Students
Student Spotlight
Thomas Leon
Thomas is a sophomore at Mira Costa High School and a very involved member in Anchorless’s Saturday Drama Classes and productions. He has performed previously with Anchorless in 2023's Peter Pan and 2022's Newsies, and is also a committed participant at our weekly Drama Classes.. Thanks to his time at Anchorless, Thomas has become confident in his acting skills and stage presence. His advice to new Anchorless students and volunteers is to have fun and let loose. As a part of our tight-knit Anchorless community, Thomas loves the sense of inclusion and purpose that our rehearsals and classes provide him.
Student Spotlights
September 2024
Siena Mehta
Siena is currently enrolled in the Redondo Union Transition Program. She has many interests outside of Anchorless including watching movies, solving puzzles, making arts and crafts, and participating in a book club, She stays active by doing karate, swimming, and dancing.
Siena has participated in seven Anchorless productions playing major roles including Willy Wonka, Captain Hook, Sharpay Evans, and Pinocchio. She enjoys acting in dramatic and extravagant roles because they allow her to explore different personas. Siena went above and beyond by choreographing and teaching the dance for Anchorless's Annual Fundraiser. She has left her mark on Anchorless with her high energy and impressive memorization skills. Over the years, Anchorless has been a space for her to be a part of a community and be herself.
August 2024
Erin Pawlowski
Erin is a long time member of our Anchorless family. She is very involved in our community as an ambassador for the Friendship Foundation, ICAN attendee, and volunteer for Meals on Wheels. Erin enjoys outdoor recreation and physical exercise including the Special Olympics, volleyball, track, basketball, and karate.
She has participated in nine Anchorless productions since our 2018 production of Beauty and the Beast, her favorite of her performances. She has thrived at Anchorless due to her friendliness, flexible acting, and openness to trying new performing styles. Throughout Erin’s time with Anchorless, she has developed her confidence and public speaking skills, qualities that have transferred to her life both on and off stage.
July 2024
Sofia Kalem
Sofia is a 20 year old student in Palos Verdes Unified School District’s transition program. Outside Anchorless, Sofia has been riding horses since she was 5 years old, participates in dances at the Palos Verdes Conservancy- Ready, Willing, Able group, and looks forward to monthly EKO dances. Sofia is grateful to have the opportunity to participate in such meaningful activities. They have provided a place for her to develop her speech, motor skills, and overall confidence.
Sofia has been a part of nine Anchorless productions, her first show being our 2018 performance of Beauty and the Beast. She loves having the opportunity to sing, dance, and perform for a room of guests. A highlight of Sofia’s time at Anchorless has been playing Night at the Museum during the Saturday classes. She loves her community unconditionally and lights up the room with her positivity, always helping those around her. She advises any new students to enjoy every moment at Anchorless, no matter what role you are privileged to play. She is grateful for Anchorless, as it has given her opportunities to learn, meet new friends, and spend time with existing friends. It has provided a safe place full of patience and understanding where students are happy and free to be expressive.
June 2024
Kalea Darrow
Kalea is 22 years old and has been a part of Anchorless since 2017. Outside of Anchorless, Kalea enjoys going to Disneyland and Universal Studios, playing soccer, attending concerts and plays, and spending time with her dog, Pumpkin, and cat, Ichigo.Kalea’s first production was The Lion King, where she portrayed the role of Timon. Her favorite production was Willy Wonka Jr. where she played Veruca Salt because she was able to entertain the audience with her spunky character.
At Anchorless, Kalea enjoys spending time with her buddies and making new friendships. Kalea stands out for both her accountability and integrity as a student as well as her great creativity and ability to brighten the mood with her humor. She advises new students to relax, enjoy, and focus on having fun at Anchorless. Kalea appreciates Anchorless because she has been able to develop important friendships and shine as a performer on stage.
