ALUMNI
Kevin William Paul
Kevin William Paul graduated from Carnegie Mellon University’s School of Drama. Recently, he marked his Broadway debut with The Outsiders originating the role of Bob. Select TV/Film: “Evil,” “Why Women Kill,” “The Goldbergs,” “Good Trouble,” “Bottom of the 9th.” Along with his theatrical pursuits, Kevin is a musician, writer and athlete. Since graduating, he’s enjoyed traveling all over the world and spending time with family and friends. From LA to NYC, he often finds home through the people he grew up with back in FL. StarStruck was integral to shaping both his craft and discipline at a young age, while providing a supportive community to grow.
Talia Suskauer
Talia most recently starred as Elphaba in WICKED on Broadway, direct from an incredibly successful run on the National Tour in the same role. Before that, Talia was the female standby for BE MORE CHILL on Broadway. Other credits: GYPSY (Louise) at Goodspeed Opera House, and LITTLE WOMEN (Jo), SHREK (Fiona), and THE SECRET GARDEN (Lily) at the New London Barn Playhouse. Stuart audiences might remember Talia from StarStruck shows like THE DROWSY CHAPERONE, RAGTIME, SHREK, and LES MISERABLES, to name a few. Talia is a BFA Music Theatre graduate from Penn State University.
Talia is currently playing Lucille Frank on the National Tour of PARADE. Then fix the next sentence re: wicked so it makes sense
“I can say with 100% certainty that I would not be where I am today without my StarStruck training. It is my second home, and the place where I cultivated and honed my talent. Jennifer Yormak is my lifelong mentor, and is family to me. The work she does is so important, and I will be forever grateful to her for believing in me and changing my life. Purple Proud!”
Kevin Connor
Kevin is a Broadway and off-Broadway producer based in New York City. Producing Credits include SUNSET BLVD, APPROPRIATE, HERE LIES LOVE, LIFE OF PI, PLAZA SUITE, KINKY BOOTS, CHILDREN OF A LESSER GOD, and FIDDLER ON THE ROOF in Yiddish. Upcoming: TROPHY BOYS, MIDNIGHT IN THE GARDEN OF GOOD AND EVIL, BECOMING NANCY, and SCOTLAND, PA. Kevin proudly serves on the board of Houses on the Moon Theater Company.
"StarStruck was one of the first places that showed me the power of theatre--how it can transform lives and teach invaluable skills. Peter and Jennifer have created a safe haven where all are welcomed and celebrated. I am eternally grateful to them for all they have done.”
Amanda Paul
Amanda is a talent agent at Henderson Hogan Agency based in NYC representing talent in Theatre, Television and Film. She moved to the Big Apple after graduating from Florida State University, and soon jumped into the world of Real Estate where she worked in new development at Corcoran Sunshine, on a Top 10 team at Douglas Elliman, and eventually managed the boutique firm, Vestry. But her passion to work with actors, guiding them to success, was undeniable and in 2022 she returned to her theatrical roots. Whether an actor’s desire is to be on stage or in front of a camera, Amanda looks to amplify their voice and encourage their creativity.
Amanda grew up in a theatrical family where her zeal for artists became part of her soul. In NY, she performed in the play, TRUE CONFESSIONS OF A STRAIGHT MAN and in commercials for Grubhub, Pret a Manger, and The Williamsburg Hotel to name a few. Favorite StarStruck credits: THE PRODUCERS (Ulla), TOMMY (Mrs. Walker), A CHORUS LINE (Sheila), ODD COUPLE: FEMALE VERSION (Olive), and AVENUE Q (Lucy).
“StarStruck was and always will be my second home & happy place. I learned confidence and how to be open & free in a safe and nurturing environment.”
