Herstory: Female Changemakers for Women’s History Month
Today is the first day of Women’s History Month. While we honor femme Changemakers of the past, I would also like to present the present class!
There are so many more womxn to include, but I chose this group for what they’ve created during the pandemic.
I invite you to keep me posted on what you’re creating (so that I can celebrate you), as well as add to the list in the comments!
Kathryn Allison
From Broadway to the board room, Kathryn is a Changemaker.
She’s already performed on New York’s biggest stages: Broadway’s Aladdin, Wicked, and Company, as well as solo concerts at Joe’s Pub and 54 Below. Her long-awaited debut solo album, Something Real, is now available on all platforms.
What I love most about Kathryn is how she uses her powerful voice in other areas. She is a Board Member of CLOTH: Community League of the Heights, and a vocal activist for POC, LGBTQIA+, and body positivity. Check out her latest production below.
Reflections of Queer Love Pt:1
Conceived by Kathryn Allison
Co-Direction by Kathryn Allison and Ashton Muñiz
Creative Consulting by Pascale Florestal
In partnership with Legacy: A Black Queer Production Collective
Ioana Alfonso
Actor, dancer, director, wellness coach, entrepreneur, and mom, Ioana Alfonso is a fierce creator. Whether on stage, on the creative team, getting creative on social media, or taking care of her family, Ioana is always full out and full of love.
I wanted to celebrate her recent #5DaysOfLove on Instagram: including incredible conversations with her Changemaker colleagues.
Sierra Boggess
What can I say? Sierra is a Lightworker. She is constantly inspiring through example and leadership.
I love my friend and LOVE watching her continue to hone her figure skating, as well as ballet and yoga practices.
Sierra raises her voice and uses her platform to make a difference. Until we get to see her LIVE on stage again, I would suggest you follow to stay informed, inspired, and entertained.
Meg Bussert
Following an award-winning Broadway career, Meg Bussert became NYU’s leading lady—guiding students in acting and musical theatre for the last 18 years. She’s also a founding member in the Musical Theatre Educators Alliance: shaping the future of musical theatre.
If you’re looking for a star to inspire and guide you, Meg is someone to know and follow. She continues to act in theatre, television and film, but also offers masterclasses and private coaching (when available).
A leading Musical Director on Broadway, Mary-Mitchel Campbell is also the Founder and Executive Director of Artists Striving to End Poverty.
ASTEP was conceived by MMC and Juilliard students in 2006 to transform the lives of youth using the most powerful tool they had: their art. Now celebrating 15 years, I don’t know how she does it all—but her leadership is unparalleled and her gifts are abundant.
By donating to ASTEP today, you’re investing in:
High quality visual and performing arts programming through virtual classrooms and curated Art Activity Kits.
Direct relief programs in response to the unique needs of our community partners.
The ASTEP Changemakers Scholarship for Black students pursuing higher education.
Mental health programs for our online community of artists and activists.
Financial and professional support for our incredible team of teaching artists.
Victoria Clark
Perhaps most known for her Tony winning performance in The Light in the Piazza, Victoria Clark is also a director, writer, master teacher, and mother.
Alongside Laura Osnes and Geraldine Leer, she just appeared in the record-breakingOne Royal Holiday on the Hallmark Channel. Her latest directing project, Love Life at New York City Center, is scheduled to return as soon as safely possible. NYCC released a behind-the-scenes documentary here.
Vicki is currently creating a solo autobiographical play entitled, The Blessing Ring.
Erin Elizabeth Clemons
Most known for her critically acclaimed work as Eliza in Hamilton and Eponine in Les Misérables, Erin Elizabeth Clemons is an American Actor and Singer. Her next production is Smokey Joe’s Cafe at Music Theatre Wichita in April!
What I admire about Erin is her mission to help others feel seen and heard. She is the founder of the #HeartHelpers movement and community on Instagram.
Christine Cole
After owning, operating, and general managing top NYC restaurants for 20 years, Christine Cole founded Flaweless in 2019 to bring world class hospitality into your life and business.
In addition to her work as a chef, sommelier, and hospitality guru, Christine serves as the PTA Co-President of P.S. 234. She’s literally wonder woman!
Christine is currently leading a virtual wine class series highlighting female wine makers: Tour de Femme. You have to option to have wines sent to your doorstep or bring your own!
Marisa Corcoran
Harvard graduate Marisa Corcoran is an actor, copywriter, and business coach. Her work helps clients increase conversions by 60% (or higher) and create uncopyable messages through authentic communication and storytelling.
She is the creator of the wildly popular Copy Chat summit and Copy Confidence Society, a six-month mastermind for coaches and creatives.
Marisa has a heart of gold and gives 1000% to everything she does. If you want to communicate with bigger impact and results, she is someone to follow!
Erin Elizabeth Eichhorn
Actor, Singer, Makeup Artist, and Photographer, Erin Elizabeth Eichhorn expanded her life during the pandemic to become a business owner and Certified Birth Doula!
