Staff
Deanna Stickles-Bach
Owner & Director
Deanna is a proud mother of two – and “Drama Mama” to countless Drama Kids throughout the Capital Region. With a BA in Music Performance and Elementary Education from Vassar College and an MS in Literacy and Elementary Education from the University at Albany, Deanna brings a rich academic background and over twenty years of teaching experience to her role. Her journey in theatre began as a professional actress, director, and art educator, and she has been passionately involved in the arts her entire life. As a certified NYS teacher, Deanna has dedicated herself to fostering the growth and confidence of children of all ages. When she discovered a program dedicated to building confidence, verbal communication, and acting skills in children, she knew it was the perfect avenue to combine her expertise with her passion. Through her work, she has profoundly impacted the lives of thousands of children in the Capital Region, creating a lasting, dramatic difference.
Kristyn Youngblood
Director of Operations
Kristyn Youngblood has been an Arts Educator for over a decade and is a proud member of Actor’s Equity Association, with a degree from the University of Albany’s Theatre Department. While acting ignited her passion, it was in children’s theatre and teaching that she found her true calling. Her ‘a-ha!’ moment came during a school matinee performance of ‘A Christmas Carol’ at theRep, where the lively, engaged young audience captured her heart. They were WAY more fun than the usual crowds! This experience led her to tour with numerous Theatre for Young Audiences productions and solidified her decision to teach (or as Kristyn likes to say, “eduTAIN” ) full-time. Thirteen years ago, when Kristyn discovered Drama Kids, she knew it was the perfect fit. There’s nothing quite like watching a child’s confidence bloom through drama and seeing them shine both on and off the stage!
Sage Engasser
Creative Dramatics & Acting Academy Instructor
Sage Engasser is a dynamic artist with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts, focusing on Design Technology, and a minor in Studio Arts, from SUNY New Paltz. With a strong background in puppetry, Sage blends artistic vision with a deep understanding of the nuances of performance in every project. Passionate about inspiring young minds, she believes in the power of staying true to oneself and taking bold risks. Sage encourages children to embrace their creativity and explore new possibilities. She is excited to be a part of this fantastic Drama Kids team!
Destiny Coons
Acting Academy Instructor
Destiny is so excited to be back at Drama Kids! She has been in the theater for the last 15 years teaching, acting, directing, stage managing, costuming, and even doing some special effects makeup. Destiny has her degree in Theater Arts from HVCC and has worked with many local theater companies including being a resident director at her high school for 10 years and running Lights Up Productions with her fellow Drama Kids teacher, Katherine. “There is a feeling you get being involved in the theater that is unmatched and I can’t wait to bring that feeling to Drama Kids!”
Katherine Juliano
Acting Academy Instructor
Katherine Juliano is thrilled to be joining the talented staff of Drama Kids this year. Katherine is a lifetime lover of the arts and graduated from Elmira College with a Bachelors in Theatre Performance and English Literature in 2015. Following her years of collegiate performing and earning a nomination for the Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship, Katherine turned to directing as a way to share her passion for performing with others, drawing inspiration from the directors and teachers who helped shape her. After owning and operating her theatre company, Lights Up Productions, the pandemic put an unfortunate stop to her involvement in the theatre community. Katherine is ecstatic to be returning to her long-time loves of directing, teaching transferable life skills through the arts, and helping to inspire the creativity and growth of the youth of the Capital Region.
Ciera Jo “CJ” McDonald
Creative Dramatics & Acting Academy Instructor
CJ is a recent graduate of Muhlenberg College with degrees in Business and Theatre. CJ has acted as a director, stage manager, costume designer, set designer, props mistress, assistant vocal coach, and dramaturg for dozens of shows and has been lucky enough to work for such artists such as The Chicks and Dave Matthews Band. She has also worked on rock concert production through Live Nation at Saratoga Performing Arts Center and has worked wardrobe and props for The New York City Ballet for the past three years. In 2022, CJ moved to Italy where she studied physical theatre and commedia dell’arte at the Accademia dell’Arte in Arezzo, Tuscany. Since then, she has had an unending passion for travel and immersing herself into new cultures and experiences whenever she can. In her free time, she has spearheaded extra-curricular theatre programs for children of all ages in both New York and Pennsylvania and is so honored to be a new member of the Drama Kids Family!
Sierra Surprenant
Lead Teaching Assistant
Sierra first stepped into the spotlight as a Drama Kid in 2017, and now she shines as our Lead Teaching Assistant. Known for her warm smile and encouraging presence, Sierra is a beloved fixture in our Drama Kids family. Her personal quote says it all: “Drama Kids has helped me come out of my shell and be true to who I am. I love Drama Kids…we are like one big family!” Sierra’s journey from Drama Kid to Lead Teaching Assistant is a testament to the supportive and nurturing environment she helps create for every child.
Join our team! Drama Kids is seeking dynamic and fun part time teachers to meet our growing class schedule. Please visit our Contact Us Page and submit your interest.