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Gisela Giles
Director/ Costume, Set and Prop Designer
Directing Beauty and the Beast Jr. is a joyful milestone for Mrs. Giles, who makes her debut in this role after serving as the Makeup Artist in last year’s production. She loves watching students grow as performers, teammates, and storytellers. She is thankful for the trust of families, the enthusiasm of the cast, and the collaboration of the best creative team. With her background in creative building and career in the world of fashion, she brought those passions together to shape the visual storytelling of this production. Collaborating with students, fellow teachers and families to brainstorm ideas and watching those ideas come to life has been on of the most rewarding parts of the process. She is grateful for the creativity, teamwork, and enthusiasm that made this magical world possible.
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Taylor Griffin
Co-Director
Taylor Griffin is so excited to be co-directing this year's production of Beauty and the Beast Jr. and has loved getting to work with such a fun and dedicated group of students. She teaches 4th grade math and science and enjoys bringing energy and creativity into both the classroom and rehearsals. Watching the cast grow in confidence and come together has been the best part of this process. She would like to thank the students, families, and staff for all their support.
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Carresa Gerhart-Ellis
Choreographer
Carresa Gerhart-Ellis traces her passion for movement back to the tender age of two when she took her first steps into the realm of ballet. As she twirled through childhood, her love for dance blossomed, and she eagerly embraced tap, jazz, and hip-hop, enriching her repertoire with each new step. Carresa's journey has taken her across the country from California to the Carolinas, where she has shared her expertise as a dance instructor at various esteemed studios. Her dedication extends beyond the studio, as she has lent her expertise to coaching Pop Warner Cheer and PES Cheer. Since 2019, Carresa has brought her passion and flair for choreography to the theartrical realm, lending her vision to productions such as Madagascar Jr., The Little Mermaid Jr., Shrek Jr., Annie Jr., Alice and Wonderland Jr., & Beauty & the Beast Jr.. Carresa weaves magic on the stage, inspiring dancers of all ages to reach for the stars.
