Teachers

MEET THE TEACHERS

Peggy Lewis is the founder and director of pierStudios and biz kids ny. As a Classically trained actor from the National Theater School of Canada she brings to her work vast experience with the Masters! Lecoq, Grotowski, Michael McCowan, Patty Crean and many others influence the broad spectrum of physical theater she incorporates in her work.
Peggy Lewis spent five years on the road as a recording artist and cabaret performer. She has worked as a director, including directing “Carmen in Love” performed in Mandarin. Her first love is teaching, which she has done for 30 years. Not to be outdone by acting, for 60 years.

David Kremenitzer is a triple threat entertainer who has worked in film, television and on stage since the age of ten. He continues to charm audiences with his unique brand of humor, his depth of character and his compelling, powerful performances. David recently performed in the world premiere Off-Broadway play reading, “My Mother, My Sister & Me,” opposite Tony Award winner Kelly Bishop. This past year, David showcased his comedic talents, starring as DILLON in Comedy Central’s hit series, “Important Things with Demetri Martin.” NBC recently featured David as BENNY on “Law & Order: Criminal Intent,” where his stunning portrayal of a young racist helped make this the most watched “Criminal Intent” episode (titled “World’s Fair”) in two years. As a voiceover artist, David can be heard narrating the audiobook of the New York Times best-seller, Scumble, by Ingrid Law. This is the highly anticipated new companion book to Savvy, which is a winner of The Newbery Award. VH1′s “Unplugged” campaign is voiced by David, as is a current national commercial for Rhapsody/iPhone. David’s earlier acting credits show his diversity and flexibility as a performer. He worked under the esteemed director, Barry Levinson, in the film, “Sleepers,” and has been featured on “Late Night With Conan O’Brien,” “Guiding Light,” “The Maury Show” and in MTV commercials. The Foo Fighters chose David to play THE MIME in their music video for “The One,” showcasing his acting and dancing abilities, and he can also be seen starring in a national commercial for Vicks Vapor Rub. His featured theatrical roles include turns at Hartford Stage, The Bushnell Theater, The Wadsworth Atheneum and The Shaw Project in New York City. David performs at several Broadway cabaret night clubs and venues in New York, including The Duplex and the celebrated Grand Ballroom at The Waldorf Astoria, under the direction of Peggy Lewis and Erv Raible. David graduated Summa Cum Laude from the prestigious Hartt School of Music. As an opera singer, he took part in a Grand Concert Tour of Italy. He is also an advanced tap dancer and spent many years training with members of the famed New York City Ballet. In addition, David is a CLOWN, having studied under mentors Evelyn Tuths and Dick Monday (New York Goofs).

Anne Widegren, born in Sweden is a singer, actor, teacher and model. She received a Master of Education in Music at The Royal College of Music in Stockholm, with focus in voice. Her essay “Does Your Singing Teacher Make a Difference,” enabled her to win a scholarship to study voice under Gillyanne Kayes, a leading voice researcher and vocal coach in London. Through her own musical experience and education, Anne stretched the breadth and depth of her Musical Theater Experience. Her exposure to new perspectives fostered a passion in the voice education process and in teaching her students to actualize their own talents and passion. She currently resides in New York City, where she is continuing teaching, performing and modelling with Elite Model Management.

Keith Nelson is a variety artist—physcial comedian, juggler, and sideshow entertainer—, circus skill instructor and co-founder of Bindlestiff Family Cirkus.
Keith learned to juggle and eat fire at Hampshire College in 1989. Since then he has added circus skills, sideshow feats, and clowning to his list of skills. Keith has been performing in New York since 1994. He has performed on every type of stage imaginable, from CBGB’s to Lincoln Center. In 1995 He and Stephanie Monseu created Bindlestiff Family Cirkus, a Brooklyn based troupe that is legendary for its unique blend of American popular entertainment.
As a teacher, Keith has worked with people of all ages and ability levels in learning basic juggling and circus skills. Experience includes private clients, theater workshops, cruise ship recreation programs, afterschool programs (NYCHA) and festival settings. In 2003, Keith helped develop Bindlestiff Family Cirkus’ Cavalcade of Youth, a youth mentoring program. Keith was an instructor for Cirque du Monde (Cirque du Soleil’s social circus program). Keith continues to teach the next generation the circus arts in New York school and after school programs.

