Feb 18, 20222 min read

Teacher Profile: Ms. Shelby!

How long have you been a teacher?

I’ve been a teacher at MCCA for 8 years. However, I was super privileged to be able to TA several classes with Nicole Mattis at FSU, which gave me the spark of love for teaching, and so much inspiration for the kind of teacher I wanted to be. That was about 10 years ago.

Tell us about your Performance Arts Education!

I studied in the Department of Theatre and Dance at Frostburg State University. I love learning, so I’ve also taken a plethora of workshops, masterclasses, and lessons on my own over the years since then.

Some favorites have been with Susan Blackwell, Jenn Collella, Mia Michaels, Cindy Ripley, Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, and Wade Robson.

I also LOVE live music and strongly feel that I’m educated and inspired by each concert I attend.

What has been a favorite moment in your Performance career?

Ah! It’s hard to choose a single favorite. I’ll just say anytime I feel myself make a distinct connection with the audience, it’s magic. That’s what sticks with you.

What is your favorite style of Performance Arts to teach?

Musical Theatre will always have my heart.

What is the most challenging task being a teacher?

Can I say remembering to answer emails and messages in a timely fashion? But really, the most rewarding and challenging thing while actively teaching is shifting your approach to connect with every student to suit their needs. Always challenging, but the most rewarding.

What professional artists inspire you?

I could really talk about this for days. Nina Simone, Susan Tedeschi, Bonnie Raitt, Sarah Paulson, Stephanie J Block, Brandi Carlile, and BB King all really inspire me. I am also incredibly inspired by poetry, photography, painting, and other visual arts.