Producer, Director, Manager, Media & More

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Jenna grew up in a family of musicians. She played violin for 8 years, sang in choirs all through school and even did a year with the Northwest Indiana Symphony Chorus after she had her 3 children. She coached cheerleading for 4 years and helped choreograph their showcase dances. Being a DJ for 20 years for weddings has given her the confidence to deal with high stress situations and the knowledge to make things fun. She has also done studio and bridal hair/makeup for the past 15 years. This opportunity to help kids shine is so exciting!

Stage Director

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Nikki is a passionate thespian and educator with a rich background in community productions, including The Odd Couple (female edition), Fiddler on the Roof, and many more. Nikki’s experience includes being the former president of Purdue Calumet’s 50-year-old theater company, studying at Columbia College in Chicago for Performance Arts Management. Dedicated to nurturing creativity, she founded a school improv club and guided students in writing, producing, and performing two original plays. Thrilled to be part of Heathers!

Rehearsal assistance

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Michelle Velez-Henderson is a dynamic force in the performing arts and events world, known for her powerful vocals, sharp logistical skills, and deep commitment to community. She currently serves as the Events Planner for the Village of Lansing, Illinois, where she brings concerts, festivals, and cultural celebrations to life at Fox Pointe. Her role spans every detail of execution, including logistics, permits, layout design, and booking exceptional talent.

 

Michelle’s love for music began in the youth choir at St. Mary’s Church in Griffith, Indiana. She soon began entering local talent shows, which sparked a deeper passion for performing. That early success inspired her to pursue music more seriously, ultimately earning a Bachelor of Science in Music and Music Business from the University of Indianapolis, followed by a Master’s in Arts & Entertainment Administration from Valparaiso University.

 

As the former Activities Director for the Town of Griffith, Michelle played a key role in organizing beloved community events including the Griffith Central Market, Rock ‘N Rail Music and Street Festival, Broad Street Blues & BBQ Fest, Oktoberfest, and Symphony in the Park, helping shape the town’s vibrant cultural scene.

 

In addition to her municipal work, Michelle is the founder of Michelle Velez Events, a consulting and event coordination business specializing in weddings, private parties, festivals, and so much more. Through this venture, she brings the same creativity and precision she’s known for in her government roles to clients across the region, helping them bring their visions to life. 

 

In addition to her local work, Michelle is the Project and Personnel Manager for the Los Angeles Film Conducting Intensive, a prestigious program based in Los Angeles, California. In this role, she collaborates with A-list composers, elite studio professionals, and top-tier musicians from around the world, many of whom regularly work on major film and television scores. This unique opportunity not only deepens her connection to the entertainment industry but also fuels her love for travel and working across creative communities on a national scale.

 

Outside of her full-time roles, Michelle performs with her acoustic trio, Michelle Velez and the D.A.M. Band, known for rich harmonies and retro-inspired acoustic soul. She also offers private voice and guitar lessons, mentoring students and sharing her lifelong love of music. In her free time, she enjoys working side-by-side with her husband on pre-production planning for video shoots, blending storytelling with visual creativity. When she’s not immersed in music or events, she values quality time with her husband and stepchildren, finding joy in both her personal and professional life. 

 

Whether she’s leading a festival, performing on stage, consulting on a wedding, or supporting young artists, Michelle brings creativity, energy, professionalism, and heart to every project she takes on.