voc2021 ep 32: Lea Capps

Bobbi Smith, founder

Lea Capps, Exec. Dir.
(Photos Allison Zaucha)

The Talent Machine Company, Inc.

The Talent Machine Company, Inc. has been delighting audiences with exceptional theater for more than 30 years. Dedicated to producing professional-quality performances by children and youth, the Company is a family-focused experience that fosters commitment, responsibility and teamwork in a supportive environment.

The Company produces three full-length musicals annually, including the Holiday Spectacular – now a tradition for generations of families across the region. And everything is done with passion, heart and, most importantly, the Company’s signature “energy.”

In the words of our late founder, Bobbi Smith, The Talent Machine Company is “a magical mystery tour, the most rewarding experience of my performing life, my favorite people.” A dancer and performer her entire life, Bobbi founded the Company to fulfill her dream of giving young people the chance both to spread their theatrical wings and learn the value of dedication, commitment and teamwork.

Bobbi’s legacy continues to touch lives through her daughter and Company president and Executive Director, Lea Capps, her sister, Vicki Smith, and hundreds of alumni, donors, and long-time show attendees who also believe in Bobbi’s unique dream. A performer since the age of three, Lea Capps has been in such shows as Evita, Singin’ in the Rain and A Chorus Line, and has performed on national television and at the White House. For the past 20 years, however, Lea’s most inspirational role has been to lead The Talent Machine Company – an organization dedicated to giving children the opportunity to experience the joy and power of musical theater. Lea took over as Executive Director after the unexpected death of her mother and Company founder, Bobbi Smith.

In addition to her leadership role with the Company, Lea also often serves as director and choreographer for Company productions and supports area middle school theater programs as well. Lea has a degree in psychology from UMBC and considers two of her best “credits” her husband, Michael Blonder, and their daughter, Samantha Blonder, a Talent Machine alum and now a marine biologist. (Source: https://talentmachine.com)