In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts

What do haunted houses, rock and roll, and creative leadership have in common? Everything — if you’re talking about Field of Screams. This week on In the Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts, I sat down with Jim Schopf, founder of America’s #1 haunted attraction. But this isn’t just about thrills and chills—it’s about a powerful community of young people finding purpose and identity through performance. We talk: 🩸 Scare School and theatrical training 🎭 Volunteer culture and creative expression 🔥 The leadership lessons hidden behind the masks If you care about helping kids grow through the arts, you don’t want to miss this one. About Jim: Jim Schopf is the co-founder and driving force behind Field of Screams, one of the most acclaimed haunted attractions in the country, located in Mountville, Pennsylvania. With a passion for horror, theatrical production, and immersive storytelling, Jim has spent over three decades transforming a family farm into a Halloween destination that draws thrill-seekers from across the nation. Alongside his brother Gene, Jim launched Field of Screams in 1993, blending professional-grade sets, special effects, and live actors to create a terrifyingly fun experience. A hands-on leader, Jim is often found working on new haunt designs, brainstorming with his team, or interacting with guests to ensure every experience is unforgettable. His dedication to quality, innovation, and community engagement has cemented his legacy as a pioneer in experiential entertainment and agritourism. Jim continues to inspire future generations through hard work, passion, and a love for all things spooky. Contact Info: Facebook - Field of Screams | Mountville PA Instagram - @‌fieldofscreams Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our What's Happening at EMC segment where we chat: Free Form Fridays and their themes/dates Fall Tour with a Discovery Gym Demo announcement Explore EMC Week & Spirit Week Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Listen in as a long-time EMC mom talks about her journey as a performing arts parent… from choosing an activity for her little ones to how her dancing daughter is thriving as a teen in the studio setting. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our What's Happening at EMC segment where we chat: Disney recap Camp recap Video Premiere Dance Intensive recap New season registration open New classes to be excited about Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Listen in as 5 Dance Studio Owners chat about the emotional rollercoaster that is studio ownership. We update our DSO Connect listeners with the latest in our lives, and also give performing arts parents a peek behind the curtain. What's Happening At EMC Notes: Our What's Happening at EMC segment finishes at 32:29 and the episode will begin then. We talk about Rollover Registration (what it is & how it works), Specialty Classes, our new Dress Code Shop, joining EMC as a new student this coming season, bringing back Freeform Friday, and the vibe in both our SYB and Musical Experience program. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our What's Happening at EMC segment where Robin and Santina pull back the curtain on the incredible teaching team that makes it all happen. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Listen in as Tanya and Robin discuss the differences between the life of a company dancer vs. that of a freelance artist, healthy ways for dancers to interact with food, developing resilience in your performing arts journey and so much more. What's Happening At EMC Notes: Our What's Happening at EMC segment finishes at 16:08 and the episode with Robin and Tanya will begin then. We talk about the baseline programs at EMC and what to add if you want MORE! About Tanya: Originally from Michigan, Tanya holds a B.A. from Mercyhurst University in Erie, PA. She danced with several professional companies across the country before settling in New York City to work as a freelance artist where she has performed principal roles in Swan Lake, Beauty & the Beast, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, The Little Mermaid, and many more classical ballets & original contemporary works. Tanya has experience as the Creative Director and Co-Founder/Producer of a touring company that performed in Denver & Vail, Colorado, and premiered its first full-length performance in NYC in June of 2024. She is also the founder and creator of the patented Bulletproof Ballerina cross-training system. Through fitness, nutrition, & lifestyle coaching, she works with dancers to help them reach their true potential as artists. She loves traveling to teach master classes and was an Adjunct Professor at Johns Hopkins University – Peabody Institute for a body conditioning course for the BFA Dance program. More information at http://BulletproofBallerina.com . Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our What's Happening at EMC segment where we chat: How the Spring Concert went Takeaways from the Spring Concert Celebrations and achievements from the Spring Concert Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our What's Happening at EMC segment where we chat: Rising Leaders Training And How it Connects to EMC Mini Intensive; Who Should Be Participating And Why Disney Primer Teaser Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