May 2024
Josie Gardener
Josie is 23 years old and is part of the ICAN Adult Program. In her spare time, Josie enjoys playing basketball, going to Knotts Berry Farm, feeding ducks, playing word games, and traveling.
Josie has been a part of the Anchorless family since our 2017 production of Lion King. Her favorite show was Seussical because she loved the fun and lively cast. She always looks forward to seeing her friends at rehearsals and participating in the shows together. Josie is an incredibly smart and inquisitive student, and she always lights up the room with her bright smile. Her advice to any new students and volunteers is to enjoy the process because this program is meant for everyone to have fun and learn how to work together to produce a fantastic show. She appreciates Anchorless for giving her the opportunity to learn more about theater and to build new relationships.
April 2024
Joe Newman
Joe is 21 years old and is a part of Mira Costa’s CHOICE program. Outside of Anchorless, Joe plays soccer, basketball, and does karate. He is also a self appointed LA Kings Superfan!
Joe has participated in seven Anchorless productions, and has contributed to our Anchorless Family with his great positivity and motivation. His favorite show was High School Musical, where he starred as Troy Bolton and was able to showcase his dancing; however, his first show, Beauty and the Beast holds a special place in his heart. Joe stands out as an extremely hard worker and serves as an example for students around him. He encourages everyone to try Anchorless, as it is extremely fun and our buddy volunteers are amazing. Joe thanks Anchorless for helping him find his passion in theater as an actor.
March 2024
Payton is 24 years old and has been a student at Anchorless for the past 6 years. Outside of Anchorless she loves participating in Friendship Foundation activities such as horseback riding, Zumba, and Challenger Sports.
Payton is a long-time member of our Anchorless Family and has participated in nine of our productions. At Anchorless, she particularly enjoys learning dances and making strong bonds with her buddies and friends. Her favorite memory is playing Pumba in The Lion King, where she got to be buddies with Ben Henschel. Payton’s great dedication and enthusiasm lights up every production, making her a stellar student. Payton is always excited to attend rehearsals on Mondays and Wednesdays, and she is extremely thankful for everyone at Anchorless for providing her with such a positive experience.
Payton Pascover
February 2024
Ava is 24 years old and enjoys participating in Friendship Foundation classes including yoga, art, zumba, meditation, book club, music, and sign language. As a member of two running clubs, she runs 30 miles per week. She stays busy with a job as a teachers’ assistant, working at Trader Joe’s, and running an online Etsy business, @pAWtterybyAva. She is a self-proclaimed “foodie” and enjoys cooking and eating at good restaurants in her free time.
Although she has never been in a stage performance, Ava has attended many Anchorless shows, including her favorite, our recent production of Peter Pan. She appreciates Anchorless, as she has been able to make strong friendships, learn how to dance, create skits, and grow her love for music. She has been participating in our Saturday Drama classes for four years, always contributing with her positive, encouraging, and vibrant personality.
Ava Wiemer
January 2024
Naomi is a student at El Camino College. She loves reading, hiking, and msking art projects. In her free time, she plays piano and does Taekwondo.
Naomi’s first Anchorless Production was Frozen, where she played Bulda. She will be playing Binky in our upcoming production, Peter Pan. Naomi also was part of the set team for Newsies and participates in our Saturday Drama Classes and was. She loves showcasing her creative abilities as a member of the set team and as a performer on stage. Naomi appreciates Anchorless, as it has helped her communicate better and form strong connections with her peers. She is a joy to be around and stands out for her great work ethic and kindness.
Naomi Storr
December 2023
Dave is a sophomore at Mira Costa High School, where he is a member of the Drama Department. He spends time playing basketball, doing parkour, playing the saxophone, traveling, and DJ-ing. To wind down, Dave enjoys listening to music, watching movies, and playing video games. Dave participates in our Saturday Drama Classes and will be performing in our January production, Peter Pan. Through Anchorless, he has become more social and created new friendships. Dave’s favorite part of rehearsal is playing games and spending time with his cast mates. Dave stands out with his positive and eager attitude, setting a great example at rehearsal for his peers.
