The Team

Laikeshore Performance Camp is led by teaching artist Marissa, a multidisciplinary storyteller whose work spans theatre, film, and television. She is passionate about helping young people discover their creative voice through performance and collaborative theatre-making.

Marissa brings both professional artistry and a nurturing approach to the rehearsal room, creating an environment where every child feels encouraged to participate, take creative risks, and grow in confidence. Through games, storytelling, and ensemble work, she guides students to explore their imagination while learning the joy and discipline of bringing a story to life together.

She holds an MFA in Acting from the University of Washington and has studied screenwriting and film production at UCLA, combining her background in performance with experience in directing, filmmaking, and arts education. She studied Shakespeare at The British Academy of Dramatic Arts.

Her greatest joy as a teacher is watching young performers discover that their ideas matter. She has been a Professor at City Colleges for over a decade.