Leadership and Administration
Alex Bootzin
SSPA Founder & Instructor | Private Instruction in Advanced Piano & Voice
Alex Bootzin is a highly accomplished musician, educator, and the co-founder of the Spindrift School of Performing Arts (SSPA). With a deep passion for music and a commitment to nurturing young talent, Alex has dedicated his career to providing advanced piano and voice instruction to aspiring performers.
Alex’s journey in music began with his formal education, earning a B.A. degree in Piano Performance and later obtaining an M.A. in Musicology from the University of California. Throughout his studies, he had the privilege of training under the tutelage of the esteemed European master teacher, Dusi Mura, honing his skills and expanding his musical horizons.
In 1994, Alex, together with his late wife Martha, founded the Spindrift School of Performing Arts, a renowned institution that has since become a pillar of artistic education in the community. Their shared vision was to create a nurturing environment where young individuals could explore their creative potential and develop their talents to the fullest.
Beyond his role at SSPA, Alex remains an active figure in the Bay Area’s music scene, currently Alex leads a jazz quartet called Nucleus, showcasing his versatility and love for diverse genres of music.
Alex firmly believes that the arts are an integral part of personal growth and development, serving as a metaphor for life itself. He recognizes the transformative power of music, which has the unique ability to evoke deep emotions and foster self-expression. Through his teaching, Alex strives to empower his students to discover their authentic voices and embrace their true identities.
With decades of experience as an instructor, performer, and music director, Alex Bootzin continues to make a profound impact on the lives of aspiring musicians. His dedication to sharing his knowledge, passion, and unwavering belief in the transformative power of music inspire students of all ages to embark on their own journeys of growth, healing, breakthrough, and success.
Gary D. Ferguson
Executive Artistic Director | Choreographer | Director
Gary D. Ferguson’s passion for dance, music, theatre, and movement ignited during his student years on scholarship with the renowned Alvin Ailey and Gus Giordano Dance Companies. His dedication and talent propelled him into a remarkable career that embraced the vibrant world of musical theater and dance. With years of experience on Broadway, national and international tours, multiple Radio City Rockettes Companies, Vegas residencies, theme parks, and cruise ships, Gary has established himself as a seasoned performer.
Throughout his journey, Gary’s artistic endeavors extended beyond the spotlight. He has lent his expertise to the Bay Area, directing various musical theater productions and spearheading educational programming. His keen eye and comprehensive approach ensured excellence in all aspects of theatrical productions. Notably, Gary served as the Associate Artistic Director for the esteemed Los Altos Stage Company and held the position of Education Director for the Los Altos Youth Theater, leaving a lasting impact on both organizations.
Gary’s involvement in the performing arts industry is not limited to his on-stage and directing accomplishments. He is an active member of esteemed organizations such as the National Dance Educators Organization (NDEO), Actors Equity Association, Screen Actors Guild, and AGVA (Association Guild of Variety Artists). By actively participating in these associations, Gary stays connected with fellow professionals and remains at the forefront of developments in the field.
Education has played a significant role in Gary’s life, contributing to his holistic understanding of the performing arts. He holds a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) degree in International Business, combining his artistic passion with a solid foundation in business acumen. Furthermore, Gary earned a Bachelor’s degree in Arts Management, with a specialization in Dance Management, further enhancing his ability to navigate the complex world of arts administration.
Gary’s enthusiasm and expertise have led him to join the SSPA (insert full name) family as the Artistic Director and Director of Dance. His appointment signifies an exciting new chapter for the organization. Gary will assume the helm of all mainstage musicals, starting with the much-anticipated production of “Mamma Mia.” Additionally, he will bring his extensive knowledge of musical theater to elevate the performances of the Spindrift Dance Company.
Not content with solely directing and choreographing, Gary is thrilled to share his knowledge and skills with the SSPA family through new and exciting classes. Enthusiasts can look forward to precision tap , a rigorous and invigorating experience inspired by Gary’s time with the Radio City Rockettes. Furthermore, he will offer classes such as Musical Theater Jazz and more catering to a diverse range of students and enthusiasts.
With Gary D. Ferguson’s arrival, SSPA anticipates a period of artistic growth and creativity. His extensive background, multifaceted expertise, and unwavering dedication to the performing arts make him a valuable addition to the organization. As the Executive Artistic Director, Gary will undoubtedly inspire and guide SSPA’s performers to reach new heights of artistic excellence.
