HSMTA Adjudicators

Maureen Baillargeon Aumand (She/Her) is a retired educator and former Education Director for Capital Repertory Theatre. With over 35 years in the Watervliet City School System, she championed the transformative power of the arts, particularly theater, in education. As a high school Drama Director, she secured grants for projects integrating artists and teachers to inspire creative, standards-aligned learning. A peace activist for two decades, Maureen advocates for a curriculum addressing timeless questions of truth, goodness, and beauty, fostering a just and sustainable society. She has organized numerous events and co-edited Bending the Arc: Striving for Peace and Justice in a World of Endless War. Active in local theater, Maureen collaborates with groups such as Creative Action Unlimited, Harbinger Theatre and Circle Theater Players.

Claudia Bertasso (She/Her) is a passionate performer with a BFA in Theatre from Barry University, where she received accolades as Best Newcomer and Best Actress in 2017. She has graced stages across New York and Florida, delivering standout performances in productions such as A Chorus Line (Cassie), Good People (Margie), 21st Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Olive), and Beauty and the Beast (Babette). Her versatile skill set includes stage combat, choreography, and extensive dance training in tap, jazz, ballet, and hip hop. With over a decade of gymnastics experience and vocal training, Claudia brings a dynamic presence to her roles. Proficient in English and French, she has trained in various accents, enhancing her character portrayals. Claudia is dedicated to storytelling, whether through acting, dance, or her expertise in choreography, making her a valuable contributor to any creative project.

Stanley Bojarski’s (He/Him) Broadway credits include Me & My Girl. National Tours: 4th National of Annie and 15th Anniversary tour of Annie with Joanne Worley and Marcia Lewis, 1st National of Me & My Girl with Tim Curry. Off-Broadway: Red Hot And Blue, Whoop Dee Doo, and Howard Crabtree’s When Pigs Fly, for which he received both an Outer Critics Circle and Drama Desk nomination for featured actor in a musical. He appeared most recently in Encores Ziegfeld Follies of 1936.

Diana Chabai-Booker (She/They) is a skilled stage manager with extensive experience in theatrical productions across diverse settings. Based in Schenectady, NY, Diana has worked on productions such as Mean Girls High School Version and Spring Awakening with SLOC Musical Theater, as well as Love, Loss and What I Wore with Theatre Voices. They excel in managing all facets of stage management, including prop coordination, scheduling, and technical support, ensuring seamless and engaging performances. Diana’s prior work includes stage-managing productions for Greater Grand Forks Community Theatre and Empire Theatre Company, with highlights like Steel Magnolias, Legally Blonde: The Musical, and Ripcord. Their leadership also extends to directing, having helmed Fool’s Gold, the first in-person production for GGFCT post-pandemic.

Adam M. Coons (He/Him) is a theatrical artist and director with an extensive portfolio spanning musical theater, drama, and comedy, Adam M. Coons has brought countless stories to life on stage. His credits include standout roles in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (Pseudolus), You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown (Charlie Brown), and Grease (Doody). As a skilled director, Adam has also helmed productions such as The Wedding Singer and All Shook Up. With an extensive portfolio spanning musical theater, drama, and comedy, Adam M. Coons has brought countless stories to life on stage. His credits include standout roles in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (Pseudolus), You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown (Charlie Brown), and Grease (Doody). As a skilled director, Adam has also helmed productions such as The Wedding Singer and All Shook Up. Performing with companies like SLCA-CTP, Not So Common Players, SLOC Musical Theater, and Albany Civic Theater, Adam’s artistry blends passion and precision. His work spans a variety of genres, from classic comedies like Rumors to thought-provoking dramas like The Farnsworth Invention.

Lenna Darbin Andrews (She/Her) is a versatile mezzo-soprano, music educator, and director with extensive experience in opera, choral music, and musical theater. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music and has performed in operatic roles such as Venus (Orpheus and the Underworld), Suzuki (Madama Butterfly), and Dorabella (Così fan tutte) with companies including Taconic Opera, Delaware Valley Opera, and Hudson Opera Theatre. As a music educator, Lenna has guided students of all ages in voice, piano, and cello. Her teaching roles include positions at Guilderland Music Academy and Hudson Valley Music Academy, where her students have consistently achieved top scores in NYSSMA and earned prestigious scholarships. In her current role at St. Jude the Apostle School, she directs a school-wide chorus and incorporates Christian teachings into her music instruction. Lenna also serves as Music Director for the United Methodist Church of Voorheesville, where she directs the Chancel Choir and organizes large-scale performances such as the annual Christmas Concert. With additional experience in drama direction at Chester Academy, Lenna brings her artistic vision and expertise to every project, inspiring students and audiences alike.

