Meet the
Board of Directors
Kennedy Baker
Owner/ Executive Director
"In 2017, I graduated from Manila High School with a heart full of passion and a dream to bring theater education and the performing arts back
to my hometown. My love for theater began at the age for seven, and it shaped not only my childhood but also my career aspirations. In 2021,
I made my directional debut, fulfilling a lifelong goal to bring live theater to our community. Since then, I've directed several productions,
each one reinforcing my belief in the power of the arts to inspire, unite, and transform lives.
In 2023, I took my passion to the next level by founding Studio 42 & Co., a nonprofit theatre company dedicated to fostering creativity,
collabration, and inclusivity for young performers across Northeast Arkansas. Our first season has been a testament to the incredible talent, resilience, and heart of our cast and crew. Together, they've embraced challenges, built friendships, and created unforgetable performaces
that highlight the magic of live theater.
Studio 42 & Co. is more than a theater company; it's a family. With the unwavering support of parents, sponsors, and our community, we've
turned a dream into a reality. I am endlessly grateful for everyone who has played a part in this journey and excited for the future as we continue
to inspire and empower the next generation of performers.
Thank you for supporting our mission and beliving in the transformative power of the arts!"
Kaitlyn Woodall
President
“Growing up, theatre was my safe place. I felt like I finally found my calling when I first joined at the age of 10 when I landed the role of Annie in the traveling company production “Annie.” When I began college, I met Kennedy and we instantly became friends over our love for theatre. She introduced me to her brother and now we are married, with two boys and two dogs, living in their home town. I came from a community where theatre was all around you and when moving to a community where it was almost unheard of, I was taken back. That’s what made me feel like I belonged in this crazy world. I am so blessed to have the opportunity to help bring the world of theatre into the community and have it expand to other parts of the state in the future. With these other board members by my side, I believe we can ‘Create the Impossible.’”
Sarah Poe
Vice President
I started doing community theater in 2013, at 15 years old. This is where I met our Executive Director, Kennedy Baker, and countless other friends. As a child in a small town who loved theatre, I would have my parents drive me, and later drive myself very far from home to get involved. I wanted to become involved in Studio 42 & Co. because bringing community theatre to the small towns around me; to give these kids and families something I wish I had when I was younger. Each generation should be given better opportunities than the last. I am so proud to be apart of something that will be so impactful for our communities.
Cheyenne Gatlin
Treasurer
I take pride in being a devoted mother and strive to always be there for my children. As a mother of 3, each of my children have their own distinct personalities and hobbies. It was clear from an early age that our middle child had a passion for singing and dancing, but was very timid. I was first introduced to Studio 42 & Co. through a family friend whose daughter had participated in several productions. Shrek Jr. the Musical was our first production and we absolutely loved it. We have watched our child thrive in so many ways because of the safe and loving environment that has been created by Studio 42 & Co. I’m thankful for the opportunity to serve on the board and have a part in expanding the reach and impact of theatre in our community.
Ethan Poe
Historian
Shelby Boozy
Director of Communications
Although I have no personal experience with theatre, besides small plays as a child in church, I have always loved theatre. When my daughter sparked an interest, I started looking for theatre camps for her to do during the summer. Thats when we found Studio 42 & Co, and we both fell in love. Coming from a small town were our school didn't offer theatre, I missed the oppurtunity to explore the world of thearte. That's why I joined Studio 42 & Co, I wanted to help anyway I could to keep Studio 42 & Co around as a safe space for other kids, teens, and adults to explore theatre!
Stephanie Carter
Secretary
I first became involved with theatre and Studio 42 & Co when my daughter showed interest after being
in the ensemble in Seussical Jr. I am a retired elementary educator having 28+ years of educating the
children of Northeast Arkansas. Watching the younger generation grow their love of theatre and
performing in front of family and friends is a pure joy. I am married and we have an 8 year old daughter
who recently played the role of “Annie” along with our Havanese playing the role of Sandy with Studio
42 & Co in 2024. I am blessed to able to serve on the board and help bring the art of theatre
performance to our small area of NE Arkansas.
