Participant Biographies and Project Descriptions

Diane Doyle
Diane is a creative professional with over 25 years experience performing and teaching all aspects of theater arts. Diane earned her BFA degree at California State University, Long beach and she holds a lifetime K – 12 teaching credential. She worked with the Walt Disney Company for over ten years where she was an entertainment show director and writer for events, shows, parades and premiers. She was a staff producer and director responsible for casting, writing, and directing all the entertainment events for the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. Diane founded the Young Conservatory at the South Coast Repertory in Costa Mesa, and the Neighborhood Conservatory, which provide children with opportunities to perform and experience theater.

Diane hopes to stimulate a love for learning and use of imagination though drama programs designed for children at Orange County Children’s Therapeutic Arts Center (OCCTAC). These children, like most young people who participate in OCCTAC’s programs, are at risk for failure in school and susceptible to gang violence. They are often struggling with learning English as a second language, limited financial resources, inner city violence, and the physical absence of parents who are often working more than one job. Diane would like to see her program enhance self esteem, improve reading ability, and give children a positive outlet to communicate their thoughts, feelings, hopes and dreams.