Cory Jeacoma
Cory is a BFA Musical Theatre graduate from Pace University in New York. After starring in the Broadway tour of JERSEY BOYS and the Broadway hit, BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL, Cory worked on multiple seasons of “Power Book II: GHOST,” a spin-off of Starz’s hit series “Power” and then starred in the CW reboot of “4400!” In addition to Ghost, he was featured in the 2024 season of FBI for CBS as Agent Chris Ulrich and is now proud to be currently working on a short film called Dawn, with an entirely Jewish creative team. Cory workshopped multiple Broadway-bound musicals including the out of town tryout of Gatsby: An American Myth which was created and run by an award winning female team, Tony winning director Rachel Chavkin, Tony winning choreographer Sonya Tayeh, Pulitzer Prize winning writer Martyna Majok, and composed by mega star Florence Welch from Florence and The Machine.
“StarStruck instilled a discipline and work ethic in me that I carry into every production, concert, audition, and shoot I get to do. It also taught me to prioritize myself and the people I surround myself with before anything else. This, in turn, brings a deeper humanity to everything I do artistically.”
Madison Mills
Madison is a video journalist at Bloomberg News in New York City. She returned to the newsroom after helping Mike Bloomberg run for president, traveling to 30 states while running his social video operation. This summer, her award-winning film on the Parkland shooting survivors will premiere in the Smithsonian in an exhibit on women and girls.
“StarStruck kindly offered me scholarships, which allowed me to have some of the best musical experiences of my life. Jen and Peter gave me confidence and love at a time in my life when I needed it most. I know every child who comes through their doors will leave with more self-love, joy and ambition than before. While my career path changed, I know the confidence they instilled in me helps me do my job better every single day. I am forever grateful to them!”
Ryan Weiss
After graduating cum laude from the University of Florida and magna cum laude from Duke University School of Law, Ryan clerked for Judge Mark E. Walker of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Florida and Judge Michael Daly Hawkins of the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Ryan is currently a trial lawyer with Susman Godfrey LLP in Houston, Texas--which, for over a decade, has been ranked as the top litigation firm in the country--where he focuses on high-stakes civil litigation.
You may recognize Ryan from StarStruck shows like Tommy (Captain Walker), Cabaret (Clifford Bradshaw), Death of a Salesman (Willy Loman), The Sound of Music (Rolf), The Producers (Franz Liebkind), and Sweeney Todd (Beadle Bamford), to name a few. Ryan also received the MartinArts award in 2009 for Best Student Performing Artist.
"StarStruck was my home away from home and so much more. More than just a place to learn performance skills, it was a sanctuary where lifelong friendships were forged and personal growth flourished. At StarStruck, I found an inclusive community that embraced everyone unconditionally, allowing each individual—myself included—to authentically express their true self. Although I may no longer perform on stage, the confidence and life lessons I learned at StarStruck continue to resonate in every aspect of my daily life as a trial attorney. And for that, I remain eternally grateful—and forever Purple Proud!"
Stephanie Duncan
Stephanie Duncan currently lives in Orlando, Florida. After earning a master’s degree in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling in 2019, Stephanie became a school-based mental health counselor.
“The impact of the time I spent as a student at StarStruck is something that I did not fully understand until years later. I will forever be grateful to Jen, Peter, and the many incredible instructors I had that helped to mold me into the person I am today. The gifts I gained as a student far surpass those that one may expect of an arts education. Through StarStruck I was able to explore and use my voice. I was able to feel as if I was part of a community and made some of the most meaningful relationships of my childhood and adolescence. I was able to tap into my confidence and feel comfortable in my own skin. I was encouraged to celebrate differences with my peers and practice kindness always. I was held accountable. Perhaps most importantly, I was put into situations where I was encouraged to dig deep into my emotional self and explore the emotional experiences of others. I am certain that these early practices in fostering empathy made me into the counselor I am today. I firmly believe that an arts education is not reserved solely for those who intend to pursue performing professionally. Every child needs and deserves a place to feel safe, to express themselves, to be wholly supported and understood. Thank you, StarStruck, for being that place for me.”
