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about disney II theater
Disney II Magnet High School is one of the Magnet Schools of America, specializing in Fine Arts & Technology. DII's Theater program began the year returning after COVID, in 2021. Within three years, Disney II Theater has grown into a robust program, offering two large main stage productions a year. Students learn valuable skills in acting, dance, and singing. Students focus on Broadway style music and dance and are provided the building blocks necessary to pursue theater, music, or dance at the college level. Students also have the option to pursue stage crew, learning the basics of live sound, lighting, building, etc.
THE DIRECTORS
Maddy Marino
Maddy Marino is currently the choir and theater director for Disney II Magnet High School. Ms. Marino founded the theater department at Disney II along with Mr. Venhaus in 2021. Ms. Marino received her undergraduate degree in voice performance and music education from Chicago College of Performing Arts, Roosevelt University, under the study of Cheryl Frazes-Hill. She is currently pursuing her masters in choral education at Vandercook College of Music. She has performed at places such as CSO and Carnegie Hall. In 2024, Ms. Marino was the Music Director for the headline production of "She Kills Monsters" at the Illinois High School All State Theater Fest.
Blas Venhaus
In the heart of Puerto Rico, amid the lush jungles and ancient stone ruins, lived a dancer named Blas. He fled the island under insane circumstances, chased by shadows that whispered dark secrets of forgotten gods. Leaving behind the only home he had ever known, Blas sought refuge in the bustling streets of Chicago. There, amidst the cacophony of the city, he found solace in the rhythm of his heartbeat and the sway of his hips. Embracing the vibrant pulse of the urban landscape, Blas dedicated himself to performance and teaching, weaving tales of his island's magic and mystery into every move. His passion transformed him into a beacon for others, a testament to the power of resilience and the enchantment of dance