Meet your instructors

Ava Ocker is currently attending UMD and earning degrees in Communication Sciences and Disorders and Spanish, with a minor in Early Childhood Studies. She has been involved in the performing arts her entire life, and was most recently a student instructor for the Lincoln Park Middle School Drama Club. She was the Co-Director of a community theater program in her hometown, Lake Geneva, WI and is a two time state award winning actor in Wisconsin.

Antony Ferguson is a Duluthian who has been involved in the performing arts all his life. He holds a BA in theatre from UMD and has over 20 years of dance experience. He has taught previously with the Duluth Community School Collaborative and at the Playhouse, also performing onstage (Waitress, The Sound of Music, Next to Normal).

Neve Moore is in her final year at UMD, studying music education and vocal performance. She found her passion for teaching while directing a theatre camp in her hometown of East Grand Forks, MN, and is thrilled at the opportunity to bring her enthusiasm and skills to the Duluth Playhouse! Recent performance credits include a classical voice recital and acting as Carmen and the 3rd Lady (The Magic Flute) in an opera scenes showcase. Neve will perform as Zita in Gianni Schicchi with the UMD opera studio in November.

Charlie Sutton has originated 11 Broadway Musicals as a performer including Wicked, Kinky Boots, The Addams Family, An American in Paris and more. Director/Choreography Credits: Natasha Pierre…(PCLO), Escape to (North Shore), NBC Up-Fronts, SNL Billie Eilish, Newsies (Theatre By The Sea), Evita (ACT), Matilda (Cape Fear). Associate Credits: The Great Gatsby, Spamalot, Diana The Musical, Who’s Tommy, Clueless, Kinky Boots. Visit charliesutton.net

Catalina is currently attending UMD, earning her BM in Vocal Performance. She is originally from the Twin Cities but loves living in Duluth. She grew up in theatre and choir, along with 13 years of girl scouting. She most recently was seen in UMDs production of the opera Street Scene. She loves working with kids and can’t wait to get started this Fall!

Ava O’Brian is originally from the Twin Cities, but has found a new home in Duluth. She is currently in her first year at UMD, with a major in Musical Theatre and minor in Dance. She is incredibly excited to get to share the power of theatre with young artists. Her recent credits include Ellie Blake (Freaky Friday), Anne Shirley (Anne of Green Gables), and Narrator (Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat).

SJ Olson returns to Duluth Playhouse as Director of Education - bringing their love for storytelling, 25 years of performing arts experience, and a commitment to the joy of the process. They hold a BFA in Music and Theatre, with focused training on collaborative learning and embodiment work. Their previous work at Duluth Playhouse as an actor, director, choreographer, and music director includes Peter and the Starcatcher, Finding Nemo Jr., and Mean Girls: High School Edition.

has always loved dancing and is passionate about bringing quality dance opportunities to adults. She holds a BFA in art, design and dance from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, and she has studied tap with Hillary-Marie, Demi Remick, Sarah Reich, Kaleena Miller, Andrew Nemr and Lisa LaTouche.

Rylee Kuberra is an artist by trade and storyteller by heart. She is a full-time voice over artist, actress, and educator! She most recently has studied under Matthew Corozine at the MCS Studio in NYC. Her approach to teaching acting comes from the belief that we are truth seekers and that our goal is to live and behave truthfully and fully under imaginary circumstances! She hopes to see you in her classroom!

is a local theater educator and performer. She has taught with the Duluth Playhouse since 2005. Most recently she played Viola in Wise Fool Theater’s production of Twelfth Night. When she isn’t at the theater, she spends her time working her day job for the City of Duluth, reading, running and thinking about summer.