Becca Suskauer
Becca Suskauer is an actor, singer/songwriter, and former StarStruck student from Palm Beach Gardens, FL! After graduating with her BFA in Musical Theatre from Penn State, she made her National Tour debut in Pretty Woman understudying Vivian Ward. Since her move to NYC, she starred in an Off-Broadway show at Theatre Row, and regularly performs at 54 Below, and at Manhattan concert venues with her band. She has performed in regional houses like the Muny, New London Barn Playhouse, and Northern Stage. Most recently, Becca made her TV debut in Pretty Little Liars on Max, followed shortly by the release of her first music video for her single "Where Do You Go?". You can catch her as Dawn in Waitress at the Actor's Playhouse starting in March! Follow along at @beccaflower on Instagram for updates! “StarStruck fam is forever, and I'll always be #PurpleProud!”
beccasuskauer.com @beccaflower
Brittany Bigelow
As the lead Executive Producer at audiochuck, the acclaimed 2023 Podcast Network of the Year by Adweek, Brittany Bigelow oversees the development of an impressive slate of over a dozen shows, including the world's #1 true crime podcast, Crime Junkie, as well as the launch of Crime Junkie AF and Crime Junkie Radio (a SiriusXM partnership). Collaborating closely with audiochuck's Founder, Ashley Flowers, Brittany spearheads a content strategy designed to educate, entertain, inspire, and connect listeners with audiochuck’s mission of advocacy.
Before joining the podcasting world, Brittany spent over a decade as a New York-based dancer, performing on both stage and screen. Her diverse storytelling background and personal commitment to compelling true crime content make her a vital part of the audiochuck team. Brittany is dedicated to creating content that not only captivates audiences but also brings increased awareness, resources, and advocacy for those impacted by injustice.
“StarStruck was where my passion for creating art exploded. I fell in love with every single element that goes into a production. It was the first place I could ask questions, make mistakes, take risks, and believe in the possibilities of a life in this insane career!”
Kevin King
Kevin King is a husband and father. Growing up in the arts and receiving his master degree in Vocal Performance for the University of Texas, God has used this experience to now allow him to be the Worship Director at Grace Presbyterian Church in Peoria, IL. Here, Kevin leads all musical areas of this 150 year old church. Kevin has released a solo album “Fight for Us” in 2015 and most recently released an album with Grace Worship “Christ Be All” in spring 2020. This album has been featured and reviewed in Worship Leader Magazine and is resourcing churches with worship music from all around the world. Kevin is thankful for his time with StarStruck because it sparked his intrigue with how arts can impact a heart and lead them to further understand of the human experience. Specifically, now, for him, he enjoys using art and music to help people understand and love Jesus.
Megan Moran
Megan Moran now lives in Los Angeles as an actor and the Events Manager at the nonprofit WriteGirl. She’s appeared on NBC and is a member of The Road Theatre Company. Megan has a comedic webseries called Pet Moms (Facebook.com/PetMomsComedy) and an improv team called Tupperware Party that performs all around the city!
“StarStruck was such an important part of growing up for me, both personally and as a performer. I had so much fun, but I also learned an incredible amount through every production I did with them. Jen and Peter instill work ethic and the joy of theater in every kid that walks through their doors, and we are all so lucky to be part of the StarStruck family!”
Zachary Hellings
Since graduating with his Bachelor’s of Science in Audio Production from Middle Tennessee State University. Zack accepted a job at a local mega church right out of college! He then went on to a local Audio Video and Lighting Integration company called Breeze Stage and Studio. During his time there, he ran AV Productions for the likes of: David Foster, The Florida Governor’s Debate (2022), Peyton Manning and Daniel Tosh. He even had a time back at his home of StarStruck helping create the Technical Theatre class as well as run Audio and Design Lighting for: Mean Girls, Fiddler on the Roof and Newsies to name a few. He is currently residing in Bakersfield, California and working as a Technical and Production Director for one of the largest churches in the area, The Bridge Bible Church. While his time is no longer on stage, Zack loves to see the joy that production can bring individuals from the background.
