Testimonials

"SOAR had a positive impact on many aspects of my life. The most significant to me were helping me embrace vulnerability, build confidence, and find my value. We participated in multiple fun activities or “exercises” which helped me in realizing the importance of vulnerability. There were many other people attending SOAR alongside me, so I made some great friends along the way. It was super eye opening hearing everyone stories which made me realize that I wasn't alone in some of my life experiences. "

"SOAR was a fun, empowering, and impactful program. I had a great experience and met a lot of great people. We did lots of fun activities and had some deep conversations. SOAR opened my heart and made it feel safe to be vulnerable. Now I can talk to people in public and step out of my comfort zone way more than before. I have also started to open up about things that were hard for me to talk about and things that aren't comfortable for me to talk about. Overall, SOAR is an amazing and inspiring program that was certainly worth every minute of my time. "

"The SOAR Workshop opened my eyes to not only see how we are all unique in our own gifts and own experiences, but that when we work to understand each other on a deeper level, we truly have a lot in common with the people around us.  Starting the weekend out I was nervous and unsure of what to expect. SOAR put me in a room with people I have danced beside for many years and who I thought I knew very well, along with a couple people I had never talked to before. SOAR opened my eyes to notice people individually, to be able to walk in a room and understand the emotions driving it, to look at an individual and be able to understand how they are feeling; SOAR taught me empathy. SOAR showed me how much my team and I really care about each other and helped me build stronger friendships. Most of all, I am grateful for the community that was built over the weekend. We had dancers and we had high school theater students, so different yet so alike.   In the end, I felt so much stronger in my relationships with others, and my relationship with myself. I had a weekend of vulnerability, authenticity, trust and community, a weekend full of growth, and let’s not forget, fun. Thank you SOAR for this experience. "

"The SOAR workshop has helped me in so many ways. I was nervous going into my first workshop, especially since all my friends had done it before. But when the workshop began, my nerves slowly melted away. I felt safe, protected, and understood. I learned so many things about myself and my peers, people that I’d known for years, creating new bonds with them and a deeper understanding of their struggles and triumphs. I’ve never been very good at expressing my emotions. I was a shy and closed-off little kid. But theater and dance have helped me express myself in a way that didn’t necessarily require words, and finding that the soar workshop incorporated these elements into team-building activities, I felt even more in tune with my feelings. I don’t think the safe and welcoming environment I stepped into would’ve been possible without Debbie and her incredible staff, who were always there for us and never hesitated to encourage us to be the best versions of ourselves. They helped us open up our hearts to each other while reminding us that we’re all confident, powerful, and strong young people. I will forever be grateful to the SOAR workshop for helping me discover who I am, who I want to be, and how to love myself the whole way through."

"The SOAR workshop will always have a special place in my heart. I felt like I stepped into a safe environment, with kind words, a fantastic faculty, and amazing students. When I attended my first workshop with SOAR, I was a bit nervous, but I remember I warmed up quicker than I thought I would. Before my first workshop, I wasn't as confident, open, and powerful as I am today. I've learned how to speak up, be myself, and trust more people. I have always had trust issues, but in 2022 there was a huge incident that happened, causing my trust issues to get worse. SOAR helped me overcome that. That first workshop helped me realize that the people I choose to be my friends, are my true friends. And the people I bring into my community are trusted and real friends. 

This year I learned to own my voice, minimize my anxiety with some calming techniques, and I got closer to my peers. After this year’s workshop, I walked out 100% more confident. I am so thankful for this faculty, especially the wonderful Debbie. She is a kind, trusting, caring listener, and overall, a beautiful soul. I could not be more thankful for SOAR."

"5 stars for Deborah and her team at SOAR! I have two teenage foster daughters. My girls have suffered trauma and therefore have not only the typical low-self esteem that girls can have, but additional issues as well. Both not only enjoyed their time in the workshop, but can’t wait til they can go again! I know many of the skills they learned over the two days will have long-lasting effects. The girls also made friends that they can’t wait to see again! Thank you Deborah and your entire team for the attention and love you’ve shown my girls!!!"

