Alumni

Theatre ‘84

Chris Westfallis a New York Times Best-Selling Author, business consultant, communication coach, and motivational speaker – best known for being the “elevator pitch guy.” Chris helps companies and individuals achieve their full potential through strategic communication and leadership development. His journey from Academy student to a thought leader shows how our alumni are equipped to excel in a wide range of fields, using their education to make meaningful contributions in the professional world.

Music ‘86

A five-time Grammy award-winning artist, Lalah has built an illustrious career as a singer, songwriter, and producer, making a significant impact on the music industry. Known for her powerful voice and musical versatility, she has worked with some of the biggest names in entertainment while creating her own distinctive sound.

Theatre ‘88

Lara Flynn Boyle has made her mark in the entertainment industry as a talented actress, known for her roles in iconic films and television series. She gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of Donna Hayward in the cult TV series Twin Peaks and went on to star in popular projects like The Practice, for which she earned an Emmy nomination. Her film credits include Wayne’s World, Red Rock West, and Men in Black II. Lara’s successful career in Hollywood showcases the diverse opportunities pursued by our graduates.

Visual Arts ‘89

Jeremy Long has gained recognition as a contemporary artist known for his unique approach to painting. His work, which blends various artistic styles into each piece, demonstrates his deep exploration of form, color, and composition. One of his paintings (The Painting Lesson, 2006) is proudly displayed at the school on the first-floor landing, serving as a testament to his talent and creative evolution.

Musical Theatre ‘94

Kimberly Latrice Jones is an acclaimed author and activist, best known for co-authoring the novel I'm Not Dying with You Tonight, a powerful story addressing race and social justice issues. She gained national attention with her viral video How We Can Win, released during the George Floyd protests, where she eloquently discussed systemic inequality and the fight for justice. Kimberly's impactful work, both in literature and social commentary, has made her an influential voice in contemporary discussions on race, activism, and societal change.

Musical Theatre ‘98

Justin Tranter is a hit songwriter and Grammy nominee known for crafting chart-topping hits for major artists across various genres. In addition to their impressive music career, Justin plays an active role in the Academy community as a member of the Board of Trustees. They also contributed significantly to the school by funding the Justin Tranter Recording Studio in the Music Wing, providing students with state-of-the-art resources to explore their musical talents. Justin's commitment to fostering creativity and supporting future generations of musicians exemplifies their dedication to the arts.

Dance ‘02

Jonathan Alsberry is an accomplished dancer and choreographer, currently serving as the rehearsal director for Hubbard Street Dance, a leading contemporary dance company in Chicago. In this role, Jonathan brings a wealth of experience and creativity to the organization, helping to shape the artistic vision and ensure the seamless execution of performances. His journey from Academy student to a prominent figure in the dance world highlights his dedication to the art form and his commitment to inspiring the next generation of dancers.

Theatre ‘02

Cecily Strong is a talented comedian and actress best known for her remarkable tenure on Saturday Night Live, where she captivated audiences with her sharp wit and versatile performances. During her time on the show, Cecily became known for her memorable characters and satirical sketches, earning praise for her comedic range and creativity. Since retiring from SNL, she has continued to explore new avenues in entertainment.

Music ‘03

Tyler Schwartz stands out as a unique success story, representing the diverse paths our graduates can take beyond the arts. As the founder of Chess at Three, Tyler has developed an innovative approach to teaching chess to young children, making the game accessible and enjoyable for a new generation. His work not only fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills in children, but also promotes the benefits of early cognitive development through play.

Dance ‘07

Rena Butler is an accomplished contemporary dancer and choreographer known for her dynamic performances and innovative choreography. With a deep passion for movement and expression, Rena has made significant contributions to the dance community, collaborating with various renowned companies and artists. Her work often explores themes of identity, culture, and the human experience, pushing the boundaries of traditional dance forms.

Musical Theatre ‘07

Brittney Mack is a talented performer best known for her role in the hit musical SIX, where she showcased her exceptional vocal and acting abilities. As a former cast member, Brittany captivated audiences with her dynamic stage presence and powerful performances, bringing the historical figures of the six wives of Henry VIII to life. Her journey in musical theatre highlights her dedication to her craft and her ability to thrive in a competitive artistic environment.