Chris Foster (He/Him) is a seasoned actor and director with extensive experience in theater, spanning numerous roles and productions across reputable companies such as Schenectady Light Opera Co., Albany Civic Theater, and the Utah Shakespeare Festival. He holds an MFA in Professional Actor Training from Penn State University and a BA in Theatre from California State University, Long Beach. Chris has portrayed iconic characters like Henry Drummond in Inherit the Wind, Sir Thomas More in A Man for All Seasons, and Bottom in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. His directorial credits include The Beauty Queen of Leeanne, Blithe Spirit, and Clybourne Park. Beyond acting, Chris contributes to the arts through teaching and mentorship, embodying his dedication to storytelling and the transformative power of theater.

Lisa Passonno Franklin (She/Her) received her Bachelor of Music Degree in Vocal Performance from the Crane School of Music, her Master’s Certificate in Voice/Opera from the Opera School at the Hochschule fuer Musik in Wuerzburg, Germany and her Master’s Degree in Voice/Opera from SUNY Binghamton in conjunction with the Tri-Cities Opera, where she performed several operatic roles. Lisa toured in Germany with many orchestras in both concert and opera settings. Lisa has been on the faculty of the NY State Theatre Institute, where she taught voice classes. Lisa now teaches voice at The Academy of the Holy Names in Albany, NY.

Ken Goldstein is currently the Dean of the School of Contemporary Arts at Ramapo College of New Jersey. Previously, he was the Chair and Professor of Design for the Department of Theatre Arts at The State University of New York at New Paltz.

Evan Jones is a seasoned actor and proud member of Actors’ Equity Association (AEA), with a robust portfolio of stage performances across a variety of genres and roles. Based in the Capital Region, Evan has brought memorable characters to life in productions such as American Buffalo (Don, Albany Civic Theater), Angels in America (Louis Ironson, Local Actors Guild of Saratoga), and Peter and the Starcatcher (Black Stache, Albany Civic Theater).

Jean Leonard (She/Her) oversees strategic initiatives and daily operations across Proctors in Schenectady, Capital Repertory Theatre in Albany, and Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs. With over 12 years of leadership experience, they bring expertise in nonprofit management, program development, staff training, and strategic planning.

Sophia Lingane (She/Her)

Alexandria Marshall (She/Her) is a passionate Music Teacher and Chorus Director in the Schenectady City School District with a Master’s in Curriculum Development and Instructional Technology from SUNY Albany. She specializes in creating culturally responsive music programs, directing middle school chorus, and leading an after-school musical theatre program. With over 25 years in theatre and expertise in piano, guitar, and ukulele, she brings creativity and technical skill to dynamic learning experiences. Known for trauma-sensitive and social-emotional teaching, Alexandria fosters an inclusive and engaging classroom environment. Beyond music, they enrich student life through extracurricular activities and innovative collaborations.

Nicole McDonald (She/Her) is a dedicated theatre professional with a Bachelor of Arts in Theater Arts, focusing on directing, from Pace University. With extensive experience across various roles in theatre, Nicole has directed productions such as The Addams Family, Dog Sees God, and Mr. Marmalade, showcasing her versatility and creative vision. She has also taken on key leadership positions, including producing and stage-managing shows like Halloween Broadway Bash and Bent Broadway. Nicole’s technical expertise includes stage managing for productions like Last of the Mohicans, Grease, and Farndale… Christmas Carol, and she has contributed to many shows as a costume designer, props master, and sound board operator. Her work spans multiple theatre companies, including Rented Productions, Broadway Upstate, and the New York State Theater Institute. In addition to her hands-on experience, Nicole has honed her skills through internships at the Adirondack Theater Festival and New York State Theater Institute, where she developed a strong foundation in both office and technical theatre operations.

