Teaching Artists

Being a CYT Teaching Artist is both a privilege and a challenge. You will be working with parents and students of various ages and backgrounds who have one basic thing in common – they want to be involved in children’s theater in a vibrant, uplifting, inclusive environment, and they want to have fun while doing it!

It is CYT’s belief that an enthusiastic, positive, well-organized teacher who has a love for theater and a love for children will be able to make a difference in the lives of children and families in our community. 

Basic Function:
To train and instruct students in a specified area of competence in such a way as to promote the development of character, self-esteem, and confidence.

Qualifications:
  • Must understand CYT's Mission Statement and Values and Objectives and be willing to incorporate them when performing job-related tasks.
  • Must have theater experience and/or education pertaining to class being taught.
  • Must show evidence of ability to use appropriate and effective methods of instruction.
Operational Tasks:
  • Maintain a current application and updated employee information as requested by the Managing Director.
  • Plan a syllabus for the class, which meets the CYT Curriculum standards, and submit by email to the Coordinator no later than two weeks before classes begin, or as soon after employment as possible.
  • Maintain regular attendance.
  • Arrive to class at least 15 minutes early each week; do not leave class until all students have left.
  • Instruct students in designated area of competence, as contracted.
  • Read weekly Teacher Notes and communicate CYT business to students.
  • Support all CYT-related activities, including ticket contests and fundraisers.
  • Plan and direct a quality Showcase of class accomplishments.
  • Be a positive role model for all students at all times.
. . . in other words . . . A Great CYT Teacher . . .
  • Starts on time with a BANG!
    Always start on time and do something that the kids will not want to miss.

  • Has too-oo much to cover!
    Always be overly prepared and have too many activities to accomplish in one class period. Make sure the activities have a purpose and relate to theater arts. No Heads Up Seven Up!

  • Knows everyone by name!
    By the end of the second week, call every student by his or her first name.

  • Shows personal interest in every student!
    Ask students questions about themselves, their families, their interests, etc. Ask lots of questions. Notice when a student is absent; make phone call to follow up.

  • Stands Up!
    Never sit down. Stay on your feet and show alertness, readiness, and energy.

  • Is a Leader!
    You’re the boss, the leader, the one who is in control. Make sure you stay on task and lead with authority. If you don’t know the answer, admit it and then find out! Maintain a professional distance from your students. Remember: You are the teacher and they are the students, even when you’re not teaching!

  • Is “Plugged In”!
    Enthusiasm is contagious! Keep personal problems personal. When you walk into the classroom you are the greatest actor of all and must be energetic and on fire!

  • Is Positive!
    Give students lots of positive feedback - personal, behavior, and performance feedback! Teach, mentor, and believe in every student! Be honest and encouraging at all times!

  • Goes for the Gold!
    Expect excellence for and from your class. Have high goals and expect students to achieve them. Don’t settle for mediocrity.

  • Has Fun!
    If you’re having fun, so will your students. Make sure all students learn something about theater, make lots of friends, and have fun!

  • Touches a Life!
    Ask God to use you in the lives of you students. Pray for them. You have a greater impact than you think you have. CYT students look up to you - they are searching for a hero. Be one!
Teaching Artist Application

Artistic Team Members

Artistic Team Members must:
  • Have proficiency, passion and past experience in their expertises:
    • Director must know and love theater and know the various aspects of mounting a major production. They must know how to motivate actors, create stage lookbooks to guide parent volunteers, inspire cast and crew and lead the entire company to reach their vision.
    • The Assistant Director must help the director achieve their vision while helping ensure that all students are seen and have special moments on stage.
    • Musical Director must know how to read music (and play to some extent) and teach rhythm, melodies and harmonies.
    • Choreographer must know and love to teach various styles of dance and be able to tell a story with movement and dance.
  • Love children, love working with children, and love to see growth in the lives of every individual child involved in the production, regardless of their roles.
  • Be strong moral role models. The children look up to these individuals and the responsibility of being exemplary cannot be overstated.
  • Be Enthusiastic and encouraging. People always respond better to someone who is positive. Someone who consistently encourages and gives positive reinforcement or will accomplish much more than a leader who is negative, sarcastic and harsh.
  • Demand and strive for excellence. Artistic Team members must not be satisfied with mediocrity. They must be willing to put in the extra time and effort to make sure that a production is the best it can be all things considered
  • Be a team player. They must be excited and willing to work with other people on their artistic team. Each member must be committed to negotiation, compromise and submission to each other for the harmony of the entire process.
  • Submissive to authority. Each person on the Artistic Team must be willing to submit to the guidelines of CYT and the Show Coordinator/Stage Manager. The Show Coordinator and Stage Manager have the final say on issues that may arise. Because the Coordinators know the families, the parents, and the facilities, these staff are the constant thread that holds the CYT program together from session to session.
Artistic Team/Intern Application

