolution”, and “Aquarius”, starring X-Files’ David Duchuvny, both on (NBC), and “Criminal Minds”, on (CBS), alongside Joe Mantegna. She has also guest starred on “The Resident” (FOX), and “Delilah” (OWN). Theatrical credits include, “The Blind Side”, “Addicted”, starring Sharon Leal and Boris Kodjoe, “Hunger Games: Catching Fire”, as Seeder, and “Christmas Wedding Baby”, by Award-Winning Writer/Director Kiara C. Jones. She also stars in Writer/Director, Shea Sizemore’s “The Next Day.” In addition, she recurred in Bounce TV’s, “Saints & Sinners” as Lt. Hawkins, and as Ms. Sumner in the Oscar nominated film, “Hidden Figures”. She also worked with Eric Close and Kristin Chenoweth in the Hallmark Hall of Fame TV movie, “A Christmas Love Story”. Maria also utilizes her vocals as a voiceover artist, on numerous radio and TV commercials, video games, narrations, not to mention her all-time favorite thing…animation.

A SONG STYLIST in her own right, Maria has shared the musical stage with such legendary artists as Nancy Wilson, George Benson, Ray Charles, Earl Klugh, and Ronnie Laws. After a very successful 6 year stint in Asia, Maria relocated back to the U.S. and performed at Sambuca Jazz Café for 9 consecutive years. She and pianist Bill Wilson (son of legendary jazz pianist, Teddy Wilson), held the distinction of being the longest-running act at the Atlanta, GA location. Maria hosts her own live music series (which originated in Hollywood, CA), called #DUETS, featuring artists performing “songs to soothe your soul”. In the most recent 11 years, she has collaborated and recorded with the wonderfully talented pianist/arranger/singer, Noel Freidline and his band, NFQ.

Maria is not only a song stylist and actor, but a very devoted supporter of several charities. Students Without Mothers, where she has served on the BOD and Advisory Board for over 10 years. She also serves as a Board Member of Tosco Music, and supports another important organization called Ava’s Heart.

Elizabeth E. Sickerman is a theatre artist and scholar with a passion for teaching undergraduate courses that utilize practice and intersectional theory to draw students toward a well-rounded understanding of performance. She holds an MA in Theatre Studies as well as dual BA degrees in Theatre and History. Elizabeth’s work as an actress and director covers a broad range of genres, from Grotowski-based devised theatre and performance art to Shakespeare and historical tours. Her training includes the Royal Shakespeare Company and the British Academy of Stage and Screen Combat . Her scholarship (which has been presented at the American Society for Theatre Research as well as the Comparative Drama Conference) explores the dynamic relationships between US performance art, violence studies, feminism, and Japanese Theatre.

Nancy is thrilled to be on the staff at ITG this fall and comes to Charlotte via Chicago, Illinois. Since she has moved to the Charlotte area, Nancy has developed a thriving piano studio of over 20 students, both at Arts+ and locally. She also is the choir accompanist and organist at the Denver United Methodist Church.

In Illinois, Nancy taught private piano lessons at her home studio and group lessons at the Paramount School of the Arts. She also served as the Staff Accompanist at East Aurora High School and was the club sponsor for Tri-M (the Music National Honor Society). She accompanied and/or music directed over twenty musical productions at the high school and community level and also accompanied many other musical events in the area including the Fox Valley Music Festival, string and vocal recitals and IHSA music contests.

Other musical experience includes serving as music director at Word of Life Lutheran Church in Naperville, playing professionally at the Von Maur and Nordstrom stores and accompanying the Elgin, IL Masterwork Chorale. She has taught at Waubonsee Community College, Walther Lutheran High School, St. Francis High School and Grace Lutheran School. Nancy holds a BA in Music from Illinois Wesleyan and she received her Master’s Degree in Piano Performance from Northwestern University.

Charlene Miranda Corbett–Thomas  

– B.M, M.A – Music Education. Charlene is a pianist, vocalist, music director, songwriter, arranger, and arts educator. She has been performing and singing ever since her parents “discovered” she played by ear as a curious little girl watching her dad, a jazz musician, practice on the trombone and piano. 

