BIO
Born in New York, Laura fell in love with entertainment and storytelling at a young age through movies, musicals and ballet.
At the age of ten, Laura put on her first show for a paying audience in her living room and the rest is history. What made that show unique was not the vintage costumes or authentic Broadway choreography, but that all of the money raised was donated to charity. This launched the foundation of her vision to create a theatre company that gives back through the arts (more on that below!).
Her diverse experiences in the entertainment world have allowed her to gain valuable insights into different aspects of the industry. This has fueled her desire to combine entertainment with social responsibility, and continue to make a positive impact on the world.
Thirteen-year-old, Laura, directing a production of Annie with local cast members.
Founder & CEO
As the founder/director and CEO of the New York City based nonprofit theatre company, KOTA Productions, Laura has nurtured the careers of aspiring artists, collaborated with creative team members and produced impactful productions that resonate with cast members and audiences alike.
Every year, KOTA donates proceeds to charities locally and across the globe. This journey has shaped Laura’s passion for creativity, business and leadership - and this is only the beginning!
On the set of Disney Channel’s Just Roll With It!
Casting & Talent Management
Casting credits include Disney’s Just Roll With It and Sydney to the Max, NBC’s Lincoln Rhyme: Hunt for the Bone Collector and the Netflix original feature film, Home Team (Happy Madison Productions).
Laura has worked as the casting director on musicals and plays in New York City for 12+ years, spanning from World Premieres to Off-Broadway revivals. Recent credits include Disney’s Camp Rock, A Little Princess, Disney’s High School Musical and Annie Warbucks, to name a few.
As a talent manager with GAMUT Management, Laura had the incredible opportunity to work with and learn from actors and models with varying disabilities, furthering her desire to promote inclusivity within the media and provide opportunities for authentic representation.
Working on NBC’s The Sound of Music Live! with Stephen Moyer and Carrie Underwood.
Education & Early Career
Laura had the pleasure of making her TV debut as a Child Guardian on NBC’s The Sound of Music Live. She interned with The Met Opera, American Ballet Theatre and was the first casting intern at the English National Opera in London.
A graduate of Ithaca College in NY and London, Laura has received additional certifications from the London Film Academy, Health Coach Institute and Casting Society of America. She is currently earning her MBA from Boston University’s Questrom School of Business.
Covenant House Stage and Screen Sleep Out in NYC.
Philanthropy
Laura’s mission from the start has been to give back through the arts and make a difference in the world. She is an advocate and supporter of several causes close to her heart, including mental health awareness, women’s leadership and Lupus.
A three-time participant in the Covenant House Stage & Screen Sleep Out, Laura has raised over $20,000 to aid youth experiencing homelessness by sleeping out on the streets of New York. Laura is the creator of Lyrics for Life, a benefit concert that raises proceeds and awareness for mental health and suicide prevention, which has been presented in New York, Los Angeles, and virtually to thousands of audience members.
Laura and her husband, Brian, on their wedding day in California surrounded by family and friends!
Life
When Laura isn't working on her next project, she enjoys to travel, discover different cultures, dine at SUGARFISH, and go on outdoor adventures with her husband, Brian, and their puppy, Oliver.
Living with a chronic illness has taught her valuable lessons about what is truly important in life. Laura appreciates each day and every opportunity that comes her way.
Her ultimate goal is to motivate others to chase their dreams and create positive change in the world.