COMPASS CREATIVE DRAMATICS

A DEEPER DIVE: COVID19 IMPACT ON COMPASS

3/26/2020

Hi, Compass Family and Community,

As many of you know, our slogan is Stretching Creativity and Bravery Muscles through Theatre. It’s certainly a time for both creativity and bravery. We hope you’re well, as we know that each community is having its own experience at different paces and realities with Covid19.

Here in Chicago we’ve experienced rapid, heightened changes and we at Compass are among the many facing a rough road ahead and are working to quickly adapt to the consequences of the pandemic as our city is under a stay-at-home order through at least April 30th.

So far, we’ve had to cancel all of our spring programming and events, begun navigating significant summer cancellations with many of our national partners, and anticipate there will be more cancellations to come. This means that Compass is likely facing a 60 - 80% loss of projected annual revenue for 2020 and these losses will likely continue into the following year as partnering organizations struggle to weather this storm as well.

I’ve been calling our partners to connect and find out about what’s happening locally in each community. As I’ve spoken to folks across the country, I’ve listened and shared in the fears and uncertainties that have surfaced in unique ways for each place, as well as being updated on the joys and victories our communities are also experiencing through these difficult times. It was through these conversations that I realized that we have the privilege of continuing being what Compass has always been: highly flexible and responsive to each of our community's needs.

So, we’ve begun to flex our creativity and bravery muscles in new ways to figure out what we could do to support our students, their families, and communities in the here-and-now, and bridge the gap Compass is currently facing financially.

Compass is simultaneously working on launching Compass@Home to create new digital theatre opportunities for our young artists and their families and working on preparing for the next time we can physically join our students.

So, we’re asking you to remain open to explore this wild west of online theatre programming with us and joining us for both our pay-what-you-can activities our more robust online classes and camps. This will allow us to continue to bring theatre to the places where kids already learn and play, and for now that’s mostly at home!

The monies collected from online programming, and any generous donations we receive at this time, will be the bridge between us and you that will help ensure our ability to overcome this unprecedented challenge and be back on the road soon!

When Cathlyn and I started Compass nearly eight years ago, we did so with the goal of providing programming that was accessible and affordable. As a community we’re now faced with new accessibility and financial challenges than we ever dreamed of when we started out on this journey - but that doesn’t change our mission.

We’re committed to being here for you during these uncertain times and we still want to be here with you when our world is able to emerge from this crisis, helping young artists find their voice, honing their empathy, trust, responsibility, and teamwork, in a world that will need those things more than ever.

We miss you, and we cannot wait to see you again online and in person! So, keep an eye out for emails and other communication about how you can engage with and how we can support each other.

Be well, stay safe, and join us for these new ways to stretch your creativity and bravery muscles!

-Cassandra Quinn and the Compass Team

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Twenty Questions with Programs Associate, Emma Noelle

3/13/2020

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Welcome to our TWENTY QUESTIONS series. Here, team members from administrators to designers to teachers answer questions about themselves. Have a question you want us to add to the list? Leave a comment!

About Emma

Emma is an Inventory Manager and experienced Teaching Artist at Compass. She has played Scruffy the Rat and Shere Khan the Tiger in the Compass productions of Beauty and the Beast and The Jungle Book. Her favorite Compass play is The Jungle Book. She says, "I love how culturally relevant it is to the modern day".

Emma in rehearsal with a student for the 2019 Kohler Jungle Book camp.

Emma's Twenty Questions

#1 You’re stranded on a deserted island, but you have food and water. What are three things you’d want to have with you?

My fiance Jordan, my stuffed cat from childhood named Starlit, and my bed.

#2 What was your favorite music group in middle school?

Ke$ha was my favorite singular person, but The Dixie Chicks were my favorite group.

Dixie Chicks at the 41st Annual Grammy Awards. Photo by: SGRANITZ/WIREIMAGE

#3 What teams did you belong to when you were growing up?

I played some sports like Baseball and Softball, but I also was on a synchronized skating team called the “Mousettes” as well as a team where I Ice Skated singularly. I was a cheerleader for my Elementary School Squad, the Stallions, as well as rode horses for 2 different teams. I stated at Red Coat Farms, before quickly moving over to Country Ridge. I was our highest scoring Pony rider my last year!

#4 Soup or salad?

Soup

#5 What’s your favorite day of the week when you are teaching a performance residency?

Tuesdays! I love getting to intorduce the students to their characters in a more full way.

Emma teaching a scene in a Jungle Book camp in Kohler, Wisconsin (2019)!

#6 What’s something about you that some people might consider a weakness, but is really a strength?

I get extreme tunnel vision when I am overwhelmed. I used to think that this was a weakness as well, until I realized that this just allows me to complete my tasks more quickly, which allows me to move on to other tasks mroe efficently.

#7 Morning person or nightowl?

I'm Neither. I’m more of a mid-afternoon person.

#8 Tell us all of the towns you’ve lived in.

Elgin, IL
Hoffman Estates, IL
Hawthorn Woods, IL
Colleyville, TX
Lakeland, FL
Mundelein, IL
Lakeview, IL

#9 What’s a piece of advice someone gave to you that’s stuck with you?

I don’t remember where I first heard this advice, but it was “Being an adult doesn’t mean that I have to act like one.” I always felt like as an adult I had to give up on all of my personal childhood wants and needs, and it’s of great comfort to me that I can keep at least a few of them.

#10 What’s a book that’s stuck with you?

The Outsiders. I have a tattoo on the inside of my left wrist with the quote “stay gold” on it, and all of my sorority sisters in college called me Ponyboy.

#11 Top five favorite snacks:

-Peach Rings
-Chocolate frosting and pretzels
- Nutella on apples
-Butter and toast
-Oreo Balls

#12 What’s the practical skill in your life that you’re most proud of?

I do my own taxes, and have not accepted any financial help from my family since I was 17.

#13 What’s something you do to relax?

Reread my old favorite books (The Outsiders, Anne of Green Gables, etc)

#14 Describe your favorite mug.

'It’s from a Lady and the Tramp couples mug set. It’s red and has Lady on the front of it. The back has “Lady” written in gold script and the side of it has an indent that creates half a heart. When the Tramp half is sat side by side they complete a heart in the negative space.

#15 What’s your favorite thing to do in Chicago in the winter?

Lincoln Park Zoo Lights and visit the Bean while it is snowing.

#16 If you were going to live somewhere other than Chicago, where would it be and why would you live there?

I'd live in Orlando, Florida. I loved living in Florida and I cannot wait to go back.

#17 What’s your favorite fairytale?

Little Red Riding Hood

#18 What would you do if someone gave you a million dollars, no strings?

