Rachel Butler

Rachel Butler has been involved in and in love with children’s theatre since her first behind-the-scenes credit as a Stage Manager of Seussical Jr. in high school. Since then, Rachel has earned a Bachelor of the Arts in Playwriting and Production from Emerson College, directed numerous TYA productions, taught a number of drama classes at children’s theatres and performing arts camps across the East Coast, and served on the Board of Directors at EVCT since January 2024. It is her pleasure to serve the EVCT family, and she delights in our students’ talent and dedication.

Julie Krause

Originally from Wisconsin, Julie has been embedded within the performing arts as a performer, educator, and advocate for over 20 years. She has performed on stage, in pit orchestras, and even dabbled in acting throughout her early years. Julie brings years of experience working in arts education, financial management, and leadership skills to the board. She is passionate about enriching the community through performing arts and is deeply committed to strengthening the theatre and youth education. Julie holds bachelor’s degrees in finance and music from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and a master’s degree in music performance from Arizona State University. When she is not volunteering for EVCT, she can be found hiking and spending time with her family.  

Justin Curtis

A South Dakota native, Justin is deeply driven by a lifelong love for the performing arts and the sense of connection and wonder they create. His early experiences in acting and vocal performance fostered a lasting appreciation for storytelling, creativity, and the unique “theatre family” culture that helps young people grow in confidence and self‑expression. With 25 years of professional experience in risk management, specializing in insurance liability and social services safety, he is committed to ensuring the theatre remains a safe, welcoming place that protects its people, while preserving the magic, joy, and heart that make East Valley Children’s Theatre truly special.

Kathleen Richards

A native of the Washington, DC area, Kathleen has worked in the arts nonprofit sector for the past 20 years. She has served as the Program Manager for The Princess Grace Foundation – USA, the Director of Development for Adventure Theatre, and a Board Member at Large for Mesa Encore Theatre, and has volunteered with countless theaters over the years. Outside of this work, Kathleen has found ways to incorporate her passions for education and theatre as a voice coach, acting and musical theatre instructor, and as the director of an after-school program at Higley Traditional Academy. She can be seen performing around the valley and shuttling her kids to and from rehearsals, all of which bring her infinite joy. She looks forward to helping secure a bright future for EVCT!

Lisa Olson

Cam Oakes

CAM OAKES is an actor, creator and educator from the Phoenix area who trained with the Childsplay Theatre Conservatory, the Phoenix Boys Choir, and the Herberger Institute at Arizona State University (ASU)—Bachelor of Music Performance (Musical Theatre), 2020.

Cam loves the creative process in front of the audience. Some of his favorite appearances include roles in Shakespeare in Love, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Jekyll & Hyde, Street Scene, Gianni Schicchi, Kiss Me Kate, Kinky Boots, and Leading Ladies. 

Behind the scenes, Cam specializes in Fight Choreography as an SAFD Certified Actor Combatant, Music Direction, Dance Choreography, and Stage Management.

In addition, Cam’s day job is working with local elementary schools as a Teaching Artist bringing affordable theater programs to local Title 1 schools through the Disney Musical Theatre in Schools programs.

Jessika Malic

JESSIKA MALIC joined the EVCT staff in January 2026 as EVCT’s Business Manager. We are excited to welcome her to the family. Jessika loves the stage—she played Rizzo in Grease and performed in jazz choir in high school, and since then, has dabbled in all areas of performance. In her free time, she enjoys karaoke, video games, and cosplay. Professionally, Jessika spent six years as an international flight attendant and is experienced in Communications, Marketing and events.

Theresa Schlechty

Joined the EVCT Board of Directors on February 2nd, 2026! As a previous Education Coordinator at Banner Health/Banner Academy & Children’s, where I specialize in teaching young children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder and learning/emotional disabilities, I bring a strong academic foundation to my work, holding a bachelor’s degree in psychology with an emphasis in Child/Adolescent Studies. Growing up in Chicago, Illinois, I was deeply influenced by the vibrant music and cultural scene surrounding me. On a heartfelt journey (family move) to Minneapolis, Minnesota, I found myself drawn into an unforgettable moment: witnessing Prince performing in a local park before fame ever found him. The raw brilliance and passion emanating from his music spoke directly to me, leaving me inspired and humbled by the experience—a memory that would forever remind me of the beauty found in unexpected places and the transformative power of art.

With a passion for giving back, I serve on the Foundation Board of the Arizona Natural Museum of History, The Millet House, and volunteer with Project Humanities with Arizona State University. Previous Board service includes City of Mesa Advisory Board Member of Museum and Culture, Mesa ARC Advisory Board and Golden Roller Skates as the Volunteer Director.

I am honored to serve as a board member for the East Valley Children’s Theatre, where I can help support the arts for youth in our Mesa community.

In my free time, you can find me exploring unfamiliar places, trying new foods, and seeking inspiration in the world around me.

My Motto: HERE FOR EVERYONE!