The Johnny Mercer Foundation Songwriting Intensive

Meet the Faculty

Rona Siddiqui

Rona is a Grammy-nominated composer/lyricist based in New York City. She is a recipient of both the Jonathan Larson Grant and the Billie Burke Ziegfeld Award, and she has been named one of Broadway Women’s Fund’s Women to Watch. Her show Salaam Medina: Tales of a Halfghan, an autobiographical comedy about growing up bi-ethnic in America, has had a concert at 54 Below and development at Playwrights Horizons.

Adam Gwon

Adam is a composer/lyricist whose musicals have been produced on six continents in many languages. He is a recipient of the Kleban, Ebb, Loewe, and Richard Rodgers Awards, as well as the Weston Playhouse New Musical Award and the ASCAP Harold Adamson Award. His show Ordinary Days has enjoyed multiple productions in many countries, including Off-Broadway and Off-West End appearances, and his show Scotland, PA (also produced Off-Broadway) received both an NYT Critic’s Pick and a Roundabout Theatre Drama Desk Award nomination.

Kaitlin Hopkins
Artistic Director

Kaitlin is an award-winning actress, director, producer, and educator. She has performed on and off Broadway, on national/international tours, and in film and television for more than 30 years. As an educator, she created the musical theatre program at Texas State University and was recognized by the Broadway Dreams Foundation as an innovative voice in education and as one of the Top 6 women educators in the performing arts. Hopkins is also the proud creator/CEO of Fontus Dry Mouth Lozenges. Hopkins consults for arts organizations worldwide, specializing in institutional wellness.

Blair Medina Baldwin
Assistant to the Artistic Director

Blair is a Queer, TexMex, Rock artist living in New York City. She is a musician, performer, and activist blending a theatrical background with fiery grit to create a unique sound and experience for all to enjoy. Currently holding a residency at Pangea in the East Village, Blair captivates audiences monthly. Notably, Blair was praised for their nuanced performance in Dale Orlandersmith’s World Premier of New Age. Other credits include: Off Broadway: Rough Trade: The Musical, Heist! A New Musical, Stranger Sings! (Eleven). TV: “Folk” 2021. Blair also sits on the board of Cooper Square Committee, advocating for tenants’ rights in the East Village. Catch Blair’s captivating performances and learn more at officialblair.com. @IamBlair___

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