Open Arts Alliance was born from the belief that arts education should be accessible to all, and should not end when you leave school. Through theatre, Open Arts Alliance creates a social intervention between students, their peers and senior citizens, resulting in a powerful and lasting change in participants.
We further our mission through classes, programs, and community outreach, using the arts as a common ground for conversations. Our holistic approach sees theatre not as just an end-product, but a process by which we can improve the lives of our students—young and young at heart— while furthering the landscape of arts in our community and town. Our student leadership councils empower the next generation of arts volunteers to engage with civic responsibility and community service based on empathy fostered within the arts.
By offering exceptional theatre productions, which meet national and state standard arts curriculum, Open Arts Alliance offers students a positive experience in a safe environment while providing value-led education which may not otherwise be accessible.
We’re dedicated to constant introspection of our process and product to foster a growth mindset.
We equip our graduates with the ability to assess art on the merit of quality, intention and technique.
The arts provide access to personal growth and dignity through representation and diversity of thought.
We respect you for who you are now. And we also want to help you get where you are going.
Some of our students go on to study biology while others become working actors. Whatever they pursue, our students graduate with the confidence, self-efficacy and social awareness to deepen their networks both personally and professionally.
Rocco is a globally produced playwright and director, dedicated to creating impactful theatre experiences. He holds dual BAs in Cognitive Psychology & Dramatic Studies, a MA in Producing from NYU and a CAS in Elementary Education Administration. As Executive Director, Rocco specializes in strategic development of high-impact arts initiatives with expertise in accessibility.
As an Associate Director for Swiss Bank and the Event Coordinator for The Stamford Chamber of Commerce, Cindy comes to Open Arts Alliance with over 20 years of experience in both profit and non-profit leadership. With a lifelong passion for theatre, Cindy values the confidence and life skills that theatre instills in students of all ages (both on and off stage.)
John has worked professionally in theatre, film and television as an actor, director, writer and administrator for over 20 years. John holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Syracuse University, and a graduate degree in children’s media from Centennial College.
A graduate of Quinnipiac University and recipient of Greenwich Public School’s annual “Distinguished Teacher of The Year” Award, Jennifer Dunn is a passionate advocate for the arts, bringing over two decades of experience in creative leadership and cultural programming.
Recipient of the 2025 Distinguished Teacher of The Year Award, Robin has taught music in Greenwich since 1999, currently leading K-5 music and chorus at North Mianus School. She also co-conducts the Honor Choir and directs NMS drama productions. Robin holds degrees from SUNY Potsdam and Hartt School.
Lauren holds a Master of Science in Social Work and is a nationally ranked swimmer. A classically trained pianist, and French horn player, Lauren was also a member of the interfaith choir that opened for “Mary Mary” and has played the Apollo. Her favorite role is: mom!
Originally from Vienna, Virginia, Morgan Miller now calls Monroe, Connecticut home. She holds a B.A. in Musical Theatre from James Madison University and is passionate about helping young performers grow both on and off the stage. Morgan has taught and choreographed for youth theatre programs, worked as a summer camp counselor and instructor in the Berkshires, and loves creating a positive, confidence-building environment where students can discover their creativity.
Julia (she/her) is an actor, singer, and proud OAA alum! She holds a BFA in Acting from Belmont University. When she’s not performing, Julia works as a private voice teacher for students of all ages.
Donna is thrilled to be welcomed back to the world of music and theatre after a 25+ year hiatus. Although Donna had planned to make a career in the theatre world, her career path brought her to geriatric social work. But now, being able to mesh her two loves by creating theatre with and for older adults is a dream come true!
Dr. Emily Bryan
Katie Taylor Breen
Jennifer Dunn
Kerry Gavin
Thomas Howard
Kathy Walker
Ana Laborde
Elise Libow
Stephanie O’Donnell
Samantha Ethier Steele
Ronnie Staplefield
Jack Kriskey
Alessandra Agudelo
Maeve Donat
Nicole Klocinski
Abby Meyers
Juliette Ross
Dyer Steele
Natalie Summerton
Taryn Zullin