David Brody
October 2023
D’Nee spends her free time listening to music, dancing, and watching movies.
Her first Anchorless production was Newsies, where she portrayed the role of Newspaper Girl. It was her first time participating in theater, and she truly enjoyed helping the production come to life. Anchorless has allowed her to step out of her comfort zone and become more comfortable trying new things. At Anchorless, she particularly enjoys the dancing aspect of rehearsals and shows. D’Nee stands out as an extremely compassionate student who sets a great example by always coming prepared and ready to learn.
D’Nee Forte
August 2023
Mekhi is a student at Mychal’s Learning Place. In his free time, Mekhi enjoys playing basketball, watching movies, scripting, and collaborating with others. A lover of music, you can always find Mekhi rocking out to his favorite tunes!
Mekhi performed in Anchorless Production’s Moana as the role of Fisher 2: Forrest. Throughout his experience at Anchorless, Mekhi has enjoyed singing and acting with his peers. He always comes to rehearsals prepared and ready to work hard. Mekhi appreciates Anchorless for giving him the opportunity to better interact with others.
Mekhi Keys
May 2023
Jake is a student at West High. Jake loves watching horror movies and WWE Wrestling and hanging out with his friends. Jake also plays video games, soccer, baseball, and bocce ball. This month, Jake is excited to perform as Te Fiti and Te Ka in his first Anchorless Production, Moana.
Through Anchorless, Jake has been able to work on his speech, gross motor skills, and confidence. He is proud of himself for stepping out of his comfort zone and loves singing and dancing with his peers. Jake is a great student who always makes sure to pay attention, participate, and cheer his friends on.
Jake Bok
April 2023
Cassandra Datts
Cassandra is a student at Lawndale High School. She is friendly and loves spending time with her family and making new friends. In her free time, Cassandra enjoys cooking and doing arts and crafts.
Moana will be her first Anchorless production and she is extremely excited to be portraying the role of Pua. Through Anchorless, Cassandra has gotten more comfortable performing in front of an audience. Her favorite part of rehearsals are strengthening her craft as well as getting to see her friends and make new ones.
March 2023
Brandon Nicols
Brandon joined Anchorless last year as Northbrook in Anchorless’s Mary Poppins, and is currently playing the role of Te Fiti in the spring show, Moana, which has been his favorite musical so far. He brightens rehearsals with his enthusiasm and humor, and he is always willing to help out his fellow castmates. Brandon is always eager to participate in rehearsals, and his favorite parts are dancing and playing games.
February 2023
Ezra Cornelison
Ezra is a student at Manhattan Beach Middle School. He is very active and participates in many sports, including basketball, baseball, soccer and swim. Outside of being an athlete, he enjoys playing the drums, singing, dancing, spending time with his dog and doing parkour. He loves going on trips to Disneyland and listening to Disney music at home.
Ezra performed as Cat 2 in Seussical and as Les in Newsies last month. At rehearsal, he builds friendships with other cast members and is always excited to play “Night at the Museum” during warm-ups. Ezra always makes sure to bring a positive attitude and enthusiasm to every rehearsal. He finds much joy in performing and is very proud of how far he has come.
January 2023
Jack Simmons
Jack is a sophomore at Redondo Union High School. He is very athletic, and enjoys lifting weights and pushing himself while he trains in the gym. To wind down, Jack plays games on his computer and cooks spicy food. He loves bringing joy to his friends, family, and fellow cast members.
Jack performed in Newsies, his first play, this month. His confidence has boosted since joining Anchorless, and he has conquered his stage fright. On stage, he always makes sure to remain calm and keep the show going, even when there is an error. His favorite activity at rehearsal is socializing and dancing with the cast.
December 2022
Ivan Melendez
Ivan spends his time practicing karate and attends movie nights and birthday bashes at the Friendship Foundation. He enjoys shopping and going out to eat in his free time. One of his favorite activities is spending time with family and friends.
