Jason and Amanda Koiter, with over 40 years of combined experience in the entertainment industry, announce the launch of the Prescott Conservatory of Performing Arts (PCPA), a nonprofit 501(c)(3) dedicated to empowering young artists through exceptional performing arts education.
Amanda is the Executive Director of PCPA and a writer and actor, recognized for her roles on television hits such as Criminal Minds, ER and Third Watch. She also worked behind the scenes in the writers’ offices of Third Watch and Criminal Minds.
Jason, the conservatory’s Director of Operations, brings a wealth of experience as a musician, recording engineer and film and television producer. Currently, he serves as co-producer of Criminal Minds: Evolution on Paramount Plus.
The conservatory offers a wide range of group classes and workshops for students in grades 6 through 12. Programs include acting, improv, theatre arts, voice (including show choir), instrumental music and dance.
In addition to classes, the conservatory will produce two major musical theater productions annually, with Mean Girls Jr. and a special musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol scheduled for this year. The Conservatory will also host an annual spring talent show, Prescott’s Got Talent, Jr., celebrating the incredible talents of local youth.
The Prescott Conservatory’s Board of Directors is made up of local supporters of youth performing arts as well as seasoned entertainment industry professionals, including:
• Edward Allen Bernero (Board President), a veteran writer, producer and director for several hit TV series, including Third Watch and Criminal Minds. He is currently developing a TV series for Marvel Studios.
• Joe Mantegna (Board Vice President): Joe is a legendary actor with over 150 film and TV credits, including The Godfather Part III, 300+ episodes of Criminal Minds, and the voice of Fat Tony on The Simpsons. Joe also founded the charity Mantegna Family Foundation and actively supports several other charities, as well as being a staunch advocate for the troops.
• Kristin Glasser (Director): A Prescott native, Kristin has been heavily involved in the local performing arts scene, including numerous youth events and productions. She has extensive nonprofit board experience and has worked in various theater production roles, including prop-making, set dressing, hair and makeup and house management for multiple venues in Prescott.
