MISSION
Ponderosa Players provides a path to excellence in the arts by creating a professional and engaging environment that encourages growth and fosters the individuality of young creatives.
VISION
Ponderosa Players exists to foster the next generation of theatrical artists through pre-professional training. Students receive this training through classes and performance opportunities including intensives, workshops, and MainStage productions. At Ponderosa Players, students are provided space to push the boundaries of their own skill, embrace their personal uniqueness, and prepare for a future in the theater industry.
DIVERSITY, INCLUSION, EQUITY, AND ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT
Ponderosa Players is committed to being an inclusive, vibrant space where individual differences are celebrated and people are treated with impartiality and respect. Ponderosa Players believes in the importance of diverse viewpoints and experiences, onstage and in our community. Ponderosa Players does not discriminate in practices or employment opportunities on the basis of an individual’s race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local regulations.
MEET THE FOUNDERS
KISKY HOLWERDA (SHE/HER)
Kisky received her BA in Drama from Kenyon College in addition to studying under globally recognized instructors at schools including the Stella Adler Studio, the British American Drama Academy, and Interlochen Center for the Arts. As an actor Kisky has performed in Portland, New York City, and Bend. Highlights on the local stage include Spamalot! (Sir Robin), Something Rotten (Shakespeare), The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [Revised] (Again) (Player), and Sweeney Todd (Mrs. Lovett). In addition to her work with Ponderosa Players, Kisky has worked as a choreographer for Summit High School (Little Shop of Horrors), and Theater in the Park (Mamma Mia) and as a director for The Greenhouse Cabaret (Tick, Tick... BOOM!) among others. She is also trained in ballet, Irish Dance, jazz, and aerial silks. If you want an ear-full, be sure to ask Kisky about First Folio technique in Shakespeare!
GREY CONANT (THEY/THEM)
Grey has collaborated with almost every performance company in Central Oregon over the last 16 years, including Theater in the Park, Cascades Theatrical Company, Musical Impressions Studios, and Ellipse Theater Community. Highlights on the Central Oregon stage include Peter and the Starcatcher (Ted), Oklahoma! (Laurey), Something Rotten (Minstrel), Fun Home (Joan), The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [Revised] (Again) (Player), and Sweeney Todd (Tobias Ragg). Grey has directed Oliver!, Little Women: The Musical, Legally Blonde Jr., The Last Five Years, and more, outside of Ponderosa Players! Grey has performed with honors choirs at Carnegie Hall and at the Sydney Opera House, and they have received awards in singing from NATS and Hal Leonard. Grey is also trained in jazz, lyrical, ballet, and tap dance styles.
INTERESTED IN PRIVATE COACHING?
Whether you have a looming audition, performance, or are just wanting to sharpen up your skills, we would love to offer you private coaching on songs, scenes, or monologues!
Email info@ponderosaplayers.com for more information