“StarStruck provided a safe and fun environment where I was able to learn and grow as a person. Jen and Peter provide a place of love and nourishment to where you are always cared for no matter what. They give you the work ethic you need to be better as a person in the outside world, and I could not thank them and this place anymore for that!”
Katie Rodgers
Katie Rodgers was a student at StarStruck for 10 years. Like many alumni and current students, Katie considered StarStruck to be the place she felt most at home, second only to her actual home. The feeling of finding an embracing artistic community and the need for them has followed her since leaving StarStruck to attend NYU Tisch School of the Arts for her undergraduate degree. While at Tisch, Katie starred in multiple musicals, learned from acting legends, and graduated with honors. She returned to StarStruck in 2019 to play Maria in The Sound of Music. Playing that iconic and lovely role was a dream, and to do it back at StarStruck completed the circle of Katie’s childhood journey.
In the spring of 2024, Katie attained her Master’s degree from Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). While there, Katie booked the lead in main stage productions, playing Carole King in Beautiful and Fastrada in Pippin.
She also performed in a handful of student and independent film projects. Attending SCAD allowed Katie to rediscover her love and need for joyful creative pursuits.
Soon after graduating from SCAD, Katie booked the role of Stella Kowalski in Streetcar Named Desire at The Bay Street Theater in the Hamptons. Today, she lives in Brooklyn, where we continues to develop her craft while auditioning for challenging roles.
Katie will remain forever grateful to StarStruck and the family she found there for igniting and encouraging her passion for storytelling and performing at a professional level. The lessons she learned have followed her throughout her journey and will continue to do as she evolves.
“Growing up, StarStruck created a safe place to explore myself through the lense of art, authenticity, hard work and community. I left StarStruck with an incredible trove of artistic wonders and an appetite for dramatic truth and purpose. That curiosity and insatiable appetite for truth was one of the best gifts StarStruck gave me, a gift that I carry with me in all aspects of my humanity.”
Victoria Bartolotta
Victoria has attained her BFA in Musical Theatre from CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY. She continues to study as a method actor while juggling many of the proverbial "hats" as she auditions, writes and lives in New York.
“StarStruck helped me learn and expand upon the discipline and trust that it takes to be an actor. It gave me a space where I was inspired to work on what I've always loved to do among a collective community. I am so grateful."
Jack Maloney
JACK MALONEY (he/him) is a Comedian, Content Creator, Actor, and Writer in NYC. After graduating Summa Cum Laude from Penn State’s BFA Musical Theatre program and the Schreyers Honors College, Jack started performing standup comedy in New York City. In Spring of 2023, Jack was a Semi-Finalist in YASSS FEST, the New York Queer Comedy Festival. In Summer of 2023, Jack was selected to participate in the Comedy Studies program at the Second City in Chicago where his idol Tina Fey got her start. In addition to his performance and comedy pursuits, Jack has also worked as a Production Assistant for FBI on CBS and the Real Housewives of New Jersey on Bravo. Jack’s dream is to create, head write, showrun, and star in his own sitcom. He is eternally grateful for the artistic training he received at StarStruck, where he fell in love with the craft of acting. Follow his journey @thejackmaloney on all platforms! #PurpleProud
“Thank you Jen, Peter, and the whole StarStruck family for your wonderful contributions to our South Florida community!”
Madison Bailey
After graduating from Oklahoma City University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting, Madison moved to Los Angeles to continue her career in Film and Television. She’s currently training in various classes in Acting, Improv & Comedy, auditioning, and enjoying everything LA has to offer!
“StarStruck gave me a place to be myself, to explore and to grow as a performer and a person. StarStruck prepared me for the professional world with the skills and work ethic I needed to succeed and challenged me to constantly create, inspire and love.”