Ivan attends Saturday drama classes every week and has not yet performed in an Anchorless production, but looks forward to participating in more events. Since joining Anchorless, he has made new friendships and become more confident.
November 2022
Magnus Cull
Magnus is a junior at Redondo Union High School. He enjoys participating in Redondo’s drama and cooking clubs. After school, Magnus is an active member in his Boy Scout troop and plays soccer on a club team. In his free time, he attends Club 21 and watches movies.
Magnus has performed in one Anchorless production, Willy Wonka, playing the part of James. He also frequently attends Anchorless’s Saturday drama classes. He loves making people laugh and having fun at rehearsals and classes. His favorite Anchorless activity is playing acting games with his peers.
September 2022
Garrett Hunt
Garrett enjoys going to Disneyland, the aquarium, the movies, and the zoo. He spends his free time with his friends and family and likes FaceTiming and movie nights. He loves making people laugh and spending time with others.
Garrett’s favorite Anchorless show was Charlie and the Chocolate Factory because he received a lot of laughter from the audience. He has also performed in several other shows including Beauty and the Beast, Frozen, and Seussical. He has formed many friendships through Anchorless, and loves to have his friends and family attend the shows.
July 2022
Jillian Frankel
Jillian is a student at Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District’s Transition To Independence program. She spends her free time with her friends and enjoys filming videos for her YouTube channel. Jillian likes to go bowling, swimming, and camping, and is learning sign language.
Jillian will be playing the role of Baby Bear in her first Anchorless production, Shrek Revue, this summer. She has also been a regular participant in Anchorless Saturday Drama Classes. She has made many new friends through Anchorless, and her confidence has increased since joining the Anchorless family. Jillian works hard as a student and is very motivated.
June 2022
Dante Aubry
Dante is a student at Larch Village. Outside of Anchorless, he is very active at Mychal’s Learning Place and participates in Special Olympics. Dante also loves music and is skilled at the piano and the keyboard.
Dante has been a part of Anchorless since the beginning with his first show being Aladdin. Since then, he has been in The Lion King, High School Musical and Mary Poppins. Dante enjoys memorizing lines every rehearsal, and he loves being able to play characters from his favorite movies.
May 2022
Alemnesh Tobin
Alemnesh is a student at Mira Costa High School. She plays soccer and runs track with Special Olympics, and she attends many Friendship Foundation events. Alemnesh loves art, working out, and painting.
Alemnesh's first production with Anchorless was Matilda, where she played Nigel. She is also currently playing a chairman in this spring's musical, Mary Poppins. Her favorite activity in rehearsal is singing. She is a very supportive cast member, always trying to find a way to help out her fellow actors.
April 2022
Anthony Odom
Anthony is a member of Mychal's Learning Place’s Path to Independence program. In his free time, he enjoys listening to music and playing video games. Anthony also loves to bake with his mom.
Anthony has been a part of many Anchorless shows. His first show was The Jungle Book where he played King Louie. Since then, Anthony has played ensemble roles in High School Musical and Matilda, and he is playing the role of George in this spring’s Mary Poppins. Anthony loves acting and is great at focusing and following directions in rehearsal.
March 2022
Elsie Gonzales
Elsie is a student at Morningside High School. Outside of Anchorless, she participates in Straight Up Abilities dance classes and TYA’s social skills group. In her free time, she loves to read and listen to music.
Elsie’s first production with Anchorless was Matilda where she played the role of Matilda. Since, she played Kelsey in High School Musical 2 and is currently playing Mary Poppins in this spring’s production of Mary Poppins. Her favorite part of rehearsals is playing games with her cast members. During rehearsals, she always works hard and participates. Anchorless has made Elsie less shy, allowing her to interact more with other people.
February 2022
Noah Rickard
Noah is a hard-working 16-year-old student at Torrance High School. Outside of Anchorless, he enjoys music, long walks, visiting the beach, riding his electric bike, reading and discussing American history and politics with his grandpa, and watching movies.
