BOARD OF DIRECTORS

.

Emily Calasopa

  • Growing up homeschooled and very shy, I was introduced to theater at age 14 in hopes of helping me come out of my shell—and it worked beyond anyone’s expectations. Once I discovered the magic of theater, it became a lifelong passion. Over the years, I have performed in countless productions and worked behind the scenes as a director, musical director, choreographer, stage manager, and crew member. I also have a particular love for hair and makeup design, which I’ve had the privilege to do for both community and professional theater and film projects.

    I studied Developmental Psychology in school, which, while not my ultimate calling, has deeply informed how I work with people today. As the eldest of ten children—six of whom were adopted—I learned leadership early on in life, often in challenging and meaningful ways. Through these experiences, I came to understand that my true role is not as a traditional “teacher” with tests and requirements, but as a facilitator: someone who provides tools, support, and opportunities while encouraging growth without bias. My goal is always to empower others to succeed on their own terms.

    In addition to my work in the arts, I have served on multiple boards, written mission and vision statements, and collaborated with colleagues who have inspired and challenged me to grow. It is my heartfelt commitment to lead this organization in a way that is uplifting, encouraging, supportive, challenging, and always grounded in quality and integrity. Above all, I aim to honor the God I serve, believing fully that with Him, all things are possible. All the GLORY to Him!

Jeffrey Palermo

Marissa Falsone

  • Marissa Falsone is a multi-award winning actor, producer, and writer based out of Austin whose work can be seen on Amazon, Hulu, and Lifetime. Her wide range of experiences on and off camera and stage have helped her develop a comprehensive knowledge of what it takes to be a successful in the film and theater industry. She is a fearless adventurer at heart and when she’s not working you can find her indulging her wanderlust, learning a new a new skill, or growing her small business.

Juan Pratts

  • Juan is a seasoned Financial Management Officer with over 27 years of experience. Currently, he works at Army Futures Command (AFC) in Round Rock, TX, where he serves as a Program Analyst, supporting the Future Years Defense Program (FYDP) within the Program Analysis & Evaluation Division of the Resource Management Directorate.

    Previously, Juan held the role of Interagency Fellow at the US Department of Labor in Washington, DC, where he supported national initiatives for Veterans and transitioning Service Members.

    Juan loves to travel and has had the opportunity to live in places like Germany and Korea. He has also worked in various locations, including Italy, Kosovo, Afghanistan, Iraq, El Salvador, Poland, and Puerto Rico. Additionally, Juan feels privileged to have visited over 35 different countries. He enjoys practicing martial arts and reading books on various topics.

    Juan is married to Sulaiska Carrero of Anasco, Puerto Rico. They have two children: Daniela Isabel (15) and Liam Vincent (11).

Brenda Simms

  • As a recent retiree, I am honored to join the board of Shine On Performing Arts.

    A native of Pittsburgh, PA, my passion for musical theatre was ignited early on by the Broadway show tunes my mother played on the piano, the cast recording LPs we listened to, and the numerous professional local productions we regularly attended.

    I went on to earn degrees in Music Education, and spent over 15 years teaching music in public schools and at the university level before transitioning to arts management positions. Most recently, as Education Program Manager at Texas Performing Arts at UT Austin, I enjoyed creating teaching materials and working with area teachers to connect their students with touring artists, live performances, and backstage career tours.

    Emily's work equipping SOPA participants with skills in singing, dancing, acting, and technical theatre is inspiring. It's also impressive to see the additional vital social skills the students acquire in the process. They build confidence,and the ability to focus, communicate, lead, and collaborate in a way that is truly unmatched in any other setting.