“The SOAR program was such an important thing to us for our son! Adolescents are at a point in their lives where everything is confusing to them and having a program that supports our son navigate through it all is a must! We are forever grateful to Debbie for this program and her support even after! I highly recommend this program to all teens! We as parents have a duty to support our children in becoming amazing adults and Soars is a great tool in this process!!!”

“I cannot say enough about this amazing workshop! Recognizing that our children are missing out on true connection, whether due to Covid or Facebook addiction, SOAR is providing an invaluable service in showing our young ones that they are not alone, how to listen, and how to communicate so that their voices are heard. I can’t wait for “what’s next”!  Thank you, Debbie and Team.”

“When Patrick and I started San Pedro City Ballet, our mission was to bring world-class dance training to the diverse population of Los Angeles; we hired teaching artists with immense expertise. We understood the necessity to address the emotional needs of the whole child, and that’s why we partnered with SOAR.

After an intensive weekend workshop, strong bonds were created amongst peers as dancers expressed themselves authentically. The exercises revealed certain vulnerabilities, and tools were provided to address them. Each child finished the workshop happy and open with a renewed passion for learning.

An ongoing partnership with SOAR will ensure that our dancers receive emotional learning and support that will help them for a lifetime.”

“I had the wonderful opportunity to attend the SOAR workshop, and I have to say, this experience will stay with me for the rest of my life. I went into the workshop a bit apprehensive and just not knowing what to expect. My walls were up because that’s what I’m used to doing. Trust is something I’ve had a problem with, especially this year in dance. I was left feeling alone and lost. I slowly started to pick up the pieces and started making new friendships but was still on the fence about who to trust. This workshop came at the right time in my life. Thanks to Debbie and her amazing team, I learned over those 2 days that I can be vulnerable and strong! Being vulnerable is not a weakness. I also learned to trust myself, and my feelings and trust my peers around me. Debbie helped reassure me that I’m in a safe place to be able to express my thoughts and feelings and that my voice matters! Thank you so much, Debbie!”

“I had the opportunity to visit one of Debbie’s SOAR workshops as a guest presenter in the summer of 2022, which allowed me to observe firsthand why she is so well reputed. Expecting to stand on the sidelines awaiting my turn, I was surprised at how deeply and immediately engaged I became in what Debbie was doing with this group of teenagers. It was hard to believe that it was only the second day of a two-day SOAR workshop and that these participants had not known each other before, as Debbie had clearly created a community. I was impressed by the psychological safety, respectfulness, and emotional sophistication of the conversations she had engendered within such a short time.  Debbie is skillful in guiding students to reflect on who they are and encouraging them to show up authentically all while remaining curious about and attentive to the people around them. It was easy to see how her workshops result in students having deeper self-knowledge and an increased ability to interact honestly and respectfully with others, all of which are critical skills for life and leadership. She takes young people very seriously, holding them to high expectations and interacting with them in a highly professional manner, but what really makes it all work is how much love for them she clearly has.  She is just as warm and personal as she is focused.  On the last day of the workshop, Debbie gave each teenager in that SOAR class public, poignant, remarkably personalized feedback, which I heard many of them say was a highlight of their time with her.  I can see Debbie’s SOAR workshops being utilized by high schools, middle schools, or community organizations, particularly for students who have been or are transitioning.”

“Very early on, Debbie made it clear that connection to others is essential. She always emphasized the importance of an ensemble working together to create the story and energy on the stage. Debbie created an environment that always felt safe, encouraged me to be courageous, and trusted by showing up as my authentic self. These lessons have fed into many other areas of my life. In school, jobs, and shows, it translates to the importance of leaning into collaboration and respecting coworkers and cast-mates as creators of equal importance.

Debbie is a wonder at teaching lessons that sit in the soul long after the production or class has ended.

Participating in Debbie’s program connected me to a community of talented, hardworking, open, explorative, full-hearted kids that are still in my life. Those gifts are a direct reflection of her leadership. I would do it all over again if I had the chance."