Payoff my debts and invest in a decent condo.

#19 Tell us about your role model.

My grandmother is the strongest woman I’ve ever met. We’re cut from the same cloth and she always understands what I need without me even saying it. She survived so many difficult situations in her life, and is still thankful everyday. She always tells me to be wholly myself, and to never tamper down any pieces regardless of the situation. She’s one of the first people in my life to say that to me, and actually mean it.

#20 What’s a moment that you felt proud of the work you do at Compass?

When JM and I were in Findlay, OH there were a group of girls who were traditional gossipy, middle school bully types. One of the girls in that group would regularly get picked on because she was on the bottom of their group heirarchy, but when the group went in on another person she wasn’t usually the type to stop that behavior. On Friday one of the younger girls in the cast left her dinner unattended and without meaning to, the older girl picked up the mess and threw it out because she assumed that the mess was all garbage. When the younger girl came back and saw that her food had been “stolen” she got uncontrollably upset. She made a huge scene and the Principal of the school stepped in and demanded to know who took this girls food. The clique that that older girl belonged too were giggling about the whole event, and seemed to find this younger students panic somewhat funny, but the girl who tossed the food in the garbage seemed genuinelly sorry about the event. She even admitted in front of the entire cast that she had gotten rid of the food, and apologized to the hysterical student. Her friends were clearly angry with her for not joining in on the laughter with them, but she didn’t let that stop her fom doing the righ thing. It was clear that this girl had learned a lot about resposibility and honesty that week, and her improvement in only a couple of days really resonated with me.

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Leading by Example: A Look into the Professional Theatre Work of Compass Educators

3/6/2020

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Here at Compass Creative Dramatics, we take great pride in the accomplishments of our staff and educators. It’s important to us that our educators aren’t just teachers who sometimes perform, or performers who sometimes teach - they stretch their creativity and bravery muscles as both teachers and performers regularly! This means that our teaching artists often enjoy consistent, professional theatrical work outside of their time at Compass.

We’re dedicated to hiring educators who also practice their craft regularly beyond their work at Compass as we believe this enriches our students’ experience and enhances the quality of programming we offer to our communities!

While our teaching artists work professionally at an array of types of theatres and artistic projects, we want to take a moment and highlight the exciting Theatre For Young Audience projects beyond Compass that our staff has been dedicating themselves to over the last few months and brag on behalf of our amazing team - Here we go!

A.J. Morrison at Lexington Children’s Theatre

A.J. (right) and his director Katie Mitchell on ABC 36 News talking about The Cat in the Hat (Photo by ABC 36 News)

A.J. Morrison, Compass Creative Dramatics’ Education Director and one of our teaching artists for Summer 2020, is playing “Fish” in The Cat in the Hat with Lexington Children’s Theatre. This musical is based on the book by Dr. Seuss, and has been adapted and originally directed by Katie Mitchell for LCT. If you recall the plot of The Cat and the Hat, it’s all about causing chaos! “Just like anything in theatre, staged chaos is intended to appear spontaneous, but in reality, that chaos must be meticulously planned in order to be safe.” A.J explained to us. “The cast, director, and creative team were in constant collaboration to plan the perfect mess… and its cleanup. It has been a blast to have so many creative minds working together.”

Performing on stage gives A.J. more tools in his belt to share with students on the road. While he’s working as a performer, he’s thinking like a teacher! “When something goes particularly well on stage I will often reflect on what the difference was. I’ll ask myself: What happened that time that made it work? What steps in the process helped me get to that point of success?” These discoveries onstage are not only a tool A.J. can keep in his belt as a performer; he is able to hand those tools to his students as an educator. The Cat and the Hat runs from February 23rd through March 18th, touring through regional Kentucky. Congratulations, A.J.!

Kelsey Fortier at The National Theatre for Children

Kelsey Fortier is the touring QUEEN! She was a teaching artist with Compass last summer, and is returning to teach for Summer 2020. Kelsey is ALSO currently on her second tour with The National Theatre for Children playing four different characters (Dr. Professor, Kitty, Friend, Teacher) in The Energy Guardians, a show about energy conservation that teaches children the importance of saving the planet’s resources. Kelsey has loved both of the projects she has done with The National Theatre for Children, having previously toured The Resource Force. Performing 2 to 5 shows per day, Kelsey travels around the world bringing knowledge, laughter, and joy to middle schools far and wide.

Kelsey as “Kitty Hairdo” in The Energy Guardians at The National Theatre for Children (Photo by Lizzie Narlock)

These performances aren’t your typical scripted show throughout - Kelsey has the fun challenge of taking suggestions from the students in the audience, and tying them into the storyline through improv! “The students are always looking forward to that moment when they hear their specific suggestions, and the laughs are glorious. Every one of these shows are completely different as the suggestions turn the tables. ” Kelsey says. Touring with Compass Creative Dramatics last summer piqued her interest in TYA (Theatre for Young Audiences) and she believes her experiences on the road have made her a better human, performer, and educator. “I am constantly interacting with students on and off stage allowing my communication skills to soar. As an actor, this show always has me on my toes constantly listening and being in the moment, which is extremely exciting.” Kelsey’s tour started January 25th, and she’s out on the road until March 9th. Happy touring, Kelsey!

Jill Matel and Sonia Goldberg with GreatWorks Theatre Company

Our Finance Manager and our Sales and Marketing Coordinator - Jill Matel and Sonia Goldberg - work with another touring children’s theatre group, GreatWorks Theatre Company! GreatWorks has a lineup of 13 social studies and literature-based touring shows seen by tens of thousands of students every year, in venues from the Atlantic coast to the Canadian border. While Sonia joined the ensemble this 2019/20 season, Jill has been acting in GreatWorks shows for several years now! “I truly enjoy performing for students as they are engaged and intelligent audiences.” Jill says. “Talkbacks are always fun to see what the students take away from the show.” Jill tours with The Giver and plays the Chief Elder, and plays Mrs. Rosen in Number the Stars. Sonia tours with 50 States in 60 Minutes, Fractured Fairy Tales, and A Christmas Carol and plays many fun and zany characters. Way to go, Jill & Sonia!

Sonia Goldberg at Chicago Children’s Theatre

In addition to performing with GreatWorks, Sonia recently played Music Bear Wake Up, Brother Bear! at Chicago Children’s Theatre. Wake Up, Brother Bear! Is an immersive and highly interactive show for children ages 0-6. Brother Bear and Sister Bear guide the audience through the four seasons, while Music Bear plays cello on top of the bear cave to make their adventure full of music, fun, and excitement! Young audience members get to meet butterflies in the Spring, play with fireflies in the summer, throw leaves in the Fall, and help the bears get ready for hibernation in the winter.