Issac J. Booth
Production Manager
Issac J. Booth is a multi-talented creative professional with a diverse background in fashion design, photography, fashion styling, and visual production for the retail industry. With over 20 years of experience in the fashion world, Issac has now embarked on a new journey as a production manager at the esteemed Spindrift School of Performing Arts.
Born with a keen eye for aesthetics and a passion for artistic expression, Isaac’s journey began in the realm of fashion. He honed his skills in fashion design and photography, developing a unique blend of creativity and technical expertise. His designs captured attention with their innovative concepts and attention to detail, while his photography showcased his ability to capture the essence of his subjects.
After establishing a successful career in the fashion industry, Isaac found his true calling in fashion styling and visual production for the retail sector. He brought his unparalleled sense of style and visual storytelling to numerous high-profile projects, working with renowned brands to create captivating and impactful visual campaigns. Issac’s ability to create immersive and visually stunning experiences earned him a reputation as one of the industry’s top visual producers.
In addition to his work in the fashion world, Issac also lent his talents as a costumer to local Bay Area theaters. His creative flair and meticulous attention to detail brought characters to life on stage, enhancing the audience’s experience and contributing to the overall magic of live theater. Productions such as Stage 1’s “Hairspray” and “Sister Act,” Hillbarn’s “West Side Story,” Woodside’s “Annie,” Peninsula Ballet’s “Guys And Dolls,” and Los Altos’ “Ruthless” benefited from Isaac’s exceptional costume designs.
Issac’s artistic talents extend beyond fashion and costuming. He is also a skilled actor, bringing characters to life with his engaging performances. From memorable roles in “La Cage Aux Folles” to “My Fair Lady,” Isaac’s stage presence and ability to convey emotion captivated audiences. Furthermore, his versatile voice acting skills were showcased as the original voice of Maxxie LaWow in an animated production.
Now, as a production manager at the Spindrift School of Performing Arts, Issac is thrilled to merge his wide-ranging talents and experiences to help facilitate the stories that Spindrift students are learning to tell. His expertise in fashion, visual production, costuming, and acting allows him to contribute a unique perspective to the school’s creative endeavors. Isaac’s passion for storytelling, coupled with his exceptional organizational and managerial skills, ensures that every production under his guidance is a seamless and captivating experience.
With Issac J. Booth at the helm, the Spindrift School of Performing Arts can expect a new level of artistic excellence and a masterful blend of creativity and professionalism. His dedication to his craft and unwavering commitment to nurturing the talents of young performers make him an invaluable asset to the school and the world of performing arts as a whole.
Keira Robalino
Operations/Office Manager
Keira Robalino is a dedicated and passionate individual who has served as the Operations/Office Manager at Spindrift since 1999. With over 20 years of experience, Keira has played a pivotal role in the growth and success of the organization. Her journey with Spindrift began as a parent volunteer, and she has been an invaluable member of the staff ever since.
Keira’s connection to Spindrift runs deep as both of her children have attended SSPA classes and summer camps. She finds immense joy in witnessing how the arts shape young individuals and understands the profound and lasting impact they have on children as they transition into adulthood. In 1996, Keira and her family moved from San Francisco to Pacifica, where they seamlessly integrated into the Cabrillo community before transitioning to Spindrift.
One aspect that Keira truly cherishes about Spindrift is its ability to bring together children from Pacifica and create a strong sense of community. She deeply appreciates how Spindrift fosters bonds among children through classes, performances, and camps. Witnessing these connections being formed among the children is a truly special experience for Keira, and she recognizes the immense value it brings to their lives.
Throughout her tenure at Spindrift, Keira has developed a profound admiration for the organization’s teaching artists. She is in constant awe of their remarkable abilities as both teachers and artists, and their dedication to Spindrift’s mission of training and inspiring children. The quality of the teaching artists has remained consistently high over the years, and Keira takes great pride in their contributions to the Spindrift community.
Additionally, Keira holds a deep appreciation for the parents, grandparents, and children who are part of the Spindrift family. She recognizes their unwavering support and involvement as a testament to the strong and close-knit community that Spindrift has cultivated. It is a privilege and an honor for Keira to live and work within such a special and vibrant community.
