Meet the Team
The Port Players team is excited to offer our expertise in vocal training, musical theater, and dance. With our strong background in these areas, we are confident in our ability to help young performers develop their skills and reach their full potential. Join us on this journey of growth and creativity!
Elizabeth Armano
Artistic Director & Founder
Lucky to say that she is doing what she loves, Elizabeth has been actively working professionally for several years. While performing is her true love, she also loves sharing her gift and helping teach the singers of tomorrow achieve their goals. Whether its teaching or performing, Elizabeth feels truly blessed to be working in such an amazing industry.
A native of Massachusetts, Elizabeth received vocal training at the New England Conservatory in Boston and North Shore Music Theatre in Beverly MA. For the past 12 years, she has directed several youth groups. Most recently Liz created and led the Theatre Program for Sacred Hearts School in Bradford, MA making it the largest enrichment program at the school.
Caroline Desmet
Assistant Director & Voice Production Coordinator
Growing up in Massachusetts, Caroline was a member of the Treble Chorus of New England and studied with various vocal coaches in the Merrimack Valley. Musical Theatre was always part of her life from grammar school through college. She was fortunate to have the opportunity to step into the role as assistant director and stage manager for local youth theatre. Caroline has worked in this role with Elizabeth in various productions over the past seven years, and is thrilled to be part of the Port Players team.
Caroline has been working as a registered nurse for the past 17 years both in local hospitals and the community of Greater Newburyport.
Meghan Johnson
Lead Choreographer
Meghan Reid is an Acro Arts and Massachusetts Certified Dance Teacher. She studied dance at North Shore Dance Academy for fourteen years and ballet performance at Melrose Youth Ballet. Meghan has been teaching for 12 years, and is currently teaching dance for Lawrence Public Schools at the Guilmette Elementary School and at Nancy Chippendale’s Dance Studios.
Meghan graduated University of Massachusetts Lowell in 2014, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Physiology and Nutrition. And is now earning her Masters of Science in Kinesiology.
Benjamin LeBlanc
Dance Program Coordinator
Benjamin LeBlanc is Port Players’ newly appointed Dance Program Coordinator, bringing a wealth of experience and passion to the role. A graduate of Dean College, Benjamin holds a degree in Theatre with a minor in Dance, reflecting his long-standing commitment to the performing arts. His journey in dance began at the age of nine, and over the years, he has developed into a seasoned performer with extensive national and North American touring experience.
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Benjamin’s approach to dance is deeply rooted in the belief that art should celebrate all forms and bodies. He is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where every dancer feels valued and empowered. His work emphasizes the importance of body positivity, encouraging students to embrace their unique physicality and express themselves authentically.
Pam Sartorelli
Production Manager
Keira Clemenzi
Assistant Production Manager
Alma Maresse
Production Music Assistant & Voice Instructor
Avery Armano
Choreographer
Julia Desmet
Vocal Coach
Joseph Harris
Vocal Coach
Sophie DeMaio
Dance Instructor
Muriel Baillie
Dance Instructor
Board of Directors
President - Liz Armano
Treasurer - Domenic Armano
Secretary - Shanna Desch
Board Member - Christie Och
Board Member- Jenn Poliseno
Board Member - Amber Roback