Santana Carlton
Founder and Executive Artistic Director. BamaRep Elite Director
Welcome! I have been working in theatre for 16+ years. I have been recognized by both the state of Alabama and nationally as an award winning Director for Youth Theatre. I have been the director of a competitive theatre team since 2012. I earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theatre from Jacksonville State University. My favorite roles onstage include Peter Pan, Elle Woods and a Laker Girl/Dancer in Spamalot. I'm also a proud former WDW cast member!
My heart belongs to my little boy, JackJack. Being a mom is the most important role I've ever played. He is the best thing in my life and I love that we get to go on this journey together.
I made a profession of faith in Jesus as my Lord and Savior when I was 8 yrs old. I make an effort every day to serve the one true God and to advance the kingdom for His glory.
Payton Russell - Associate Director
Payton is one of our new Directors but he's no stranger to the stage. Payton is an alumni of our competition team and has been performing with us since he was 9 years old. While participating in our program, Payton directed many student shows and classes and was elected Co-President of our Elite team during his senior year. He is an award winning actor and has been recognized both state wide and nationally. Payton is also the CFO of The Warehouse Dance Company that he owns with his wife, Ensley. He graduated from Southeastern University and Highlands College with a degree in Christian Ministry and certificate in Pastoral Leadership. He is an ordained minister through The Vine Network and serves at Gadsden Christian Fellowship.
Ensley Russell - Associate Choreographer
Ensley has been performing since she was 4 years old. She is also an Elite team alumni and has been choreographing for our program for 5+ years. Ensley is the founder, owner, and teacher at The Warehouse Dance Company. She is a national award winning choreographer and has been teaching for many years. She has studied dance in NYC with The Rockettes, Broadway Dance Center and Dance Molinari. She has had the opportunity to learn with Ballet Magnificat and performed with the Atlanta Hawks Dancers. Along with many dance accomplishments, she graduated from Highlands College with a degree in Ministry Arts with a focus in Family Ministry. She now has the privilege of being the Elementary Director at Gadsden Christian Fellowship.
Amelia Wright - Associate Music Director
Amelia recently graduated from Westbook Chrstian School and is now an Elite alumni. During her time with Bama Rep, Amelia taught music for multiple shows and camps. She recently directed her first shows with Bama Rep, Anne of Green Gables and Peter Pan. This Fall, she will be attending Jacksonville State University to pursue a degree in Film. She aspired to work in the Christian film industry after college. Amelia is also a member of the praise team at her church. She has been in many shows and some of her favorites are Seussical, The Lion King Jr, Beauty and the Beast, Newsies, and The Wizard Of Oz.