Current Staff Members:

Ashlie Driver

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Ashlie’s family has been heavily involved with CYT/CCT since her daughter was invited by a friend to attend the Newsies camp in the summer of 2013. From that point on, they were hooked! Over the years, Ashlie has served as Director, Vocal Director and Teacher for our shows, camps and classes. She is honored and humbled to serve as Executive Director for CYT Houston because she is a firm believer in the mission of Claiming the Arts for Christ! She works to provide quality programming, polices and procedures for the CYT Houston families. In addition, Ashlie has worked in Worship and Music ministry for over 20 years and taught choir and music at both the elementary and high school level for 10 years. She is currently the Music Director for Klein United Methodist Church. Ashlie has a Bachelor of Music in Music Studies from the University of Texas at Austin and a Masters in Music Education with Choral Conducting Emphasis from the University of Houston.

Beth Stevenson

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
My family found CYT in the summer of 2017 when my son attended the Beauty and the Beast Summer Stock camp. My son auditioned for his first show a few weeks later and we have not stopped since. We were welcomed with loving arms and quickly became part of the CYT family. I have a Masters Degree in Accounting from Texas A&M University and have over 20 years of accounting and audit experience. I love all things musical theater and I LOVE to sing! I am blessed to be part of this organization and to serve your family.

Mary Ramsower

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT DIRECTOR
Mary's family has been a part of CYT Houston since the Spring of 2008. She began working as the Summer Camp Coordinator, and over the years she took on roles as Show Coordinator, Class Coordinator, and Managing Director. She has worn almost every administrative hat at CYT Houston, and she is our branch Historian as well! Mary has 2 sons who both aged out of CYT, and their whole family still serves CYT whenever possible. In her "spare" time, Mary is a Texas Master Naturalist, with a focus on native Texas plants and pollinators, and an fierce lover of Shih Tzu puppies!

Julie Broussard

EDUCATION DIRECTOR
My journey with CYT Houston began in Fall 2022 when my daughters auditioned for their first production. That experience was truly impactful and sparked a deep connection to the organization’s mission. Since then, I have served as both a Show Coordinator and Teaching Artist, supporting students in their artistic and personal development across multiple productions and showcases. Through these roles, I have witnessed firsthand the powerful impact theatre can have on young people. I bring a lifelong passion for the arts, with involvement in dance and theatre productions beginning in childhood. I strongly believe in the educational and psychological benefits of live theatre, particularly its ability to cultivate confidence, empathy, collaboration, and resilience. Professionally, I am an experienced educator with over 10 years in the field, dedicated to fostering student growth through both academic and creative pathways. I hold a master’s degree in psychology and am also a Certified Family Life Educator. I have previously served as an Early Childhood Director and educator. I am currently pursuing an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in Educational Psychology, further strengthening my ability to support diverse learners and implement meaningful, research-based practices. I deeply value CYT Houston’s commitment to providing a safe, Christ-centered environment for students and staff, and I am grateful to be part of this community. I am a proud wife to my husband, Aaron, and mother to three daughters—Aubrey, Brielle, and Clara—who bring immense joy and perspective to my life. They continually inspire my commitment to investing in the growth and development of young people. I am truly honored and excited to serve in this role and to contribute to the continued growth and excellence of the program. I look forward to collaborating with leadership and staff, supporting the mission and vision of the organization, and helping to cultivate an environment where both students and staff can thrive. It is especially meaningful to me to invest in the development of young people, and I am eager to support and guide students as they grow in their gifts, talents, and confidence—both on stage and in their everyday lives.

