Abbey Couch

Abbey is college student who has been apart of 26 full productions (mostly CYT) and has had the opportunity to stage manage, work lights and sound, crew, direct, act, sing, dance, and understudy. She loves dancing teaching and she's excited to get to know you an your kids this next session!

Cassy Assink

Christine Callaway

Christine Callaway is thrilled to be joining the teaching staff at CYT San Diego and looks forward to all the amazing memories her students will experience. She is no stranger to the classroom as this is her 10th year teaching. She has taught all different age ranges from kindergarten to high school but currently is the Middle School theatre teacher at La Mesa Arts Academy. In addition, Christine once worked at a local theme park where she was a senior producer of shows and events. Some of her favorite productions she has directed have included Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Moana Jr, A Midsummer Nights Dream and Mary Poppins. In her spare time she tries to visit Disneyland as frequently as possible so she is excited to share her joy with students!

Jonathan Albert

Jonny found musical theater and CYT at the age of 17, and he absolutely loves it! He has performed in 3 CYT shows with the role of Gomez Addams being his favorite! But most of all he loves the wonderful friendships and the outstanding community at CYT, and that’s why he is super excited to continue investing in the next generation!

Kara Lee

Kara Lee is a wife, mama, creative, and connector. She graduated with a degree in vocal music from Baylor University and has worked in production most of her life. She is a writer, producer, singer, director, actress, worship leader, founder of The Well Community for Women and owner of Next Door Photos. Kara loves performing as often as she can, but loves directing just as much!

Kathleen Melody

A devout Christian, Kathleen is married and a proud parent of two children—a teenager and a toddler. With 18 years of experience in teaching, directing, and choreographing, Kathleen holds degrees in both Musical Theatre and Biblical Studies. Passionate about producing quality performances, she is committed to giving all the credit and glory to the Lord.

Makenzie Plumb

My name is Makenzie Plumb, and I am excited to teach for CYT this fall! I love theater and have been teaching drama at the middle school level for almost ten years. I have worked closely with CYT for years, but this will be my first time teaching with them. As a mom of three, I am always looking for fun activities for my children that will teach them life skills. The Wiggles class does just that! I am truly looking forward to meeting these children and helping spark a love for theater at a young age.

Micah Valadez

Micah has been an educator since 2016 and is currently a 6th grade teacher. She has a BS in Child and Family Development with a Theater Arts minor from San Diego State University and MEd from Concordia University - Irvine. She has been with the CYT family since 2018. Her love for music, theatre, and dance started at a very young age and hopes to continue her passions through helping others grow.

Olivia Pietila

Hi I’m Olivia! I have been a part of CYT for many years now, participating in shows, and now teaching for almost 3 years! Theatre has always been a passion of mine- I love seeing and helping children find that same passion, and use it to glorify Jesus! I have always wanted to be a dance teacher, and I absolutely love being able to do so at my most favorite place!! Can’t wait to meet you!🫶🏼

Rene Smith

Rene is a gifted worship leader who comes to CYT with 10+ years of experience in singing and performing arts. She is deeply passionate about the mission of CYT and is excited for the opportunity to help students grow in their vocal technique and love of singing!

Sarah Larson

Sarah is excited to join CYT, where she can combine her love for the arts with her passion for children. With a rich background in community theater, choir, show choir, dance, and scenic art, she has always been deeply immersed in the performing arts. Sarah has taught in various classroom settings, bringing valuable teaching skills and a love for creativity to her theater classes. Sarah believes that art, music, and theater are gifts from a beautiful and creative God, and through these arts, we get to experience a glimpse of His character. She is passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment where all students can more fully step into the creative person God has designed them to be.