Charlene graduated with a Bachelor of Music from Berklee College of Music and master's in music education from Columbia University. As a teaching artist, she works with various organizations throughout the Charlotte area such as the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, Blumenthal Theatre, Mooresville Children’s Theatre, Davidson Community Theatre, and Arts+. Some of her recent credits as music director include: 

– Frozen, Davidson Community Theatre 

– Fun Home, Davidson Community Players 

– The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, Children’s Theater of Charlotte 

– Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Mooresville Children’s Theatre 

She loves inspiring students to pursue and develop their gifts as performing artists. Charlene is also a published songwriter and music arranger. When Charlene is not teaching, writing, arranging, or directing music, you can find her playing and singing solo at the AC Ballantyne Hotel or grooving around town with her band – Soul Philosophy. 

Justin Perry, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CSI is founder and therapist at Perry Counseling Healing and Recovery PLLC where he and his clinical team use talk, art, and movement modalities to treat mental health, trauma, and addiction for people ages 12 and up. Their mission is to promote healing and end stigma. 

Perry is a proud Charlotte native and West Charlotte grad who served as a Student Leader Intern at Charlotte’s first Freedom School in 2002. He earned BAs in Psychology and Sociology, as well as his MSW from UNC Chapel Hill. Perry has been published in multiple publications, and has previously done a monthly column as a Guest Columnist for the Charlotte Observer, Raleigh News and Observer, and Durham Herald Sun. He conducts trainings, workshops, and keynote addresses around the country for organizations around conflict resolution, assertive communication, as well as addressing racial equity while creating communities of inclusion and belonging. He is civically engaged, serving on the boards of UNC School of Social Work, CMS Foundation, Center for Community Transitions, and the Community Building Initiative while Co-Founding a group called OneMECK who focuses on education and housing equity. He has won awards from the Charlotte Observer, Playing for Others, Southern Living Magazine, and Charlotte’s Association of Fundraising Professionals. Identified by Charlotte Parent magazine as a “Parent to Watch,” he is a happily married father of 2 and a passionate sports fan. 

Dani Garrett (she/they) is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate and longtime yoga practitioner with a passion for guiding others towards self-compassion, understanding, and psychological flexibility. They use a variety of methods to support others in navigating life’s deepest circumstances including somatic awareness, acceptance and commitment therapy, Polyvagal theory, parts work, EMDR, and yoga. Dani believes in the integration of mind and body in therapeutic settings. With their experience in nervous system informed practices and therapy, Dani works with students at TGI to better navigate emotional complexities, stress, and their connection to the body. Students can expect to cultivate community through group centered activities such as yoga classes, meditation practices, psychoeducation, and class discussions. It is Dani’s goal to provide a soft, communal space to land during their time with TGI that promotes self-awareness, centering, and remembering that we can create a home within our body, as well as within our support systems.

Dani’s experience as a Registered Yoga Instructor, Mental Health Counselor and trauma specialist helps to inform their holistic approach with clients. Their vision as a clinician is to help clients meet themselves with self-compassion, understanding, and strength during challenging, as well as, yes, joyous times. Dani aims to provide a collaborative healing process with clients that is built upon the foundation of a strong therapeutic relationship and mindful awareness.

Dani believes that everyone has a unique journey to take in therapy and they honor this belief by tailoring each treatment plan to the client’s specific needs. Dani practices on the spectrum of existential-humanistic counseling which places an emphasis on the client’s personal experience and natural drive towards growth. She holds the belief that each person can find psychological flexibility and meaning in the face of difficult times with the right kind of support. Dani integrates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) interventions, Gestalt techniques, mindfulness, somatic experiencing, breathwork, yoga, and meditation. Dani is passionate about helping others to fully tap into their human experience by embracing our ability to heal not just through talk therapy, but through the awareness of our five senses, our ability to move our bodies, and to breathe as well.

Dani is incredibly honored to help you tap into these resources and to be a part of your growth.

