| About Us | |
Topanga Youth Services
began as a response to the needs of youths in the area. |
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In
1993, two fifth graders and one sixth grader broke into the Topanga Elementary
School and destroyed some property there. At this time, Susan Nissman, who had begun the grant writing process, turned the project over to Sunny Lannutti, who then, along with Kathleen Hernandez, Gayle Cline, and Julie Sugarman, brought in some parents and teens to help develop the program. |
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There
were some doubts and challenges in getting the Women's Club (now the Topanga
Community Club) to agree to allow space at the Community House for Open
Recreation nights. There were also difficulties in finalizing the grant
because of a misperception that Some notable moments during the many events and activities are the plays that were produced. Paula Lebrot directed "Topanga Jones Classic Park" in the summer of 1993, and then Paulette Messenheimer became the new director in 1994, under the name of Topanga Youth Services. Her productions were, "Aesopes Fables", "Alice in Wonderland", "Sleeping Beauty-ish" (which was adapted by two members), and "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe". Noel Rhodes was also an important music director and led the famous "Mothrocity shows", showcasing rock bands and comedy skits. Karen Cooke became the new director in summer of 2004. Overseeing recreational events and range of creative activities and programs, Karen has also directed many productions at the Topanga Community House. These include "Napoleon Dynamite", "The Producers", and an orginal Beatles tribute "Come Together". Billy Portman guest directed the acclaimed, "Tommy" and Cecilie Stuart Garcia has contributed her stellar chorography talents for a number of shows. |
©2009-2011
TopangaYouthServices.org |
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