Allyce Torres (left) Sonia Goldberg (center) and Jonah Winston (right) in Wake Up, Brother Bear! (Photo by Charles Osgood)

Throughout each week, school buses filed in and hundreds of local children get to see the show as a part of their school day. On the weekends, Wake Up Brother Bear! had public performances, and the theatre was full of children and their friends and family. “Since the show is so interactive, it changes based on the energy our audience gives us each show. So 30 shy montessori students may lead to a gentler show, while 100 students from two different schools leads to a more raucous show.” Sonia explained. “Throughout the adventure, our young audience members are encouraged to make brave choices and be a part of the story in their own way. I feel so proud of everyone during each show that my cheek muscles hurt from smiling afterwards!” Wake Up, Brother Bear! ran from January 21st through March 1st. Great job, Sonia!

Audie Deinlein at Northbrook Theatre

Our wonderful office manager, Audie Deinlein, just wrapped up an exciting TYA project out in the suburbs. She performed in Knuffle Bunny, a musical adaptation of the Mo Willems book by the same name at Northbrook Theatre. Audie loves TYA because of the way in engages the community. “In Knuffle Bunny specifically, we have had so much interest from the kids in learning about the use of puppets in the show. We have shadow puppets, marionettes, and traditional hands-on puppets.” Audie says. “We've had Q+A's where we have shared all of the jobs within the theatre sphere including teaching artist positions.” So she got to share a bit about her work at Compass and beyond!

Audie (far right) and the cast of Knuffle Bunny (Photo by Northbrook Theatre staff)

Knuffle Bunny closed on February 26th, and had many sold out performances. Well done, Audie!

Wyatt Kent at American Blues Theatre

Last but not least, Wyatt Kent, the artistic director of Compass Creative Dramatics performs with The Lincoln Project through American Blues Theatre. This program was developed in celebration of the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. The Lincoln Project is a free arts education program for students in 5th through 10th grades in Chicago Public Schools. It also tours to festivals, museums, and other events throughout Chicago. Wyatt and others involved in the project perform selected scenes from the Pulitzer Prize-nominated script about Lincoln’s life, The Heavens Are Hung in Black. After the performance, they lead discussions with the students, and help students write their own text based on personal experiences or current events that affect them. “I think the real highlights of the Lincoln Project is helping students from a wide range of backgrounds in Chicago practice telling stories that matter to them in their own words.” Wyatt says. “The scenes that they see performed are a jumping off point for conversation.”

Chicago Public Schools made a concerted effort to make sure African-American History is taught year-long from middle school through high school. While there was a gap in supplementing their social studies programs, The Lincoln Project helps fill it. The Lincoln Project serves over 4,000 students annually. Great work, Wyatt!

We are so lucky to have a driven and dedicated team, and we are proud of all the great work they do to bring art to the Chicago community and beyond. And we haven’t even touched on the projects they have coming up on the horizon! Stay tuned for more exciting updates on the rich, full artistic lives of our teaching artists and staff.

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Twenty Questions with Sales and Marketing Coordinator, Sonia Goldberg

2/28/2020

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Sonia Goldberg was a touring Actor/Educator in the Summer of 2019. She has played a couple roles in Compass productions. She played Sylvia Silverton Cinderella (Saves the World!) and The Queen in Peas and Harmony. Her favorite Compass play is Jungle Book! She says, "I only saw it once, but I LOVE [it]! The script is genuinely funny. I laughed until my cheeks hurt! And Mowgli as a character is kind and courageous. Mowgli is so much fun to watch".

Sonia dressed as Rose from the Compass production of Peas and Harmony.

#1 What was your favorite music group in middle school?

I was obsessed with Evanescence. I had multiple t-shirts and wristbands from hot topic to prove it. I was a bit of a wanna-be goth back in the day!

#2 Soup or salad?

Sooooooup.

#3 Villain or hero?

Villain! But the kind of villain who secretly has a heart of gold and gets redeemed in the end! So, both, kind of.

#4 Cake or pie?

That’s rough. But it’s gotta be pie.

#5 Top five favorite snacks:

In no particular order:

apples & cheese, sugar snap peas & hummus, hot cheetos with lime, seedless purple grapes, and french fries (with ketchup & mayo)

#6 What’s something you do to relax?

I like to meditate! I use apps on my phone that have guided meditations for relaxation, positive thinking, and goal-setting. I also like listening to jazz and classical music.

#7 Describe your favorite mug.

My favorite mug has a deep brown outside, with a teal/yellow swirly inside. It has a smooth and solid handle and it’s not too big, not to small - juuuust right!

Sonia playing the cello as Musician Bear from the Chicago Children's Theatre production of Wake Up, Brother Bear!

#8 Describe a teacher you looked up to as a child.

My music teacher Ms. Pepin! She always reached out to the shy kids and encouraged us to participate and be silly & loud without fear. I would never have joined choir if it weren’t for her believing in me!

#9 What’s your favorite thing to do in Chicago in the winter?

When it snows, I like to go sledding in Warren Park. And then go home and make hot chocolate to warm up!

#10 Why do you live in Chicago?

I grew up here, it’s my home. I feel totally nourished and invigorated by the arts scene here and always have. Plus, we have the best food, and the prettiest parks and buildings. Why would I leave?!

#11 If you weren’t an artist, what would you be?

I would probably be a therapist. I love listening to people and helping them through their problems.

#12 What’s the household chore that you would avoid forever if you could?

I don’t mind doing laundry, but I HATE putting it away. I wish my clothes could fly back into my drawers and onto hangers as soon as they’re clean!

#13 What are the best three things about you?

I am an optimist, I am responsible, and I am a warm person, so people tend to feel comfortable to open up around me.

Sonia teaching at the Peas and Harmony CCD Summer Performance Camp in Kohler, WI 2019

#14 Tell us three things you remember about kindergarten.

I remember singing Christmas carols with my classmates, learning how to tie my shoes from a VERY patient teacher, and playing math games with fun colorful beads.

#15 How do you like to spend a rainy day?

Reading/talking to a friend/getting work done, with a warm beverage, RIGHT by a window, so you can enjoy the rain without getting wet.

#16 What’s your favorite holiday? How do you celebrate it?

New Years Eve! I invited lots of loved ones over to my home and ask everyone to bring food. So we all have lots to eat and ring in the new year with good company.

Classic Doc Marten boots!

#17 What’s a product or service that you love so much, you would happily be their spokesperson? What’s so great about it?

Doc Marten boots - they’re indestructible and very comfy once you wear them in! Plus they come in a lot of cool patterns and colors which I love.

#18 What did you want to be when you grew up?