"SOAR teen workshop allowed me and others to grow as individuals in a safe, retreat-like environment. Through carefully knitted activities and experiences, I could open up and unpack tools to use in the outside world. I learned about the principles of acceptance and love of myself and others. I received tools that supported me with the hardships of life; this experience grounded me and set foundations that I can use for the rest of my life. The workshop allowed growth and individuality to flourish. The key building blocks of how to navigate vulnerability, mental struggles, and anxiety were conquered in this class through hands-on experience and learning. Even though the students didn’t know each other when we started the workshop, in only two days we really bonded, and still talk on a group chat almost every day! I am so very appreciative of the amazing community of friends that I have gained and for the resources that I now have stored to help me express my identity and feel more comfortable in this world."

"As an independent college counselor and owner of Coast 2 Coast College Admissions, I have worked with teens for the past twenty years. Sadly, I have witnessed an increase in teen depression, anxiety, OCD, suicidal ideation, and a decrease in self-esteem. Teens are under unbearable pressure today, and there is very little support. I have had the privilege and honor of knowing Debbie Martinez for the past twenty-five years and have seen first-hand the positive and life-changing impact she has had on children and teens. All three of my children grew up in Debbie’s programs, and the life skills and self-confidence they gained have directly affected their character development and successful careers." 

"Columbia University Business School Graduate. When I think about someone who has played an essential role in my personal growth and development and impacted me in every aspect of my life, I think about Debbie Martinez. I started in Debbie’s theatre arts education program at a very young age and stayed connected until I graduated from high school. When I first met Debbie, I was a shy child full of anxiety. Debbie created a safe space in the form of a community of peers where I could step out of my comfort zone, find my voice, learn how to communicate my needs, and gain tremendous confidence. Debbie went out of her way to make me feel valued and special. Being around Debbie was some of my happiest times; she brought joy and fun into my life. Through Debbie’s guidance and professionalism, she empowered me to embrace my strengths, and she provided me with the tools to succeed. Through Debbie’s programs, I developed a strong work ethic, independence, and responsibility for myself. But, most importantly, I learned how to express my abilities and personal qualities in a self-assured manner. These communication skills have helped me succeed in every job interview and secure highly coveted positions in the business world. Debbie goes above and beyond to help teens see that they are a part of a larger community. Debbie encouraged us to dig deeper within ourselves and empathize with others. She helped us learn about paying it forward by creating opportunities for us to share our love of the arts with less fortunate kids. Debbie changed my life by just being a part of it, and I will be forever grateful to her for her care and support throughout the years. I was lucky to have someone enter my life and believe in me, and from that moment on, my life changed for the better."

"I met Debbie as a young incoming freshman in high school, as a student in her performing arts education program in Palos Verdes, CA. "Before each of the shows I was in, Debbie would always explain that many of the actors and actresses on the stage tonight would not ever be on Broadway, but that the skills one learns in a musical theatre environment translate to many careers, and to being a better, more well-rounded human being. Debbie Martinez was, and still is, one of the greatest educators I've ever met, and the single most important reason my future children will participate in some form of performing arts. The lessons instilled in me during my brief four years under her guidance - keeping calm under duress, being confident no matter what, and dedicating yourself to your craft - have and continue to shape the individual I am today. I consider her a great mentor and a dear friend."

"Debbie knows how to get things done, and she does it not only with poise and professionalism, but with grace, passion, and respect. I have never seen someone earn as much admiration and respect from both her peers and the children whose lives she touches. I have seen Debbie inspire and change every child's life that she works with--she is a true miracle worker, bringing out a creative spirit and freedom with anyone she works with. It has been an honor to work for Debbie as a director, choreographer and teacher."

Broadway revival of A Chorus Line (Kristine), Featured actress in the film Every Little Step

"Debbie Martinez is an inspiration. She thinks outside the box in leaving no child behind when it comes to educating children in the arts. I was proud to be her employee. Students who were touched by Debbie's belief in their abilities grow to be better people in society. I trust Debbie Martinez and would recommend her work and knowledge to everyone."

"Debbie's program helped me develop confidence on stage, which translated to the confidence I had in a high school television news program that launched my journalism career. After graduating from Yale University, I became a Web Producer and reporter for Politico in Washington D.C. and am currently working as a West Coast Correspondent for Devex in San Francisco, CA. I credit Debbie Martinez for giving me the extra drive that I needed to achieve what she has in her profession. She was the one who inspired me the most, always encouraged me and told me that I was talented and full of promise. Her hugs made my day after long hours at school and seeing her face in the audience always made me smile."

