Who’s who?
Co-Founder and Artistic Director
Spotlight on Jennifer Kaye, SSC’s brilliantly talented director and choreographer. Jennifer’s long list of credits span over the 30 years she has been studying dance and theatre. She has worked for various theatrical school programs and organizations as a director and choreographer throughout New Haven County. A Connecticut native, Jennifer started dancing at age 3 and first appeared on stage with the Youth CONNection company at age 7. Earning her BA in Dance Performance from Roger Williams University she performed with the professional dance company and had her senior piece performed at the AMDA festival. Her love of dance has led to the creation of many dance programs throughout her career. Her dedication to the arts can be seen through the care she provides to each production she is involved with. She served as a choreographer for Connecticut Theatre Company and was the Resident Choreographer for the Square Foot Theatre Company where she was awarded the On Stage Outstanding Choreography Award for her work on Spring Awakening. Jennifer is a kindergarten teacher in New Haven where she also serves as the choreographer for Wilbur Cross High School, and works her magic with SSC when she is not in the classroom.
As if that wasn’t enough, she’s also a performer!
Co-Founder and Artistic Director
Spotlight on Christopher Sumrell, SSC’s co-founder and director. Christopher’s credits as a performer have taken him all over the United States and to Europe. He has performed off-Broadway in Songs For A New World and at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland in Romeo & Juliet. He has been a member of the Screen Actors Guild since 2009, (earning his membership less than a year after attending Western CT State University), after appearing in It’s Complicated and has worked professionally in film, television and theater for over 15 years. Christopher has danced with various dance companies in Connecticut, New York and Florida including LaMar Productions, Main Street Ballet, Thrive: The Essence of Dance and Cirque Le Masque. Working with actors as a director is such a joy for Christopher. He has directed several plays and taught various classes in acting and dance. Having worked for many different companies and organizations over the years he has learned many tricks of the trade to pass on to others looking to further their craft.
Co-Founder and Director of Sales and Community Engagement
Spotlight on Sandy Mascia, SSC’s Director of Sales and Community Engagement. Sandy was part of the initial inception of Spotlight Stage Company after having worked with both Christopher and Jennifer on past productions. Her ability to marry her love of theatre and her business know-how is a perfect fit for SSC. Her service to many non-profit and volunteer organizations (i.e Girl Scouts, Jamie Hulley Arts Foundation, and many more) have only made her an invaluable member of our company. Her experience in event planning, her leadership formerly as Board President for a non-profit theater and strong work ethic keep our company progressing. Sandy is currently in her 3rd year serving as a musical theater Producer for a local non-profit parochial school. Though she may never take the stage she is a dedicated and fearless leader in our company and in our theatrical community. Sandy’s passion for theatre only grows stronger when watching her daughter perform.
Sales and Advertising Executive
Spotlight on Lauren Turenne, SSC’s Sales and Advertising Executive. Lauren has been involved in theatre for over 25 years as a singer and actress. Lauren received a BA in Theatre from Western Connecticut State University in 2006.
In addition to acting and singing, Lauren has worked behind the scenes with the Blessed Sacrament Children’s Theatre, Post Theatrical Players and has worked with LaMar Productions with their Summer on Stage children’s summer camp. She recently appeared in a production of Once On This Island playing the role of Mama. Lauren currently works as an Assistant Director of Recruitment and Admissions at Central Connecticut State University, where she also earned her MS in Counseling, with a specialization in Higher Education and Student Development.
Assistant Choreographer & Resident Dance Captain
Spotlight on Cheyenne Santello, SSC’s incredibly talented and versatile assistant choreographer and Resident Dance Captain. Cheyenne is a recent graduate from Middlesex Community College and recieved her Assiociate's degree in General Studies. While in college Cheyenne continued her training as a dancer, choreographer and dance teacher. She has experienced many wonderful opportunities including teaching a 10 week ballet intensive program.
During her 8th grade year, and throughout her high school years she was able to perform in select ensembles competing at many competitions throughout the East Coast. She also had the chance to attend CMEA and the Northeast Regional Choir. Studying under Betty Siebert, Cheyenne has studied Cecchetti ballet, modern and tap at the Chesire Ballet Centre for 7 years. Each year while studying there, she participated in the Cecchetti Ballet Theater's production of The Nutcracker.
Cheyenne has performed in over 20 musicals in the New Haven county area and has also worked under Jennifer Kaye as the assistant choreographer on many previous productions.