Sheri Prescott

Arts on Fire Ajax Director and Improv/Acting Instructor

Sheri has enjoyed teaching drama for 24 years with the DDSB. Her favourite activities are coaching competition improv teams, directing class plays, and taking the stage herself in community theatre. Sheri wants to offer as many artistic opportunities as possible for youth, teens and adults here in Durham. Her dream of creating a high-level art community is coming true at Arts on Fire Ajax.

Connor Atkins

Improv and Acting Instructor

Connor studied Film and Television at Humber College and has been teaching Youth/Teen Improv in Durham for more than five years. He is an award-winning improviser who competed in the Canadian Improv Games and won an award for Best Playwright and Director at the Sears Drama Festival. Connor has great success in building confidence and stage skills in his acting students. Get ready for his newest class: Teen Acting for the Camera.

Holly Young

Art Instructor

Holly studied Visual Arts at Toronto’s OCAD School of Art. Her specialty is in drawing and painting and she knows how to deliver these skills to students of all ages. Holly creates a calm and focused art studio experience. She will also be available to host private art parties on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Susana Mingram

Art Instructor

Susy is a second-year student at OCAD University, for the program of Drawing and Painting. She is an award-winner artist in the Heartbeat Student Art Exhibition in Ajax and participated in the For Art’s Sake Exhibition at the McLaughlin Gallery. Susy helps kids to explore their artistic potential through her serious skills. With her teachings, your kid will get to experience the joy of creating art!

Sarah Russel

Art Instructor

Sarah studied fine art at York University and received her teaching degree from Ontario Tech University. She has been teaching for 7 years and works with ages 4-18. Her specialty is drawing, but her paintings are extraordinary! Sarah is happy to offer art training in various types of mediums. She looks forward to offering private art nights as well as art classes for kids and youth.

Phil La Rosa

Film-Making Instructor

Phil studied Broadcasting- Radio and Contemporary Media at Durham College and currently works at CBC editing films. He is on the board of the Durham Region Film Festival and loves the art of short film making. His class will focus on capturing great angles, choosing filters, using a green screen, adding effective music and strong sound effects. Get ready to submit your film to DRIFF!

Cory Haslam

Film-Making Instructor

Cory studied film making at York University and is passionate about shooting great scenes and editing. His background includes improvisation and acting as well. Cory wrote and directed plays when he attended Ajax High School. He will teach youth and teens how to make the best shots, build the best stories, and have fun with the creative editing process.