🗝️ See what people have to say about working with Shay 🎭

For the last three years, we have watched our oldest child’s confidence and self-esteem soar. Shay’s constant encouragement, guidance, and care have helped her find a safe place with room to grow in this crazy world. As an educator, my standards for those working with my children are exceptionally high and Shay Wainwright exceeds them. We would follow her anywhere. 

– Meghan K.

Shay has created a space where my daughter feels welcome, challenged, and supported. I have watched her grow as a person and actor with Shay's mentorship and kindness. Any time Shay is directing a play, my daughter begs to be in it!

– Alison S.

Our daughters have had the privilege of participating in Shay’s productions over the past few years. Shay’s passion for the arts shines through in her students. We continue to witness growth in their abilities and confidence thanks to Shay. Her warmth and compassion makes them feel welcomed, seen and valued. Most importantly, they have amazing fun in the show creation process! 

– Tina B.

Working with Shay over the past 7 years has been such a gift for my daughter and for me and my husband to observe.  Shay has created a welcoming, safe environment for every student to feel comfortable discovering who they are as actors, singers, dancers and crew members.  She has an amazing ability to connect with teens and encourage them to reach outside their comfort zone and realize their full potential.  My daughter started out in musicals as part of the chorus, but with Shay’s guidance and support she felt confident enough to take on lead roles, knowing that Shay would give her the coaching and direction she needed to be successful.  As a parent, I couldn’t have asked for a better theater experience for my daughter, than what she was lucky enough to find working with Shay. 

– Laura H.

When I found out that Shay had started her own theater company I had two immediate thoughts:  (1) good for Shay! and (2) how quickly can I sign up my daughter?  Having seen firsthand Shay’s effect on not only my daughter, but the children of lots of other families in town, I can say with full confidence that Shay has a unique gift in working with kids to bring out their very best, and make everyone feel welcome. She meets kids where they are, and gives them to tools to feel confident, included, and secure. She’s far more organized than anyone dealing with dozens of children has a right to be, and I appreciate her clear, concise (and even alphabetized!) weekly emails laying out rehearsal schedules.  Shay teaches useful, transferable skills to students and does it in a way that makes them feel like they’re part of something great. I highly recommend you sign up for Here Be Dragons Theater with Shay! 

– Caitlin L.

My children have performed in several theater productions with Shay Wainwright. Shay’s passion for the arts and dedication to each child’s growth is evident in every rehearsal and performance. Her patience and kindness create a supportive environment where kids feel confident to express themselves and take creative risks. Shay has an incredible ability to make every child feel like a star. She connects with each child individually while teaching teamwork, responsibility and confidence along the way. All of my kids’ experiences with Shay have been incredibly positive and I’m so grateful to her for opening their eyes to the magic of theater. 

– Nukhet M.

Shay Wainwright has a gift for creating a safe and inclusive environment. Shay has a way of connecting with all her students and their families to build a community. Shay has always made sure our daughter was included. She encouraged her to move from backstage to acting. She helps build confidence and foster natural talent in all her students. We have seen how working with Shay has helped our daughter come out of her shell. She gets excited to audition and be a part of every production. 

- Christine S.

Shay gives kids space to step out of their comfort zone and push themselves. She not only encouraged my kids in their acting development, but when two of them expressed interest in writing a play or a short story, she was a safe and supportive resource. We are so grateful. 

- Heather H.

I am delighted to recommend Shay Wainwright as she launches her new theater studio.  Over the years, my son has had the privilege of participating in seven productions under her direction throughout middle school, and the experience has been truly exceptional. Shay creates a positive, encouraging environment where students feel supported.  Her passion for theater, dedication to her students, and the ability to bring out the best in each performer are evident in every production.  She not only builds strong performances, but also confidence, teamwork, and a genuine love for the arts. We are excited to continue with her at Here Be Dragons this summer!  

- Jeanine L.

Our kids love participating in Shay's theater productions - it's amazing to see how their confidence has grown and the passion they've developed for performing.  Shay does an excellent job of making sure that each performer feels part of the production, whether they're working crew, acting as a background dancer, or singing as a lead performer.  I highly recommend Shay for any families with kids interested in trying out or getting involved with local theater!  

- Joe G.