OUR THEATRE INSTRUCTORS
We pride ourselves in our talented, educated, and understanding teachers.
Shannon Helton (Musical Theatre)
Connor Gerney (Acting)
Originally from Connecticut, Shannon has called North Carolina home for 34 years, and the Sandhills area for 20. She is excited to join the Encore family in a new capacity as a teacher. She has been seen in Encore’s production of Nunsense: The Mega Musical and Don’t Dress For Dinner, as well as Sunrise Theatre Live’s production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Shannon received her BA in Theatre Performance from the UNC-Wilmington and has performed for audiences in NY, CT, NC, SC, and FL. In 2012, she received her NC Teaching Certification and worked with Wake County Public Schools for 10 years teaching as both a long term sub as well as 1st and 5th grades. Outside of theatre, Shannon owns her own pet care business, as well as works with Elliott’s Catering, and can be seen on Tuesday night’s hosting trivia at the Bell Tree in Southern Pines. She cannot wait to share her experience and love of theatre with your kiddos!
Connor Gerney was born, raised, and homeschooled in Swift Creek, North Carolina. He graduated with a BFA in Theatre Arts with concentrations in Theatre for Youth and Professional Acting from East Carolina University. Since then, he has been certified in 6 different weapons with the Society of American Fight Directors. He has written and produced multiple original works including a recent educational Theatre for Youth touring production called "Tall Tales of Appalachia!" He currently works as a theatre instructor, set designer, combat choreographer, improviser, visual artist, and actor across the Southeast, from Raleigh to Atlanta! He is extremely excited to join the Encore family!