MEET THE STAFF

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John founded Performing Arts Studio West (PASW) in 1998 to offer creative training and employment to adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities pursuing careers in entertainment. A professional actor and musician for over 30 years, he studied with Sanford Meisner, trained under Jim Henson, and performed nationwide. John has created award-winning arts programs and produced original films and musicals highlighting artists with disabilities.

Chardell built a career in broadcast as a technical supervisor and government liaison before joining Performing Arts Studio West. A former animator and award-winning artist in multiple disciplines, his early work earned over 20 regional and national honors, including a Congressional Award. Holding an MFA in Film Directing & Producing from Loyola Marymount University, Chardell has contributed his creative and technical expertise to PASW since 2006.

Carmel Wynne has been a cornerstone of Performing Arts Studio West since 2000. As Director of Talent, she founded the management department, securing 1,500+ roles for performers. Her background includes work for the American Film Market and Art Direction. At PASW, she also oversees wardrobe, props, and design for original productions. Carmel holds a B.S. in Interior Design and has professional experience in casting and stage management.

Damien brings over 13 years of experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and more than a decade in the entertainment industry—along with a charismatic personality. As Director of Support Services, he coordinates ISPs and progress reports, provides problem-solving and conflict resolution, and supports participants in achieving their goals. He lives by the motto: “Life is one big improv between the Alpha and Omega.”

Lisa joined Performing Arts Studio West in 2008 as a support provider and became part of the Support Services Team in 2012. She provides problem-solving, conflict resolution, and vocational support to participants. Since 1997, she has dedicated her career to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, including roles at United Airlines and First Advocates in Los Angeles.

With over 25 years in the music industry, Joe Seabe is an accomplished guitarist, vocalist, songwriter, & producer. A Philadelphia native, he worked with top producers & artists including members of Kiss, Bon Jovi, and Frank Zappa’s circle. After years of studio and live work nationwide, Joe moved to Los Angeles and joined Performing Arts Studio West in 2004 as Music Director, where he teaches songwriting, vocals, & composition while producing music for PASW.

Diana Elizabeth Jordan mentors emerging talents, drawing on her extensive experience as a SAG-AFTRA/AEA member and the first actor with a disability to earn an MFA in Acting from California State University Long Beach. Diana has amassed over 50 theater, film, and TV credits. At PASW, her daily in person classes, biweekly Zoom classes, and one-to-one coaching have given our participants the skills to succeed in a wide variety of entertainment industry projects.

Alexander Tovar is a composer and filmmaker who began his career working for Philip Glass. Highlights include composing for Gustavo Dudamel’s LA Phil gala and collaborating on Elton John’s The Union. His work has premiered at Cannes and SXSW, and he won Best Score at the Milan International Film Festival for his film Show Business. Tovar has written and scored multiple films and recently released the album Hollywood Music.

Steve Niel brings 14+ years of industry experience and Second City training to his work. A veteran of national commercials (Dodge, KFC) and TV (Angel), he has been a key producer and performer at Performing Arts Studio West since 2008.

Alex Hogy is an actor, writer, and composer with a BFA from AMDA. His career includes commercial spots for Adobe and TurboTax, and roles in productions like Anatomy of Grey and CHARM. A member of Celebration Theatre and OpenFist, he also works as a Standardized Patient at UCLA and has composed a rock opera. Alex lives in Los Angeles with his wife.

Hann, a 2021 USC Dramatic and Cinematic Arts graduate with training from BADA (London) and USC Kaufman Dance, has film and TV credits including The Rehearsal (HBO), Grey’s Anatomy (ABC), 9-1-1 (FOX), and Bel Air (Peacock), plus projects with A24, Disney Channel, and BET. Hann is currently an Assistant Director on Game Changer (Dropout TV), an independent filmmaker, an Actor’s Equity candidate, and has logged 300+ DGA days.

Lestine Drake brings over 30 years of finance and management experience to PASW, having worked with major organizations like Bank of America and the Challengers Boys and Girls Club. Known for her commitment to excellence and customer service, she maintains an effective work environment while managing payroll, bookkeeping, insurance, and financial reconciliation for the studio.

Megan Slikas joined PASW in 2011 and now serves as a consultant and Agent at 98West Talent. A former Casting Director for PBS and the BBC, she cast Mila Kunis and Amy Smart in their debut roles. Megan has also produced films and developed writing projects for Disney, New Line, and Nickelodeon.

David Zimmerman is the creator of “Meet the Biz,” workshops bridging the gap between ability and disability. A seasoned coach for projects like Nip/Tuck, his casting credits include Penn & Teller: Bullshit! and the film Fighting Words. An actor and producer, David was honored with a Media Access Award for his commitment to diversity and is currently producing his project, My Next Breath.

Terra Mackintosh is an award-winning actress, producer, and writer known for Best Summer Ever (SXSW Final Draft Award) and Take Me Home (2026 Sundance selection). Her stage and screen work spans acclaimed roles and inclusive storytelling. She co-founded The Artist’s Space to foster creative excellence in Los Angeles.

Will is an ISSA Certified Personal Trainer passionate about helping people of all backgrounds improve their health, strength, and confidence. Since 2021, he’s created personalized, results-driven programs in a supportive environment. Also a Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach, Transformation Specialist, and Group Exercise Instructor, Will holds certifications in Yoga 800, Zumba, and TRX, enabling him to design engaging, adaptable programs that make fitness both challenging and enjoyable.

Rosa, a Detroit-born dancer, actress, and educator, has performed with the WNBA LA Sparks Ole Skool Crew, NBA Golden State Warriors, Central Ave Dance Ensemble, and LA Swing Dance Posse. Trained in modern, ballet, jazz, hip hop, swing, and line dance, she teaches at Performing Arts Studio West and leads “Let Go & Dance,” inspiring movers of all ages to stay youthful through movement.