Michael Joviala is a pianist, clarinetist, composer and
teacher in New York City. Training: BA in Jazz Performance, University of the Arts in Philadelphia, PA. Faculty: Lucy Moses School, Bloomingdale School of Music, Pier Studios, American Musical and Dramatic Academy, and HB Studios in New York City. Michael has earned Certification and License from the Julliard School of Music in New York and the Longy School of Music in Boston, in Dalcroze Eurhythmics, a method of studying music through movement and
improvisation. Currently president of the New York chapter of the Dalcroze Society of America, Michael teaches ongoing classes in New York City and is a frequent presenter of workshops for musicians, actors and singers. Recent projects include “One Musician/One Magician”, an original, interactive show designed to educate children about music through magic. He currently leads the Stravinsky-meets- Django trio, Primitivo, and (in his copious spare time)
haunts the halls of Teachers College as a graduate student. Visit http://joviala.com, and http://joviala.com/ jovialaworks for more information.

Valentin Peytchinov, world-renowned bass voice, born in Sofia, has sung extensively on the opera, concert and recital stages throughout the globe. After graduating from the Bulgarian State Conservatory with a Gold Medal, he joined the American Opera Center of The Juilliard School of Music by the recommendation of the eminent Italian composer Gian Carlo Menotti. In the U.S. in 1988, he has performed in numerous opera productions in North America; many were broadcasted on National Public Radio nationwide. He joined the roster as a principal artist at the Metropolitan Opera in 2000. Mr. Peytchinov has received critical acclaim for his performances in the roles of Attila, Basilio, Enrico VIII, Fiesco, The Flying Dutchman, Mephistopheles, Mustafa, Pagano, Philippe II, Procida, Ramfis, King Rene, Roger, Zaccaria and others. Recently, he performed as the bass soloist in a world premiere of the two-piano version of Shostakovich’s 13th Symphony, “Babi Yar”, in NYC in the commemoration of the 65th anniversary of the Babi Yar massacre, reviewed by the New York Times as an “illuminating performance…” This Televised event featured pianists Misha and CipaDichter and poet Yevgeny Yevtuchenko. In the Big Apple Mr.Peytchinov has appeared in Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall, Carnegie Hall, The Juilliard Opera Theater, and New York City Opera, amongst others. He has won numerous competitions and awards, including the American Opera Auditions, Luciano Pavarotti Competition, The Sullivan Foundation, and The Olga Forrai Foundation. Mr.Peytchinov is fonder and general director of Vocal ProductionsNYC, Corp and was a Chair of the Arts and Culture Festival of Sophia 2010 and part of the International Headquarters Council. He is Director of Development and Vocal adviser of the Olga Forrai Foundation. As an educator and supporter of vocal talents Maestro Peytchinov established “The Valentin Peytchinov Vocal Studio” in New York City and contributes with his vocal expertise to “pierStudios” in Manhattan. Mr. Peytchinov is also the Founder of Whisper 1, LLC Investment Strategies.

Adolpho Blaire is a director, choreographer and perfomer here in NYC. Most notoriously he is the director and choreographer of the immensely popular Miss Fag Hag Pageant which in recent years has starred the Real Housewives of New York’s Bethenny Frankel, Will and Grace’s Leslie Jordan, Hedwig and the Angry Inch’s John Cameron Mitchell, television talk show host Caroline Rhea and a slew of film, television and Broadway stars! Also in New York, he’s directed and/or choreographed at the Here Arts Center, P.S. 122, Ars Nova, People’s Improv Theatre and the Left Out Festival. He also just finished directing and choreographing All Shook Up at the Riverside Center in Virginia. Regionally he has choreographed Show Boat (with Robert Cuccioli), Funny Girl (with Debbie Gravitte and Burke Moses), High School Musical and Footloose both at the Mac-Hadyn, Welcome to the Sixties at the Villa Roma Resort in the Catskills as well as corporate industrials, concerts, cruise ship and a national webmercial for Blackberry. He also has served as Assistant Director and/or Choreographer at the North Shore Music Theatre, Westchester Broadway, and the York Theatre. Adolpho got his professional start on the “other side of things” working on the creative team to write, produce and direct/choreograph shows for all the Six Flags Theme Parks internationally. As a performer, Adolpho holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Shenandoah Conservatory and has been seen on tour, regionally, as well as in film, comedy clubs, cruise ships and, of course, on YouTube! Check out www.justdolphy.com for all things Adolpho!

Kelsey Sheppard is an actor-dancer-singer born and raised in New York City. Her tap dance training began at the age of 4 with Bonnie MaCleod in the children’s program at Woodpeckers Tap Dance Center. She continued her study of tap with Robin Tribble, followed by many years with Susan Hebach in her program Tap Dance for Young People. She has also trained at the American Tap Dance Center, Broadway Dance Center, and Steps. At her alma mater, Indiana University, Kelsey served as the artistic director of Footnotes Tap Dance Group. She has performed with the PeriChild Ensemble, the Tap City Youth Ensemble, and is a new company member of the Undertoe Dance Project.