Noah has been an actor with Anchorless for many productions, his first being Willy Wonka where he played Augustus Gloop. Since, he has played Kristoff in Frozen, Chad in High School Musical 2, and, most recently, Horton in Seussical. His favorite role was Augustus Gloop, as he loves making the audience laugh. Noah enjoys coming to weekly rehearsals and improving his acting and singing skills.
January 2022
Naomi Storr
Naomi is a very kind 19-year-old student at Frostig School West. Outside of Anchorless, Naomi plays the piano and practices Tae Kwon Do, and enjoys reading and art.
Naomi has been with Anchorless since Frozen, where she played the part of Bulda. She is now part of our set design crew in our upcoming musical, Seussical. Naomi enjoys dancing with other students, and has improved her teamwork skills through Anchorless.
December 2021
Bianca Morales
Bianca is a student at the Social Vocational Services Center. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and participating in programs with the Friendship Foundation. Bianca also enjoys dancing and listening to music.
Bianca's first show with Anchorless was Frozen, and she is performing in our fall musical, Seussical, where she will be playing the role of Young Kangaroo. Her favorite part of being in shows is learning fun dances and wearing fun costumes. Bianca is always on time and ready to learn. Bianca is a wonderful and energetic
November 2021
Josie Gardner
Josie is a student of the Hamilton Transition Program. She enjoys playing basketball, solving puzzles, playing video games, researching, and visiting Knott’s Berry Farm. Josie also loves to sing, dance, hike, dress up, feed ducks, and collect My Little Pony merchandise.
Josie has been in multiple productions with Anchorless. Her past roles include Scar in The Lion King, Gaston in Beauty and the Beast, Mrs. Gloop in Willy Wonka, and the Duke of Weselton in Frozen. Though she has enjoyed all of her roles, she specifically enjoyed playing Scar and Gaston, as villain roles are her favorite. Anchorless has given Josie something to look forward to every week and has given her the chance to collaborate on a large project, see friends, and perform on stage. Josie loves to perform in the spotlight, and she makes rehearsals fun with her positive attitude.
October 2021
Kalea Dorow
Kalea is a student with Redondo’s Adult Transition Program. She frequently visits Disneyland, where she enjoys meeting Judy Hopps in Disney California Adventure. Kalea also enjoys watching The Masked Singer, building Legos, and writing in her journal. Outside of school, she loves to play soccer and participate in Friendship Foundation programs.
Kalea is a long time performer with Anchorless. She has been in the cast of our fall musicals, and she participated in High School Musical 2 last summer. Though she has enjoyed all of her roles, Kalea’s favorites have been Veruca Salt in Willy Wonka and Elsa in Frozen. Her favorite part of performing is entertaining her friends, family, and other audience members. Anchorless has helped Kalea gain the confidence she needs to do that.
September 2021
Cameron Lally
Cameron Lally is a student at Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District’s Transition to Independence Program. He participates in football, baseball, and basketball. Outside of school, Cameron enjoys hiking, running, hanging out at the beach, listening to music, and making home videos.
Cameron attended our Saturday drama classes this summer, and his favorite part was practicing dances with everyone. He looks forward to Anchorless every week and loves making new friends and learning about acting.
August 2021
Sofia Kalem
Sofia is a student at Palos Verdes High School. She enjoys taking fitness classes and playing tennis. She also rides horses and swims laps with her dad on weekends. In her free time, Sofia likes to watch movies, travel with her parents, take walks, and prepare meals for her family.
Sofia’s first show with Anchorless was Beauty and the Beast where she played Belle. Sofia was also in Willy Wonka and Frozen. Her favorite part of rehearsals is singing and dancing with everyone. Sofia loves that her mentors get to watch her perform and enjoy the music and dances along with her.
July 2021
Isabella Smith-Konecny
Isabella is a Student at DaVinci Communications High School. In her free time, she likes to ride horses and hang out with friends.