In this episode, Robin and Lisa talk about the cooperative relationship that should exist between studio owners, teachers and performers, in order to help get the best results for the student. We also discuss the importance of a cohesive curriculum in studio programs, and how to know when the time is right to go “all in” on a particular activity to the exclusion of others. What's Happening At EMC Notes: Our What's Happening at EMC segment finishes at 11:50 and the episode with Robin and Lisa will begin then. We talk about summer study and why it’s in your performers best interest to keep training year round! About Lisa: After spending her childhood training in her hometown of Toledo Ohio, Lisa continued her studies at Eastern Michigan University (ballet focus) and The Ohio State University (modern performance and choreography). As a touring instructor and a freelance choreographer for over a decade, she has worked with dancers in over 30 cities across the United States. She has performed with Windfall Dance Company and New Vision Dance Company, and occasionally serves as a dance competition judge and adjudicator. Lisa is the founder and Director of Diversion Dance Collective in Columbus, Ohio and has several former students performing in professional settings and pursuing dance beyond high school. Injury prevention for dancers has become a main focus in Lisa's teaching. She is a Balanced Body certified Pilates instructor, and is in constant pursuit of knowledge in the fields of anatomy and kinesiology. Her main focus is to teach proper movement techniques and activate the correct muscles--all of which will help prevent injuries in her students and promote longevity in their dance careers. Lisa is also a certified Progressing Ballet Technique Instructor. Lisa Keller, Artistic Director Diversion Dance Collective 651 Lakeview Plaza Blvd Suite D Worthington, OH 43085 614-407-4670 [email protected] www.DiversionDance.com https://www.facebook.com/Diversiondance/ Instagram (@diversiondance) Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our What's Happening at EMC segment where we chat: What to Expect During Our Spring Concert Production Rehearsals The Spring Fling Open Mic Night Theater Arts In-Studio Performance Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Listen in as Robin and Caroline chat about her journey in the performing arts, which may be of particular interest to parents and students of Musical Theater. Caroline talks about dance as a healing modality, the current landscape of the arts world, and how she has successfully created and implemented a Musical Theater program in studios from Colorado to North Carolina. About Caroline: Caroline Younger-Liadakis is an actress, choreographer and teaching artist. She has also written three plays that were produced in NYC and is currently working on a new piece of fiction. She founded WABI theatre and dance in Denver, CO in 2015 which is a dance and musical theatre program specifically curated for singer/actors ages 12-18, that need formal dance training to strengthen their third skill set for Musical Theatre. Included in the WABI curriculum is also a College Prep program and workshops in NYC. Caroline successfully mentored students in achieving BFA, MT acceptances at many of the top colleges in the country. As a performer she has been cast on Broadway, toured nationally and internationally, done several TV commercials and is represented by Productions Plus for Voice Overs. As a teacher she has taught at Wagner College, Marymount College and many studios throughout New York, New Jersey and up and down the east Coast. The WABI theatre and dance program ran in Denver for ten years and also did a three month intensive in Brevard, North Carolina. In 2019 she won the Colorado Bobby G award for Outstanding Choreography for her work on Thoroughly Modern Millie in Denver. Caroline believes in the power of movement and self expression as a healing modality. Her classes are upbeat, fun and non competitive while also instilling discipline and a reverence for the arts. C.B. Younger-Liadakis Teaching Artist, Choreographer Director, WABI Performing Arts Conservatory, LLC www.wabitheatre-dance.rocks 917 405 4969 Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