Stacy Hamsher

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
We began our CYT journey in the summer of 2022 when my family and I decided to participate in CCT's production of Mary Poppins. We were all hooked! Theatre has always been a passion of mine, from putting on my own mini productions in my living room as a child, all the way through high school and into college. I have taught theatre for almost 10 years through CYT and at the collegiate level. I have served CYT as a Show Coordinator, a Stage Manager, a Choreographer and a Teaching Artist in a variety of classes. I have a Masters of Arts in Speech Communication and Theatre. I am honored to be able to serve God through my love of theatre and I feel blessed to work with an amazing staff and wonderful CYT families!

Brandon Christian

TECH DIRECTOR
Howdy! I love all things music from performing to the production side. I've been in musical productions from elementary to Atascocita High School along with being in tech production since I was 12. I've also been on church worship staffs as a worship leader and production director and have been involved in large-scale church productions. I love being a part of this amazing CYT family. There's no other theater company like it!

Kristie Erwin

HOUSTON (Klein) CLASS COORDINATOR
CYT has been an integral part of our family since 2016 when my daughter attended her first summer camp. She has participated in countless classes, shows, camps, and events with CYT Houston since that time and our family has been beyond blessed through the process. I believe strongly in the mission and values of CYT and how they affect young people’s lives. I have served as a parent volunteer and often a committee chair for over 20 shows and am very excited to take on the role of Houston Class Coordinator. I hope in this role to share the wonderful world of theater in a God-centered environment where all are valued, and growth is treasured.

Jen Shoemake

EAST (Kingwood) CLASS COORDINATOR
My journey with CYT began in 2015 when my then 7-year-old son was invited to CYT's production of Honk! at the Crighton Theater. He was enthralled with every aspect of the show and at that moment a theater kid was born; and in turn, a theater mom! In the last six years I have served the organization as a committee member and Chair, an Artistic Team intern, a teacher, a camp and show coordinator and am now honored to be the East Class Coordinator! The stage floor under my feet is my favorite place to be, and I am so excited to continue serving CYT's children and their families in this role. Helping children Claim the Arts for Christ is a true gift.

Cindy Sommers

NORTH (Magnolia) CLASS COORDINATOR & STAGE MANAGER
Our family began their CYT journey when Evann attended a Summer camp in 2019 and we have been hooked since then. I grew up with music all around me - playing piano and singing in church, at concerts with my Dad and continued with choir and drama in high school. My husband, Christopher, is musical as well, playing guitar and making up some fun lyrics to songs with Evann. I have served on numerous show committees, coordinated a couple of Summer Stocks and volunteered any chance I could with my CYT family. I feel very blessed to be able to work closely with our amazing teachers as we claim the arts for Christ and connect with current and new students and their families as Class Coordinator.

Lacy Billings

SHOW COORDINATOR & DAY CAMP COORDINATOR
Lacy is a lifelong theater kid with her love for theater beginning in high school. After high school, she went on to perform in a number of plays in college. Beyond her theater experience, Lacy was in banking for 10 years and has been involved in youth and children’s ministry for the majority of her adult life, working as a staff member and most recently as a children’s minister. But, her favorite job is being a stay-at-home/homeschooling mom of two hilarious kids! Her family found CYT in the spring of 2019 while looking for a small fun activity. Multiple classes, a few shows, and tons of friends later, Lacy can say she and the kiddos have not only found the fun activity but a loving community. She is excited to put her passion for Jesus, teaching, and theater together!

Hannah Watson

MARKETING MANAGER, SHOW COORDINATOR & STAGE MANAGER
Hannah's journey with CYT started in 2010 as a student and since then she has worn all the hats, from teacher, to intern, to assistant director and director. Hannah loves the unique opportunity that CYT provides to share her love of Jesus and theatre with the coolest kids around. She truly believes there is no better organization to be a part of, as a student or an adult. When Hannah is not at CYT she is home with her baby girls, anxiously awaiting the day they can join her on the stage!

Courtney Body

GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Courtney, a proud CYT Houston alum, is delighted to serve the organization that first sparked her love for theater arts. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in General Studies with an emphasis in art and design from Texas A&M University in 2019, then moved to Orlando to perform at Walt Disney World. In time, the Lord led her home to the Spring area and back into the CYT Houston community. Today, in addition to this role, she also serves as the Communications Manager for a large church where she blends her creativity with her passion for ministry.