Kevin McGuire (He/Him) serves as the Director of Theatrical Programming for the Collaborative School of the Arts and boasts an extensive career on stage and behind the scenes. On Broadway and in national and international tours, he has performed iconic roles such as Jean Valjean in Les Misérables, M. André and the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera, Uncle Archie in The Secret Garden, and John Eyre in Jane Eyre, where he also worked as assistant to director John Caird. At Capital Repertory Theatre, Kevin was honored as the company’s first Associate Artist. His numerous performances there include Man of La Mancha, Red, Shakespeare in Love, The Full Monty, and the critically acclaimed The True, where he played Charlie Ryan. He also directed a celebrated production of Hamlet in 2015. Off-Broadway, Kevin originated roles in Forbidden Broadway and Big Maggie and performed in productions such as Hamlet (CSC), Romeo and Juliet (New York Shakespeare Festival), Waiting for Godot, and The Seagull. His regional credits include appearances at the Denver Center (Sweeney Todd), Shakespeare Theatre DC (Henry IV), and the Williamstown Theatre Festival, where he earned his Equity card. Beyond acting, Kevin has directed and taught extensively, including three seasons on tour with The Juilliard Acting Company. A native of the Capital District, he is a graduate of St. Mary’s Academy, The Hoosac School, and The Juilliard School.

Freddy Ramirez (He/Him) is a Bronx-born performer, choreographer, and teacher. He trained at Broadway Dance Center and STEPS in NYC, studying tap, contemporary, street jazz, ballet, and modern dance. A former principal dancer with In Forward Motion, he performed works by Merce Cunningham, Paul Taylor, and Colin Connor, and was featured in Tango! in Italy. On Broadway, Freddy appeared in Grease! and performed in Equity productions of West Side Story (as Bernardo), Cabaret, Gypsy, Aida, Miss Saigon, Evita, and more. His tours include A Chorus Line, Grease!, and Peter Pan. As a choreographer, Freddy has created works for productions in the U.S. and Europe. He is Director of Dance Programming for the Collaborative School of the Arts, an associate artist at Capital Repertory Theatre and assistant artistic director at Northeast Ballet Company. His credits include The Full Monty, She Loves Me, Mamma Mia!, Gypsy, The Secret Garden, and collaborations with Proctors on shows like Les Misérables, Pippin, and Into the Woods.

John Romeo (He/Him) is an actor, director, filmmaker and voice over actor and member of the resident acting company with the NYS Theater Institute (ESYTI/ESIPA) for nearly 3 decades. He has also performed with Saratoga Shakespeare Company, Theater Voices (board member) and several productions at Capital Repertory Theater. He taught Acting at Russell Sage College and Union College, Co-directed “The Neighborhood That Disappeared“ documentary and many independent films including “Axcellerator,” “The Christmas Brew,” “The Monkey” and many others. John is a proud member of Actor’s Equity Association and SAG-AFTRA.

Tricia Reilly (She/Her) is an accomplished soprano with a rich background in vocal performance and theatre. She holds a Bachelor of Music from Stetson University, where she emphasized voice and stage management, and further honed her craft at Shenandoah University, studying under renowned mentors and participating in master classes with industry luminaries. A seasoned performer, Tricia has brought a variety of operatic and musical theatre roles to life, including Luisa in The Fantasticks and Musetta in La Bohème, with credits spanning institutions such as Shenandoah University, Stetson University, and The Glove Performing Arts Center. Her choral expertise includes performing with ensembles like Albany Pro Musica and Stetson’s Concert Choir, showcasing her versatility in both solo and ensemble settings. Tricia is also dedicated to fostering young talent, serving as a High School Musical Theatre Awards adjudicator for five years, blending her performance and mentorship skills to inspire the next generation of artists.

Susan Senecal (She/Her) is a retired Health Care Professional and Board Member of The Not So Common Players; Susan has extensive experience in arts and community service. She served as a grant adjudicator for the Saratoga Arts Council, talent and audition organizer for St. Claire’s Aux. Follies at Proctors, and President of the Proctors Theatre Guild. A dedicated volunteer at Proctors and UPH for over 20 years, Susan brings a wealth of expertise to her roles.

Leah Thompson (She/Her) is thrilled to return to Proctors for another season of HSMTA adjudication. She brings a wealth of experience in theater and performance, including roles in productions like Legally Blonde (Brooke Wyndham), RENT (Maureen), and Mamma Mia! (dance ensemble). Leah’s training spans acting, voice, dance, and music, with coursework at the University at Buffalo and private voice instruction in classical, jazz, and musical theater.