"Debbie Martinez is one of the most amazing women I have ever met. She is truly the reason I have gotten where I am today. At 13 years old, Debbie took me under her wing and helped guide me both professionally and personally into the person I am today. Anyone whose life has been touched by this woman knows that they are extremely lucky and that she will support them in anything they do; sharing words of wisdom, constructive criticism, and sometimes just a shoulder to lean on. If you have the chance to work with Debbie, take it, there is no end to the possibilities of what she can help you achieve."

“Debbie Martinez has dedicated her life to enriching the lives of young people and preparing them to succeed as vital, successful adults. As someone who has observed Debbie’s work with young people, and subsequently worked with many of them as college students and young adults, I have seen firsthand the truly transformative, tangible influence Debbie has had on people’s lives. Debbie’s alums are, to a person, passionate, compassionate, giving, collaborative, innovative, responsible, and altruistic—all attributes that, not surprisingly, Debbie herself possesses. Placing a young person under Debbie’s guidance and mentorship is a genuine investment in a better world for the future."

"Debbie took my daughter under her wings and gave her the tools and encouragement to succeed. Under Debbie's guidance and support my daughter grew as an individual (as well as a performer). Weekly sessions with Debbie gave her specific tools and insights to help realize her own passions and strengths. Debbie's enthusiasm is contagious and it would be hard not to grow under her guidance."

"Debbie Martinez has warmly guided thousands of children from quiet introverts to Stand-on-the-Stage Performers. Her ability to make a child feel like he can do ANYTHING is remarkable. There are literally hundreds of children (now adults) that have worn the confidence that Debbie has given them on their sleeves through college and job interviews, and they credit Debbie Martinez with their very station in their life...mine included."

"Debbie creates a very safe space and her sensitivity is a strength...she stays on purpose, held the focus and shifted when necessary while working with my daughter. Debbie reflected back to me in a very effective manner so I knew exactly what goals were being set and accomplished. It's amazing what can happen when working in this context for a young person who needs guidance. Debbie's intuition, experience, and warm heart all served as an anchor during sessions with my daughter; which then empowered her to set goals and make good decisions in life."

"I had the pleasure of working with Debbie throughout middle and high school on numerous shows and projects. Whenever Debbie was in the room, I was sure to not only learn something that would help me through that day’s rehearsal, but also something that would stay with me for a lifetime. In Debbie’s program I became a truer, more confident version of myself. I felt empowered in mind and body because of the empathy Debbie showed, the advice she gave, and the guidance she provided. As an adult, after graduating from Stanford University, I am now working as a high school drama teacher at a boarding school. I use the things I learned with Debbie daily, whether it’s navigating tough conversations in the dorm, breaking out new theater games for my students, or cultivating a culture of inclusion in an ensemble I am building. I can safely say that without the confidence, theater making skills, and interpersonal communication strategies I learned in Debbie’s program, I wouldn’t be where I am today!"

"I have had the absolute pleasure of working with Debbie Martinez for many years in the performing arts programs she has created for young artists. What was most unique and inspiring about Debbie’s approach was the authentic and genuine care she had (and still has!) for every single child and young adult she provided a space for. The way these young hearts and souls blossomed, grew more confident, felt safe, and have continued to excel in their lives, has so much to do with the mentoring, guidance, care, and supportive environment provided by Debbie."

"Debbie Martinez is a dedicated professional who has the uncanny ability to teach young people how to empower themselves to communicate with confidence. We hired Debbie to work with both of my daughters on their auditioning skills for agents and stage productions. She not only developed my daughers' artistic abilities and taught them to present themselves with authority, but she has also fostered their personal development and growth. Debbie provides clear direction and encouragement, which has given my daughters the ability to reach their maximum potential. Debbie's attitude is inspiring and her knowledge exceptional - I highly recommend Debbie as an audition and life coach!"

"Working with Debbie from my elementary through high school years, I grew from a shy child who was intimidated by my peers to a teen confident in her ability to make her voice heard in the world. Debbie is one of the most genuine people I have ever met, and her ability to connect with young people is unparalleled. While we worked together mostly in theater, I apply the tools she helped me build every day in my life now as a law student and advocate for immigrant children."