Alexandria Pieroni
Alexandria is the Founder and Executive Director of The Kids on the Block New Jersey, Inc. Graduating with a BA in Communications and Theater, Alexandria took her first job out of college with a Kids on the Block Troupe based in Princeton, which began her enchantment with the “Kids”. During her career she has directed and acted in numerous productions in local and regional theaters and was the Founding Artistic Director for The LBIF Children’s Theater Program. In 1994 she started Hands On Education, an educational theatrical touring company, which performed not only The Kids on the Block programs but original programs including Stories On Stage, a theatrical literacy program. Along the way she was the Festival Director of the Jersey Shore Film Festival, Marketing Director of the Bordentown PAC and Managing Director for the Atlantic City Ballet. She honed her administrative skills by obtaining a Professional Certificate in Arts Management from SUNY, Purchase. With all her success she eventually was lead back to her original passion.......performing The Kids on the Block. Alexandria’s career has come full circle with the creation of The Kids on the Block New Jersey, Inc. and her goal to bring the Kids on the Block’s message of celebrating differences to every child in the state is the driving force of the organization.
Julie Colon
Julie Ann Colon is the Head Program Presenter of The Kids on the Block New Jersey, Inc. She received her AA at Passaic County Community College and continued her education at New Jersey City University graduating with BA in English/Theatre. Over the years she has accumulated stage credits that include; Trojan Women, Vinegar Tom, Dangerous Liaisons, When Shakespeare’s Ladies Meet, The Suicide, Helvetica, Hansel and Gretel and much more. Pursuing the field of acting, eventually led Julie to the role of Princess Leonor at Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament.
Julie met Alexandria when she was given a role in the theatrical production, Stories on Stage. As time passed, it led to her involvement with The Kids on the Block New Jersey, where she became Lead Puppeteer and Head Program Presenter. Julie found a passion in the combination of being able to advocate, educate and perform all at the same time. Being a performer and activist for immensely important causes, whether to stop violence or focus on the importance of educating children about social concerns is what motivates her to continue striving to convey the message to all, especially the young children that have the power to make a difference in this world.
What Grownups Say
"I believe it is imperative that funding continues to be provided for these important programs that have been successful in creating positive changes in attitudes among New Jersey's elementary school children"
Congressman Albio Sires-Eighth Congressional District
"I would like to thank the "Kids" for visiting our school. Our school is comprised of children from a very diverse community. The "Kids" was a proactive performance to assist our students in understanding some of the most important social issues affecting their young lives. From HIB to respect and equality in a diverse school, the performance touched on many issues which help children to go about their day with tolerance, love and respect. It was a very educational, yet fun experience for our students and staff."
Thank you for a great performance.
Chris Raichle-Principal- Hugh J. Boyd Elementary School
"Your high quality presentation is indicative of your professional and personal commitment to education."
Trudi Thorton -NJEA Associate Director
"On behalf of the American Lung Association of NJ,I want to thank you for your excellent performance of the Kids on the Block program......thanks again for your support. It is greatly appreciated."
Michael Skloff-Director Special Projects & Camp Superkids
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"I just wanted to say thank you to Ms. Pieroni and her program, "Kids on the Block." I have had the pleasure of having the "Kids" at my schools for the better part of 15 years both at West Dover and South Toms River Elementary. The students have always been receptive to the "Kids." They enjoy the puppets and the way difficult topics that are presented by them. The students feel comfortable around the puppets and are always inquisitive at their presentations. We would love and appreciate having them back at any point...."
Respectfully,
Michael S. Pallen-Principal-South Toms River School