HAP Staff

Natalie Shields, Executive & Artistic Director

(She/Her) Natalie Jane Shields is a theatre director/producer, actress, and writer. She has directed dozens of productions in the Albuquerque area, spanning from children's theatre to adult and multigenerational productions. In 2014, Natalie founded Hold the Applause Productions, where she is now the Artistic Director. Natalie received her BFA from Grand Canyon University, and spent her first few post-grad years working in Entertainment for Walt Disney World in Orlando. In her spare time, Natalie writes novels and explores the city with her husband Chase and dog Digby.

Board of Directors

Riley Robinson, President

(He/Him) Riley and his family have been in the Albuquerque theatre community for the last ten years. Riley holds a Masters Degree from Wayland Baptist University and is currently teaching high school English. He’s been performing his entire life and has recently enjoyed playing Maurice in Beauty and the Beast, Santa in Elf: the Musical, and also loves just being in the ensemble and singing.

Colleen Kay Sample, Vice President

(She/Her) ​Colleen Kay Sample grew up competing as a classical pianist. She also participated in multiple choirs and did extensive individual vocal training. She continues to sing and write original songs. She started film and commercial acting post college, training with Lee Kitts and Joanne Camp here in Albuquerque before attending and graduating from Atlantic Acting School’s Evening Conservatory in New York City. She has been working with Hold the Applause and Music Theater Southwest since returning from New York. Recent roles include Elinor in Sense and Sensibility (HAP), Miss Casewell in The Mousetrap (HAP), and Betsy Foster in Tuck Everlasting (MTS). Colleen is also a nurse at UNM Hospital and loves spending her downtime with her pets and being outdoors!

Ariana Gant, Treasurer

(She/Her) Ariana has been involved in the ABQ theatre community for the past 12 years in a number of capacities. She has performed in over 25 local productions with a variety of groups, including performing as a two-time Best Actress Nominee in the Enchantment Awards. She has also co-produced two musicals, served as choreographer for eight productions, and taught a number of dance classes. Ariana recently graduated with degrees in Business Management, Theatre, and Dance from Western Washington University and is currently working at Walt Disney World. Ariana has been with HAP since 2017 and is exceptionally proud to be part of this company!

BrieAnn Gillespie, Secretary

(She/Her) Starting in 2015 BrieAnn has been a member of the Albuquerque community theatre scene. Wanting to see the theatre thrive in the community she has proudly helped with multiple HAP productions and happily serves as board secretary. HAP has helped her learn and grow as an actress and board member and she is very thankful to those who have given her these opportunities.

Cash Martinez, Facilities Committee Head

(He/Him) ​Cash Martinez has been involved with theatre since age 9. He has acted in roles such as Wadsworth in Clue: On Stage, Gabe in Next to Normal, and the Prince in Cinderella. Other than acting, Cash has music directed, assistant stage managed and was President of his high school drama club (troupe #4156). He is currently enrolled at CNM and is the day manager at Dion’s store #4. Cash joined HAP in 2022 and is proud to call it his new home.

Mariah Lujan, Marketing Committee Head

(She/Her) Mariah has been involved in Albuquerque theatre since 2021. She mostly works as a stage manager as well as  nurturing theatre artists through her work with HAP’s children’s shows and summer camps. She considers HAP her second home, and is happy to serve on the marketing team. When not at the theater, Mariah is a teacher at Mountain Mahogany Community School, where she currently teaches 5th grade. In her spare time, Mariah enjoys baking, sewing, and reading a great book. 

​Dakotah Lopez, Board Member

(He/Him) Dakotah has been an artist in theater for 9 years. From children's theater, adult theater, opera, and film, his passion for acting and creating art is a vital part of himself. He is currently a student at UNM pursuing a degree in theatre with plans to graduate with his bachelor's in acting and an associates degree in vocal performance.

Lulu Kachele, Board Member

  

(She/Her)