Todd Hancock and Maureen Collins
Founders, Easy Street Productions, Youngstown
Todd Hancock and Maureen Collins teamed up in the late ’80s and have since produced most of the finest musical theater productions in this area. Most notably, “Pump Boys & Dinettes” ran for two years, and “Miracle On Easy Street” for over 30 years.
Todd and Maureen have impacted the lives of hundreds, probably thousands, who have participated in their big stage productions as well as the workshops taught by Collins. Their numerous productions over the years have brought thousands to downtown Youngstown and provided paying jobs for dozens of musicians and performers.
Many performers got their start with Todd and Maureen and many have gone on to professional theatrical or musical careers. Most other performance troupes in the area either started with Easy Street Productions or have been hugely influenced and inspired by their work.
Todd and Maureen are all-around talented people. Todd is an absolutely electric performer and Maureen draws rave reviews in every role she plays.
Todd’s creativity is off the charts. His courage and resilience have been evident these past several years. He navigated the pandemic by converting “Miracle On Easy Street” into a fine TV production as he dealt with serious health issues. His recent performances in “Gotta Dance” were inspiring.
Maureen has shared her talents in so many ways and on so many levels. She invites children of all races, religions and abilities to her workshops, where she excels at bringing kids out of their shells and prepares them for other performance opportunities. She is also well-known in area churches and senior groups and is often asked to sing at funerals. Her genuine empathy for others and her faith helps people when they are going through grief.
Nominated by Rick Blackson and Mary Jo Maluso of Beyond Broadway Entertainment