From the stage to the studio, Monterey Bay is home to an incredible community of young performers already making their mark in the arts. Whether it’s acting under the lights of the Forest Theater, playing piano with heart and precision, or dancing en pointe in classical ballets, these students bring passion, dedication, and joy to their craft.
In this feature, we celebrate some of our local rising stars—kids and teens who are not only honing their talents but also inspiring others with their creativity, courage, and love for the arts.
Isabella Berge
Age 9 — Piano student at Emma Bartlett Music Studio
Isabella has been taking piano lessons for three years with Miss Emma. What she loves most is playing fast songs:
“It makes my heart race, and I feel so happy when my fingers fly over the keys. It’s a fun challenge to get every note just right, and it makes me smile big!”
- Favorite style of music: Jazz — “It’s all bouncy and free, like dancing with your fingers.”
- Her advice for beginners: “Don’t try to do everything at once. Take it one step at a time, and if you mess up, take a deep breath. Picture people smiling and clapping while you play.”
- Future dreams: To be a great pianist performing for big audiences (and maybe win America’s Got Talent!).
- If she were an animal: A cat — “They’re sneaky, playful, and love mirrors!”
- Shout-out: “Miss Emma is the best piano teacher ever! She makes lessons fun and always cheers me up.”
Amelia Eskenasy
Age 14 — Actress with Pacific Repertory Theatre
Amelia has been performing since age three, when she made her debut in ’Twas the Night Before Christmas with SpectorDance Ballet. She and her two younger siblings are active in the School of Dramatic Arts (SoDA) program and in Pacific Repertory Theatre productions. This winter, she’ll appear in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer for the third time.
- Favorite play: Newsies — “The characters are all great, and the harmonies are superior.”
- What she loves most: Meeting new people, learning choreography and music, and building confidence on stage.
- Her advice for beginners: “Don’t be shy, we don’t bite! Don’t worry about being judged—express yourself.”
- Future dreams: Broadway actor, and perhaps studying psychology.
- If she were an animal: A bird — “How else could I manage that complicated choreography?”
- Shout-out: “Thank you to Christiana Meeks, Palmer Davis, John Newkirk, Sarah Gaudoin, Corinne Agro, and Tiffany Torrez. They’re so supportive and truly amazing teachers.”
Audrey Bollmann
Age 11 — Dancer at The Dance Center
Audrey has been dancing since she was three years old. She trains in ballet, contemporary, lyrical, jazz, and acro, and has performed in The Nutcracker with Monterey Peninsula Ballet Theatre for six years. Recently, she received her first pair of pointe shoes—an exciting milestone for any ballet dancer.
- Favorite style of dance: Ballet — especially variations from classical ballets.
- What she loves most: “When I dance, I can be myself, have fun, and work hard all at the same time.”
- Her advice for beginners: “Always believe in yourself. It’s never too late to start dancing!”
- Future dreams: To become a professional dancer and inspire future generations.
- Shout-out: “Thank you to Mr. Isaiah at The Dance Center for always pushing me to be my very best.”
A Bright Future for the Arts
The Monterey Bay is fortunate to have so many young artists who bring creativity and joy to our community. Their dedication proves that passion for the arts can start early and grow into something truly inspiring. Whether on stage, at the piano, or in the studio, these students remind us that the future of the arts is bright right here at home.
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