Staff

Eirene Maya Smith (Maya)

Principal

Maya was involved in the set up and operation of theatre schools for children and young adults in Oxford, England which have run successfully since 1992.

She has worked with children who found fame in films such as the Harry Potter series, Transformers, TV and stage, including London’s West End. She has encouraged and supported students to follow on the top drama schools both in the UK and internationally. These schools include RADA, Central School of Acting, Urdang, Italia Conti, Rose Bruford, Bird College, Julliard, The American Musical and Dramatic Academy, among others.

As a writer and producer, Maya’s musicals have been performed throughout the UK and internationally. As a supporter of local charities while living in the UK, she has organised theatre events for audiences of 2,000+, raising thousands of pounds and enabled many children the opportunity to perform to large audiences.

The format of InterAct’s classes has enabled many thousands of children to learn about and develop a love of theatre. Though some students will use the classes as a springboard to a career in the industry, the vast majority will not. In an age when children’s time is dominated by ‘screen time’ Maya hopes that these students will go off into the world as young professionals, capable of communicating clearly, effectively and confidently because of the performing arts training they have received at InterAct.

Natalia Emily Smith (Emily)

Principal

Raised in England, Emily has spent much of her life either on or back stage. As a child actor she appeared in London’s West End tour of Scrooge (Belinda Cratchit) followed by numerous opera and stage productions – Turandot (Young Princess), Aida (Dancer) and The Wizard of Oz. During her training she performed in a wide variety of musicals in Malta and the UK – ‘Sweeney Todd’, ‘Les Miserables’, ‘Billy Elliot’, ‘Fame’, ‘Hairspray’, ‘We Will Rock You’ and many more.

Emily gained her BFA in Dance Theater at The American Musical and Dramatic Academy, Los Angeles and began teaching dance in LA and England. A contract in Malta allowed her to progress her teaching skills, where she choreographed ‘Shrek The Musical’, Vocal Aid and the Maltese Islands Festival. This led to professional performances in ‘Mama Mia’ for Malta’s top production company.

Returning to California in 2018, Emily has continued to teach for different dance companies in Santa Barbara. Emily is a teacher and choreographer with several dance schools and musical theater productions in Santa Barbara. These include ‘Matilda’ and ‘School of Rock’ for SOPA, dance projects for USD at La Colina, as well as art and dance electives at Anacapa School. She is a founder and co-principal of InterAct. Emily also has a passion for martial arts. Emily spent her formative years immersed in musical theater, and developed a passion for the genre which she hopes will inspire a new generation of dancers and performers in Santa Barbara. Since moving to Santa Barbara she has also developed a love of martial arts!

Jezreel Real – ‘Jay’

Acting, Singing, Music Composition

Jay graduated with a degree in Music Theory & Composition from Westmont College. His skills cover multiple instruments and he teaches piano and voice as well as playing for musicals and opera in Santa Barbara colleges, schools, churches and choirs. We are delighted that Jay is joining us as voice coach/musical director and hope to extend this work to composing original material for InterAct. Jay is delighted to be part of the InterAct team, bringing his musical teaching style to help our students develop their performance and inter-personal skills.

Nina Breister

Singing and Dance

Nina’s passion for the performing arts ignited at the tender age of four, and since then, she has immersed herself in a multitude of artistic endeavors. Whether it’s taking dance classes, playing musical instruments, or participating in numerous musical theatre productions, the stage has become Nina’s second home. She honed her skills at the esteemed Step In Step Dance Studio in San Diego, CA, where she received comprehensive training in ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, hip-hop, and musical theatre. Among her many musical talents, Nina has a special affinity for the drums and indulges in singing during her leisure time.

Currently a student at UCSB, Nina is pursuing a degree in Communication, Professional Writing, & Technology Management. Despite the demands of her academic pursuits, she actively nurtures her love for the arts through her involvement with the Shrunken Heads Production Company. Guided by her unwavering passion for teaching and inspiring others, Nina aspires to forge a career that seamlessly merges all her passions together.

Grace Gillespie

Singing and Drama

Grace embarked on her musical journey during her formative years, immersing herself in piano lessons, choir, and musical acting classes. Driven by a profound love for musical theatre, she delved into the intricacies of music theory and showcased her talents in numerous performances, ranging from community theater to high school and university productions. Her dedication to music extended beyond personal pursuits as she took the initiative to establish a music club. Through this endeavor, Grace aimed to inspire and mentor fellow enthusiasts, uniting them in exhilarating concerts and fundraisers throughout the Los Angeles area.

In recognition of her exceptional contributions, Grace assumed the role of Wellbeing Board Officer within the esteemed music club, Shrunken Heads. This opportunity fills her with excitement as it allows her to continue honing her expertise in music theory and theater techniques. With a passionate spirit and a thirst for growth, Grace eagerly anticipates the upcoming chapters of her musical journey. 

Grace Wilson

Singing and Drama

“Grace has recently joined the dedicated team at InterAct Theatre Schools. She brings with her a fresh perspective and a passion for fostering talent. Eager to embark on this journey, Grace is committed to assisting children in realizing and reaching their aspirations. Welcome to the family, Grace, and here’s to many successes ahead!”

Nadia Skidanov 

Early Actors and After School Programs

“Nadia is excited to join the InterAct Team. She has many years experience working and teaching younger students which is where her passion lies. 

She is looking forward to sharing her skills and talents with the younger generations at InterAct and helping students become the best possible versions of themselves”