​Colleen McDermott is a theatre educator specializing in directing, musical theatre, and stage combat. She holds a BFA in Musical Theatre with honors from Southeast Missouri State University and is pursuing graduate study at NYU, bringing conservatory-level rigor and creativity to the classroom. Colleen is also certified in multiple stage combat disciplines through Dueling Arts International, integrating safe, dynamic physical storytelling into her work. Guided by a belief that meaningful artistry emerges through risk-taking and the positive potential of failure, she creates collaborative, process-driven learning environments. Colleen strives to nurture resilient, confident young artists who embrace imperfection as a catalyst for growth.