Our Impact

Current and former cast members and parent volunteers share their perspectives on the value of their Talent Machine experience, their proudest moments and those moments that made them laugh out loud.

First up — Daniel Jones — who performed in many Talent Machine productions and whose last show with the Company was in the award-winning Mean Girls. Daniel also served for one year as the student member of the Board of Directors and single-handedly created the Talent Machine’s presence on TikTok. Daniel shares the three ways that Company Machine has impacted his life and concludes by saying, “Talent Machine is a creative force that honestly blesses whoever it’s able to reach.” 

Read our 2025 Impact Report

Testimonials

Lasting Friendships

“The Talent Machine fosters relationships that last well beyond the run of the shows. Older cast members are role models and mentors for the younger cast. Parents are also deeply involved in every aspect of the production and we have the chance to spend time with our children and form strong bonds with other parents. My son, Logan, and I have met some of our very best friends through Talent Machine.”
Mari Ann Donnelly, Parent Volunteer

Transformational Performances

“The Talent Machine Company gives audiences a theatrical experience that is not only captivating, it also transforms you from your seats and catapults you into the show.”
Brabazon Family

Energy

“As an audience member, you are transported into the storytelling of the show … These kids put their heart and soul into each production. And the audience feels their energy and enthusiasm in every scene.”
Nellum Family

A Professional Experience

“The Talent Machine develops entertainers! The training these kids receive is at a professional level. Not only do they learn the foundations of musical theater in dance and song, they learn set production, costumes, lighting, directing, blocking. And they get to experience what it truly means to work as a unit toward a common goal.”
Nellum Family

Heart

“The kids connect audiences through music and dance. The Company connects families through a love of theater, and they also connect with the community by ensuring everyone feels welcome.”
Nellum Family

Family

“The Talent Machine is a family. After 30 years, alumni and their families keep the legacy and heart of Talent Machine alive, and I would venture to say, they would also give anything to ensure it remains a community staple.”
Nellum Family

Hard Work

“The greatest Life Lesson from Talent Machine is that things don’t always come easy! No one is going to hand you your dreams. You have to work for what you want and be dedicated to it. Eventually, you will get there. But it’s always worth the hard work in the end.”
Renee Doty, Alum

Commitment

“I attribute my work ethic to Talent Machine. Always give 100 percent. Work hard and have a good attitude.”
Taylor Rector, Alum

Inspirational Leadership

“Lea Capps is the Company’s greatest asset. Her passion, commitment and love for these kids is an inspiration. She has given countless kids a place to be themselves and grow, even in some of the hardest years of adolescence.”
Mari Ann Donnelly, Parent Volunteer