Staff

PETER JONES (President)

Peter Jones is originally from New York where his musical talents were recognized in his Kindergarten class. Thanks to Ms. Lepore at Haverstraw Elementary, Peter made his accompanist debut as he played the Mickey Mouse March for his Kindergarten class at the Spring Revue. Following that performance, he immediately began his piano instruction at the age of 6. Credit should also go to the “player piano” that lived in his family’s living room – many hours spent tricking guests that he was playing when it really was the piano roll while Peter pumped the pedals to keep the roll in tempo!

When Peter’s family decided to make the move to sunny Florida, he continued his piano studies under the instruction of Dale Gudeman, who was also his music teacher at St. Joseph’s Catholic School where he attended through 8th grade. He attended Martin County High School when he was accepted into the internationally acclaimed chorus OPUS under the direction of Ronald Corbin. During high school, he began music directing and accompanying musicals at his high school as well as The Barn Theatre – a local community theatre in Stuart. He continued his musical path at Florida Southern College in Lakeland where he received a scholarship as a Piano and Voice Performance major. At FSC, he was trained to perform as a classical musician, but he continued to lean towards musical theatre where he participated in several performances in the Theatre Department; appearing on stage as well as music directing and “playing in the pit.” Being the typical “starving musician,” Peter worked in Lakeland delivering singing telegrams to giddy office girls. Yes, this really happened!

It was during these years that Peter began to commute between the Treasure Coast and Lakeland performing in both cities, and musical directing shows at The Barn Theatre, Riverside Theatre in Vero Beach and Eissey Theatre in Palm Beach Gardens as well as performing in area churches (St. Joseph’s, Holy Family in PSL, St. Andrew’s and UNITY of Martin County). This is also when Peter began to recognize a serious need for professional level theatre entertainment in Martin County. It did not yet exist.

While performing in JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR at the Barn Theatre, Peter met like-minded individuals who were interested in creating a new theatrical venture for Martin County audiences – Shiloh Theatrical Productions, Inc. was founded.

A few years later, Peter met Jennifer. Like most theatre couples, Peter and Jen met “doing a show.” They met at The Barn Theatre during a production of PIPPIN – a show very special to each of them. In January 2000, Peter and Jennifer formed StarStruck – then known as Peter Jones Entertainment. They both recognized a need for educationally structured theatre training for young actors. Their first production was GUYS AND DOLLS JR that summer. When the show had its final bow in July, the parents asked “when’s the next one?” Enter the birth of BROADWAY KIDS….then many other shows…. until they finally leased a studio on the second floor of a building on Monterey Road where more classes were offered, more productions scheduled.

Within three years, students were clamoring to get into classes at StarStruck and a larger studio with additional space and teachers was needed. StarStruck expanded into a larger studio in downtown Stuart, in June 2006, creating more opportunities for area students to hone their craft. It was at that time that StarStruck travelled to Atlanta, attending the Music Theatre International Junior Festival where they took home won Best Overall Performance, Best Choreography and Direction, Best Musical Direction and Best Technical Presentation. From this notoriety, Jennifer and Peter began to work in tandem with New York based iTheatrics to help create “Junior” and “School Edition” productions with Music Theatre International, the world’s largest musical theatre licensing company.

Since then, Peter has had the privilege to help create student versions of many shows and thus had the opportunity to work with Broadway legends such as Stephen Sondheim (SWEENEY TODD) and Stephen Schwartz (MY SON, PINNOCHIO.) His students have also had the incredible experience of meeting composers as well as Broadway stars such as Laura Bell Bundy (LEGALLY BLONDE) and Paul Canaan (LEGALLY BLONDE, LA CAGE AUX FOLLES).

Most recently, Peter is most proud of StarStruck’s newest expansion….building their very own performance space. StarStruck Performing Arts Center now boasts its own 203 seat theatre complete with lobby, bar, dressing rooms, scenic workshop, costume and set storage as well as state-of-the-art dance studios, acting classrooms, art classrooms and theatre offices. StarStruck hires the highest quality instructors – all currently working professionals in their fields.