At first, I wanted to be a Nurse so I could help people. Also I LOVED babies, and I thought being a nurse meant I got to meet a lot of them.

#19 Morning person or night owl?

Morning person! I like waking up early to get stuff done. Plus, watching the sun rise on the lake is GORGEOUS.

#20 What’s a piece of advice someone gave to you, that’s stuck with you?

Take risks! Don’t always go for the sure thing, put yourself out there sometimes! :)

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Twenty Questions with Social Media Manager, Macy Hernandez

2/21/2020

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About Macy

Macy Hernandez began her time with Compass in 2016 as the Education Apprentice, then transferred into the Camp Coordinator role (2017-18). She has also been Compass' workshop educator for the Waukegan Park District. She has not yet played a character from a Compass play, but would love to play The Queen in Peas and Harmony, which happens to be Macy's favorite Compass play! The show is based off of the beloved story, Princess and the Pea, which is a tale she used to read growing up. She says, "Compass’ version of the story is hilarious. All of the characters are laugh out loud funny in their own way. The Queen and The Peas are my favorite characters because they remind me of the dynamic I have with my preschool class! There’s also a cute dance party that the Peas have in the show and I giggle every time it happens; It’s so cute!".

Macy posing with Compass campers (Summer 2016)

#1 You’re stranded on a deserted island, but you have food and water. What are three things you’d want to have with you?

A blanket because I’m always cold. Plus, you can use the blanket for a variety of things like a bed, a fort, a pillow, you can create a bag out of it, and more! It’s just so useful.
My dog, Biggie. He’d be great company to have.
My bag of toiletries. I need and love to be clean!

#2 What teams did you belong to when you were growing up?

I was a very busy little girl. I was involved with community theaters like Fox Valley Theatre Company and Children’s Theatre of Elgin. I also used to be a figure skater. I skated from the ages of 6-15. If you let me borrow some ice skates, I could probably show you some cool tricks! In high school, I was on the Speech and Drama Team. I performed in many acting events; Humorous and Dramatic Duet Acting, Prose Reading, and Impromptu Speaking. I was also heavily involved in my school's drama department.

Macy performing as Charlotte in South Elgin High School's 2008 production of Charlotte's Web

#3 Soup or salad?

That’s tough because I love both any time of the year, but I’m more likely to have soups in the winter and salads in the summer! However, I can’t eat either without a side of warm bread.

#4 Cake or pie?

Pie. There’s some sentiment to that dessert. In college, my friends and I would go to a restaurant called The Village Inn (located mostly in the Quad City area). We’d specifically go on Wednesdays because they offer free pie on those days. Eating pie always reminds me of the good memories I had with my college friends!

#5 Top five favorite snacks:

(In no particular order)

Veggies and Hummus
Watermelon
Honeycrisp apples and peanut butter (or cookie butter)
Tortilla chips and guacamole
Goldfish

#6 What’s the practical skill in your life that you’re most proud of?

I can assemble furniture! Thank you to my college stagecraft class for teaching me how to use power tools and how to build stuff!

#7 What’s something you do to relax?

My go-to for relaxation is being under a warm blanket as I catch up on a TV show or a movie.
I also love working out and moving my body, whether that’s completing an at home workout, dancing, going for a run or a walk, or even stretching. Moving my body helps me destress and loosen up!

#8 What’s your favorite kind of cookie? How do you prefer to eat it?

Oatmeal chocolate chip is my favorite cookie! I prefer to eat it when it’s warm, crispy around the edges and perfectly gooey in the middle. Pair it with a warm cup of your favorite tea and it’s a winning combination.

#9 Describe your favorite mug.

It's a large white mug painted blue on the inside. The mug reads "Goal for today: Keep the tiny humans alive". As a preschool teacher, this quote fits well with my daily life.

#10 Why do you live in Chicago?

My parents immigrated to the U.S before I was born and we’ve stayed in the Chicagoland area ever since. I currently live in the Chicago suburbs, but I love where I’m at because I can do activities in the city AND the suburbs. There’s so much to do in Chicagoland. If food is your thing you can eat at so many great restaurants. If art is your thing, there are tons of places to see a show or visit a museum. If sports are your thing, we’re home to some of the greatest teams in the history of sports (GO BULLS!). And these are just a few of my favorite things. I’ve lived here for 28 years and there’s still plenty I have yet to explore! Honestly, no other city can compare. Chicago will ALWAYS be home.

#11 If you were going to live somewhere other than Chicago, where would it be and why would you live there?

I’ve always wanted to live in California because the sun is always shining and the warm weather is nice. There’s also so many things to do and explore when you’re on the West Coast like the beach, going on a hike, visiting theme parks, restaurants, and more. My favorite place to be in California is the Griffith Observatory. I love how it overlooks Los Angeles while also allowing you to stargaze (my favorite activity). More importantly, I just love the vibe that the West Coast gives. It’s a state full of carefree, enthusiastic, goal-driven, hardworking, life-loving people.

#12 If you weren’t an artist, what would you be?

I have a couple alternative careers in mind. One, I think I’d be a chef. I love the feeling you get when someone eats the food you’ve created and they rave about how delicious it tasted. Two, I'd love to be a hair stylist. I've always been told I was good at hair and I think I'd enjoy helping others feel confident about themselves after they leave a salon.

#13 What do you love about being an artist?

I’d like to think artists have a special super power. I love that we have the ability to find beauty in anything. I think having an artistic eye allows you to see the world in a different way. What’s even more beautiful is that we can take the art that we make and bring all kinds of people together.

Macy's dog, Biggie after a long walk in the park.

Macy's orange tabby cat, Memphis, caught yawning after being awaken from a nap!

#14 Tell us about your pet or your future pet.

I have two pets, Biggie and Memphis. Biggie is a 6 year old Maltipoo (Maltese & Poodle mix) who is happiest when he’s surrounded by people. Memphis is an orange tabby cat (we’re unsure of his age) who loves to eat, sleep, and knock things over with his paws.

Biggie came into my life in 2017. My cousin got him as a puppy when they lived in California. They eventually moved back to Chicago and realized they weren't able to take care of him. Instead of giving him to a shelter, I took Biggie in and the rest is history.

Memphis came into our lives in 2016. Funny story, my brother was living in Chicago at the time. He was getting in his car after work. He opened his car door and in jumps this orange cat. The cat sat in the back seat and refused to leave. My brother took him in the shelter to see if he had an owner. He didn’t. So, we adopted Memphis and he’s been with us ever since!

#15 What would you do if someone gave you a million dollars, no strings attached?

First, I would cry happy tears. Then I’d:

Pay off all of my debt
Buy my childhood home
Travel the world with my friends and family
Buy multiple homes in multiple cities
Go shopping to expand my clothing collection

#16 Tell us about your favorite non-artist job.