Theatre ‘08

Kevin Miles has gained widespread recognition as the iconic "Jake from State Farm," a role that has made him a familiar face in pop culture. His portrayal in the well-known commercials has not only brought him fame but also showcased his talent for engaging audiences through humor and relatability. Beyond his work with State Farm, Kevin has pursued various acting opportunities, demonstrating his versatility as a performer.

Visual Arts ‘08

Heather Day is a distinguished visual artist renowned for her vibrant and expressive artwork. Her unique style blends abstract and representational elements, often drawing inspiration from nature and personal experiences. Heather's work invites viewers to engage with color, texture, and form, creating immersive experiences that resonate on both emotional and aesthetic levels.

Media Arts ‘11

Sarah Franke is an accomplished filmmaker and photographer, who specializes in documentary production. With a passion for shedding light on underrepresented voices, Sarah's films often delve into themes of identity, culture, and community, offering audiences a deeper understanding of the human experience. Her work has been showcased at various film festivals, earning accolades for its artistic integrity and emotional resonance.

Musical Theatre ‘11

Jose Ramos is a talented performer known for his role in the Chicago production of Hamilton, where he portrayed John Laurens and Philip Hamilton. His powerful performances brought depth and emotion to these pivotal characters, showcasing his exceptional vocal and acting abilities. Interestingly, Jose shares a last name with Anthony Ramos, who originated the same dual roles in the Broadway production of Hamilton, but the two are not related.

Media Arts ‘11

Jack Dunphy is a talented filmmaker and animator, celebrated for his award-winning work, including the short film Bob's Funeral, which has garnered acclaim from both critics and audiences. Following the film's release, Jack visited to discuss his busy schedule and experiences on the festival circuit, offering valuable insights to aspiring filmmakers. During his time with Media Arts students, he shared engaging stories and lessons learned throughout his journey in the industry.

Musical Theatre ‘12

Eleri Ward is a singer-songwriter, guitarist, and actress celebrated for her Sufjan Stevens-inspired indie folk renditions of the works of renowned composer Stephen Sondheim. Her unique approach to Sondheim's music has garnered critical acclaim, allowing her to connect with both theatre enthusiasts and a broader audience. As she continues to evolve as an artist, Eleri is making her mark in the music industry, blending the worlds of theatre and contemporary folk music.

Musical Theatre ‘12

Julian Burzynski is a popular TikTok creator and actor, celebrated for his hilarious comedic skits. With a keen eye for timing and a knack for engaging performances, Julian has built a dedicated following on the platform, reflecting his ability to connect with fans through laughter. As he continues to grow his online presence and pursue acting opportunities, Julian exemplifies the dynamic and innovative spirit of modern content creators.

Dance ‘14

Joseph Massarelli is a talented soloist with the Dutch National Ballet, where he showcases his exceptional skills and artistry on an international stage. Known for his grace and technical precision, Joseph has captivated audiences with his performances in a variety of classical and contemporary works.

Visual Arts ‘16

Jacques Agbobly is a fashion designer and the founder/creative director of Agbobly, an independent design studio based in Brooklyn. Established during the height of the pandemic in 2020, Agbobly is dedicated to highlighting Black, queer, and immigrant narratives, showcasing their cultural contributions through a global lens. Jacques's work is characterized by its bold aesthetics and thoughtful storytelling, as he aims to create fashion that resonates with diverse communities.

Visual Arts ‘16

Nickolas Payne holds a Master’s degree in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and is currently pursuing his PhD at the Illinois Institute of Technology. As one of the alumni who ventured outside the arts (about 1/3 of our alums), Nickolas exemplifies the diverse career paths available to graduates. His academic pursuits reflect a strong commitment to advancing technology and innovation in the engineering field.

Media Arts ‘17

Jamie Weiss is a skilled production designer and set decorator known for their work on films such as Brain in a Vat, Blue Sun Palace, and All Hallows Eve Trickster. With a wealth of hands-on experience in the film industry, Jamie has developed a keen eye for creating immersive environments that enhance storytelling.