Amy Moore

SHOW COORDINATOR
Our CYT journey began a little over a year ago with my daughter's first Sumerstock camp and performance, and we knew we were hooked from there on out! My daughter is the lover of the stage while I love all things Jesus, kiddos, teaching and FUN! It is my pleasure and JOY to serve, but especially to be able serve as a show coordinator with CYT as I help the teams, families and students navigate through each show that I coordinate. I pray that I am of great help to those around me and that I can impact the arts for Christ through CYT and each family that I meet. Can't wait to see you!

Amy Kerne

STAGE MANAGER
Our CYT experience, in a word? “Fulfilling”. All I could hope for, as a parent of two young children, was to find an activity that they enjoyed, one that taught them life-lessons (and life-skills)...and, if possible, one that my husband and I also found engaging. CYT Houston has become a home away from home for my girls, and has filled a space in my own life that I didn’t know was missing until we began this wonderful journey. I am always happy to talk about what CYT means to my family, and I am excited to serve our families.

Carol Neill

SHOW COORDINATOR & STAGE MANAGER
“Awkwardly closer than family” is definitely the perfect phrase to describe CYT. My family started participating in CYT with a summer camp in 2013. Through the years my kids have participated in numerous shows, teen camps, and classes. I found my place working backstage in Props. For several years I taught classes from beginning to advanced Props, and also held the position of Production Team Coordinator-Props for the area. I have also worked Props for our CCT shows, as well as other local theatre groups. My love of all things musical theatre led me to interning on several CYT shows, eventually directing my first show, School House Rock Jr in 2022. Fast forward a few more shows both Directing and Assistant Directing, here we are. Working with the kids and being part of their journey is always inspiring. I am looking forward to starting this path working back stage with not only the cast, but the crew of parents that help bring these shows to life. See you from the wings!

Cat Whatley

SHOW COORDINATOR
Cat's journey with CYT started in the summer of 2018 when her daughter attended CYT camp and they have not ever looked back. She holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University. Cat taught 5-8th Grade Orchestra and was active in her HS theater, choir, and orchestra programs. She and her husband, Wes, have four kids, two of whom are active in CYT. Cat is passionate about the arts and their ability to impact the lives of children. She is excited to help CYT claim the arts for Christ and to continue her journey with CYT as a Show Coordinator.

Christina Tran

SHOW COORDINATOR
My daughter has been involved with CYT since 2018, and we haven’t stopped since. Over the years, I’ve had the joy of serving in many different roles — from greenroom to props to show assistant and coordinator. Each role has given me a front‑row seat to the incredible growth, creativity, and faith of our students. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to serve with CYT and to watch kids grow not only in their love for theatre, but in their love for Christ through the musical arts. Being part of their journey — cheering them on, supporting their gifts, and watching them shine — is one of my greatest blessings.

Jennifer Lopez

SHOW COORDINATOR
Jennifer’s family has been a part of CYT Houston since the Summer of 2021. It all started when her daughter attended an Under the Sea Day Camp and, fast forward a few years later, her husband and two sons are also now involved! Jennifer and her family have been a part of almost 20 shows and she is honored to have had the opportunity to serve as a parent volunteer on various committees, help as show assistant numerous times, and become a show coordinator. She is also assistant class coordinator in Kingwood. CYT has been a such a blessing for her and her family and is now what she lovingly calls her “Chosen Family”. “Think of ways to encourage one another to outbursts of love and good deeds.” Hebrews 10:24

Lauren Zindler

SHOW COORDINATOR
My sister's family has been part of CYT since 2021, and after watching my nephew perform in his first show in April 2023, I quickly fell in love with the heart of CYT. Wanting to be part of this incredible community, I began volunteering in greenroom during Wonka in Fall 2024. Serving children in a Christ like way is something I am truly passionate about, so I continued volunteering for many productions, even those my nephew was not in. The relationships I have built with students, families, and volunteers have made CYT feel like home. I am excited to now serve on staff as a Show Coordinator, where I have the privilege of helping our team, families, and students navigate the journey from auditions to closing night. Building connections, encouraging others, and helping families feel supported are some of my greatest joys. If we have not met yet, I cannot wait to get to know you and be part of your CYT journey!

