​Originally from Chicagoland, Jeff Dolecek  graduated from Valparaiso University with a B.A. in Theater, after which he  spent ten years in Chicago performing. He was inspired into education while  working with the Chicago Department of Transportation as a Safe Routes / Bicycling Ambassador. During that time he also received an MEd in elementary education and taught Drama in Chicago Public Schools. 
Relocating first to Las Cruces in 2016 and then again to Albuquerque in 2019,  Jeff has been on stages from El Paso to Santa Fe and continues to audition for  stage as well as screen. 
He has served on the Vortex Board of directors for 3 years, currently serving as the  President. In the past he has developed and implemented other educational outreach for the Vortex, but is so excited to have a partner in Dejah to really boost the Vortex’s engagement with the community.

Dejah Padon brings over 30 years of experience in choreography, performance, and production management. A native of Maui, she spent 16 years as a professional dancer, dance captain, and company manager, performing in Japan, Reno, and Las Vegas. Dejah rekindled her passion for youth theater, dedicating six years to the Maui OnStage Education and Youth Program at the Historic Iao Theatre, along with roles at King Kekaulike and Baldwin High Schools. As a choreographer, director, costume designer, and teacher, she has nurtured countless young talents and is excited to join The Vortex Theatre’s Youth Program. Committed to inspiring the next generation of performers, Dejah believes in the transformative power of theater to foster confidence, creativity, and community.