Tomiko Nichols, Executive Director
Tomiko’s love of theater began in the 5th grade with her first lead role. She has trained and performed in Atlanta, Charlotte and New York. Not only does her experience include acting, directing, print modeling and TV editing, she brings over 20 years of telecommunications and business operations experience to this labor of love – 15 of them achieved at a Fortune 500 company. She is excited to bring the unique Drama Kids theater and education program to Northeast Atlanta kids. “I love it when I can make a positive difference in a child’s life, and with Drama Kids, the difference is dramatic!”
Nancy Crawley, Teacher
Nancy has been in love with the performing arts for as long as she can remember. She has several regional musical theatre credits, including roles in Beauty and the Beast, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Blues in the Night and Nunsense. Nancy has a master’s degree in Theatre Education, and has taught drama, dance, and chorus for schools, summer camps, and churches for almost two decades. When not working with Drama Kids, Nancy also works with seniors, performing and directing for Atlanta Theatre To-Go, and she teaches drama to homeschooled children through LEAD (Learners and Educators of Atlanta and Decatur). In her spare time, Nancy and her husband, Gary like going to the movies and traveling.
Kermit Burns, Teacher
Kermit Burns is a native of Charlotte, NC. He received his B.A. in theatre and his M.F.A. in theatre performance. While studying throughout college and graduate school, he performed in several theatrical productions and taught college courses in theatre. Kermit is also a playwright and director. Shortly after school, Kermit moved to NYC where he taught both 1st grade and Kindergarten for a few years. He also did several productions there, some with the theatre company he started with a group of friends. Kermit enjoys working on music with his band and helping to shape the smiles of the youth!
Michael Nangle, Teacher
Michael Nangle has directed and acted in over 40 play productions in his 30 years in theater. He has a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Theater and has taught Drama for 10 years at the college, secondary and primary level.
David Klein, Teacher, Private Coach
David holds BFA and MFA Degrees in Acting as well as a Ph.D. in Theatre. He has over 25 years of drama experience, performing, directing and teaching including a 12 year stint as Artistic Director at Dekalb School of the Arts. His past students have gained work in television, commercials, film and stage, in NY, LA as well as locally. In addition to Drama Kids classes David also provides private acting coaching specializing in speech and dialects.
Ceraya Nichols, Teacher Apprentice
Ceraya has interned with Drama Kids for 3 years assisting in summer camps, school year classes, marketing events and performances. She is a senior at Lakeside High School where she is an active member of their high quality Drama Club. She coaches gymnastics and enjoys designing clothes and costumes. She credits Drama Kids with helping her battle her stage fright and loves being a part of a family business.
Anita C Cooper, Executive Assistant
Anita C Cooper is a naturally talented actor who has a passion for educating, motivating, and inspiring others. Some of her theatrical accomplishments include Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, The Wiz, The Carriage, and A Taste of Chocolate. Her academic accomplishments include a B.A., M.F.A., and MS.Ed., Special Education.
Kelly Buterbaugh, Teacher
Kelly Buterbaugh is a local model and actress who comes to us with years of experience. She has been involved in every aspect of theatre and is excited to bring her knowledge and passion to Drama Kids.
Join our team! Now hiring for the 2015 winter/spring semester and summer camp staff. Click here to apply online.
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