Contact
Location
6819 E Lincoln Hwy
Crown Point, IN 46304
-Near Albanese Candy-
Connect
info@playact.org
219.841.2266
Playact Backstage is your inside look at everything happening across our programs. Each edition pulls together updates, upcoming projects, special announcements, and the stories you don’t always see from the audience. It’s a way to stay connected to the work, the kids, and the creative heartbeat of Playact. Whether you’re a parent, student, volunteer, or supporter, this is where you’ll find the moments that make our community what it is.

Jessica Cretors is a director, teaching artist, and private instructor who works with Playact students in both productions and lessons. She teaches voice and piano and enjoys helping young performers develop strong musical foundations alongside confident stage presence.
Jessica’s teaching focuses on building healthy vocal technique, musical understanding, and storytelling through song. In the rehearsal room, she emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and the importance of ensemble work. She is passionate about helping students discover their unique artistic voice while gaining the confidence to express themselves through performance.
Through both classes and productions, Jessica strives to create an encouraging environment where young artists feel supported as they grow musically and theatrically.

Daniel Castro is the Vice President and Co-Founder of Playact Theatre. An Actors’ Equity Association performer, director, and vocal coach, Daniel has spent his career working in musical theatre both onstage and behind the table. His work at Playact centers on creating high-quality theatrical experiences for young performers while maintaining a supportive and collaborative rehearsal environment.
Daniel regularly choreographs and music directs Playact productions and teaches private voice lessons, working with students on vocal technique, performance skills, and audition preparation. Many of his students have gone on to perform in regional theatre, competitive show choir programs, and collegiate theatre training.
He believes that theatre education should challenge students artistically while helping them develop discipline, creativity, and confidence that extends far beyond the stage.

Keri Castro is the President and Co-Founder of Playact Theatre and has spent more than a decade creating meaningful performance and training opportunities for young artists across Northwest Indiana. An Actors’ Equity Association member and theatre director, Keri holds a Master’s degree in Theatre Directing and brings both professional experience and a strong educational foundation to her work with all performers.
Keri has directed numerous productions for both Playact Theatre and Valparaiso University, including Hadestown: Teen Edition, Shrek: The Musical, and Tuck Everlasting: Theatre for Young Audiences. Her rehearsal process emphasizes ensemble storytelling, thoughtful character work, and helping students build confidence while developing strong artistic discipline.
In addition to directing, Keri is passionate about creating a supportive creative community where young performers can grow not only in their craft, but also in leadership, collaboration, and confidence both on and off the stage.