Isabella is one of our newer actresses. She has made two outstanding performances so far. Her first show with Anchorless was Frozen, where she played the role of Kristoff. Since then, she has played Mrs. Wormwood in Matilda. Isabella shows dedication to all of the roles, learning dances and scenes. She also loves getting to make new friends through Anchorless.
June 2021
Elena Ashmore
Elena is one of our most talented actors. She has been with Anchorless since 2018 when she played the Beast in Beauty and the Beast. She is currently rehearsing to play the role of Agatha Trunchbull in Matilda this spring. Elena enjoys getting to sing and dance at Anchorless with her fellow castmates.
Outside of Anchorless, Elena loves to dance: hip hop, ballet, break dancing, you name it! She participates in Straight Up Abilities dance classes and enjoys furthering her dancing skills there. In her free time, Elena enjoys cooking and baking with her family.
May 2021
John Grimble
John’s first show with Anchorless was Frozen KIDS, where he played the role of King Agnar. Currently, John is rehearsing for the role of Bobby in Matilda The Musical JR. as well as participating in Anchorless’ Saturday Drama Classes.
Outside of Anchorless, John is a student at Friendship Foundation, and he is a part of the Mychal’s Learning Place Adult Program. He also participates in the Special Olympics. In his free time, John enjoys spending time with friends and family.
April 2021
Jasmine Higgins
Jasmine is one of our hardest working actresses. Her first show with Anchorless was High School Musical, and she will be in our next show, Matilda. Jasmine enjoys all aspects of theatre, especially dancing and acting with her fellow cast members. She brings energy and dedication to each production, showing great talent and appreciation for acting, singing, and dancing.
Outside of Anchorless, Jasmine attends Straight Up Abilities Dance Classes and TYA Social Skills class, and she loves singing and dancing in her free time. Jasmine has a kind heart and likes to help others. She also enjoys spending time with her family and playing with her cousins.
March 2021
Ian Shitabata
Ian attends Palos Verdes High School, where he's a part of the Friendship Club and the Upvoice Reading Club. When he's not doing schoolwork or participating in his other extracurriculars, he can be found listening to music or playing Mario Kart on his Wii.
Ian's first show with us was Frozen KIDS. His favorite part of the process was reading his script and practicing his lines. He enjoyed practicing the scenes and dances during rehearsals and always made sure to give us feedback and express enthusiasm in the Zoom chat.
February 2021
Madysen Fleck
Madysen is a student at Miraleste Intermediate School. She is involved in Girl Scouts and Friendship Foundation programs. She also likes to play football, basketball, and baseball. Some of her other interests include playing games with her friends and family, biking, cooking, dancing, and especially going to Disneyland. One of her most admired qualities is the effort she puts into things she's passionate about.
Madysen is making her Anchorless debut playing Anna in Frozen. Her favorite part of our programs is participating in group activities in breakout rooms so she can meet new people. Madysen asks helpful questions and brings positive energy and enthusiasm to rehearsals.
January 2021
Jessica Streich
Jessica played Simba in the The Lion King KIDSand Matilda in Willy Wonka KIDS. She's looking forward to starring in Frozen KIDS next month as Olaf. Anchorless is like a family for Jessica, supporting her through thick and thin. She enjoys each part of the production process, from memorizing her lines to getting onstage to do her scenes. She also likes helping her fellow cast mates in studying their lines and practicing the dances.
Outside of Anchorless, Jessica participates in programs at The Friendship Foundation and Social Vocational Services. She also likes to play video games and color in her spare time. Around friends, she's always kind and engaged.
December 2020
Griffin Ephraim
Griffin is best known for his sense of humor and positive energy. He loves swimming, writing, animating, and playing music on his keyboard. In his free time, he also likes to research trivia and visit Disneyland theme parks.