As the Operations/Office Manager, Keira plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth functioning of Spindrift’s operations. Her dedication, passion, and commitment to the organization and its mission make her an invaluable asset to Spindrift and a beloved figure within the community. Keira Robalino’s unwavering support and contributions have helped shape Spindrift into the thriving arts organization it is today.
Sue Langlands
Office Coordinator
Sue Langland is a dedicated individual who serves as the Office Coordinator at Spindrift, a renowned organization that has been fostering creativity and personal growth for over two decades. With an impressive tenure of 12 years, Sue has become an integral part of the Spindrift family and has made significant contributions to the organization’s success.
Sue’s connection to Spindrift goes beyond her professional role, as she is also a proud parent of Spindrift alumni, with her family’s association spanning an impressive 22 years. This long-standing connection has given her a unique perspective and deep understanding of the organization’s values and impact on the lives of its participants.
Joining Spindrift in 2011, Sue quickly found herself immersed in a vibrant and nurturing environment that encourages individuals to explore their creativity. As the Office Coordinator, she plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of the organization, providing essential administrative support and contributing to the overall efficiency of the team.
One of Sue’s favorite aspects of Spindrift is its commitment to providing a safe space for individuals to express themselves and tap into their creative potential. She believes that this freedom to explore and experiment is a vital component of personal growth and development. Witnessing firsthand the transformative power of the organization, Sue is passionate about creating an environment where everyone feels encouraged, supported, and empowered to embrace their creative journeys.
Beyond her administrative responsibilities, Sue deeply values the sense of community that Spindrift cultivates. She recognizes the importance of finding one’s tribe, a group of like-minded individuals who share a common passion for creativity. Sue has witnessed numerous individuals, including her own children, find their place at Spindrift, building lifelong connections and friendships that extend far beyond their time within the organization.
Sue Langland continues to be an essential pillar of the Spindrift community, playing an instrumental role in fostering creativity, supporting participants, and ensuring the organization’s smooth functioning. Her dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to creating a safe and inclusive space have made her an invaluable asset to Spindrift and a cherished member of the extended Spindrift family.
Liliana Davidovich
Director of Dance | Jazz, Tap, Pilates, Ballet, Musical Theatre
Lil Davidovich is an accomplished dancer, performer, and educator, currently serving as the new Director of Dance at the prestigious Spindrift School of Performing Arts. With over a decade of experience in various dance styles, Lil brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her role.
From a young age, Lil’s talent and dedication for dance were evident. She honed her skills as a member of nationally ranked high school and college competitive dance teams, where her exceptional performances helped secure numerous accolades for her teams. Recognized for her outstanding abilities, Lil was later entrusted with the role of assistant coach for a highly competitive high school dance team, where she mentored and inspired young dancers to achieve their full potential.
Lil’s versatility as a dancer extends beyond traditional forms. She has also found success in the world of aerial hoop circus, where her captivating routines earned her top honors in various competitions. Lil’s ability to seamlessly combine strength, grace, and creativity in her aerial performances showcases her innovative approach to the art of dance.
Before joining Spindrift, Lil devoted eight years to the field of early childhood education. As an experienced educator, she worked tirelessly in the classroom, nurturing and guiding children from infancy to the age of five. Lil’s passion for teaching and her ability to connect with young minds allowed her to create engaging and enriching learning environments.
Outside of her dance and teaching endeavors, Lil finds solace and joy in the ocean. You can often find her riding the waves at Linda Mar, indulging in her love for surfing. Additionally, she explores her culinary skills by spending time in the kitchen, baking delicious bread and cookies.
With boundless enthusiasm, Lil Davidovich is thrilled to become a valued member of the Spindrift School of Performing Arts family. Her extensive experience, creativity, and dedication make her an exceptional addition to the school’s esteemed faculty. As the new Director of Dance, Lil is committed to nurturing young talent, fostering artistic growth, and inspiring the next generation of dancers to reach new heights.
Gary Craig Schoenfeld Jr.
