Springfield Community Theater of MA
is a nonprofit community theater located in Forest Park and performing at nonprofit 52Sumner!
Angela Park, Executive Director of the nonprofit 52sumner.com/Springfield Performing Arts Ventures, has a deep passion and commitment to enhancing the performing arts and building community in her home town of Springfield. She and Board of Directors member Dan McKellick spent a year renovating the old church at 52 Sumner Avenue addressing everything from wiring to heat to creating a state of the art performance space and new professional sound and lighting system. Officially offering her first performances and community events in February 2024, the site is now the home to MOSSO, the Springfield Chamber Players, and the new Springfield Community Theater of MA.
The mission of 52Sumner is to spark the artistic spirit within our urban community, providing a haven for creative expression, cultural enrichment, and personal growth through the arts. We are committed to breaking down barriers, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, can access, participate in, and be inspired by the arts. Through education, performance, and outreach, we strive to foster a more vibrant, connected, and culturally enriched city, promoting unity and understanding among all our residents.
Vana Nespor, Artistic Director and Founder of the Springfield Community Theater of MA, brings a wealth of experience in creating innovative and captivating productions. With a passion for storytelling and building community through theater productions, she has directed more than 80 productions and written and produced four musicals based on real stories for communities in Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Indonesia, and now Massachusetts. Her day job, as a college administrator in required that she complete four master’s degrees and a doctorate from Columbia University. Yet, finding community talent and helping it shine on the stage is her greatest joy.
The Mission of Springfield Community Theater of MA is to build a stronger more caring and creative community through high quality, low cost live theater experiences accessible to everyone. We do this by showcasing local talent and celebrating local stories. Choosing shows that touch the heart and mind, that inspire us to laugh, cry, cheer, and make life better for those around us.
Ashley Duplessis, Music Director, grew up in Ledyard, Connecticut, where she immersed herself in every musical opportunity available to her. After graduating, she pursued a Bachelor of Music degree at the University of Connecticut before earning her Master of Arts from Penn State in 2007. She then relocated to Western Massachusetts, where she has continued to share her passion for music and education. Ashley has served as a vocal coach for numerous musical productions and has taught voice and piano for many years. Since 2014, she has taught music at St. Michael’s Academy in Springfield, where she has built a thriving choral program. She also serves as Director of Music at St. Michael’s Cathedral.
Music is truly a family affair for Ashley. Her husband of 15 years, David, is her faithful accompanist, and their two children, Mira (13) and Aaron (9), both sing at school and at the Cathedral while learning several instruments of their own. Until recently, Ashley’s involvement in theater was mostly behind the scenes. In January, she had the privilege of premiering the role of Lucy Knox in For Love, For Liberty, sparking a newfound enthusiasm for all things theatrical.
When she isn’t making music, Ashley enjoys creating in other ways as well. Cooking, baking, sewing, and quilting are among her favorite hobbies, along with spending time with her family, exploring nature, traveling, and doting on her two adorable cats, Lilibet and Neptune.
Jordan Muhs, Assistant Director and Webmaster, bringing a lifelong passion for theater, storytelling, and community engagement to every production. With experience supporting performers both onstage and behind the scenes, she is dedicated to helping create meaningful, high-quality theater experiences that bring people together. In addition to assisting with productions, Jordan manages the theater’s website and digital presence, helping connect audiences with local talent, performances, and community events. She believes theater has the power to inspire creativity, strengthen community, and celebrate the stories that make each community unique.
Join Our Community Theater Today!
Are you passionate about theater? Volunteer with us, attend our open auditions!!