In this episode, we dive into the unique challenges and joys of parenting a child in the TV industry. Join us as we explore the highs and lows of auditions, the pressures of the spotlight, and the delicate balance of supporting a budding star while being a dance teacher to your own child. Tune in for insights, personal stories, and tips on navigating this exciting yet demanding journey! Meghan pursued her passion for dance at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), where she earned a degree in Dance Education. She holds certification in the Cecchetti Method of Ballet, having completed grades 1-6 and earning her teaching certification for grade 1. Since 2012, Meghan has been teaching and directing a dance program in Baltimore County Public Schools, where she has played a pivotal role in shaping dance education. Her dedication to the field led her to contribute to the development of the BCPS dance curriculum, ensuring high-quality instruction for future generations. In addition to her dance education, Meghan earned a Master’s degree in Special Education from Goucher College, expanding her expertise in inclusive teaching practices. Her dedication to education and accessibility ensures that dance remains a transformative and enriching experience for all students, regardless of ability. In 2018, she was nominated for BCPS Teacher of the Year, further acknowledging her dedication to education and her impact on the lives of her students. Meghan’s career also includes notable recognition outside of teaching. During her time at UMBC, she served as the captain of the dance team, further honing her leadership and choreographic skills. She was a member finalist for the NBA Washington Wizards Dance Team and can be seen dancing in the film Step Up 2: The Streets, directed by Jon M. Chu. She later became the coach of the Bay Area Shuckers dance team, a local minor league basketball team, where she choreographed performances and mentored dancers at a professional level. Meghan has been involved in dance since she was two years old, training and competing at a dance studio in Columbia, MD. What's Happening At EMC Notes: Our What's Happening at EMC segment finishes at 21:45 and the episode with Robin and Meghan will begin then. We talk about all things auditions! Like what to expect at our Dance Company Auditions and why auditions are important. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our What's Happening at EMC segment where we chat: Doing the Work in Every Class Cheering for Friends and Showing Empathy Pathways Meetings Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Listen in as Robin chats with Maria Cotto, dancer, teacher, choreographer, mom and more! We talk about the performing arts and how it has impacted both our lives. We reminisce about dancing at Baltimore School for the Arts and what lessons we learned there…and how the arts has influenced our parenting. Maria also shares about helping her students become internally driven as opposed to externally driven. What's Happening At EMC Notes: Our What's Happening at EMC segment finishes at 17:25 and the episode with Robin and Maria will begin then. We talk about doing the work in class every week, pathways meetings (what they are for and how to use them), and cheering for your friends and showing empathy. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for a housekeeping segment where we chat: How to stay in the loop with all things EMC How to navigate our socials An exciting announcement inside the EMC walls Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Robin and Brett get controversial in this episode, so buckle up! Listen in as they discuss performing arts training today in contrast to the training we received ”back in the day”. Get ready to hear the politically incorrect opinions from the traditional and conservative perspective. What's Happening At EMC Notes: Our What's Happening at EMC segment finishes at 21:05 and the episode with Robin and Brett will begin then. We talk about all things summer offerings within our Summer Hub on our website, our new Adult Fitness Class 'MOMentum' starting in March, and share a reminder about our upcoming Open Gym & Imagine That! In My Sparkle Era Mini Event. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for a housekeeping segment where we chat: Open Marley Festival and the Preparations Taking Place The Musical Experience Updates and What's to Come Reminder of our Upcoming Imagine That! Events Incorporating Rockette Visits in the Dance Studio Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Listen in as Robin chats with long-time EMC community member, Elisabeth Simmons. Once a student at EMC, now a Team Member and EMC parent, Elisabeth has experienced our culture from multiple angles. The conversation meanders from what the performing arts experience did for Elisabeth as a young person, to where her dance studio training led her, wrapping up in a full circle moment where she is now contributing to curriculum development and stage managing our productions. House Keeping Segment Notes: Our EMC housekeeping segment finishes at 23:16 and the episode with Robin and Elisabeth will begin then. We talk about our Spring Concert Theme, the return of Erica Bull, our Summer Schedule release and when costume payments are due, the last day to register to Dance as a Performer in the Pullo Spring Concert, welcoming our new Dance Company members, sharing more about our new Showstopper format, and reminders on our upcoming Imagine That! Moana Event and Open Gym. