Directing Team

Mark has been writing, directing and performing comedy for the past 11 years and is well versed in a variety of styles and audiences (musical theater, improvisational comedy, summer camp shows and events, stand-up comedy, etc.).  With a degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Cornell University, he is very resourceful and an outstanding problem solver.  A New York City resident for the past four years and Harlem resident for the past two, he firmly believes that “It is the artists’ responsibility to shape the future of our culture.  I love my neighborhood, and I believe that through it we can show the world the virtues of love and diversity.  All you have to do is believe.”

A working musician for the last 10 years, Adam has experience writing and performing funk, reggae, hip-hop, rock, jazz, classical music and more.  He has bachelor’s degrees from City College of Manhattan in both classical and jazz piano performance and has been teaching music in New York City and State for the last eight years.  “More  than anything else about this film, I’m excited for the opportunity to show people my home.  This is where I live, this is what I love, and it’s worth people knowing about.”

With a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Dublin Institute of Technology in Ireland, Paddy has been working as a project manager for the last six years.  He is a skilled leader and organizer, experienced in contracting, dealing with high profile clients, working through extra tight schedules and putting a quality finish to every project.  In addition to work, Paddy has been a Disc Jockey since the age of 16 and has a passion for travel and adventure, particularly when the adventure involves scaling to the top of the Alps or the Rockies.  “I like being a leader.  It gives me the opportunity to make sure everyone on the team makes it to the top.”

A recent dance and psychology graduate from Skidmore College, Sara specializes in Ballroom, Latin, and Modern dance. She has extensive experience in choreography through her work with noted dance companies The Martha Graham Dance Company, Paul Taylor 2, and David Gordon’s Pick Up Company. She has also choreographed music videos for the band Rubblebucket. “There is nothing more interesting than exploring different mediums through which to present dance, which is why I’m so excited about the unique opportunity offered through this film.”

Stefen has been a visual artist since the age of 9, expressing himself through his paintings and his photography.  In addition to having his work featured regularly in shows throughout the city, he teaches after school art programs in New York and periodically in Brazil where he has been filming a documentary.  Born and raised in Harlem, NYC, “I love everything Harlem, and this movie is Harlem.”

Originally from Bermuda, Roy is the only native Bermudian to hold a master’s degree from New York University in Vocal Performance.  He has been studying and performing musicals for more than 20 years, has been teaching music for three, and has a great love for both Harlem and its music.  His extensive musical theater knowledge helps bring a grounded eye and ear to the film.  “As a New Yorker, I understand the hardship that goes into pursuing art in a pure sense.  Welcome to Harlem is nothing less than the purest form of that pursuit.”

Since studying illustration at the School of Visual Arts in New York City, Dan has been working as a freelance underground comic book artist.  His work ranges in everything from drawings in the snowboarding magazine “STEEZ”, to the animated opening sequence for a reality show pilot on TLC.  After living in Harlem for the last five years, he is happy to call it his home.    “I’m excited for the opportunity to work with such a diverse group of friends and to pay tribute to the people and place that helped me to realize my artistic identity.  We have all found each other here, and this is why we know each other.”

Born in Germany and having studied in Bremen and Berlin, Kathi has been working in film as a hobby since high school and professionally for the past six years.   She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Photography and Film and is currently finishing her Master’s Degree in film.  Having recently finished work on a two year documentary project with an Oscar winning filmmaker, Kathi is very excited to have joined the Welcome to Harlem team.  “I believe in the power of creativity and music, and if we all come together sharing our music, creativity, experiences, dreams, beliefs, and friendship, anything can be possible.”