Jennifer Welch | Artistic Director

Jennifer Welch is the Artistic Director of Cookeville Children’s Theatre, where she has been a guiding force for over 20 years. Known for her commitment to excellence and her heart for mentoring young artists, Jennifer leads CCT with a focus on fostering creativity, discipline, and a strong work ethic. Her approach to theatre emphasizes not only artistic achievement but also the values of integrity, professionalism, and collaboration.

Under her leadership, CCT has become a beacon for high-quality productions, earning multiple regional accolades including Best Director, Best Choreographer, and Best Musical. Jennifer’s passion for theatre is matched by her dedication to developing the next generation of performers, fostering confidence, self-expression, and an enduring love for the arts in her students.

As a director, choreographer, and educator, Jennifer has shaped the lives of countless young people, helping them develop both their artistic skills and their character. Her leadership continues to inspire, and her work consistently elevates the standard for young theatre in the Upper Cumberland community.

Michael Choate | Music Director

Michael Choate, (Musical Director) is in his twenty-eighth year as Choral Music Specialist with the Putnam County School System in Cookeville, Tn. Throughout his tenure in the system, Mr. Choate has initiated and maintained choral and musical theatre programs at every age level. His choirs have consistently received superior ratings at regional, state, and national festivals and contests. Mr. Choate has twice been selected the Rotary Teacher of Excellence Award recipient, having attained the honor at both the middle and high school levels of teaching. In 2010, he was awarded the system-wide Teacher of Excellence Award for Putnam County. His choir was featured in a PBS Documentary entitled “Celebrate America”, have performed national anthems for the Memphis Grizzlies, the Atlanta Hawks, and the University of Tennessee Volunteer basketball teams. His ensembles have also performed at the Ryman Auditorium, the Grand Ole Opry, and numerous other concert venues and cathedrals. Under his direction, the CHS Choral Music program has twice been featured at the Tennessee School Board Association Conference and was also selected as one of three ensembles nationally to perform at the National School Board Association Conference in Boston, Massachusetts. The musical theatre productions at CHS have been nominated for and awarded numerous honors, including two state championship awards for Best Musical Theatre production. Mr. Choate has and continues to serve as clinician and accompanist for many Middle Tennessee and surrounding area events and has served on the board for the Middle Tennessee Vocal Association as All State Auditions Chair, Choral Festival Chair, and President. Mr. Choate has been selected as a semi-finalist in the Grammy Music Educator Awards program in the past and most recently, he was honored with the 2020-2021 CMA Excellence in Teaching Award.

Katelyn Leddy | Stage Manager & Teaching Artist

Katelyn Leddy is an award-winning actress, dedicated stage manager, and passionate teaching artist with a deep love for musical theatre. With experience in over 30 productions, Katelyn has excelled in roles both on and off the stage, bringing professionalism, creativity, and heart to every project she undertakes.

Katelyn has been an integral part of Cookeville Children’s Theatre since 2003, contributing her talents as a performer, technician, and leader. Additionally, she has worked with Cookeville High School's choral department musicals since 2015, helping to bring memorable performances to life.

Outside of the theatre, Katelyn is a committed educator, teaching 2nd grade at Park View Elementary School. Her dual passions for teaching and the arts allow her to inspire and mentor young performers, nurturing their talents and fostering their love for the stage.

She is continually inspired by the dedication and artistry of her colleagues and is proud to be part of a vibrant community that celebrates excellence in theatre. Katelyn’s contributions to CCT continue to enrich the experience for both cast and audience members alike.

Teaching Artist - The Actor’s Flex

Laura is the founder of Storyteller House, a creative group that produces and promotes new theatre works, most recently premiering her play The Kitchen in New York City with a cast of nine Cookeville actors. She is a graduate of AMDA (where she was introduced to improv by the great Karly Rothenberg), a former playmaker at the National Comedy Theatre (where she studied with the hilarious Kevin McDonald), and a seasoned educator, working with children and adults in the craft of performance and the joy of comedy.  www.storytellerhouse.com

Teaching Artist - Art Explorers, Adventures in Art, Studio Art

Ella is a passionate artist, performer, and Cookeville Children's Theatre alumna dedicated to inspiring creativity in young minds. Currently studying psychology at Tennessee Tech University, she blends her artistic talents with an understanding of human development to foster confidence and self-expression in her students. With a lifelong love of art, she has taken courses every year, studied art history over the summer, and pursued art at the college level. Whether creating her own work or guiding students of all experience levels, Ella believes art is a powerful tool for building self-esteem and promoting positive messages. She is excited to share her passion and help others explore their creativity together.