WHO IS VANESSA?

Bronx Bred | New Orleans Educated | Long Island Living

I am an educator, with 20+ years of experience as a teacher turned administrator turned regional program director. I spent my early teaching years in my local public school, then soon found an interest volunteering as the Community Education Council 9 special education representative. I asked tough questions of charter school representatives interested in opening schools in my South Bronx area, ensuring that all students be afforded exceptional educational opportunities. Some were approved, many were rejected. This was in the '90s, when the term "charter school" was new to many (including myself). When not meeting in the principal’s office, I found my way on stage with many young people by my side, as the founder and executive director of TALKING DRUM THEATRE ARTS. My years in the classroom exposed me to the many insecurities and indifferent attitudes plagued by our youth. I started a "conflict resolution thru the arts" program to empower young people to use their minds over matter, as well as use their voice as a vehicle for self-expression and change. This work reignited my personal passion for the stage, bringing me back to my first love — performance art. Whether directing a play or acting myself, I get to experience true freedom as a creative.

Oh...and when I'm not luxuriating with my family, I style hair. (Did I not say I was a creative?)

I trust in myself…I believe in others…and I do all I can to make this world a better place to be.

-vre-

CLIENTS :

National Association for Public Charter Schools
New Jersey Charter School Association    United Nations International School
Mary McDowell Friends School Jewish Child Care Association
I Have a Dream Foundation + more

TESTIMONIES:

The children gained valuable experience in solving problems, a tool that many adults lack. They wrote cultural pieces which enhanced their self-esteem and gave identity to who they are a vital part of growing up.” -Phyllis Longsworth, Executive Director | MARC Academy and Family Center

VANESSA has done a lot of work not only developing the artistic self of our young ones, but has developed personally strengthening relationships with each student.  She has seamlessly divided her time as artistic director and mentor. -RAY LLANOS, FORMER PROGRAM DIRECTOR | MELROSE II “I HAVE A DREAM” PROGRAM 

Ms. EVANS has led theatre arts classes at two of our youth program sites—Melrose I “I Have A Dream” and Melrose II “I Have A Dream”.  Within each program, she has seamlessly led weekly theatre workshops that address the theme of identity/self-esteem, peer pressure, and peer relationships.  In addition, she has facilitated youth workshops at our annual “Dreamer” Conference.  -THEIRRY CAZEAU, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR | “I HAVE A DREAM” FOUNDATION NY METRO AREA

I had the pleasure of working alongside Vanessa for 9 years and learned so much from her while watching her lead and educate her team.  She has a natural ability to bring the best out of people. I witnessed her coach new and seasoned therapists through various challenges ranging from therapy services to classroom management.  Vanessa also lead many special education workshops which contained Researched/ educational materials and incorporated small group exercises. She also served as a liaison between parents, school staff, and district members which she did with great poise, positivity and professionalism beyond all else.  I have frequently found myself thinking “How would Vanessa handle this” when in a challenging situation at work, and even personal. Vanessa has a natural ability to draw people in and she continues to be a great resource for me. -aracelis alvarez, business development manager | signature learning resources

Vanessa was a senior actor, conductor and facilitator in Big Apple Playback Theatre, a multicultural social action theatre troupe for many years. Her ability for deep listening and artistic EXPRESSIVENESS on stage is always inspirational. She has remained an important colleague in theatre education and dialogue work and brings utmost professionalism and dedication to all of her endeavors. -hannah fox, founder | big apple playback theatre | director new york school of playback theatre | director of hannah k fox consulting