Andrew Rodgers
While always intrigued by the performing arts, Andrew spent much of his formative years pursuing his love of sports. Baseball, football, and basketball dominated his free time from grade school into high school. But a major injury his freshman year brought Andrew to the StarStruck stage fulltime.
Patrons of StarStruck may recall Andrew’s performances as “Lord Farquaad” in Shrek, “Moritz Stiefel” in Spring Awakening, “Younger Brother” in Ragtime, and “The UPS Man” in Legally Blonde. It was that work and others that prompted Andrew to pursue a degree in acting from Indiana University where, among other performances, he performed in King Lear, 4.48 Psychosis, and Antigone.
Andrew graduated from IU in 2018 and, soon thereafter, returned to sports, where he transitioned to working in college football. From 2019-2024, Andrew worked inside the football programs at the University of Colorado, Michigan State and the University of Miami. Andrew was the Hurricanes’ Director of Player Personnel for two years before deciding to leave college football to pursue a career in acting. Today, Andrew lives in Brooklyn, where he is pursuing his return to the performing arts.
Andrew is appreciative of StarStruck for keeping its doors open for people to grow in the performing arts and pursue their passion on stage.
“StarStruck is a place that allows people to create a voice and platform that they can carry through life. It is a place that paves the way for young people to begin their artistic journeys in a safe environment. Places like StarStruck help communities come together to celebrate the work and creations of others, and this, to me, is an essential part to any community.”
Lucia Izzolo
Lucia Izzolo is a StarStruck alumni and a third-year law student at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. She is currently working as a law clerk for a civil rights law firm and hopes to be a litigator upon passing the bar in 2024. In her free time, she sings background vocals for a local singer/songwriter, writes music, and is hoping to form a band and play shows of her own in Nashville.
Maddie Shaff
Since graduating from StarStruck, Maddie Shaff immersed herself in environmental law. She seized incredible opportunities, including working at the Federal Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") Headquarters in D.C. Maddie also served as her Law School's Student Body President and member of the Board of Trustees. At the same time, she published an article titled "International Law and Climate Displacement: Why a Climate Justice Approach is Needed." Now, as an attorney in Midtown, Manhattan, she represents esteemed corporations and hospitals while volunteering her time to Pro Bono environmental causes. Maddie hopes to continue making a positive impact on the world!
"StarStruck has always meant growth and friendship to me. The bonds created here have turned into adult friendships that we maintain all the way in New York City, making home always feel closer than it actually is."
Michael Werder
Michael is excited to be on the opening team of Universal Studios newest Theme Park, Epic Universe as an Entertainment Coordinator!
After graduating college, Michael started to work in Theme Parks as a Stage Manager. He has been working in theme parks for the past 7 years such as Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Sea World San Antonio, Legoland Florida Resort and the world's first Peppa Pig Theme Park.
"StarStruck is a place where anyone can go and express their true self without being judged. You get taught life skills that you carry into your everyday life. StarStruck has shaped me in how I carry myself. I am able to stand a little bit taller, speak a little louder and have confidence in the way I talk, especially in front of large crowds!"
Savanna Webber
Savanna Webber is an operatic soprano currently working for the Jacobs School of Music, where she recently graduated with her masters and undergraduate studies in vocal performance. Her career has spanned across musical theater and operatic repertoire, and she has sung in the United States and Europe. She has performed in several mainstage solo works during her studies and abroad and has participated in several chorus projects ranging from operatic repertoire, musical theater classics, and contemporary works. When she isn't performing, she enjoys teaching private lessons to students of all ages, voice types, and backgrounds!
“My favorite memory of StarStruck was the team we all would make during production. Everyone would work together to put forth their best product on the stage, and it was so much fun encouraging all my friends and watching them grow. I am thankful that StarStruck taught me the importance of community in a production, and it is an important aspect of performing I have brought with me to every opportunity I've been given. Thank you StarStruck for teaching us all that whether as a soloist or chorus member, we all can work together to bring out the best in each other."