	Peggy Lewis is the founder and director of pierStudios and biz kids ny. As a Classically trained actor from the National Theater School of Canada she brings to her work vast experience with the Masters! Lecoq, Grotowski, Michael McCowan, Patty Crean and many others influence the broad spectrum of physical theater she incorporates in her work. Peggy Lewis spent five years on the road as a recording artist and cabaret performer. She has worked as a director, including directing “Carmen in Love” performed in Mandarin. Her first love is teaching, which she has done for 30 years. Not to be outdone by acting, for 60 years.
	David Kremenitzer is a triple threat entertainer who has worked in film, television and on stage since the age of ten. He continues to charm audiences with his unique brand of humor, his depth of character and his compelling, powerful performances. David recently performed in the world premiere Off-Broadway play reading, “My Mother, My Sister & Me,” opposite Tony Award winner Kelly Bishop. This past year, David showcased his comedic talents, starring as DILLON in Comedy Central’s hit series, “Important Things with Demetri Martin.” NBC recently featured David as BENNY on “Law & Order: Criminal Intent,” where his stunning portrayal of a young racist helped make this the most watched “Criminal Intent” episode (titled “World’s Fair”) in two years. As a voiceover artist, David can be heard narrating the audiobook of the New York Times best-seller, Scumble, by Ingrid Law. This is the highly anticipated new companion book to Savvy, which is a winner of The Newbery Award. VH1′s “Unplugged” campaign is voiced by David, as is a current national commercial for Rhapsody/iPhone. David’s earlier acting credits show his diversity and flexibility as a performer. He worked under the esteemed director, Barry Levinson, in the film, “Sleepers,” and has been featured on “Late Night With Conan O’Brien,” “Guiding Light,” “The Maury Show” and in MTV commercials. The Foo Fighters chose David to play THE MIME in their music video for “The One,” showcasing his acting and dancing abilities, and he can also be seen starring in a national commercial for Vicks Vapor Rub. His featured theatrical roles include turns at Hartford Stage, The Bushnell Theater, The Wadsworth Atheneum and The Shaw Project in New York City. David performs at several Broadway cabaret night clubs and venues in New York, including The Duplex and the celebrated Grand Ballroom at The Waldorf Astoria, under the direction of Peggy Lewis and Erv Raible. David graduated Summa Cum Laude from the prestigious Hartt School of Music. As an opera singer, he took part in a Grand Concert Tour of Italy. He is also an advanced tap dancer and spent many years training with members of the famed New York City Ballet. In addition, David is a CLOWN, having studied under mentors Evelyn Tuths and Dick Monday (New York Goofs).
	Anne Widegren, born in Sweden is a singer, actor, teacher and model. She received a Master of Education in Music at The Royal College of Music in Stockholm, with focus in voice. Her essay “Does Your Singing Teacher Make a Difference,” enabled her to win a scholarship to study voice under Gillyanne Kayes, a leading voice researcher and vocal coach in London. Through her own musical experience and education, Anne stretched the breadth and depth of her Musical Theater Experience. Her exposure to new perspectives fostered a passion in the voice education process and in teaching her students to actualize their own talents and passion. She currently resides in New York City, where she is continuing teaching, performing and modelling with Elite Model Management.
	Keith Nelson is a variety artist—physcial comedian, juggler, and sideshow entertainer—, circus skill instructor and co-founder of Bindlestiff Family Cirkus. Keith learned to juggle and eat fire at Hampshire College in 1989. Since then he has added circus skills, sideshow feats, and clowning to his list of skills. Keith has been performing in New York since 1994. He has performed on every type of stage imaginable, from CBGB’s to Lincoln Center. In 1995 He and Stephanie Monseu created Bindlestiff Family Cirkus, a Brooklyn based troupe that is legendary for its unique blend of American popular entertainment. As a teacher, Keith has worked with people of all ages and ability levels in learning basic juggling and circus skills. Experience includes private clients, theater workshops, cruise ship recreation programs, afterschool programs (NYCHA) and festival settings. In 2003, Keith helped develop Bindlestiff Family Cirkus’ Cavalcade of Youth, a youth mentoring program. Keith was an instructor for Cirque du Monde (Cirque du Soleil’s social circus program). Keith continues to teach the next generation the circus arts in New York school and after school programs.