I used to work for American Eagle Outfitters. While most dislike working in retail, I actually enjoyed my retail experience. Each day was different than the last. One day I could be selling jeans, the next day I could be running the cash registers, and the next I could be creating visually appealing merchandise displays. I enjoyed the fast-paced work environment. What I loved most about this job was that I loved being able to style customers and bring out confidence in them they didn’t know they had! The discounts for the clothes weren’t half bad either :)

Macy showing off a favorite outfit she styled together from American Eagle Outfitters (2014).

#17 What’s the household chore that you would avoid forever if you could?

Washing the dishes. I grew up only washing dishes with my hands because my parents have always told me:

Using a dishwasher wastes water
A dishwasher doesn’t clean your dishes as well as by hand

They are from the Philippines so culturally it’s just common to wash by hand and this is a custom I just naturally picked up. Anyway, washing dishes by hand makes my hands really dry and I also hate the feeling of putting my hands in dirty dishwater. Yuck.

(fun fact: My first time using a dishwasher was in 2018. It was amazing and fast, but it just didn’t feel right to use. Ha! )

#18 What’s your favorite day of the week when you are teaching a performance residency?

I love performance day (Friday)! It’s a day where all the things we’ve been working on are being put together. I love being able to see how much the students have grown since the beginning of the process and showcasing their hard work to their number one fans!

#19 What’s your favorite kids’ movie?

The Princess Diaries. I will never get tired of this movie! Or anything by Disney, honestly!

#20 What’s your biggest moment of 2019?

Biggest moment of 2019 was starting my own theatre company in the Chicago suburbs! I am a Co-Founder of The Hourglass Collective. The Hourglass Collective is a theatrical organization devoted to forging diverse onstage opportunities for minority voices by way of non-traditional casting and producing works spanning various genres. We strive to create a unique space where the often overlooked can entertain, inspire, and empower the members of our community.

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Our Home is Your Home: Offering 20 Free Spots in Our Summer Performance Program to Affected Emerald City Theatre Camp Families

2/14/2020

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Students performing in a Compass production of The Wizard of Oz

Back in January, the Chicago community lost a vital force in the Theatre for Young Audiences and Theatre Education communities. We’re still reeling from the news of Emerald City Children’s Theatre closing its doors. When the news first was announced Compass posted an open letter on our blog sharing how heartbroken we were, but also how grateful we continue to be for Emerald City’s performers, teaching artists, and staff, for paving the way for children to discover theatre. But we couldn’t shake a certain feeling...isn’t there something, anything, more we could be doing?

Reflecting on all Emerald City Children’s Theatre did to enrich the Chicago community made us think: local children’s theatres can hope to help to fill the enormous shoes they’ve left behind - but how? How can we show that we are in their corner, that we care about the continuation of top-notch educational programs, and to show those families they are not alone? That safe spaces to grow and learn are still accessible? How to ensure the loss of Emerald City doesn’t have to be just a loss, but an opportunity for others of us in the community to meet the needs of those students and families and allow that ripple to continue to radiate through children’s theatres across the city?

We feel we have a social responsibility to help in some way beyond well-wishing. We want to commit ourselves to easing the transition for the families who have been enjoying Emerald City’s educational programs for years on end. I asked our team to put our heads together. We took stock of our resources, and made a bold decision.

Compass Co-Founder, Cathlyn, teaching Compass students a scene

Compass is dedicating 20 free spots in our summer performance camps this year across our two sessions at St. James Lutheran School (Lincoln Park) and Pritzker Elementary (Wicker Park/Bucktown) to the families who had already registered for ECT 2020 camps. These spots have not been sponsored, grant-funded, or otherwise underwritten. However, I realized this fiscal commitment to waive fees for up to 20 spots could help clear the some of the barriers families are now facing as they are seeking alternative programming options.

If those 20 spots become filled and there are more families needing spots who reach out, we’ve made a further commitment to offer an unlimited number of 50% discounts to others who may also have registered for ECT 2020 Camps. Lastly, we’ve decided to extend this 50% discount to previous ETC campers who may not have yet registered for 2020 camps but who’ll be affected that ETC is no longer able to provide programming to them.

All we need is a receipt that reflects previous registration to ECT. From there, once registration for our summer camp session has been completed, they’ll be on their way to a week-long program culminating in a full-fledged performance once completing, acting alongside two professional Chicago actors! Although this is a difficult time, we are excited to connect with new young actors and keep their love of theatre thriving!

While we will be doing our part by offering free programming to some of the Chicago families affected by the Emerald City closure, we acknowledge we can’t fill the entire gap left behind. Compass Creative Dramatics does not offer professional Theatre for Young Audiences like Emerald City did, our entire focus is on educational programming. Because our primary focus is touring our programming across the country, we don’t offer an entire summer of classes in Chicago as Emerald City families are used to, but we do have a couple of weeks to offer. And we don’t have a venue of our own, but we are proud to partner with local schools that can fully accommodate our program. While we know we can’t meet every need, we are willing, able, and proud to be able to give away this programming to those young ones who need a new artistic home this summer.

Compass students expressing the joy in friendship during their time at our performance camp.

I personally know how important having a community, a clan to call your own and how theatre can be that for many people. As a child who never thrived in athletics, had an inclination towards the creative, and was blessed with the gift of gab (while certainly not requirement to be a successful theatre artist) I didn’t find my community and feel like I understood my place in the world until I joined drama club in my school.

The cornerstone of the Compass teaching philosophy is teaching by example and so it is my hope that we’ve made a decision that allows us to support the community that has done so much for us and for me personally and inspires that type of community support to continue ripple out from here.

-Cassandra and the whole Compass team

The Details of How to Join Us This Summer:

We invite new students to come stretch their creativity and bravery muscles with us this summer at our two performance camps of our latest superhero adaptation, Cinderella (Saves the World!). Details about these camps can be found on our Chicago Camp page here.

For former Emerald City Families interested in Compass Creative Dramatics this summer can email [email protected] with a copy of their receipt for 2020 Camps to receive a coupon code for a free dedicated spot (for the first 20 students) or a copy of their receipt from previous participation in 2018 or 2019 to receive a 50% coupon code.

Please give our program coordinator 48 hours time to respond to these requests. Once you’ve received your code, you’ll have 72 hours to complete registration before the code expires and the spot becomes available for another student.

For folks interested in Compass camps who are not former ETC students, there’s still time to take advantage of our early bird rates and register for our Chicago camps before February 28th, when early bird ends!

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Twenty Questions with Finance Manager, Jill Matel

2/7/2020

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About Jill

Jill and Sonia being silly at the Compass office! They are wearing the kitten costumes from Cinderella (Saves the World!).