Presently, Peter operates StarStruck with his wife Jennifer Jones, StarStruck’s Artistic Director, where he also teaches Musical Theatre classes, Piano and Voice Instruction, Piano Improvisation, Composition, Music Theory and Piano accompaniment. Peter music directs all StarStruck shows and accompanies every musical live for each performance.

Peter is the recipient of the 2007 MARTIE Award for Best Performer from the Martin County Arts Council and he and Jennifer have been featured in numerous newspaper articles and magazines. He is thrilled that the Treasure Coast embraces all that StarStruck has to offer. This is his hometown and he has immense pride and pleasure knowing that the community supports the productions, musical theatre arts and education programs that StarStruck continues to offer.

JENNIFER JONES (Artistic Director)

Originally from New York, Jennifer has performed in and directed countless shows over the past 12 years and is the recent recipient of the 2012 mARTies Award for Outstanding Performing Artist. Favorite directing credits include LEGALLY BLONDE, CHICAGO, LES MISERABLES, SWEENEY TODD, COMPANY, AVENUE Q: Student Edition, and “13, A NEW MUSICAL!” As a performer, favorite roles include Velma from CHICAGO, Joanne from COMPANY and Sally Bowles from CABARET. Jennifer was recently a Speaker at a TEDx conference, educating and enlightening the public on the benefits of theatre for young people. She was awarded Best Direction for ANNIE and ONCE ON THIS ISLAND at the Music Theatre International Conference for two years; and directed the Florida State premiere of the musical, SUMMER of ’42. Jennifer Jones has worked with composers Stephen Schwartz and Stephen Sondheim on the student versions of Sweeney Todd, Flat Stanley Jr. and Geppetto and Son, all of which had their world premier's right here in Stuart. She has brought theatre legends Laura Bell Bundy, Paul Canaan and Stephen Schwartz to StarStruck Performing Arts Center to work with her students, and offers StarStruck’s beautiful theatre as a venue for new playwrights, such as Santino DeAngelo, to test their work. Jennifer received her BS from Simmons College in Boston, and her Master’s from Queens College in New York. She currently teaches musical theatre, acting and audition technique at StarStruck. She is thrilled to see so many of her students continuing their passion for theatre by studying at prestigious theatre programs across the country, teaching at well respected performing arts centers and performing in Broadway shows.

MARIA-ELENA ALFIERI (Choreographer & Dance Instructor)

Maria-Elena Alfieri’s dance education began with Anna-Marie & Sonny Leo in her home town of Wilmington, Delaware. During 10 years in New York City, she studied with Madame Gabriela Darvash, David Howard, Robert Blankshine, Michael Vernon, Frank Hatchett, Bob Rizzo, Chris Chadman, Chet Walker, Germaine Salsberg and Germaine Goodson. A true dance specialist, Maria-Elena has taught over 20 years of Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Pointe, Contemporary, Swing, Salsa, and Tango to hundreds of students in New York, Delaware and California. She holds certifications in Pilates, Yoga and continues to update her education in Biomechanics, Anatomy and joint specific Physics. Maria-Elena performed her own adagio act with her husband, Joe Marso, and still maintains an Aerial Arts practice coached by Eugene Baranok of Florida Circus School. Most of all, Maria-Elena is honored to join the brilliant staff here at StarStruck, as all her shimmering experiences under the spotlight cannot replace the joy of instructing a student.

CHRISTINE BARCLAY (Theatre Arts/Stage Manager)

