Mr. Cottrell is honored to lead and direct the Drama Department at Hesperia High School. As an alumni of the HHS Drama Department, he understands firsthand the positive impact a strong theatre program can have on a student. After graduating from Hesperia High School, Mr. Cottrell went on to spend over a decade performing professionally throughout Los Angeles, the Inland Empire, and at Disneyland. Mr. Cottrell began his teaching career at Hesperia High School in 2016. Since then, he has worked to build a program that fosters creativity, collaboration, and excellence both on stage and off. Mr. Cottrell considers it an incredible privilege to work and collaborate with such talented and dedicated students and production staff. It is also a true blessing to share this journey with his wife and children, who continue to inspire his work everyday.

Mike Heywood is proud to serve as Co-Director for Hesperia High School’s production of Shrek the Musical. Mr. Heywood is a 1993 graduate of Hesperia High School and has spent 15 of his 21 years in education teaching at his alma mater. Over that time, he has directed numerous productions, with favorites including All Shook Up and The Music Man. He thanks his students, colleagues, and family for their unwavering support.

Miss Kyra is honored to join the team as a Co-director for Hesperia High School’s Shrek the Musical! She has been in the performing arts for as long as she can remember. She received her formal training at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts (NY ‘18), and has been performing and teaching since then. Miss Kyra takes great pride in her acting work in musicals, award winning short films, and an original cast album. That pride is nothing compared to the joy of sharing the craft with these students, and seeing their dedication, creativity, and passion throughout the show process. She would like to thank her family for their continued support and encouragement.

Mrs. Cottrell is thrilled to serve as choreographer for Shrek the Musical. An alumna of this very drama department, Mrs. Cottrell went on to study at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in Los Angeles and performed professionally as a dancer, singer, and actress from 2009–2019. Since 2021, she has been the Worship Director at Valley Christian Church, where she continues to share her love of music and performance. Mrs. Cottrell is passionate about teaching choreography, helping students discover their creative potential, and watching them grow. She is grateful to serve alongside her husband, their children, and above all, God.

Ms. Atkins proudly serves as the Production Manager for Hesperia High School’s Drama Program. Now in her fifth year of teaching and second year in this role, she is thrilled to be part of such a talented and passionate team. While her role looks a little different from the other members of the production team, during rehearsal season you’ll find her managing behind-the-scenes details such as marketing, ticketing, and supporting the student leadership team. Once performances arrive, she can usually be spotted with a headset, keeping the organized chaos of backstage running smoothly. Although she does not come from a performance background, her experience in education and leadership has proven invaluable in helping the cast and crew grow not only as performers, but also as leaders and collaborators. Ms. Atkins loves watching students discover their voices, build confidence, and create something extraordinary together on stage. At Hesperia High, “We Build Character.”

Mr. González has been involved in theatre for over 18 years, working as a stagehand, performer, director, and designer. He earned his B.A. in Theatre Arts from California Lutheran University (c/o 2013) and is currently pursuing his second Master’s degree in Theatre Arts at the University of Houston (c/o 2026). Outside of theatre, Mr. González teaches Spanish Heritage courses and serves as an Adjunct Professor of Theatre at Victor College. He is especially excited to launch the new Technical Theatre Pathway at Hesperia High School, creating opportunities for students to explore the art and craft of backstage work. Mr. González would like to thank the students, community, administrative and creative team for their support and for helping foster a collaborative and inspiring artistic space.

Amanda Graley is delighted to be back on the Production Team as the Musical Director this year! She previously worked with our casts in shows such as "Little Shop of Horrors", "Grease", "Spongebob", and "Beauty in the Beast." She also starred as the Wardrobe in "Beauty in the Beast" in 2019. Amanda served as the Choir Teacher at HHS from 2008-2023 and is currently the Activities Teacher, running the ASB and Link Leadership programs. She earned her B.A. in Vocal Performance at Point Loma Nazarene University and a M.A. in Worship Studies at Liberty University. Fun fact: Amanda is ordained as a Pastor at Hesperia Church of the Nazarene.