Director of Theatre & Outreach Coordinator| All levels of Acting, Improv, and Musical Theatre
Gary Schoenfeld is a dedicated theatre professional, educator, and outreach coordinator, currently serving as the Director of Theatre at Spindrift School of Performing Arts (SSPA). With a remarkable seven-year tenure at SSPA, Gary has left an indelible mark on the institution, earning a long list of performance and directorial credits.
Gary’s journey with SSPA began in early 2016 when he joined as a teacher. Since then, he has passionately taught all levels of Musical Theatre, sharing his expertise and nurturing the talents of aspiring performers. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Gary also directs Play Production classes, where he guides students in bringing theatrical productions to life.
Recognizing the importance of extending quality theatre opportunities beyond the school’s premises, Gary is an integral part of an outreach team dedicated to reaching schools all across the Bay Area. Through this initiative, he has worked tirelessly to bring the magic of theatre to countless students, fostering their creativity and imagination. This aspect of his work is particularly fulfilling for Gary, as he had always aspired to have a job where he could make a meaningful impact in this way.
Gary’s expertise extends beyond performance and direction. He is also a skilled teacher of playwriting and analysis, audition intensives, and outreach improv classes. By imparting these valuable skills to students, he empowers them to express their creativity through writing, refine their audition techniques, and think on their feet through improvisation.
Furthermore, Gary takes on the responsibility of directing shows in a box for elementary and junior high schools. This endeavor has allowed him to bring the joy of theatre directly to younger audiences, sparking their interest in the performing arts from an early age.
Throughout his tenure at SSPA, Gary has directed an impressive portfolio of over 30 shows, showcasing his versatility and artistic vision. His dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to excellence have earned him the admiration and respect of students, colleagues, and parents alike.
Gary Schoenfeld continues to be an inspiring force at Spindrift School of Performing Arts. With his wealth of experience, teaching prowess, and artistic vision, he is ready and eager to inspire the next generation of great artists, fostering a love for the performing arts and nurturing their talents to their fullest potential.
Teaching Artists
Sarah Benzinger
Music Instructor | Beginning Piano, All levels of Voice (Virtual Only)
Soprano, Sarah Benzinger holds a CA Secondary credential to teach Music and Mathematics and loves joining her students on their unique journeys of musical discovery on the piano and in voice. She currently co-teaches classroom music at Casa di Mir Montessori school in Campbell and has maintained a full studio in voice and piano at Santa Teresa Academy of Music and Dance for the past three years. She has taught and performed in the US and abroad, working with students through Opera Tijuana in Mexico, Opera Nova in Costa Rica, and with students at Lake County high school in Leadville Colorado. Previously she sang with the Oregon Bach Collegium, Lyric Opera of San Jose, Cascadia Concert Opera, Humboldt Light Opera, Portland Summer Opera Workshop, Vivace Vancouver, Chamber Music Silicon Valley, Redwood Symphony and at the Astoria Music Festival.
Elana Cowen
Voice Instructor | All levels
Elana is a professional singer, teacher, music director and choral conductor currently residing in San Francisco, Ca. Ms. Cowen has a Post-Graduate Certificate and Master’s of Music in Vocal Performance from San Francisco Conservatory of Music as well as a Bachelor’s of Music from Chapman University with a minor in Germanic Studies. Ms. Cowen teaches voice and has musically directed all over the Bay Area, with companies including Starbound Theatre and Missouri Street Theatre to name a few. Currently, Ms. Cowen is conducting with the San Francisco Youth Chorus as well as being a soloist at the Episcopal Church of St. Matthew’s in San Mateo. Ms. Cowen is also an active performer, performing with companies all over the Bay Area including Pocket Opera, Lamplighters Music Theatre, West Bay Opera and recently debuting at Phénix Opera.
Audrey Degon
Dance Instructor | Hip Hop | Jazz | Preschool Movement & Dance
Audrey is extremely excited to join the Spindrift team. It is especially meaningful to her since she grew up in Pacifica, and teaching here will allow her to give back to her community. From a young age, she has always loved singing and performing. Audrey holds an Associate’s degree in both Theatre Arts and Arts and Humanities, and she is currently studying Musical Theatre at San Francisco State University. Audrey loves working with kids and has years of experience working in summer camps, after school programs, and various classes. With Spindrift presenting her with a wonderful community-based teaching opportunity, Audrey is grateful and excited to share her love for the performing arts with the children of the Spindrift community!