Christine joins StarStruck straight from New York City! Originally from the Boston area of Massachusetts, Chris received her BA in Theatre with a double concentration in Performance and Direction from Muhlenberg College in Pennsylvania. Chris has been singing, dancing, and acting since she was 3, but took a strong interest in teaching and directing early on. With the inspiration of a family full of talented performers, teachers, and directors, Chris founded and directed drama programs at surrounding elementary schools starting when she was only in the 8th grade. In addition to her performance credits (including Pistache, Can Can and Kim Macafee, Bye Bye Birdie) Chris has now directed, choreographed, and stage managed over 45 productions throughout Massachusetts, Maine, Pennsylvania, and New York. In NYC, Chris worked as a Director/Choreographer for Tada! Youth Theatre, choreographed and taught dance for the Lucy Moses School at the Kaufman Center, was a resident member of the theatre faculty for the Rodeph Sholom School in Manhattan, performed with the Gallery Players of Brooklyn, and directed multiple productions at theatres and schools including The Looking Glass theatre, Kew Forest School, and the Manhattan School for Children. A certified Zumba instructor and experienced conflict resolution counselor, Chris is a strong believer in the role that theatre arts can play in maintaining a healthy and positive lifestyle for both an individual and for a community. Favorite directorial credits include; Annie Jr., Into the Woods Jr., The Bear, the Odyssey, You're a Good Man Charlie Brown, A New Life, and Guys and Dolls Jr.

CHRIS EVANS (Set Design/Construction)

Chris Evans is a New Yorker who went to the University of North Carolina at Wilmington where he received a BA in scenic design and where, for over 7 years, was the scene shop foreman. Co-founder and production designer of B.U.M.P. Productions in North Carolina, he has spent the past 20 years working in television, film and theatre. His work includes HBO promos, Dawson’s Creek, Elmo in Grouchland, as well as designing sets for more than 50 plays including Singin’ in the Rain, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Chapter two and most recently StarStruck’s LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, HAIRSPRAY JR, LEGALLY BLONDE and OKLAHOMA.

STEVE HOEVERTSZ (Guitar Instructor)

Originally a professional guitarist from New York City, Steve Hoevertsz has moved his talents to Stuart, Florida. Steve works extensively with area bands and does session work in a variety of styles. An alumnus of Berklee College of Music in Boston, Steve combines energy, enthusiasm and flair to create a unique soundscape. Steve has over 15 years of private instruction experience teaching children and adults.. Extensive performance credits including a long list of bands, recording projects, studio sessions and NY Broadway experience. Steve’s roster of bands he has been involved with as a lead guitarist, songwriter and producer over the years are quite extensive and include Mother Mary, an alt. Pop/ group garnering one CD, I have a garden released on Mesh Records label followed by national tour including the Canadian Music Festival. Flavor Sergeant was his next endeavor in the early 2000’s, a hard alternative rock national touring band with one CD under their belt, Flavor Sergeant . Steve’s musical talents have even brought him together with Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees in 2007 at Aruba Stadium in front of 5000 people. He currently plays with The Critters (2010- present) and can be heard on their latest CD , Timepieces. Steve’s theatre credits include Altar Boyz (2005 - 2007) , Once around the Sun (2005), Trailer Park Musical (2005 ), Automatic Superstar (2004 - 2006) and Sandra Bernhardt (2010).

JAMIE KASSLER (Summer Film Workshop Instructor)

Jamie is an award-winning filmmaker, designer and performer from Upstate New York. His movies have screened in film festivals across the nation, such as the Newport Beach, Heartland, Rochester International & Black Maria Film Festival, where he received a "Director's Choice Award". He attended SUNY New Paltz for his undergraduate studies, double majoring in Acting and Theatre Design. He went on to earn his MFA in Theatre Design at Florida State University, and a second MFA in Film Production from the FSU College of Motion Picture Arts. Jamie was soon hired at Digital Domain Media Group, working in Story Development and Editorial on the Animated Feature "The Legend of Tembo". He also started working for ReachTV, a character-building program for schools, where he currently serves as Creative Producer and Contributing Filmmaker. Jamie has previously worked with kids of all ages at SAMBICA Camp near Seattle, creating fun, memorable videos for campers each week. While serving as a lead photographer at SWI Photography Studio, Jamie specialized in High School portraiture, and his work was frequently showcased. He also taught Tap, Hip Hop and Percussive Dance to students at Choreo Dance Studio in NY. On the side, Jamie currently serves in music performance, youth mentoring and multimedia at Calvary Church in Jupiter, FL. He is grateful to work with the inspirational students and staff at StarStruck who share his passion for education and the arts.

