The Patriot Playhouse
In 2022, Carrollwood Day School opened its doors and stage to the community by creating the Patriot Playhouse. Led by CDS middle school theatre teacher, Julie Nelson, the Patriot Playhouse brought Annie Jr. to the stage, along with workshops led by Broadway stars. With the goal of community the Patriot Playhouse is open to students from all over the Tampa Bay Area.
Julie Nelson earned her B.A. in Communication Arts with minors in Theatre and Dance at Catawba College in NC. She started her teaching career when she was teaching a Body Language and Writing Skills Workshop at a High School in North Carolina and was asked to develop their theatre and dance program. She developed their program and has been passionate about teaching ever since! After moving to Florida 25 years ago, she has directed, choreographed, and performed in numerous productions throughout the Tampa Bay Area. She has taught Theatre & Dance to students in grades PreK-3 thru 12th grade over the past 28 years. Julie is super excited to bring her love of the performing arts to CDS and her students!