RACHEL
FOUNDER + Artistic Director
Inspiring people to discover their creative genius and grow artistically is Rachel's passion and life's work. She started INK Theater for the youngest among us to learn that they have unlimited potential to do extraordinary things. As an educator for the past 20 years, Rachel has written innovative curriculum and developed progressive educational programs (and pioneered a school!), coached individuals and classes of all ages in music, theater, and - her favorite - musical theater, and has traveled the globe bringing the hope and joy that only music and theater can bring to even the most remote villages in Africa. Rachel holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music and Master of Music with an educational focus from University of Wisconsin.
ERIN
Conservatory acting instructor
Erin is a Los Angeles based actor with a background in screen acting. She specializes in character development and script work, teaching the kids specific exercises and techniques that equip them with the tools needed to analyze their scripts and develop their characters. Erin loves helping kids grow in their skills as actors and encouraging character exploration through INK’s process. She’s looking forward to what they will create this season!
KAT
PROGRAM DIRECTOR/ ADMINISTRATOR/CONTROLLER
Ashlyn grew up in musical theater, competitive dance and choir. She relocated to Los Angeles 5 years ago to pursue a career in the entertainment industry after receiving her Associates in Dance Arts. She has been a dance teacher to kids ages 2-17 for 7 years. Fascinated with how the creative process develops and grows kids emotionally and mentally, she fell in love with INK. Ashlyn is passionate about creating creative spaces for expression and development!
ELIZABETH
Conservatory latin ballroom + Kids acting instructor
Elizabeth is a Texas-born actress and dancer now based in Los Angeles. When she’s not hustling to an audition, she enjoys spending her time teaching movement skills in organizations like INK that are making a positive and effective impact in their communities!
REID
Conservatory scriptwriting + cinematography instructor
Having entered into a relationship with the performing arts at the tender age of 5, Reid has since refocused his creative drives toward artfully pushing buttons and sliding faders. But now, INK has provided an incredible opportunity to return to his deep love of stage and story, allowing him to teach the importance of realistic motivation, relatable themes, and well structured Google Docs to a younger generation.
KRISTIN
Conservatory Stage makeup instructor
Kristin Turner has been passionate about makeup and hair from a very early age. Ever since she could remember, she would practice hairstyles and makeup looks from magazines and beauty books. She made the journey cross-country from her hometown of Boston to Los Angeles where she has now been a makeup artist for over 15 years. Kristin works in a variety of venues, which include Editorial, red carpet, fitness , television and publicity. Her work has graced the pages of numerous magazines such as Elle, Allure, and Muscle and Fitness just to name a few. Although Kristin enjoys the fun and exciting parts of her career, she also finds it important to use her talents to give back to others. Kristin feels very fortunate to be able to utilize her talent in a positive way to bring joy and happiness to others.
DEKONTEE
Conservatory Improv instructor
In 2014, she graduated with a Degree in Musical Theatre from Vanguard University of Southern California, after graduating she attended Open Jar Institute in NYC where she learned from the best in Broadway. She studied improv at Second City in Hollywood and played on a musical improv team with Bill Chott (SNL, This is Us, Wizards of Waverly Place) had a residency at ComedySportz in Los Angeles. Dekontee worked at the Disneyland resort as a Guest Talent Coordinator for 3 years where she worked with students from all over the world. During that time she also worked with Disney’s Youth Education Series as a facilitator/teacher for Music 101. She is passionate about teaching and exploring creativity with kids!
JOLENE
Conservatory Dance Instructor
Jolene began performing at a young age, and continued her studies and love for the stage at Vanguard University, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Musical Theater. Upon graduating cum laude, she moved to Los Angeles to run production at the iconic Hollywood Bowl, and presently manages artists and produces concerts, festivals, and national events at a top tier entertainment company. From assisting Taylor Swift’s live music producer to leading large production teams, live performance has always been a passion. Jolene was overjoyed to join Ink, where her love for creating and development was combined with her love for kids. Involved with Ink since its inception, Jolene is honored and excited to step into the Director of Development role. "I'm so proud to see our INK kids grow and then return to the program as junior coaches as they give back. I have witnessed firsthand the incredible impact Ink has on these kids, and I can’t wait to see how Ink will continue to shape the future generation!”