Founder of Mothers & Art, all packages include prenatal, labor and delivery, and postpartum care. The most unique aspect of working with Erin is the offering of a pregnancy photo session, as well as photography and videography during birth.
Ashlee Espinosa
Actor, educator, creator, coach, and wellness advocate, Ashlee Espinosa is a multi-faceted artist. She believes in reclaiming musical theatre as a device for education and cultural change.
After creating her own YouTube empire through helpful video tutorials, Ashlee has launched her first online course, YouTube for Artists + Educators, to empower and guide you to create your own personal broadcast channel.
Move your brand and business forward with this class act Changemaker!
Jessica Hendy
Broadway leading lady, author, and single mom, Jessica Hendy has transformed her personal story into a memoir and one-woman show. Walking With Bubbles is currently in development with new media underway!
I am deeply proud of my friend for astonishing performances, incredible career, award-worthy parenting, and unstoppable resilience. Looking forward to her voice reaching new heights with this deeply personal work.
Katherine McClintic
Katherine McClintic is brilliant. In two years, she helped increase our revenue by 12% and profit by 34%!
When not dancing or choreographing, Katherine creates an Inbox Dance Party: incredible weekly emails to help you find more flow, joy, and wellness. She's currently testing, then rolling out new offerings to help creative entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Looking forward to the incredible moves and greater impact she will make as CEO!
Sequoia Mulgrave
Founder of DailyMode Studio, Sequoia Mulgrave is a powerhouse digital marketer.
Through her experience with media design (Essence, People, InStyle) and small business marketing (Squarespace, MailChimp, et al.), she has worked with 100+ small businesses and solopreneurs to save time and increase profitability through a "girl's best friend" approach.
She and her team provide goal-driven web design and email marketing strategies. This Monday, March 8th they are presenting For Womxn, By Womxn, a one-day FREE event with Workshops, Fireside Chats, Roundtables, Demonstrations, Q+As and more.
Desi Oakley
Broadway actress, recording artist, and master teacher, Desi Oakley uses her voice to lift others up and inspire the next generation of artists.
Known for her performances in Waitress, Chicago, Wicked, and more, Desi is also an incredible singer-songwriter and inspiring voice on social media.
I’m proud of her for navigating the ups and downs of life and show business with honesty, creativity, and lots of connection!
Tricia Paoluccio
A full-time actor on Broadway, television, and film, Tricia Paoluccio is also a visual artist with botanical collages on handmade paper.
Since starting Modern Pressed Flower in 2016, she’s been commissioned by luminaries in the fashion, publishing, and music industries, as well as interior designers around the country. Her latest gallery was in NYC at the Highline Nine.
The goal of her art is to celebrate the resilience and beauty of wildflowers. As a veteran actor and mother of two boys, I want to celebrate these qualities in Tricia, too!
Liz Player
Liz Player is the Founder, Executive and Artistic Director of The Harlem Chamber Players. An accomplished Clarinetist, she has performed in venues such as Carnegie Hall, CAMI Hall, Merkin Concert Hall and Brooklyn’s Forecast Music.
What I admire about Liz is her ability to lead, manage, and grow her organization. In spite of a global pandemic, The Harlem Chamber Players continues to produce important work, including new digital series providing education on Black history and highlighting modern artists!
Courtney Rioux
Actor, coach, and podcast host, Courtney Rioux is as effervescent as this photo!
A leader in the Chicago arts community, she serves as V.P. of the Chicago SAG-AFTRA board. She can be seen on Chicago Med as well as numerous radio, television, and print campaigns.
Her podcast, The Whole Artist shares conversations about acting, purpose, and the journey to finding wholeness. She is editing a book with the same title.
After dealing with some recent setbacks (not to mention a global pandemic), I’m inspired by Courtney’s resiliency and self-care. I look forward to seeing what she creates next and am honored to call her a friend!
Kristin Roach
Kristin Roach is a Grammy-nominated pianist and international conductor with 37 new operas and 21 world premieres under her baton. A cancer survivor, Roach is also an advocate for holistic health and wellness.
Most recently, Kristin returned to the stage to perform in a special streaming with the San Antonio Symphony.
I am proud of her irrepressible spirit and grateful for her leadership and friendship!
Paula Rossman
Paula Rossman is an American actor, director, producer, and writer.
After creating live theatre, film, and television for 40+ years, her first screenplay, Refractions, has already garnered 27 festival awards and nominations.
Her screen credits extend beyond acting and writing into production. Ms. Rossman is the founder of Wall is the Way: Works; producing and directing several award-winning short films.
I am proud of Paula for her continued growth in all areas and mediums. I’m looking forward to seeing more of her talents and stories on screen!
Cindy Sadler
Currently finishing her M.F.A. in Arts Administration, Cindy Sadler’s eclectic operatic career represents the benchmark of entrepreneurial artistry.