Kaori Nakano DeNoia
Piano Instructor | Beg & Int Piano (Virtual/In-Person)
Kaori Nakano DeNoia graduated from Japan’s prestigious music school, Kyoto Horikawa Music High School, where she studied vocal performance. She earned her BA from Kobe College and graduated from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music with an MA in vocal performance, having studied with Herman Leroux and received a first place prize in the American Art Song Competition. She received preschool and teaching credentials from San Francisco State University, studied pipe organ with Wyatt Insko, and has Kodály training from Holy Names University. Kaori is passionate about teaching and has served as a choir director, pianist and organist for many organizations. These include the San Francisco Girls Chorus (20 years), A.P. Giannini Middle School choir, Christ United Presbyterian Church, and her very own children’s choir Kirakiraboshi Children’s Choir in Japantown. She currently teaches music to K-8th grades in San Francisco and San Mateo Counties and teaches private piano and voice students at Spindrift School of Performing Arts in Pacifica
Larry Ferrara
Guitar Instructor | All Levels In-Person (Vaccinated students only)
Distinguished as a performer and teacher Larry Ferrara has the distinction of being the first guitarist to receive a master’s degree from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. His teachers have included Julian Bream in master classes, and George Sakellariou in studio lessons. A committed educator himself, Mr. Ferrara has taught for many years at the collegiate level at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, and full time at City College of San Francisco. In addition to currently teaching at the Spindrift School of Performing Arts, Mr. Ferrara also teaches in the Pre-College, and Continuing Education divisions at the San Francisco Conservatory, and also teaches guitar and guitar ensemble at San Francisco State University.
As a performer Mr. Ferrara has played major recitals in San Francisco, Toronto, Barcelona, Los Angeles and at the Carnegie Recital Hall in New York. He has served on the Music Advisory Panel to the National Endowment of the Arts and is the author and performer of a best selling sequence of music books titled, The Student Repertoire Series for Guitar Vol. 1 and 2 , with accompanying CD’s, published by Guitar Solo of San Francisco. Mr. Ferrara has a solo CD of American Guitar Works on the VGo label and a CD on the GSP label of the Pacific Guitar Ensemble where he plays along with David Tanenbaum and Peppino D’Agostino. In addition, Mr. Ferrara won the top humanities prize in the California Virtual Campus (CVC) competition for, “Best Online Teaching Website,” based on his course in music appreciation.
Adam Green
Music Instructor | Violin | Viola | Voice all levels | Music Director
Oakland native Adam Green, comes to us having graduated from the University of the Pacific Conservatory of Music in Stockton CA with dual degrees in Viola and Voice. Adam currently serves as the Director of Music at Skyline High School of Oakland. In addition to a robust teaching schedule, Adam also maintains an active and eclectic performing schedule with many ministries, ensembles, recording and musical projects throughout the Bay Area, Sacramento, and Central Valley Regions.
Hyun Suk (Suki) Jang
Music Instructor | Beginning Piano | All levels of Voice
Hyun Suk, “Suki” is a native of Seoul, Korea, performs and educates widely as a soloist, chorister, voice/ piano teacher and conductor. She has studied voice with many teachers and coaches in Korea, Germany, Italy and the United States. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in voice performance from SeJong University in Seoul, Korea, as well as a Master’s degree and Performance Certificate in voice performance both from DePaul University in Chicago. She taught voice at the University of Chicago and at New Trier High School and piano and theory at the Soar program (Statewide Opportunities for Art and recreation through DePaul University Community Music in Chicago). She was also a member of the Chicago Symphony Chorus and a Rockefeller Chapel Vocal Artist in Residence. She was also the conductor and artistic director of Little OL Korea Children’s Choir, an ambassador of Korean culture to America society through music and dances. She has performed numerous opera roles and oratorio works as a soprano soloist. She also performed the roles of Wardrobe M’tree, Confidante and understudy of Carlotta Giudicelli of The Phantom of the Opera in Seoul, Korea. She is the winner of various competitions, and she has appeared as a winner of the Chinese Fine Arts Society Competition at the Chicago Cultural Center. Currently, she sings with SF Symphony Chorus and has been a conductor of Children’s and Youth Choirs and soprano soloist at Episcopal Church of St. Matthew in San Mateo for 7 years. Besides music, she lives in Pacifica and enjoys running all around Pacifica. She participated in various races including a virtual 100 mile race which she ran 100 miles around the bay from Pacifica-Purisima Creek Trails-Bay trails-SF-Pacifica and featured in the Pacifica Tribune. She is also a coach of The Live the Dash Run Club.
