Guest Artist Program Spotlight
Experience the transformative power of mentorship. Our students benefit immensely from performing alongside professional adult performers, gaining firsthand insights into professional standards, work ethic, and the nuances of complex character development. This unique collaboration fosters creative courage and bridges the gap between educational theatre and industry excellence.
Ages
Open to young performers ages 7–18.
Dates
The Pre-Professional Program runs September 2026–June 2027
Schedule
Tuesday · 5:30–7:30 PM
Music — Aesthetic Studios
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Thursday · 5:30–7:30 PM
Ballet / Creative Dance — Aesthetic Studios
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Saturday · 1:30–3:30 PM
Acting / Blocking / Production — KAW Theatre
Tuition
$425/month for 6 training hours per week
Our Story
Pear Sky Theatre began as a family-founded vision to create a sanctuary where young artists could explore their potential. What started as a shared passion for storytelling has grown into a vibrant community dedicated to nurturing the next generation of creative leaders through professional, cinematic stage experiences.
Faculty & Advisory Board
Leadership
Ashley Eriksen
Co-Founder & Artistic Director
Ashley Eriksen is a SAG-AFTRA actress, producer, director, and performing arts educator dedicated to inspiring the next generation of artists. Her professional credits span film, television, and commercial work, including HBO and Lionsgate productions, while her directing credits include numerous acclaimed youth musicals throughout Los Angeles. As Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Pear Sky Theatre, Ashley combines industry experience with a passion for education, creating a supportive environment where students develop artistic excellence, confidence, discipline, and leadership through the performing arts.
Lilian Gong-Koiso
Co-Founder & Executive Director
Lilian Gong-Koiso is a technology entrepreneur, engineering leader, and creative producer with more than 30 years of experience delivering innovative solutions across technology, healthcare, entertainment, and Fortune 500 organizations. As Co-Founder and Executive Director of Pear Sky Theatre, she oversees strategic planning, operations, and organizational development while helping shape the company's long-term vision. Passionate about education and the arts, Lilian is dedicated to creating a supportive community where young performers can build confidence, creativity, and lifelong skills.
Teaching Artists
Virjina Maslov
Lead Ballet Instructor
Virjina Maslov is a professionally trained ballet educator who studied at the Academy of Music, Theater, and Other Arts (AMTAP) in Moldova, specializing in ballet, character dance, and classical dance pedagogy. With years of teaching experience, she is passionate about building strong technical foundations through the Vaganova method while helping students develop artistry, confidence, flexibility, and discipline. At Pear Sky Theatre, Virjina is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of dancers in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Richard Ye
Guest Teaching Artist
Our program features rotating industry professionals from Broadway, television, film, and music. These guest artists bring real-world perspective and professional standards directly to our students.
Teaching Assistants
Kelly Gong-Koiso
Teaching Assistant
Kelly Gong-Koiso is a teen actress, singer, and dancer with experience in film, television, and musical theatre. Her credits include Netflix's Never Have I Ever, Maria in The Sound of Music Jr., Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz Jr., Miss Hannigan in Annie Jr., Mrs. Potts in Beauty and the Beast Jr., and Helena in A Midsummer Night's Dream Jr. Beyond performing, Kelly has a growing interest in the business and financial side of the arts, particularly arts administration and organizational management. As a Teaching Assistant at Pear Sky Theatre, she enjoys mentoring young performers and helping students build confidence, creativity, and a love of the performing arts.
Natalie Miller
Teaching Assistant
Natalie Miller is a junior at Palisades Charter High School with training in stage drama, film acting, and ballet. She previously served as a Counselor-in-Training (CIT) for UCLA Summer Youth Programs, where she developed a passion for mentoring young students. Alongside her love for the performing arts, Natalie has a strong interest in neuroscience and enjoys exploring the connection between learning, development, and human behavior. As a Teaching Assistant at Pear Sky Theatre, she is committed to fostering a positive, encouraging environment where every student can grow in confidence, creativity, and teamwork.
Advisory Board
Peter Mehlman
Advisory Board Member
Peter Mehlman is an Emmy-nominated television writer and producer best known for his work on Seinfeld. As a member of the Pear Sky Theatre Advisory Board, he provides creative guidance and industry perspective, helping support the organization's commitment to storytelling, artistic excellence, and the next generation of performers.
Our Students on Stage
Before founding Pear Sky Theatre, our leadership team spent years directing, producing, and teaching youth productions throughout Los Angeles. These moments reflect the creativity, dedication, and confidence we strive to cultivate in every student. We look forward to creating many more unforgettable memories with the Pear Sky Theatre community.