JESSICA MARTINEZ (Administrative Assistant/Choreographer & Dance Instructor)

Jessica began dancing in Phoenix, Arizona at the age of 4 years old, and by the age of 8 was competing regionally and nationally. She continued to be a competitive dancer in all areas of dance winning many trophies, awards, and recognition. At 21, she began to teach dance. She trained and became certified in Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Musical Theater and Hip Hop. She is hoping to continue training in “Zumba” and will be completing her certification with Dance Educators of America in the future. Jessica is dedicated to improving the education of students, as well as furthering the professional and ethical standards in the performing arts and dance in all its forms.

JOE MARSO (House Manager/Gymnastic Instructor)

Joe Marso began gymnastics at the University of California, Santa Barbara under both Art Aldritt and Mircea Badulescu. Soon afterward, he was invited to assist the UCSB PA Gymnastic program. He coached levels 1-10 Club Kids,cheerleading and tumbling classes for both Dos Pueblos and Carpinteria High Schools at Spirals Gymnastics Club. Joe is a Biomechanics Specialist who has been practicing Muscle Activation Techniques since 2004. In 1999, he earned two separate Pilates Certifications. He most recently became a Licensed Massage Therapist.

MELANIE STEINKE (Piano & Voice Instructor)

Melanie Steinke made her debut with the Columbus, Ohio Symphony Orchestra as a soloist for many major works, including the Mozart Requiem, Vivaldi’s Gloria, the Rutter Magnificat, and many others. Her many performances have included roles in Carmen, The Sound of Music, Oklahoma!, Carnival, and many guest solo appearances with the St. Lucie Chorale and Palm Beach Opera Orchestra. In Columbus she also accompanied many choral groups and musicals at Capital University, including children’s operas Noah’s Flood and The Little Sweep, as well as major works such as Carmina Burana. Locally, she works as an accompanist for musicals, concerts, churches, and recitals throughout the area. A native of Columbus, Ohio, Melanie Steinke completed her formal music studies at the Capital University Conservatory of Music in Columbus, Ohio. Whether on stage singing a role, in the orchestra pit playing piano, or in the studio working with voice and piano students, Melanie is at home on the Treasure Coast.

MATT MCCLURE (PR & Operations)

Matt is thrilled to be part of the StarStruck family! A lifelong performer, Matt’s career has included news anchor, reporter, host, actor and musician. He is the recipient of several Associated Press Awards, including Best Anchor/Reporter in Georgia for 2007, and was seen for several years in the New York City area as host of the newsmagazine show Currents on the cable channel NET. Matt studied Journalism at Gainesville State College and acting at New York’s prestigious HB Studio. Favorite stage credits include the world premiere of Oswald in NYC (Leavelle), Forever Plaid (Smudge), The Fantasticks (El Gallo), Altar Boyz (Voice of God), Annie (Bert Healy/Drake), The Sound of Music (Franz/Von Schreiber), and The Pirates of Penzance (Pirate/Policeman).

JOSH RHETT NOBLE (Acting Instructor/PR & Operations)

A New York theatre veteran, Josh studied Musical Theatre at the University of Miami’s prestigious Frost School of Music and is best known for his critically acclaimed portrayal of “Gaston” in Disney’s Beauty & the Beast in theatres across the country. The recent recipient of the 2011 BROADWAYWORLD AWARD for “Best Actor in a Musical”, Josh is the veteran of over 50 professional productions. Recent New York credits include: the world premiere of Oswald (Agent Hosty), Carnegie Hall debut with the Scarsdale Wind Ensemble, and Rockers on Broadway at BB Kings. Other credits include: Altar Boyz (Matthew/Cleveland & Atlanta regional premieres), Company (Bobby), Forever Plaid (Sparky), Camelot (Lancelot), Godspell (Judas), The Pajama Game (Sid), The Fantasticks (Matt), Jekyll & Hyde (Stride), Guys & Dolls (Sky), The Music Man (Harold), Grease (Kenickie) and Lend Me A Tenor (Max). Josh recently directed StarStruck’s smash hits NUNSENSE, FOREVER PLAID, LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, 9 TO 5, ALTAR BOYZ and is a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association. More info: www.JoshRhettNoble.com