Jill has played many roles at Compass. She has played The Queen of Hearts, The Jester King, Major Oak, Dr. Hypothesis, and Liam the Lackey. Her favorite Compass play is Alice in Wonderland because she played a fun character, The Queen of Hearts!

Jill's Twenty Questions

The music group, "New Kids on the Block". L-R: Joe McIntyre, Donnie Wahlberg, Danny Wood, Jonathan Knight and Jordan Knight in 1989. Photograph: Andre Csillag/Rex Shutterstock

#1 What was your favorite music group in middle school?

New Kids on the Block

#2 Villain or hero?

Villain

#3 Morning person or nightowl?

Nightowl

#4 What’s a piece of advice someone gave to you, that’s stuck with you?

Do what you love and the money will follow.

#5 What’s a book that’s stuck with you?

The Time Traveler’s Wife

#6 Top five favorite snacks:

Movie Theater Popcorn
Merkts Cheese on Pretzel Thins
Yasso Greek Yogurt Frozen Bars
Haribo Twin Snakes
Microwaved Apples with Cinnamon Sugar

#7 What’s something you do to relax?

I like to cross stitch and knit.

#8 Describe a teacher you looked up to as a child.

His name is Mr Burnacki. He could teach history as if telling a story. He was a retired swimmer and the only male teacher I had until High School.

#9 What’s your favorite thing to do in Chicago in the winter?

I love shoveling and curling up by the fire after.

#10 Why do you live in Chicago?

I am obsessed with the history here. I wish I could go back to the 1920s and experience what it was like. Walking around the older buildings is magical.

#11 If you were going to live somewhere other than Chicago, where would it be and why would you live there?

I would love to live in London. When I traveled around Europe in High School it always seemed so sophisticated. Also the theater there is awesome!

The London skyline.

#12 What would you do if someone gave you a million dollars, no strings?

I would buy a building that would act as a meeting/networking/performance/rehearsal space for actors.

#13 What’s the household chore that you would avoid forever if you could?

I would forever avoid cleaning the bathroom.

#14 What’s a moment that you felt proud of the work you do at Compass?

I was able to convince a very nervous child to stick with the program. By the end of the week, not only had she enjoyed the week visibly but she was so grateful she took my advice.

(This is one of the many reasons why you're awesome, Jill! Thank you for all that you do on the administrative team and the difference you make with your students!)

#15 What are the best three things about you?

I am loyal, hard working and scrappy.

#16 How do you like to spend a rainy day?

Reading a book or watching horror movies!

#17 What’s your favorite day of the week when you are teaching a performance residency?

I love Tuesdays. It is great to see the kids get excited about their roles.

#18 What’s your favorite holiday? How do you celebrate it?

Christmas is my favorite! I start watching movies, listening to music and prepping for the season on November 1st (don’t judge). I do wait until the Friday after Thanksgiving to decorate but I am in the spirit as soon as Halloween is over. There is a tree and lights all over my home. The Nutcracker MUST be seen. Other must dos are: Christkindlemart, Zoo Lights, Macy’s Windows, Egg Nog (sometimes made from scratch), Breakfast with Santa and my Nieces, Trees at the Museum of Science and Industry and lots and lots of Lifetime/Netflix/Hallmark movies.

Please note: Halloween is a close second. I love to dress up and handout candy on the Boulevard.

#19 Tell us all of the towns you’ve lived in.

Greenfield, WI
Charleroi, Belgium
Lake Forest, IL
Chicago, IL
Riverside, IL
Milwaukee, WI

#20 What's the practical skill in your life that you're most proud of?

I can mend, sew, and do alterations!

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Twenty Questions with Office Manager, Audie Deinlein

1/31/2020

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About Audie

In addition to being the current Office Manager, Audie Deinlein has also been a touring educator with Compass, playing Bagheera the Panther in The Jungle Book. Her favorite Compass Creative Dramatics play is Cinderella because she loves that theatre can include science! "I am a big proponent of STEAM in school systems and am excited by the next generation of kids, specifically womxn, to be involved in all aspects of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math!," Audie says.

Audie's Twenty Questions

#1 What would be the title of your autobiography?

Positively Unsure: A story of self-acceptance in a confusing world

#2 Soup or salad?

Soup

#3 Morning person or nightowl?

Morning person, for sure

#4 Suggest a musical that kids should check out:

Come From Away*

*Parental Advisory from Compass: This musical contains adult language! It is the true story of a small town of heroes on September 11th, 2001, and it's full of great lessons of community and humanity.

#5 What’s a piece of advice someone gave to you, that’s stuck with you?

You have to take care of yourself before you can care for someone else.

#6 Top five favorite snacks:

Currently, in no particular order:

Mushroom edamame spring rolls from Trader Joe’s
Honeycrisp apples
Crackers and cheese
Trail mix with cranberries and chocolate
Ants on a log

#7 What’s the practical skill in your life that you’re most proud of?

I am not perfect at it, but I am able to mend and hem most of my own clothing. I have also fully sewn a pair of pants and a dress for myself that I still wear!

#8 What’s something you do to relax?

If I’m really stressed out I will lay on my acupuncture mat with my salt lamp and essential oil diffuser on!

#9 What’s your favorite kind of cookie? How do you prefer to eat it?

I love oatmeal chocolate chip cookies! When I bake them, I eat them when they’re still warm but I break them in half and eat it from the inside out.

#10 Describe your favorite mug.

My favorite mug is a tall off-white ceramic mug with a giraffe that is wearing a flower crown and colorful scarf!

#11 If you weren’t an artist, what would you be?

A family/marital counselor or a workout instructor!

#12 What do you love about being an artist?

Titling yourself an artist is like saying you are a human being. Artists are so multifaceted and I believe that everyone is an artist in their own way. I focus on musicals but I also express my art in writing, baking, organizing, and so many other mediums. To me, I love being an artist because it’s the most beautiful lense to live life through.

#13 What does your morning routine look like?

It depends on the day. Some days I have to be up by 4:45 AM, some days I’m not up until 8:00 AM! The days where I have more time I typically wake up an hour or so before I need to leave the house, feed my cat, make coffee, and listen to some calm music while I put on makeup or pick out my outfit. Then I pack my bag for the day, pour my coffee in a to-go mug, tell my cat I love her and that I’ll be home later, and head out for the day!

#14 Tell us about your pet or your future pet.

TRIXIE! Trixie is my beautiful cat, she is a 3.5 year old diluted calico. Kylie (my partner) and I adopted Trixie right when we moved to Chicago and we can’t imagine our lives without her. She is the perfect amount of cuddles and independence.