Lexie Hutson

STAGE MANAGER
My journey with CYT started in the Fall of 2025, when I worked as an Intern for Elf Jr. It didn’t take me long to realize that CYT was an incredible place that I definitely wanted to make a part of my life! I have a Bachelor’s Degree in English from Texas A&M University, and I work full time as a 9th grade English teacher. When I’m not working, you’re likely to find me working at a light board, teaching a drama class, or playing with my cats! I am truly blessed to be able to work with CYT! 1 Peter 4:8

Meg Burke

SHOW COORDINATOR
Meg loves to be part of the CYT Houston family! Her family moved from Canada to Texas 15 years ago and found CYT as an uplifting place for their family to grow. They have been part of 15 shows where Meg has served as chair on various committees, summer camp coordinator and show coordinator. She is so thankful for the opportunity to be part of helping youth develop and grow their love for God and theatre. “So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ.” Ephesians 3:17-18

Victoria Tonsfeldt

SHOW COORDINATOR & STAGE MANAGER
Victoria’s involvement with CYT Houston began in 2020, when she auditioned for CCT’s Beauty and the Beast. The experience was unforgettable, and she has been hooked ever since! Victoria has performed on stage for as long as she can remember, performing in choirs, musicals, plays, and operas! In recent years, she has begun working behind the scenes as an artistic team member. It is one of the greatest joys of her life to work with the students of CYT. She adores teaching and mentoring them, but most of all, the biggest blessing is watching students grow in relationship with God and with each other.

David Horn

HYPE ADVISOR
David Brooks Horn is a professional opera singer, director, and teacher, having performed with Houston Grand Opera for 12 years, and has even sung at Carnegie Hall. He has starred in numerous musicals and always enjoys the fellowship and fun. He has also been an instructor with CYT since 2009, and has directed many musicals with CYT through the years. He is currently the HYPE Adviser, and an Elementary Music Teacher and Choir Director. He is also the Contemporary Worship Leader at St. Dunstan's Episcopal. He is married to his beautiful wife, Diana, who is the Costume Director for CYT, and father to his son, Lucius.

Maddie Yardley

HYPE ADVISOR
Maddie joined CYT in 2014 when she participated in the Newsies summer camp, and a few months later performed in Mary Poppins, her first show! During that show, she met several of her closest friends, and her love for theater began! After performing in 15 shows and aging out in 2020, Maddie pursued her nursing degree at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, got married to her favorite guy, and now works as a labor and delivery nurse. When not at her big girl job, she loves being on artistic teams and creating a fun, encouraging space for all the kiddos to try new things and express their love for the arts. CYT has always been a family endeavor for Maddie, so she feels so blessed to continue to get to claim the arts for Christ with the people she loves most! Psalm 100:1-2 “Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs.”

Diana Horn

COSTUMER
Diana has been sewing since she was 4 years old. She has garnered numerous associates degrees from Houston Community College in Costuming and Design. She has been volunteering with CYT Houston since 2010-2011 season, and was then offered a staff position in January of 2014. She is married to the HYPE Advisor David Horn, and their son, Lucius, loves attending all the CYT shows and camps! She is very blessed to have this position and loves what she does.

Nate Clark

SETS WAREHOUSE MANAGER
Nate has been a part of CYT since his first show in 2010. He grew up performing on stage, but began additionally working on set pieces and in the backstage crew at the age of 13. He considers it a blessing to use his God-given skills to serve his CYT family! Since 2019, Nate has also cherished the opportunity to pass on his backstage knowledge to eager students through camps and classes. He currently works full time as a handyman, and is excited to put his design degree to use by keeping CYT’s set warehouse and workshop functioning efficiently! Colossians 3:23

Maddie Driver

PROPS WAREHOUSE MANAGER & SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Madeline Driver is a CYT Houston Alum. After nine years of being a CYT student, she immediately began teaching and directing summer stocks and camps. With a BFA in Musical Theater from Rider University, Maddie is also a private performance coach where she teaches both voice and acting techniques. She has also been on the Improv team as a student and serves as the Improv coach for Apex. Her love for the theater doesn’t stop at performance. Maddie has also been heavily involved in the backstage aspects of theatre since high school, and she loves to work with CYT where she made her lifelong friends and developed her love for all things theater.