About
Our theory:
Founded in 2010, the New Albany Middle School Theatre Department is a program consisted of a highly talented group of young individuals and directors, with a devotion to the performing arts. "Having young individuals explore and enjoy expressing themselves through the arts" is part of the departments belief towards an essential need for student participation in the arts throughout their time in school.
Meet the staff:
Melissa Gould
namstheatredept@gmail.comDirector & Choreographer
Melissa Gould received her B.A in Dance at San Jose State University and enjoyed a professional dance career which included contracts in Japan, Las Vegas and South Korea. Melissa has been teaching for over 35 years and has choreographed several musicals for schools and community theatres across the country. This is her 7th year as director for the New Albany Middle School Theatre Dept. As Artistic Director and founder of New Vision Dance Company, Columbus’ contemporary jazz dance ensemble, Melissa is known for her intense dance style, challenging classes and entertaining choreography. Melissa is the Founder and CEO of the New Albany Dance Festival.
Sean Hooper
hooper.1@napls.usMusic Director
Sean Hooper is a Math Intervention Specialist at New Albany High School. He received his B.A. from Wabash College in Indiana, and his M.A. in Education from Ohio Dominican University. Mr. Hooper has taught in the district for the past fifteen years, and he has served as music director for the NAMS Drama Department for the past five years. Sean also serves as director of the district’s Black History Month program. In his free time, he enjoys playing piano for and/or singing with different groups in the community, swimming, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.
Assistant Director Interest Form (here)