ABOUT US

Welcome to Evalino Productions

Evalino Productions operates out of the The Village Theatre at Cherry Hill, producing children and adult productions in the Biltmore Studio and Main Stage. The mission of Evalino Productions is to create a theatrical environment where the respect for theatre is held to a higher standard. We aim to provide a mentoring program for our young adults/children, exploring all aspects of theatre, lead by professionally educated and experienced adults. We will empower children, offering them challenges that help them grow as young actors and nourish self-confidence. We will produce plays for adults that are true classics and have substantial messages. We will produce musicals that include adults, children, and families. We offer our patrons a theatrical experience where they will understand how passionate we are about theatre and the quality of our productions.

MEET OUR THEATRE STAFF

John Sartor

Producing Artistic Director

John trained at Gately-Poole Studio on Theatre Row in NYC under Jim Bonney (jimbonneyactinginc) for nearly 4 years studying the Meisner-plus acting technique, the Body/Mind component from Core Energetics. John was based in NYC for six years in the mid 90’s and within that time and after has worked Nationally and Internationally as an Equity Actor and Director. He has professional Regional Theatre credits from Lake Placid to Key West as well as Celebrity Cruise lines, European/Regional tours, workshops, fundraisers and cabarets. He studied voice with Susan Acton from Michigan Opera Theatre while still in high school. M.O.T. Artistic Director David DeChiera invited Him to be in several Operas after selecting John as a finalist the Quest for Excellence vocal competition in Detroit in 1984. He has performed in over a dozen countries including a production of the musical HAIR in Zagreb, Croatia amidst the Croatian War of Independence in 1992. He was Development Director for the Award Winning Encore Theatre in Dexter as well as (2) other local theatres. He has worked with several Tony Award winners including Larry Fuller and Sutton Foster. John’s stage direction has garnished stellar reviews and the last 8 productions he has directed all had sold out performances within the shows run, complete sell outs as well as adding additional performances to meet ticket sales. John is very passionate and respectful to all levels of Theatre and approaches directing in a collaborative way “freeing actors”. John is the Artistic Director and co-founder of Evalino Productions.
Becky Turza-Paul

Director of Development

Becky has spent most of her life living in the Canton area. She has a Masters Degree in Occupational Therapy (Eastern Michigan University, 2005) with post Certifications focused on Women’s Health and Pediatrics. She has extensive experience working with children and adults with physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges in medical and community settings. She is an Artist, Vocal Music Performer, and the Mother of three amazing girls. Becky has over 24 years of theatrical experience (performance and technical) with local theater groups. She has been the Producer and Assistant Director for multiple shows at the Village Theater at Cherry Hill in Canton. Becky is the Director of Development and Co-founder of Evalino Productions.

What do people have to say about our theatre? Read the testimonials from previous actors, patrons, parents, and more!

BENEFITS THAT THEATRE PROVIDES

Self Confidence

Being in a play or musical reminds children that they are appreciated. Theatre helps build self-esteem and the sound of applause is certainly rewarding and exhilarating.

Creativity

Theatre brings out a child’s creativity which is then automatically applied to their daily lives. Creativity acts as a “through line” which will help with their general studies and expands their eagerness for results.

Commitment

Being in a theatrical production teaches a child about commitment. They realize the importance of fulfilling a commitment and become fully aware of the hard work payoff on opening night!

Dedication

Something strongly required in a theatrical production. A Child memorizes lines, stage blocking and often times dance/movement and dedication is what it takes to fulfill the commitment. This is an important skill that they will carry with them throughout their journeys in life.

Public Speaking

Theatre enables children and adults to grow in self-confidence and become comfortable speaking in front of the public. Theatrical experiences can allow someone to leave shyness in their wake as they connect with Others in a positive and confident way.