Trixie snugglin' with her momma Audie!

#15 Describe your dream vacation.

My dream vacation destination would be somewhere with mountains and great hiking trails but still has water to swim!

#16 What’s the household chore that you would avoid forever if you could?

Hand-washing dishes! I moved into an apartment that has a dishwasher, and let me tell you, it’s a HUGE game changer!

#17 How do you like to spend a rainy day?

I like to curl up with my cat and a hot cup of coffee with the window open enough to hear the rain. Usually, I will end up putting on a romantic comedy too!

#18 What’s your biggest moment of 2019?

I quit my first full-time job to pursue my passions!

(YOU GO, GIRL!)

#19 Why do you live in Chicago?

I live in Chicago because the opportunities are endless. Regardless of where my next passion takes me, I know I can cultivate it in this city.

#20 Tell us about your role model.

My role model is definitely my mom. She is one of the strongest, most outspoken women I know. She taught me to speak my mind, stand up for myself, and not care too much of what other people think. I’m still working on that last one, though :)

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Twenty Questions with Programs Coordinator, Johanna Jackson-Whitman

1/24/2020

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About Johanna

Johanna in costume as Auntie Em in Compass' The Wizard of Oz

Johanna has been in many Compass productions. She played Ember in Peter Pan, Glinda/Auntie Em in The Wizard of Oz, Valentin in The Jumping Jacks and the Beanstalk. We asked her what her favorite Compass play is and why. She said, "Peter Pan is my favorite because of the significance it has played in my life and my history with Compass. I played Tiger Lily when I was a kid and I love getting to “revisit” her by playing Ember in the Compass version. I also love teaching kids the adorable dance moves to the crocodiles’ song!".

Johanna (Valentin) teaching the Lackeys in Portland for The Jumping Jacks and the Beanstalk

Johanna's Twenty Questions

#1 What was your favorite music group in middle school?

The Backstreet Boys! They were my favorite then and remain my favorite now!

Click here to jam out to one of Johanna's many favorite Backstreet Boys tunes!

#2 Soup or salad?

Salad!

#3 Villain or hero?

Villain!

#4 Cake or pie?

Pie!

#5 Morning person or night owl?

Nightowl!

#6 Suggest a musical that kids should check out:

Oklahoma! The musical that started all musicals! It is an absolute classic and a blast to perform in. Plus, there’s square dancing!

#7 What’s a book that’s stuck with you?

Anne of Green Gables! She’s smart, imaginative, humble, loyal and outgoing. She loves her friends and family with fiery passion. I wanted to grow up to be a writer who lived by a “lake of shining waters” because of Anne. I still try to emulate her as an adult!

#8 Top five favorite snacks:

5. Tortilla or Pretzel chips and dips (salsa, hummus, guacamole)!
4. Almonds!
3. Broccoli florets!
2. Ice Cream!
1. Anything with chocolate!

Wyatt (Compass' Artistic Director) and Johanna enjoying treats from their favorite drive in restaurant in West Union, Iowa.

#9 What’s something you do to relax?

Bubble baths and books!

#10 Describe your favorite mug.

My favorite mug is the one that has coffee in it!

#11 What’s your favorite thing to do in Chicago in the winter?
Christkindlmarket! It is so cozy and magical!

#12 Why do you live in Chicago?

I visited Chicago a few times as a kid and fell in love! I always knew I wanted to move here as an adult and eventually I did! It has the hustle and bustle of a big city, but still feels like a community. The theatre scene is plentiful, but also close knit. It is quickly becoming home for me.

#13 Tell us about your pet or your future pet. Share a photo, if you have one!

Puck is a large orange and white cat! He loves people, talking (meowing), crinkly items, cuddling, and bedtime! He has also been known to hop into a bubble bath with me from time to time. He’ll gladly jump through your arms for a treat! Here’s a picture of Puck!

Puck is looking mighty cute!

#14 What’s the household chore that you would avoid forever if you could?

Laundry! It’s never-ending!

#15 Tell us three things you remember about kindergarten.

1. My teacher was very sweet, energetic, and imaginative!
2. Sitting on the colorful rug for story time!
3. Music class was fun! The music teacher would use a fancy device made of wire to draw perfect lines on the chalkboard and create a “staff.”

#16 How do you like to spend a rainy day?

If I’m feeling indoors-y, I like to light a candle, snuggle under a blanket and read a book. If I am feeling outdoorsy, I like to put on my rain boots, go for a walk, listen to music, and splash in puddles!

#17 What’s your favorite day of the week when you are teaching a performance residency?

I love Fridays! Costume fittings and makeup is so much fun! Watching the show finally come together, sharing our hard work with an audience, and the look of pride on each student’s face after the performance is truly magical.

#18 What’s your favorite kids’ movie?

The Princess Diaries! It’s my feel good movie and I know all the lines!

#19 What’s something about you that some people might consider a weakness, but is really a strength?

I can be a very emotional person. I have found, over time, that this just means I care a great deal and empathize with others’ feelings. There is great strength in vulnerability.

#20 Tell us all of the towns you’ve lived in.

Oh, boy. This is a long one:
Winfield, KS
Ft. Wayne, IN
St.Louis, MO
Texhoma, OK
Liberal, KS
Greeley, CO
Casper, WY
Tulsa, OK
Cisco, TX
Stevens Point, WI
Brownville, NE
Madison, WI
Chicago, IL

(That's a long and impressive list, Johanna. Do YOU have a longer one? Let us know in the comments. We'd love to read them!)

BONUS Question! What is your 2020 New Year Resolution?

1. To write at least one play and submit it to a theatre or festival.
2. Take a dance class! I would particularly like to get back into tap or ballet.
3. Learn guitar to accompany myself while singing.

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Twenty Questions with Assistant Education Director, Sydney Ray

1/17/2020

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Welcome to our TWENTY QUESTIONS series. Here, team members from administrators to designers to teachers answer questions about themselves. Have a question you want us to add to the list? Leave a comment!

About Sydney

Sydney posing as Lyle with her fellow Lackeys at Compass's adult fundraiser production of "The Jumping Jacks and the Beanstalk."

Before joining the Compass administrative team, Sydney has played a number of roles in numerous Compass Creative Dramatics plays such as Lyle the Lackey, Coppertwist the Sprite, Princess Rose, and Kerry the Grandfolk. Sydney's favorite Compass play is Jumping Jacks and the Beanstalk. She absolutely adores Mr. O and the dancing cows! She loves the timing and the humor of the whole show.

Sydney's Twenty Questions

#1 What teams did you belong to when you were growing up?

