Jessica Horstman Sabatini

Artistic Director

Jessica's journey in the world of theater began at YPPC, where she dedicated 12 years of her life, from age 6 and continuing until she turned 18. Her academic journey led her to achieve a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre with a minor in Business Administration from ECU. Over the course of more than 20 years, she has accumulated experience as an actor, director, and producer, with performances on both local stages and the bustling theater scene of New York City, spanning theater, film, and television.

In addition to her remarkable work in the performing arts, Jessica's leadership and teaching abilities shine through. She has dedicated five years to teaching children's theater, inspiring the next generation of artists. Moreover, for over a decade, she has excelled as a life coach and a sought-after public speaker. 

What truly sets Jessica apart is her unwavering belief in the transformative power of theater, as she passionately strives to evoke catharsis, triggering emotional transformations within audiences through the act of witnessing powerful performances.

Jeffryn Stephens

Co-Founder and Artistic Director

As the heart and driving force behind YPPC since its inception in 1982, Jeffryn assumes various pivotal roles within the company. She serves as its artistic director, a dedicated teacher, a proficient manager, and a talented writer. With over 40 years of unwavering commitment, Jeffryn has directed an impressive portfolio of more than 500 shows at YPPC. Beyond her directorial prowess, she imparts her expertise through teaching in YPPC classes, camps, and workshops, while also adeptly managing schedules and overseeing the company's administration.

In addition to her invaluable contributions to YPPC, Jeffryn's impact has extended to other prominent organizations, including the Durham Recreation Department, the North Carolina Arts Council, the Durham County Schools, the Carrboro Art School Theater, the Duke School for Children, and Durham Academy. Jeffryn's academic journey reflects her dedication, holding a Bachelor's degree in Dramatic Arts with a strong emphasis on directing and acting, complemented by a Minor in Music, with a focus on voice, from St. Mary's College at Notre Dame.

Throughout her illustrious career, Jeffryn has introduced countless young talents to the enchanting world of theater, infusing them with the magic of drama and comedy. Her unwavering passion continues to inspire new generations of students at YPPC on a daily basis.

Rebecca Drake-Pelli

Movement & Dance Instructor

Rebecca has a rich and extensive background in the world of dance, having dedicated over two decades to the art of movement. Her expertise includes ballet and modern dance and she has been imparting her knowledge as an instructor in dance, yoga, and various movement arts for more than 20 years.

Rebecca held a decade-long collaboration with her mentor, Annie Dwyer, at the Carolina Friends School. For ten years, they nurtured the creative talents of 5th-12th grade students. Rebecca continues teaching young people at Roots, an establishment that resonates with her core values.

Rebecca strives to create an environment where children can express themselves through the art of movement, assured of unwavering support and the celebration of their authenticity. Participants will grasp the essential elements of dance, such as shape, placement, and rhythm, and will do so through the lens of creative concepts. This approach is grounded in the practice of experiential learning, allowing the students to actively engage in the learning process.

Rebecca's dedication to nurturing the creative spirit of young dancers and imparting fundamental skills reflects her profound commitment to the art of movement and the growth of her students.

Rich Kless

Technical & Lighting Director

Rich's journey in the performing arts began at age 10, evolving into a multifaceted career that saw him sharing stages with Perry Como and Garth Brooks. He now serves as the Theater Operations Supervisor at Duke University, managing its major campus venues.

Across 100+ shows, he's taken on pivotal roles like John Adams in "1776" and Bill Sykes in "Oliver." In 1996, he toured Europe, managing Leonard Bernstein's "On the Town," while Susie danced alongside.

The couple also co-founded "2 Peas in a Pod Productions" in Wilmington, NC, blending classic fairy tales and contemporary kids' works. Yet, their greatest collaboration remains raising their twin sons, Tyler and Colin.