Kortni R. Campbell is the founder and chief team strategist of KRC Consulting, where she focuses on team and leadership development and communication strategy designed to help leaders and their organizations cut through chaos to meet their mission. She currently serves as the Director of Admission & Enrollment Strategy at Johnson & Wales University (JWU), where she is charged with expanding awareness of JWU’s evolving brand, strengthening need-based aid, and relationship building across the secondary and higher education spaces. Through a 17-year career in higher education, she has also served as Vice Chancellor for Admission and Financial Aid at UNC Asheville and as Senior Associate Dean of Admission & Financial Aid at Davidson College, where she led the work of the admission and financial aid teams, strategic communication and recruitment efforts, and focused on initiatives related to access and equity. Throughout her career, Kortni has worked closely with students, their families, and mentors with a focus on empowerment in the college search process. She is grateful for the privilege to work closely with and support the work of counselors and college-bound organizations around the country to provide access to a quality, innovative, and affordable education to students and their families.

Prior to her work in higher education, she worked in the media, strategic communications and public policy. Kortni received her B.A. in Political Science from UNC Chapel Hill and her M.A. in Communications from Queens University of Charlotte. She also holds a Certification in Executive and Organizational Coaching from New York University. She is affiliated with the National Association of College Admission Counseling (NACAC), New England Association of College Admission Counseling, the International Coaching Federation and the Association for Women in Communications. Kortni volunteers with the Greater Charlotte SPCA and is a yoga teacher who specializes in working with athletes.

Championing integrity, character, and leadership for the next generation of artists.

Rodney is an experienced nonprofit executive and leadership coach with a proven record of building programs that empower people and transform communities. He has held senior leadership roles guiding mission-driven teams, cultivating partnerships, and developing initiatives that remove barriers for individuals impacted by poverty, incarceration, and homelessness.

Rodney created Employment Transformations, a workforce development program used by several Atlanta-area nonprofits to equip underserved individuals with the tools and confidence to re-enter the job market successfully. He also served as Executive Director of Regional Partnerships and Director of Expansion & Leadership Development with The Charlotte Church, where he oversaw growth strategies, community engagement, and leadership training.

Passionate about equity, opportunity, and human dignity, Rodney is committed to helping people discover their voice, live with integrity, and lead with authenticity. Through his volunteer work with TGI, he brings this same passion to young students and emerging leaders in the arts, encouraging them to grow in leadership, character, and courage—using their gifts to propel them forward on and off the stage.

Desirée Dabney is an award-winning actor, singer, director, producer, theatre educator, and activist whose work bridges artistry, education, and advocacy. She earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting from Shenandoah Conservatory in 2014 and her Master of Teaching from the University of Richmond, and she is currently pursuing a doctorate in Education Curriculum.

Her artistry and leadership have earned her numerous honors, including Shenandoah University’s Distinguished Alumni Award (2022), recognition in Richmond’s Style Weekly Top 40 Under 40 (2023), and a feature in NBC12’s Distinguished Black History Tribute (2023). She also made history as the first Black woman to develop theatre curriculum for the Virginia Department of Education, while also creating transformative theatre courses for Richmond Public Schools. A dynamic director, Desirée has directed more than 100 productions, with recent credits including Once on This Island, SpongeBob the Musical, She Persisted, the award-winning How Black Mothers Say I Love You, and the sold-out 2023 inaugural staging of Rent as Head of Musical Theatre at Virginia Commonwealth University. As a mentor, she has guided countless theatre teachers and continues to transform theatre education with innovation, inclusivity, and vision. In addition to her directing and academic leadership, Desirée teaches powerful workshops around the world, creating inclusive spaces where diverse voices are not only seen but truly heard. Beyond the stage, she has served as Head of Musical Theatre at VCU’s School of the Arts, a Board Member for the Virginia Department of Education in Fine Arts (Theatre), and an Elected Board Director of the Educational Theatre Association. She is also a Shuler Awards Adjudicator in Georgia and the Owner/Executive Director of Theatre Diva Productions. Passionate about equity and representation in the arts, Desirée is dedicated to ensuring that Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) performers—and all artists—have the opportunity to thrive on stage and beyond.

Brian Lafontaine has been a professional storyteller for more than 25 years as an actor, director, coach and voiceover professional working in film, television, theater, podcasts, corporate and event hosting, stand-up comedy and improvisation. Brian has appeared in more than 50 movies

and tv shows including Ozark, Stranger Things, Homeland, and Outer Banks just to name a few. Brian has been seen onstage in The Odd Couple, A Few Good Men, Three Days of

Rain, A Midsummer Night’s Dream along with a host of others all along the east coast. Brian is honored to be working with the amazing students and team at TGI.