	Michael Joviala is a pianist, clarinetist, composer and teacher in New York City. Training: BA in Jazz Performance, University of the Arts in Philadelphia, PA. Faculty: Lucy Moses School, Bloomingdale School of Music, Pier Studios, American Musical and Dramatic Academy, and HB Studios in New York City. Michael has earned Certification and License from the Julliard School of Music in New York and the Longy School of Music in Boston, in Dalcroze Eurhythmics, a method of studying music through movement and improvisation. Currently president of the New York chapter of the Dalcroze Society of America, Michael teaches ongoing classes in New York City and is a frequent presenter of workshops for musicians, actors and singers. Recent projects include “One Musician/One Magician”, an original, interactive show designed to educate children about music through magic. He currently leads the Stravinsky-meets- Django trio, Primitivo, and (in his copious spare time) haunts the halls of Teachers College as a graduate student. Visit http://joviala.com, and http://joviala.com/ jovialaworks for more information.
	Valentin Peytchinov, world-renowned bass voice, born in Sofia, has sung extensively on the opera, concert and recital stages throughout the globe. After graduating from the Bulgarian State Conservatory with a Gold Medal, he joined the American Opera Center of The Juilliard School of Music by the recommendation of the eminent Italian composer Gian Carlo Menotti. In the U.S. in 1988, he has performed in numerous opera productions in North America; many were broadcasted on National Public Radio nationwide. He joined the roster as a principal artist at the Metropolitan Opera in 2000. Mr. Peytchinov has received critical acclaim for his performances in the roles of Attila, Basilio, Enrico VIII, Fiesco, The Flying Dutchman, Mephistopheles, Mustafa, Pagano, Philippe II, Procida, Ramfis, King Rene, Roger, Zaccaria and others. Recently, he performed as the bass soloist in a world premiere of the two-piano version of Shostakovich’s 13th Symphony, “Babi Yar”, in NYC in the commemoration of the 65th anniversary of the Babi Yar massacre, reviewed by the New York Times as an “illuminating performance…” This Televised event featured pianists Misha and CipaDichter and poet Yevgeny Yevtuchenko. In the Big Apple Mr.Peytchinov has appeared in Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall, Carnegie Hall, The Juilliard Opera Theater, and New York City Opera, amongst others. He has won numerous competitions and awards, including the American Opera Auditions, Luciano Pavarotti Competition, The Sullivan Foundation, and The Olga Forrai Foundation. Mr.Peytchinov is fonder and general director of Vocal ProductionsNYC, Corp and was a Chair of the Arts and Culture Festival of Sophia 2010 and part of the International Headquarters Council. He is Director of Development and Vocal adviser of the Olga Forrai Foundation. As an educator and supporter of vocal talents Maestro Peytchinov established “The Valentin Peytchinov Vocal Studio” in New York City and contributes with his vocal expertise to “pierStudios” in Manhattan. Mr. Peytchinov is also the Founder of Whisper 1, LLC Investment Strategies.
	Adolpho Blaire is a director, choreographer and perfomer here in NYC. Most notoriously he is the director and choreographer of the immensely popular Miss Fag Hag Pageant which in recent years has starred the Real Housewives of New York’s Bethenny Frankel, Will and Grace’s Leslie Jordan, Hedwig and the Angry Inch’s John Cameron Mitchell, television talk show host Caroline Rhea and a slew of film, television and Broadway stars! Also in New York, he’s directed and/or choreographed at the Here Arts Center, P.S. 122, Ars Nova, People’s Improv Theatre and the Left Out Festival. He also just finished directing and choreographing All Shook Up at the Riverside Center in Virginia. Regionally he has choreographed Show Boat (with Robert Cuccioli), Funny Girl (with Debbie Gravitte and Burke Moses), High School Musical and Footloose both at the Mac-Hadyn, Welcome to the Sixties at the Villa Roma Resort in the Catskills as well as corporate industrials, concerts, cruise ship and a national webmercial for Blackberry. He also has served as Assistant Director and/or Choreographer at the North Shore Music Theatre, Westchester Broadway, and the York Theatre. Adolpho got his professional start on the “other side of things” working on the creative team to write, produce and direct/choreograph shows for all the Six Flags Theme Parks internationally. As a performer, Adolpho holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Shenandoah Conservatory and has been seen on tour, regionally, as well as in film, comedy clubs, cruise ships and, of course, on YouTube! Check out www.justdolphy.com for all things Adolpho!
	Kelsey Sheppard is an actor-dancer-singer born and raised in New York City. Her tap dance training began at the age of 4 with Bonnie MaCleod in the children’s program at Woodpeckers Tap Dance Center. She continued her study of tap with Robin Tribble, followed by many years with Susan Hebach in her program Tap Dance for Young People. She has also trained at the American Tap Dance Center, Broadway Dance Center, and Steps. At her alma mater, Indiana University, Kelsey served as the artistic director of Footnotes Tap Dance Group. She has performed with the PeriChild Ensemble, the Tap City Youth Ensemble, and is a new company member of the Undertoe Dance Project.