Cindy is the Founder and Executive Director of Spotlight on Opera. Celebrating 15 years, Spotlight provides accessible, meaningful, and transformative opera education and performances.
Most recently, Cindy made her role and company debut as The Mother in The Consul with Dayton Opera and performed her first Sondheim role, Madame Armfeldt in A Little Night Music with Alamo City Opera.
Cindy is a leader and innovator in the field of classical singing. Opera is for everybody, and I highly recommend you check out Spotlight or Cindy to further your craft, career, or company.
Lea Salonga
From her award sweeping performance as Kim in Miss Saigon, to voicing two of the most empowered Disney princesses in song, Lea is an icon of music, television, film, and theatre.
In addition to being the first Asian woman to win a TONY award, Lea was the first Asian performer to play both Éponine and Fantine in Les Misérables—also appearing in the 10th and 25th anniversary concerts.
Most recently celebrating her 50th birthday in quarantine, Lea continues to create and release new music: including philanthropic singles, Billboard hits, and special television events.
I am grateful for her work as a humanitarian and vocal advocate for gay marriage.
Sherie Rene Scott
American actress, singer, writer, producer, and mom, Sherie’s credits are diverse and robust. She is the co-founder of the 3x Grammy award–winning Sh-K-Boom Records and Ghostlight Records, which seeks to preserve original cast albums and solo recordings by Broadway artists.
I am fortunate that I got to see Sherie perform in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Everyday Rapture, The Little Mermaid, and The Front Page. I was also fortunate to work with Sherie on her official website.
An incredible creator, I know the only thing she loves more than storytelling is her son. But Sherie’s maternal nature isn’t limited to her own family. She is a philanthropist supporting Poor People’s Campaign, Nkosi's Haven, and RTA: Rehabilitation Through the Arts.
Angela René Simpson
With a music career spanning 30+ years, Angela Renée Simpson is an internationally acclaimed dramatic Soprano who has performed all over the world, from Carnegie Hall to La Scala.
She is nationally recognized as a top-rated voice teacher, voice over artist, and the host of Juicy Interludes with Angela, presented by Verismo Magazine.
What I love about Angela is her tenacity and discipline. She always shows up and delivers… dressed to the nines, too!
Roma Torre
Two-time Emmy winning journalist (alongside 30+ other awards), Roma Torre is beloved icon of NYC.
She survived Stage 4 Colon Cancer, putting two children through college, and three decades of broadcast journalism—most recently settling a lawsuit against NY1 and Charter Communications.
More important than the resolution, Roma sparked a movement, fighting for equality in the workplace. Alongside four of her colleagues, they brought international awareness to gender and age discrimination in the TV news business.
Roma follows in the tradition of her mother, the late Marie Torre, who gained national attention in a celebrated freedom of the press case. She went to jail for refusing to identify a news source in a dispute involving CBS and Judy Garland. (It was a 10-day sentence.)
Roma now delivers the Broadway Beat on her Instagram: sharing updates on the NYC art scene.
Jen Waldman
Actor, singer, dancer, director, writer, teacher, coach, speaker, facilitator, blogger, podcaster, activist, and mom… Jen Waldman does a lot.
At the heart of her work, she helps people know themselves, so that they can better express themselves; cultivating new ideas and sharing them with the world.
While Jen works with Simon Sinek, YoungArts, NYU, and more, she is perhaps most known for creating the Jen Waldman Studio. JWS is an incredible studio and community. If you’re interested in nurturing your creative voice and technique, you owe it to yourself to check them out. Jen’s blog and podcast are also incredible!
Natalie Weiss
Natalie Weiss gained an international following from her performance videos and popular YouTube web series, "Breaking Down The Riffs," which have collectively reached over 4 million views.
Natalie is one of the most sought-after voices among new musical theatre writers. Her discography is robust, and includes The Greatest Showman, Dear Evan Hansen and The Incredibles 2. Her self-titled EP and duet EP are incredible and available on all platforms.
As a private vocal coach and master class teacher, she trains performers across the US and throughout the world. Most excitingly, Natalie is currently developing an online riff course!
Susan Eichhorn-Young
Singer, actor, writer, speaker, voice teacher, and speaking coach… Susan Eichhorn-Young is all things voice.
After a near fatal car accident in 2011, Susan took a brief hiatus. In November 2016, she premiered her most recent one-woman show, Why?, at The Laurie Beechman Theater to sold-out audiences and rave reviews. Online, her weekly musings reaches a worldwide audience of 300,000 viewers and growing!
What I love most about Susan is her ability to listen. She provides a safe space for every student and collaborator, using her voice in a variety of ways to nurture and develop. She’s helping generations of artists to find their authentic voice: something that goes beyond singing to the more spiritual realm.
Thank you to these amazing womxn for the work you do. The work continues… but take time today to acknowledge your contributions!
It’s been my honor to collaborate with you.
I admire you and I thank you.
