Team Bios

Haley Arnold is a Lehigh Valley based director and playwright currently operating as a Management Associate and Special Events Coordinator for Civic Theatre of Allentown and a teaching artist for Touchstone Theatre’s Young Playwrights Lab. Haley has directed “This Random World,” “The Vagina Monologues: A Retelling,” “Spark”, and “Queersighted,” and assistant directed “&Medea” and “Peter and the Starcatcher.” With particular interests in theatre for social change, devised theatre, and theatre for young audiences, Haley is thrilled to serve as Co-Artistic Director and navigate the journey of Amalgamation to create art and opportunities with and for people who share the same passion.

Amanda Berkson is a NYC-based producer, director, and performer. Amanda strives to create spaces for developing new theatrical works and new artists. She has done this as co-founder of Berkson Productions LCC, producing developmental readings, concept albums, and concerts of up-and-coming theatrical works. Amanda received her BA in Theatre at Muhlenberg College, where she found a love for directing and collaboration. When not working on a new theatrical project, Amanda can be found in her studio, recording and editing music for indie music artists. Amanda also works at Clocktower Players, choreographing for their youth troupe shows. She looks forward to continuing to bring theatre to communities through Amalgamation Theatre Co.

Lilli Brown is an artist based in Central New Jersey (yes, it does exist). Obtaining a double major in theatre and honors psychology from Muhlenberg College, Lilli thrives upon connection and communication. While primarily an actress, she also delves into the production side of the arts through community engagement and casting. Lilli has previously interned for New York City Ballet, and was the social media manager for Muhlenberg Disability Advocacy Group. She currently works as a Standardized Patient for multiple medical schools in New Jersey. Lilli is so excited for you to join the Amalgamation!

Madeline Burk is a theatre artist and educator based in Philadelphia. She earned her BA in Theatre from Muhlenberg College. She credits her additional training to Accademia dell’Arte in Italy (physical theatre) and the Yale School of Drama’s summer session. She works as a teaching artist and as a historic storyteller and first person interpreter in Philadelphia. She has played a wide array of roles as a performer; she always works to ground her characters in text and truth while bringing in plenty of eccentricity and vivacity. She loves finding ways to revitalize classic pieces, as she did with Daughters, Wives, Mothers, in which she collaborated with Shira Holtz. With Amalgamation’s first project, Patchwork, Madeline directed The Little Prince, a story she has always held dear. As an artist, Madeline is particularly passionate about storytelling, language, and the power of creating with joyful, reckless abandon.

Shira Holtz is a multi-hyphenate theatre artist based in Westchester, New York. She received her BA in Theatre and Media & Communication from Muhlenberg College, where she fell in love with devising and creating new works. She believes everyone has a story to tell, and loves the chance to make theatre alongside and in collaboration with other artists. Favorite acting credits include (&Medea) (Heller), Mamma Mia, Seussical, Antigone, and Waiting: A New Song Cycle. Favorite directing credits include The Little Prince (Associate Director) and the world premiere of Nowhere Left To Go, as well as writing, directing, acting in, and producing the world premiere of Daughters, Wives, Mothers at Scranton Fringe Festival 2023 alongside Amalgamation co-founder Madeline Burk. She also appears on the concept album of Waiting: A New Song Cycle, and the Muhlenberg Chaimonics' newest album, "With Love, From 149". Both albums are available on all major music streaming platforms.

Ashley Paseltiner is a Florida based artist currently living in Orlando. In addition to her work as a Production Manager, Ashley is on the Show Production team for Disney Live Entertainment installing shows for Disney Cruise Line. Prior to Disney, Ashley attended Muhlenberg College where she earned her bachelor’s degrees in Theatre and Psychology. Ashley found her passion for theatre while at the Coral Springs Center for the Performing Arts where she worked as a Music Director for multiple children’s theater productions and grew up performing. Since then she has found joy working in all facets of entertainment and is looking forward to beginning this new role with the Amalgamation family!