Staff
Nicole Chaplin
Owner & Director
Nicole is excited to be the director of Drama Kids of Greater Akron. As a mom of two adorable and incredibly dramatic children, she understands the importance of a quality after-school drama program. She has the unique ability to bring a child’s self-esteem up and help them learn that they can accomplish anything. She believes that everyone should embrace their fun, weird, quirky side and credits her many years in the theater/ drama/dance world for being comfortable in her own skin. That confidence is something that Drama Kids brings out in all of its students and one of the many reasons why she was so determined to bring Drama Kids to the Greater Akron area. Besides the theater she is a lover of books, cooking, and her cat Chapo.
Ms. Leanna
Lead Drama & Acting Teacher
Ms Leanna is a proud Drama Kids teacher! As a mom to two amazing kiddos, Brynlee (12) and Tyler (9), she knows how important it is for children to develop social skills, build teamwork, and grow confidence. As a former shy kid, she only blossomed once she pushed herself past her comfort zones. She loves cultivating that in our youth. She has always enjoyed working with children, particularly her own children’s schooling and sports. From teacher’s aid in preschool to library helper to PTA mom, and everything in between- it brings her great joy to help develop children. Volunteering to help our children succeed and have the best experiences has always been a passion of hers, so when the opportunity arose to become a Drama Kids teacher, she knew it was the perfect fit for her! “I love seeing the pride in a child’s eyes, and I love being a small part of nurturing these sweet, creative souls.”
Ms. Brianna
Drama & Acting Teacher
Miss Bri is very excited to meet all the young faces for the upcoming school year! She graduated from Kent State University in 2020 with a BA in Theater and a minor in Dance. She’s been in numerous community theater shows and taught ballet with a different company before discovering Drama Kids. She is a very kind and bubbly person who loves everything that Drama Kids represents.
Ms. Bri
Drama & Acting Teacher
Ms. Bri is thrilled and honored to be part of the Drama Kids of Greater Akron family! She has an associates in Arts with a focus in Theater from Spartanburg Methodist College in her home state of South Carolina. Theater and acting gave her a sense of purpose as well as security. Being able to become a character and see how they view the world is one of her favorite aspects of acting. She has done plays, a musical as well as a few short films. She continues to find opportunities to act whenever she can. She is so excited to help kids find their voice as well as their confidence. Drama changed her life in the best ways possible, so she wants to share with others the joys of this creative profession.