She is deeply delighted to share her varied professional experiences, musicality and her optimistic personality with the talented youth generation at Spindrift School.
Riddhi Kapoor
Dance Instructor | Bollywood/Bhangra
Dancing makes me the ‘happiest’ and gives me the adrenalin to learn, perform and grow everyday. Dancing is the greatest connect one can have with the self and my dream of connecting people through dance and finding dance as the ultimate medium of expression is slowly coming to fruition. My motivation to learn dance started at the age of three. My mother’s need to instill a sense of hobby in me led me to embrace dancing as a creative form to express my emotions. My varied cultural background has changed my perspective and my teaching expertise imbibes this diversity making it a fascinating learning experience for my students.
I have been teaching Bollywood dance in the Bay Area for both adults and kids for more than 6 years and to me dance is a way of celebration, frolic and happiness!
I like to be a Fellow dancer to my students and not just an instructor and love seeing people Love dance.
Leigh Ann Koelsch LRAD
Dance Instructor | All levels Ballet | Choreographer
Leigh Ann graduated from The College of The Royal Academy of Dance in London in 1993 with a classical ballet teaching degree. She has prepared students of all ages for RAD ballet examinations, performances and competitions. Leigh Ann has choreographed and co-directed many productions over the years including Nutcracker, original story ballets and mixed repertoire recitals. She has also worked with both Coastal Repertory Theater and Half Moon Bay High School on musicals such as Pajama Game, Crazy for You, Once Upon a Mattress and Guys and Dolls “My teaching philosophy is that every student deserves safe and correct ballet instruction that also taps into the joy of dance. Kindness and respect are an huge part of my teaching. I enjoy spending time with young people and watching them grow through their experiences in the studio, no matter what their goals are in dance. Imagination is a key element at every level.” Leigh Ann is a Coastside native and mother of two sons. She is looking forward to joining the staff of SSPA after many year of enjoying the performances of her nieces Serena and Sophia Sargent!
Ami Nashimoto
Cello Instructor | All levels | Piano | Beginning through Int/Adv.
Ami is a prominent member of the Bay Area music scene, playing with numerous ensembles and bands including The Holloway String Quartet, Mission Baroque, All My Pretty Ones, as well as playing in numerous orchestras and pit orchestras. She studied chamber music under coaches including the Alexander String Quartet, Martina Trumpp, and Yuval Yaron; cello under Carol Rice, Geoffrey Rutkowski, Mario De Secondi, and Sandy Wilson; and played in master classes taught by such artists as the Juilliard String Quartet, Toby Appel, and David Requiro. She studied cello at the Ruth Asawa SOTA, UC Santa Barbara, San Francisco State University for a MA in Music, and at the Musikhochschule Trossingen in Germany.
Tracy E. Reeves-Fletcher
Dance Instructor | Jazz | Ballet | Tap | Hip Hop | Contemporary | Modern | Lyrical | African
Tracy is an East Coast native, who moved to the Bay area 12 years ago from Chicago. She has been teaching dance for over 20years, in both small dance studios, and college campuses. Born in Chicago, but raised on the East Coast, like most little girls she started dancing at the age of 6. Then as a teenager attended The Governor’s School for the Arts, a performing Arts high school program, in the Tidewater area of Virginia. She graduated with a focus in Modern Dance performance. She then attended Virginia Commonwealth University, in Richmond VA, graduating with a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts, with a focus in Modern Dance performance and Choreography. After pursuing some professional development, she then attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, in Greensboro North Carolina. She attended UNCG as a Patricia Roberts Harris teaching Fellow for all three years of the program obtaining a
Master’s of Fine Arts also in Dance performance and Choreography. Throughout her education she has been teaching a myriad of dance forms from Creative movement to Contact Improvisation. Her dance forms include ballet, tap (Broadway & rhythm), jazz, Hip Hop, modern, contemporary, lyrical, ballroom and African. Her specialties include Advanced Rhythm Tap and Contemporary. Tracy has a passion for dance movement and is looking forward to watching your children express themselves through dance.
