Where creativity meets community
Helping young performers grow with confidence and joy
A philosophy rooted in creativity, confidence and community
Many youth programs focus on competition, creating winners and losers. Allegro is different. Every student contributes to our performance. And while some activities become increasingly expensive and/or time consuming, Allegro works hard to maintain a family-friendly balance. All students can sing, regardless of their financial means, so Allegro offers need-based financial assistance.
Inspiring young artists for over 20 years.
Allegro Performing Arts began with a simple belief: that every child deserves a place to discover their creativity and shine. Over the years, we’ve seen how vocal music and musical theater can transform lives — building confidence, resilience, and lifelong friendships. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to nurture each student’s potential and celebrate their growth, both on and off the stage.
Board of Directors
Our volunteer board helps guide Allegro’s mission and supports the growth of our programs, ensuring we continue to inspire young singers in our community.
Joel Zylstra
PRESIDENT
Mary Rousseau
VICE PRESIDENT
Bret Lewison
TREASURER
Tim Kuehl
SECRETARY
Sarah Johnson
BOARD MEMBER
Lorene Lewison
BOARD MEMBER
Meet the Team
Parents can feel confident knowing their children are learning from highly skilled music educators who care deeply about student growth. Our staff combine professional excellence with a love of helping kids discover the joy of singing.
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Gregory Douma
Greg is the Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Allegro, where he oversees all aspects of the program and directs choirs with warmth and expertise. He also leads choirs at Eastview High School, where his ensembles have performed across the U.S. and internationally. Greg holds music degrees from Luther College and the University of Iowa and is passionate about inspiring young singers.
BEL CANTO DIRECTOR
Kari Douma
Kari is Co-Founder of Allegro and directs the Bel Canto choir, as well as Allegro’s popular summer productions. She has over 25 years of experience teaching music at Eastview High School, where she directs multiple choirs and award-winning musicals. Kari earned her degrees from Luther College and St. Mary’s University and loves helping young singers grow in skill and confidence.
PRIMA VOCE DIRECTOR
Bridget Beale
Bridget directs Allegro’s middle-level ensemble, Prima Voce. She teaches high school choir in Shakopee, where she also leads musicals and an advanced chamber choir. A graduate of Luther College, Bridget is currently pursuing her master’s in music education and enjoys sharing her passion for singing with young musicians.
VIVACE DIRECTOR
April Rios
April leads Allegro’s elementary choir, Vivace, and has been part of the Allegro staff since 2008. She teaches K–5 music at Diamond Path Elementary, where she has inspired students since 2005. April holds music degrees from Bemidji State University and the University of St. Thomas, and she loves sparking joy and confidence in young singers.
OPERATIONS MANAGER
Maria Brandel
Maria has been Allegro’s Operations Manager since 2021 and is also the Arts & Activities Secretary at Eastview High School. A former Allegro parent herself, she enjoys supporting the program behind the scenes and keeping everything running smoothly. Maria earned a double degree in Spanish and Communications from the University of Minnesota–Duluth.
Voices of Our Allegro Families
Of all of my kids’ activities over the past 10 years, this is my favorite ‘spectator/audience event’ of all times as a parent!
-Parent of two Allegro students