OUR TEAM
Maxwell David
Studio Director
With over 20 years’ experience in performing arts education, Maxwell has worked on projects for the world’s largest studios and record labels including Disney, Netflix, Miramax, 20th Century Fox, Universal Music Group and Warner Records. Maxwell is also the CEO of Spears Theatre Arts.
Olivia Burnette
Studio Manager
Liv is a talented singer-songwriter with a passion for the performing arts. As well as being great at helping to keep our studio running smoothly, she also has experience as a nanny and so she’s great with little ones!
Miss Alex
Instructor
A passionate educator and artist, Miss Alex combines her zest for performance, her love and respect for young children, and her expertise as an instructor in her work with Playbox Studio. Alex has worked as a children’s theatre teacher and director, an English as a second language instructor, a writer for a PBS-affiliated kid’s algebra channel, and as a paraprofessional for children with learning disabilities in LAUSD schools. She believes every child deserves respect and access to a quality education, and that immersion in the performing arts enhances all aspects of a young person’s life.
Miss Gianna
Instructor
Gianna Alessi is a vocalist, songwriter, and teaching artist originally from New York. She holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from the Boston Conservatory at Berklee and has performed nationally and internationally as both a vocalist and actress, including with Theatreworks USA for young audiences.
As a teaching artist, Gianna has worked with New York Kids Club, Wingspan Arts, Long Bay Camp for the Arts, and Playbox Studio, and she also teaches private voice lessons to students of all ages and levels. An active recording and performing artist, she brings her stage experience into the classroom while helping students discover confidence and creativity through the performing arts. Raised by musicians and teachers, Gianna carries forward that legacy in her own work as an educator.
Miss Emma
Instructor
Miss Emma started dancing at the age of two and hasn't stopped since! She trained extensively in ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, lyrical and hip hop. Miss Emma has continued her training by attending various classes and working with many local choreographers on jobs including music videos and live performances. She developed a passion for teaching and choreography as she began to teach at her home studio many years ago.
Miss Grace
Instructor
Miss Grace has been acting, singing, and moving to the beat since she could walk, but as a professionally trained artist, she loves to share her passion for performance with students. She loves working with children, and has experience in theater education, childcare, and in classroom settings as a K-12 substitute teacher. Miss Grace looks forward to inspiring your little ones to embrace storytelling in and out of the classroom, as that's what makes it all worthwhile!
Mr Joel
Instructor
Mr Joel is a triple threat teacher delivering training in singing, acting and dancing. With extensive training as a performing artist, he has a wide range of teaching experience.
Miss Chelsea
Instructor
Chelsea Bailey is a professional dancer and teacher originally from Cleveland, Ohio. Chelsea grew up in her mom’s dance studio, where she discovered her love for movement and began teaching young dancers at just 16. Over the years, She has had the opportunity to perform on incredible stages—including the Grammys—and she's passionate about bringing that same excitement and artistry into the classroom. Now based in North Hollywood, CA, she loves creating a fun, supportive space where students can grow in both confidence and technique while discovering their own love for dance.
Miss Rachel
Instructor
Miss Rachel is a committed and experienced teacher and artist who delights in students’ progress and success. With extensive training as an actor and vocalist, she teaches students of all ages and abilities and strives to deliver creative joy through her teaching.
Miss Carrie
Instructor
Miss Carrie is a wearer of many hats and loves storytelling through music, dance, writing, and acting. If you’re looking for a Mary Poppins, for real life or the musical, she’s your person! She loves working with children and has experience as a musical theater instructor, English as a Second Language tutor, and respite.