Katrina Colletti
Katrina Colletti is a graduate of MARYMOUNT MANHATTAN COLLEGE MT class of 2015. She’s had the privilege of performing at excellent regional theaters around the country as well as Off-Broadway, and had an incomparable experience traveling the world performing for Viking Cruise Line. She has performed the National Anthem at the Prudential Center for the largest wrestling event of the year; Final X 2023. Favorite credits include: OKLAHOMA (Ado Annie), FOOTLOOSE (Rusty), RENT (Maureen), THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME (Gypsy), KINKY BOOTS (Trish.)
“StarStruck was my place of play, creativity, friendship, discipline, support, authenticity and everything in between. It will forever be the place I can return to if I need to to find any of those treasures again. It will forever be home.”
Jessica Ferreira
Jessica has been a member of the StarStruck family since she performed in her first student production in 2003. She is currently a Kindergarten teacher with the Martin County School District and continues to appear on the StarStruck stage as an adult performer.
“StarStruck was the perfect training ground for my career as a teacher. The lessons I learned at StarStruck have given me the confidence I need to communicate effectively with colleagues, parents, and students alike. My stage presence helps to engage learners in my classroom each and every day.”
Morgan Rumble
Morgan is a Master Barber & Eufora Educator/Platform Artist @rumble.eq
“I was the first StarStruck student and life long friend to Peter Jones and Jennifer Yormak. They helped shape my life in the arts and have given me memories I will cherish forever. Though I no longer perform in theater, my life on the stage has continued on as platform artist.”
Angelica Melillo Knickerbocker
Angelica Melillo Knickerbocker may be one of the “original” StarStruck kids but now uses her voice in a very different way. Angelica is an Assistant Professor in Obstetrics & Gynecology at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. These days she mostly enjoys the arts as an audience member, but will perform again someday when the time is right. She is a Mom of two awesome toddlers who already have several Broadway soundtracks on their favorite playlists.
“I can’t tell my story without StarStruck. Despite completing college, graduate school, medical school and OBGYN residency, Jennifer Yormak remains one of my most integral lifelong mentors. As a StarStruck student, I learned courage, discipline and the importance of passion — all of which transcends theater. I whole heartedly believe the StarStruck community provides skills that yield success in all future ambitions, professions or responsibilities. I can’t wait for my own daughter to become a StarStruck kid next summer!”
Michael Stern
Michael is a Theatre Arts Management graduate from Ithaca College. Upon completing his degree, Michael moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where he began to work at the Academy of Country Music. During his time at the Academy, Michael and his team produced six variety/TV shows specials, including the 57th, 58th, and 59th ACM AWARDS on PRIME VIDEO and 15th, 16th, and 17th ACM HONORS on FOX, where his work was nominated for a Creative Arts, Emmy for best variety/ TV Show Special. After three years with the Academy, Michael recently decided to take a career shift. He is currently doing events and operations for THE NEAL AGENCY and STICKS MANAGEMENT. Some acts Michael is presently running operations for include but are not limited to Morgan Wallen, HARDY, ERNEST, Ella Langley, and Riley Green.
Without StarStruck, Michael would not have found his inner voice and the confidence to trust himself and take risks. He will forever be grateful to the entire StarStruck team.
Eliza Levy
Eliza recently graduated with a BFA in Musical Theatre from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. Now represented by Henderson Hogan, she is currently making her Broadway National Tour debut in Chicago, playing Liz and understudying the roles of Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart. Eliza has also performed in numerous regional theaters across the country, including her recent appearances at The Lexington Theatre Company in Fiddler on the Roof (Tzeitel) and Jersey Boys (Francine).
"Growing up at StarStruck was truly special. It was a place where creativity thrived, and friendships were built both on and off the stage. StarStruck was more than just exceptional training and shows—it gave us a community of friends and family that we’ll have for the rest of our lives. That family instilled values and created memories I’ll carry with me forever."