I was a kid that didn’t stick to a whole lot of activities when I was growing up. I had a year of ballet, a few years of softball. In Junior High I played Volleyball and Basketball for my school, but there were so few girls that if I didn’t play it would be extra difficult for there to be a team. I played the flute from probably 4th grade until Senior year in High School, where I played in the Symphonic Band, did Flag Corp in Marching band, was in choir and swing choir. High School is where my love of theatre started to flourish.

#2 Soup or salad?
I definitely eat more salads than I do soups. I love all of the toppings you can throw on there and make it interesting or to fit your mood.

#3 Villain or hero?
Villains are far more interesting to watch and analyze. Some of my favorite characters are villains - I love all of the quirky, strange villains on “Gotham”, but Batman is my favorite comic book-turned cartoon/movie/TV Show. I’ll watch nearly any Batman-themed entertainment through.

#4 Morning person or nightowl?
Is midmorning to mid afternoon person an option? I love sleep, so whenever possible, I’ll get between 8 - 10 hours. I enjoy being awake when the sun is up.

#5 Mountains or beaches?

I didn’t initially come to Chicago for the incredible lake views or skyline, but I’ve really come to love them. Being from Lincoln, NE, which is very flat and very landlocked, having water nearby has been really lovely. So at the moment, I’m going to choose beaches.

#6 Suggest a straight play that kids should check out:

I just saw “Dog Man: The Musical”. (Cheating her a bit since it's a musical and not a straight play!) I listened to the music and it’s super fun, although sometimes a little strange. I’ve never read the books, and I am thinking that maybe I need to.

#7 What’s a piece of advice someone gave to you, that’s stuck with you?

My Great Aunt Bernie told me told catch my dreams and don’t let them go while looking out a car window about to take off, I can still see her face and her body language in the moment she told me that.

#8 What’s a book that’s stuck with you?
Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli. I remember the delight of reading this story. I also love Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy.

#9 Top five favorite snacks:

Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups from Trader Joe’s
Baby Tomatoes
Trail Mix
Pretzels
Chicken in a Biscuit Crackers

#10 Describe your favorite mug.
I have a few. One is painted by my grandmother on my dad’s side that I newly acquired at this past Christmas from my mom. Another is a rather small mug that has a picture of a geometric rooster on the side of it that I imagine was used by my grandpa on my mom’s side. Another is a dark blue mug with Mt. Rushmore on either side from a vacation my family took. My favorite travel mug is one that my brother Jack gave me with the Wonder Woman symbol on the side. I also have a dream that I will repurpose all of my broken mugs as succulent planters. This dream, though within reach, has yet to come to fruition.

#11 If you were going to live somewhere other than Chicago, where would it be and why would you live there?

I would probably be in Lincoln, NE because that’s where most of my family lives.

#12 What’s your favorite fairytale? Why?
My favorite adaptation of the Cinderella story is an Algonquin Indian folklore called The Rough-Face Girl. I loved the pictures, the focus on internal beauty and the perception of the world that the young girl in the story has.

#13 What would you do if someone gave you a million dollars, no strings?

I would travel a lot and eat all at all of the very best restaurants.

#14 Tell us about your favorite non-artist job.
I was the Cane’s Love Coordinator at Raising Cane’s in Lincoln, NE where I got to show appreciation for the staff and figure out reasons to celebrate at work. It was a super enjoyable gig just trying to add more fun and cheer into a restaurant that really cared about it’s employees, and my managers were super awesome to work with.

#15 What’s the household chore that you would avoid forever if you could?

If my bathroom could be magically clean 100% of the time, that would be awesome.

#16 How do you like to spend a rainy day?

I enjoy spending rainy days being indoors, either reading, doing yoga, singing or sleeping.

#17 What’s your favorite holiday? How do you celebrate it?

I love Halloween. I love seeing everyone’s costumes, and I loved taking my younger siblings trick-or-treating. I grew up in Nebraska where cinnamon rolls and chili are a thing, and we always had this as a meal on Halloween.

#18 What did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a country singer, backup singer or a nurse.

#19 What’s your favorite kids’ movie?

My favorite movies with kids in them are “Adventures in Babysitting” and “Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead”. As for movies whose primary audience is children, my current favorites are the Toy Story series, Tarzan and Frozen II. My favorite movies as a child included Pooh’s Grand Adventure, Barney’s Great Adventure and The Adventures of Scamper the Penguin. I’m literally just realizing that all of my favorite movies as a kid had “adventure” in the title.

#20 What’s your biggest moment of 2019?

My biggest moment of 2019 is shared with my now husband - we got married in July!

Sydney and her husband on their wedding day. Aww! ❤️

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A DEEPER DIVE: COVID19 IMPACT ON COMPASS

Twenty Questions with Programs Associate, Emma Noelle

About Emma

Emma's Twenty Questions

Leading by Example: A Look into the Professional Theatre Work of Compass Educators

A.J. Morrison at Lexington Children’s Theatre

Kelsey Fortier at The National Theatre for Children

Jill Matel and Sonia Goldberg with GreatWorks Theatre Company

Sonia Goldberg at Chicago Children’s Theatre

Audie Deinlein at Northbrook Theatre

Wyatt Kent at American Blues Theatre

Twenty Questions with Sales and Marketing Coordinator, Sonia Goldberg

Twenty Questions with Social Media Manager, Macy Hernandez

About Macy

Our Home is Your Home: Offering 20 Free Spots in Our Summer Performance Program to Affected Emerald City Theatre Camp Families

The Details of How to Join Us This Summer:

Twenty Questions with Finance Manager, Jill Matel

About Jill

Jill's Twenty Questions

Twenty Questions with Office Manager, Audie Deinlein

About Audie

Audie's Twenty Questions

Twenty Questions with Programs Coordinator, Johanna Jackson-Whitman

About Johanna

Johanna's Twenty Questions

Twenty Questions with Assistant Education Director, Sydney Ray

About Sydney

Sydney's Twenty Questions

Archives

Categories

About Emma

Emma's Twenty Questions

A.J. Morrison at Lexington Children’s Theatre ​

Kelsey Fortier at The National Theatre for Children

Jill Matel and Sonia Goldberg with GreatWorks Theatre Company

Sonia Goldberg at Chicago Children’s Theatre

Audie Deinlein at Northbrook Theatre ​

Wyatt Kent at American Blues Theatre ​

About Macy

The Details of How to Join Us This Summer:

About Jill

Jill's Twenty Questions

About Audie

Audie's Twenty Questions

About Johanna

Johanna's Twenty Questions

About Sydney

Sydney's Twenty Questions

Archives

Categories

A.J. Morrison at Lexington Children’s Theatre

Audie Deinlein at Northbrook Theatre

Wyatt Kent at American Blues Theatre