Paige Relling
Piano Instructor | Beginning through Int/Adv.
Paige is a pianist and mathematician from North Dakota with a Master’s degree in mathematics and many years of piano training. She has already fallen in love with Pacifica where she lives with her husband and dog. Ms. Relling has been playing piano since the age of eight under the guidance of Nicole Antonenko, where she studied a variety of piano styles including all the musical time periods. While studying mathematics in college at the University of North Dakota, Ms. Relling joined the school’s women’s choir and the Sweet Adelines’s choir where she performed Music of the Night from The Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Georgiana by Dario Marianelli, written for the movie Pride and Prejudice based on the book of the same name.
Bree Schwabe
Theatre & Musical Theatre Instructor | Dance Instructor
Bree is excited to teach dance and theatre at Spindrift. She is a college graduate with a degree in theatre, dance and education. Bree has been involved in the performing arts since she was 7 and has grown up taking classes along the coast with both Spindrift and Coastal Repertory Theater. Bree is excited to be back with Spindrift and is looking forward to a great year!
Pearl Schulz
Dance Instructor | Hip Hop | Jazz | Ballet | Tap
Pearl Schulz is a talented dancer and performer with a passion for the arts. Though she was born in Michigan, she has lived most of her life in the vibrant town of Pacifica, dedicating her life to pursuing her love for dance and acting.
Pearl’s journey in the performing arts began with her pursuit of a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance from San Francisco State University. During her time there, she honed her skills and developed a strong foundation in dance technique and performance. Additionally, she minored in acting, further expanding her range as a performer.
Prior to her time at San Francisco State University, Pearl earned an Associate of Arts degree in Arts and Humanities from Skyline College. This comprehensive education provided her with a well-rounded understanding of the arts, enhancing her artistic sensibilities and broadening her creative perspectives.
Pearl’s performing experience spans a variety of productions and showcases, showcasing her versatility and dedication as a performer. In 2022, she participated in the New Moves: Paradox student choreography showcase, where she had the opportunity to work with emerging choreographers from San Francisco State University. She showcased her dance skills and mesmerized audiences with her performances.
Continuing her journey, Pearl played the role of Helena in the production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” directed by Bill Peters and Bruce Avery at San Francisco State University in 2022. Her portrayal of Helena demonstrated her ability to bring depth and emotion to her characters, captivating audiences with her performance.
In the same year, Pearl also performed as a dance performer in the University Dance Theatre 2022, directed by Ray Tadio at San Francisco State University. This production allowed her to showcase her technical expertise and artistic expression on stage, further establishing her presence in the dance community.
Pearl’s talent and dedication extend beyond her university experiences. She has also been involved in local community productions, such as the canceled production of “Chicago” and “Annie” at Skyline Community College in 2020. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Pearl remained resilient and continued to pursue her passion for dance and choreography.
She showcased her skills as a choreographer and dance performer in the Online Skyline Dance Show Spring 2020 at Skyline College, where she created captivating dance pieces and demonstrated her unique artistic vision. Additionally, Pearl impressed audiences as a dance performer in the ConfiDANCE: Skyline College Spring Dance Show 2019, collaborating with both student and professional choreographers from Skyline College.
Pearl Schulz’s artistic journey is marked by her dedication, versatility, and passion for the performing arts. With her strong background in dance, minor in acting, and a diverse range of performing experiences, she continues to explore new opportunities to showcase her talent and inspire audiences with her captivating performances.
Eric Stephenson
Theatre Instructor | Director
Eric is excited to join the team at Spindrift! Originally from Ontario, Canada, he recently moved to the Bay from New York City. He’s performed at regional theaters around the country including Bard SummerScape, the Fulton Theatre, the Winnipesaukee Playhouse, and 34 West Theater Company, and has performed in workshops and concerts of over twenty new musicals and plays. He holds a BA in Theatre and Music from Muhlenberg College in Pennsylvania and a Voice Teacher Certification from New York Vocal Coaching, and is a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association. As a teacher his focus is on unlocking technique, storytelling and joy.
“The theatre is an empty box, and it is our task to fill it with fury and ecstasy, and with revolution.” Slings & Arrows