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Robin sits down with long-time friend and dance educator, Jeffrey Gunshol, to discuss how his students have benefitted from performing arts training over the years, and tells tales about how a dance education builds character traits that carry young people confidently into the future. JEFFREY GUNSHOL Jeffrey Gunshol has danced with many different artists including, Liz Lerman, Mark Dendy, Melanie Stewart, and Kattie Duck and collaborated with Vincent Cacalano, Adrienne Clancy, Reggie Crump, Stephanie George, and Michaela Cannon. He began dancing at the Baltimore School for the Arts then headed to New York City and attended Alvin Ailey American Dance Center. He pursued his undergraduate degree at Virginia Commonwealth University and after graduation started dancing with Dendy Dance. Following his work with Mark Dendy, he began to teach, choreograph, and dance for Liz Lerman for five years. He moved to Amsterdam to work with Vincent Cacalano. While abroad he was a guest artist with Magpie Music and Dance, created his own work, did long term projects with Danish choreographer Eric Pold, and Dutch choreographer Martin Butler. He received his Masters in Dance from the University of Utah. After leaving Utah he taught at East Carolina University for a year before coming to Tulane. He is a 2004 recipient of the Weiss Presidential Fellowship for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching at Tulane University. Listen to Jeffrey and Robin chat on the DSO Connect podcast: Preparing Our Students For College Dance Programs House Keeping Segment Notes: Our EMC housekeeping segment finishes at 17:05 and the episode with Robin and Jeffrey will begin then. We talk about and New Year Energy at EMC, The Musical Experience changes, our upcoming Imagine That! Events, Open Gym, and the Big Reveal for our Spring Show. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for a housekeeping segment where we chat: Show Recap: Stories (both highs and lows) of EMC Performing Arts' Holiday Celebration Sparkle Days: What they are and when they are running When Classes Resume Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

In today’s episode, Robin chats with Deborah Engerman about how dance training has helped her students grow into the very best versions of themselves. DEBORAH ENGERMAN Returning to the United States after touring Europe as Ballet Mistress with "Rock The Ballet," Deborah Engerman took on the role of Director of Maryland Classical Dance Academy, along with teaching at Charm City Ballet, Dance Conservatory of Maryland, and Susquehanna Dance Center. She trained early in life with the Baltimore Ballet under Wendy Robinson in the RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) tradition, passing her graded exams. Her classical studies also include training with Petrus Bosman, David Keener, and Christine Hennessy. Later, while pursuing her BA in International Policy at Dickinson College, she continued her study of classical ballet with the teachers of Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet. Her dance training also includes Vaganova Technique, French Methodology, and the Dance Education Program at Towson University. Mrs. Engerman has staged ballets to include the Nutcracker and Swan Lake, Act II. Dancers trained by Mrs. Engerman have earned professional contracts and danced with Universal Ballet, ABT, Complexions, The Washington Ballet, The Vienna Opera Ballet, the Boston Ballet, Nashville Ballet, Ballet Inc, Texture Ballet, Hubbard Street, and on Broadway. She has also been a coach to dancers succeeding at numerous international ballet competitions, such as The Prix de Lausanne, the Varna IBC, and The Youth America Grand Prix. Her student, Adrienne Canterna, took the Junior Gold Medal at the 1998 Jackson USA International Ballet Competition. In August 2023, Mrs. Engerman published her first book, Let’s Talk About Fifth: Teaching Ballet in the Twenty-First Century. Find it Here. She is currently happy to continue training dancers in MD and PA while living with her husband and two dogs in South Central PA. House Keeping Segment Notes: Our EMC housekeeping segment finishes at 18:50 and the episode with Robin and Deborah will begin then. We talk about and recap the Rockette Masterclass, Production for our Holiday Celebration, the upcoming Photo Shoot, and good news for the Pullo (and EMC). Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Get to know EMC Performing Arts Studio’s preschool dance program director, Britt Mergler, and listen in as we talk about the advantages of a student teacher training program in local studios. Our EMC housekeeping segment finishes at 16:53 and the episode with Robin and Britt will begin then. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

It’s our very first episode! Woo-hoo! Join us as Robin chats with Kathy and Jaime, her left and right hand Team Members who truly make the world go around at our performing arts studio. Jaime and Kathy chat about their roles at EMC and how much they love working in a place where we contribute to and witness the growth of young performers every single day! We also discuss our greater mission as performing arts educators and what it’s really all about! Our EMC housekeeping segment finishes at 28:30 and the episode with Robin, Kathy, and Jaime will begin then. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here