Oliver Wadsworth (He/Him) Oliver Wadsworth is an actor and writer with extensive U.S. experience. He appeared in the first national tour of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Off-Broadway in Sideways, Endpapers, Well, and Bread and Roses. Regional highlights include Peter and the Starcatcher (Pioneer Theatre), Mystery of Irma Vep (Arizona Theatre Company), An Enemy of the People (Long Wharf Theatre), and Fully Committed (Capital Rep). Film and TV credits include The Blacklist, Deliver Us from Evil, Law & Order: SVU, and Ed’s Next Move. Wadsworth’s solo show, The Tarnation of Russell Colvin, was performed at Dorset Theatre Festival and Hubbard Hall. As a writer, he has received residencies from MacDowell, Millay, and Yaddo, along with grants from organizations including NYSCA and Franklin Furnace. He earned an MFA from NYU and served as visiting faculty at Bennington in 2019 and 2023.

Meghan Watson (She/Her) is an accomplished theatre professional with extensive experience in directing, production management, and arts education. As Assistant Director for Schoharie Central School’s award-winning production of Newsies, she coached vocals, developed character work, and managed technical elements, earning regional recognition for the production. Her background also includes roles at Florida Studio Theatre, where she managed production calendars, sourced props, and served as an Equity Artist liaison, ensuring seamless operations for multiple performances and events. Meghan’s passion for storytelling and her expertise in stagecraft make her a dynamic contributor to the performing arts.

Katie Weinberg (She/Her) is a graduate of Ithaca College and the Eugene O’Neill National Theater Institute. A versatile theatre professional, Katie has worked as an actor, director, and stage manager on nearly 50 productions in the Capital Region over the past 20 years. Her experience spans esteemed theaters such as Albany Civic Theater, SLOC Musical Theater, Not So Common Players, and Schenectady Civic Players. In addition to her extensive production history, Katie has contributed as a producer, properties master, and technical crew member, showcasing her commitment to all aspects of theatre. Passionate about supporting the arts and mentoring emerging talent, Katie is excited to bring her expertise and love of theater to the adjudication program in 2025.

Kyle West (He/Him) is the Executive and Artistic Director of Fort Salem Theater and was recognized as one of New York State’s Top 10 LGBTQ+ Leaders by the I❤️NY campaign. With three decades of experience in award-winning theater, Kyle has worked nationally as a producer, director, choreographer, designer, and performer. His credits include directing and choreographing acclaimed productions like Hairspray, Next to Normal, and Evita, as well as performing in roles such as Ren in Footloose and Lefou in Beauty and the Beast. A former senior editor of BroadwayWorld.com and marketing strategist for Broadway and regional productions, Kyle’s work includes Broadway’s Dear Evan Hansen and Disney’s Mary Poppins. He is also a Salem Area Chamber of Commerce director and an advocate for arts accessibility. Learn more at www.FortSalem.com.

Patrick White (He/Him) founder of Capital Region Festival of Theatre and co-founder of Harbinger Theatre, Patrick is a versatile actor and director with an extensive background in regional and community theatre. With dozens of performances spanning classical masterpieces like King Lear and A Midsummer Night’s Dream to modern works such as Doubt and Superior Donuts, Patrick brings depth, passion, and range to every role. His directing credits include productions such as The Pope & The Witch, The Glass Menagerie, and Suddenly Last Summer, showcasing a keen eye for storytelling and collaboration. He has worked with esteemed organizations including Capital Repertory Theatre, Albany Civic Theatre, and Cohoes Music Hall, among others. Renowned for his dynamic character portrayals and dedication to the craft, he continues to enrich stages across the region.

Benita Zahn (She/Her) is an award-winning journalist, nationally certified health and wellness coach, and member of Actors Equity Association and SAG-AFTRA. Benita earned her MS and DPS/ Bioethics from the Alden March Bioethics Institute at Albany Medical College and has worked in commercial TV news for 40 years earning an NY Emmy, NYS Broadcasters Award, International Radio and TV Award and has been recognized by the American Heart Association, American Lung Association, American Society of Anesthesiologists Media Award and many other honors. Benita’s work has taken her around the world and across the U.S. She anchored the top rated 6pm and 4 pm news at WNYT in Albany, NY. Benita also hosted the long running HEALTH LINK program at WMHT- PBS. She co-hosts the podcast EVERYTHING THEATER and writes about health for several local magazines/newspapers.