meet the team
My wonderful instructors are all seasoned, young, music theater, dance, arts and professional educators.
We keep a strict ratio of at least 2 instructors per group of up to 8 and for groups up to 20 there will always be 4 of us. The camp maintains a maximum capacity of 20 children.
Singer, Songwriter, Actor & Teacher
Dana Fuchs
I am a lifelong professional performer in music, film, and theatre, a 20-year Buddhist practitioner, and hold an MSEd in Educational Theatre with K-12 teaching licenses. I am also certified to teach mindfulness in public schools (preK-12). With a deep passion and expertise in working with children, I have developed a curriculum that integrates all my experience and passion. Most importantly, I'm a mother of two boys, ages (almost) 8 and 4 and I simply love having a great time with kids!
Early Childhood Educator and Performer
Charlie Nicholson
My name is Charlie Nicholson. I teach in the NYC public school system at Gramercy Arts High School and hold degrees from Vassar College and CUNY City College. Beyond my role in education, I'm a performer and instructor at Magnet Theatre in Chelsea, a devoted chihuahua owner, and an avid science fiction fan. My collaboration with Mind the Gap this summer promises to be an extraordinary experience! As an educator, I firmly believe in the power of the arts and experiential learning to pave the way for lifelong learning. These experiences foster a robust curiosity and a passion for communication and problem-solving in students. I look forward to getting to know you and your family!
Theater & Biology
Rowen Halpin
Rowen Halpin (she/her/hers) is an artist and teacher originally from Boston, MA. She holds a B.S. in Theatre and Biology from Skidmore College and is pursuing an M.S.Ed. in Educational Theatre at The City College of New York. During the school year, she is an associate science teacher at an independent school in Manhattan teaching grades K-3. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cooking, and all types of word puzzles.
Fordham University Student Child Psychology
Madison Chavis
Hi! My name is Madison and I'm so excited to be a part of Mind the Gap this summer! During the year I study psychology at Fordham University to become a child psychologist/counselor. I am also an experienced nanny and work throughout the year in the city and in the Hamptons, and enjoy planning fun activities for the kids! I love being outdoors and am a very active person, whether it be with sports, hiking, or exploring. I am CPR and First Aid certified and have a background in lifeguarding and am very excited to have swimming days! I can’t wait to meet everyone and have a blast this summer!
Arts Education
Olivia Shank
Hello! I’m Olivia and I’m very excited to join Mind the Gap this summer. I have a BFA in Graphic Design and am excited to bring my passion for all things art, design, photography, painting and crafting to the camp experience this summer. I have over 10 years of childcare experience and have dedicated many hours to making kids feel loved and have space to be themselves. Can’t wait to explore the city this summer and help the kids have a great break!
Actor & Teaching Artist
Eleanor Grace
Hi there! My name is Eleanor (she/her)! I am a recent graduate of NYU Tisch Drama at the Stella Adler Studio and Stonestreet Studios. I grew up with six younger siblings, so I have a built-in love of working with kids! I have 9 years of childcare experience, and last year, I worked as an in-classroom tutor for a Fourth Grade class. I love acting, live music, photography, the NYT Crossword, game nights, painting, people who get excited, and spontaneous adventures. I cannot wait to explore, create, and breathe together this summer!