Phoenix Performing Arts was founded to provide accessible performing arts opportunities for Northeast Ohio youth. We aim to create an encouraging, inclusive arts community focused on the FUNdamentals of performing arts.
Phoenix Performing Arts is a non-profit corporation and shall be operated exclusively for educational and charitable purposes within the meaning of the Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, or the corresponding section of any Future tax code.
Amber Coughlin is a Pittsburgh, PA native dancer and choreographer currently residing in Akron, Ohio. Her training includes intensives at Millenium Dance Complex Pittsburgh, Kelly Strayhorn Theatre’s Alloy Studios (formally Pittsburgh Dance Alloy Pittsburgh), and Point Park University. All supplementing her work at her home studio – Miss Holly’s Dance Studio.
Amber started performing in her school musicals from 6th grade on where she developed the passion she has for theatre today. Along with performing, Amber also began choreographing for musicals while still in High School. She was awarded the 1st Place Award for Choreography in the 2013 Gene Kelly Awards held in Pittsburgh, PA – for her work on ‘All Shook Up’ performed by Penn Hills HS. After graduating, she attended The University of Akron to train as a Dance Major and focus on her ballet (under Pauline Reilly-Howe) and modern technique (under Tom Smith – who trained under Martha Graham). Since that time, she has continued to dance and choreograph in the Akron/Cleveland area with companies such as Division Dance Company, Cleveland Dance Project, JAM Dance Academy, and of course – Phoenix Performing Arts.
Paige is dedicated to creating a welcoming and supportive space for young performers at Phoenix Performing Arts. With a background in musical theater, graphic design, and nonprofit operations, she focuses on keeping the organization running smoothly while fostering creativity and community. Whether working behind the scenes on logistics or finding new ways to support the program, Paige is committed to making sure every student has the opportunity to grow and shine on stage.
Marie Willis Guarneri holds a masters degree in Music Education from The University of Akron and has been a featured soloist with Singers Companye, Cleveland Chamber Choir, BT 6 and many area churches. She currently sings in Wake the Spirit with her husband Gregory. Marie found her passion for music and performing when she got to perform with the Cleveland Opera in The Mikado in second grade. She works as a Business Process Analyst by day, and has four boys, a poodle named Oliver, and a cat named Willie Nelson. Marie loves traveling, ridiculously strong coffee, reading and crocheting.
Allan began his music career performing in upscale nightclubs around Cleveland, Ohio, before moving to California to further pursue his passion. As Director of Entertainment at Sambi of Tokyo in Los Angeles, he performed nightly with a three-piece band and later played at major Las Vegas venues like The Aladdin and The Sahara. After his time in Vegas, he returned to Orange County, performing at well-known nightclubs, including The Del Ray, Mama Cozza’s, and The Queen Mary in Long Beach. Over his 40-year career, Allan has composed over 250 songs, with many recorded and released nationally and internationally. His work includes compositions for nonprofits and corporations such as Signet Jewelers, The Ronald McDonald House, and the American Cancer Society, as well as licensing music for film and television. He has also served as a musical director for stage and TV productions and as a judge for singing competitions like The National Singing Star and Heights Got Talent.
Since returning to Cleveland in 2009, Allan has focused on teaching pop voice and piano while continuing to write and produce music for local and national artists. His original songs have been played on radio stations worldwide, with notable recordings such as Baby I Love You and Let Peace Rise Up by Ezre. Through his ABL Records label, he continues to produce and release new music, working with a diverse range of artists across multiple genres, including Terrence Burton Jr., Maria Jacobs, Jill Stewart, Ezre, and Broadway star Madison Lagares.
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