Griffin works hard to memorize all of his lines and learn the choreography for the dance numbers. Last year in Willy Wonka, he starred as Mr. Bucket, and he's looking forward to performing in Frozen KIDS as Hans. Through his involvement with Anchorless, Griffin has found a sense of belonging by connecting with the members of our group while developing a new passion: acting.
November 2020
Erin Pawlowski
Erin is one of our most expressive and avid students. She has previously been a cast member in Beauty and the Beast and Willy Wonka KIDS, and she's currently involved in Frozen KIDS and our Saturday drama class program.
Erin also participates in programs at The Friendship Foundation and Golden Heart Ranch. Some of her hobbies include swimming, dancing, and playing sports such as karate. She's also very friendly and approachable and loves to spend time with her friends and family.
October 2020
Andrew Mathews
Andrew is a part of the Adult Program in Mychal's Learning Place and is involved with their fencing, softball, and bowling teams. In his free time, he enjoys playing video games and watching movies. He's very friendly and loves to tell jokes.
He has been a cast member in two of our previous shows: Aladdin KIDS and The Jungle Book KIDS. He always comes to rehearsal ready to put forth his best effort. His favorite part of the production process is being assigned a new role to learn.
September 2020
Casey Rohrer
Casey has been involved in each one of our fall productions with The Friendship Foundation. He is a very positive and uplifting cast member.
Casey has an interest in the arts and storytelling beyond the musicals he's done with Anchorless. He has written many stories and plays, is training to become a comedian, enjoys visiting theaters, and has starred in local musicals like Once Upon a Mattress.
August 2020
Gregory Sadaris
Gregory is one of our most enthusiastic and dedicated students. He has been in two of our productions, starring as The Genie in Aladdin and as Baloo in The Jungle Book. He is always engaged in rehearsals, and he loves getting to know his fellow cast members.
Gregory attends school at Larch Village. He is also involved in a number of activities through Mychal's Learning Place and is known for his friendly and outgoing personality. In his free time, Gregory enjoys listening to music.
July 2020
Siena Mehta
Siena is one of our newest Friendship Foundation students. Last fall, she starred in Willy Wonka as both the Candy Man and Wonka. She has demonstrated her commitment in many ways: she has asked relevant questions about stage direction during rehearsal, she answers questions given to the class and is always engaged, and she's always eager to kick off every rehearsal.
In her free time, Siena can be found watching movies, spending time with friends, or doing puzzles. She participates in other extracurricular classes outside Anchorless including horseback riding, swim, and dance. She attends Redondo Union High School.
June 2020
Robert Smith
Robert, who has been a cast member in all three shows we've done at Mychal's Learning Place, is a loving and focused student of ours. Not only is he a strong actor, but he's also a leader in rehearsal. He created one of the theatre games we commonly play at Anchorless to kick off rehearsals called "Robert's Game" in which participants go through the five stages of grief in different improv scenes.
Outside of Anchorless, Robert is known as a funny yet focused individual. He enjoys spending time with friends in his free time. He also watches superhero movies for entertainment and also to learn from professional actors.
May 2020
Payton Pascover
Payton is one of our most dedicated students. She's starred in all three productions we've done with Friendship Foundation, and she is always enthusiastic about helping and getting to know the volunteers. She even encouraged her friends to join our drama class after her first production, Lion King.
Outside of school, Payton also participates in dance, karate, hip hop, and music classes with Ready Willing and Able. She enjoys seeing friends, playing sports, and horseback riding.
April 2020
Joe Newman
Joe is best characterized by his positive and energetic attitude. Outside the productions he does with Anchorless, he's a student at Mira Costa High School, and he enjoys playing sports and games in his free time.
Joe has been a cast member in our last two productions with Friendship Foundation. In our most recent one, Willy Wonka, he played the role of Charlie Bucket. Like most of our students, he discovered theatre for the first time through Anchorless and has developed a passion for it. Not only is he a hardworking and committed actor, but he's also very talented and entertaining to watch on stage.