PROGRAM HISTORY
Who We Are
The Estancia Drama program, Thespian Troupe 1224, was established in 1973, under the leadership and guidance of Barbara Van Holt. Barbara was known for her red hair, pure brilliance, fiery spirit, and genuine love for theatre and her students. Estancia Drama become one of the most respected theatre programs in Orange County. She built a program based on excellence, ensemble, and love. Estancia's Barbara Van Holt Theater is named in her honor.
​
In 1996, Barbara passed the baton to Pauline Maranian, who continued Barbara's legacy, while creating a beautiful legacy of her own. She changed the lives of every student that was a part of the Estancia Drama program. After many successful productions and impacted lives, by 2022, Pauline passed the baton to Amber Marroquin, Pauline's student teacher and former student, who dreams to withhold the legacy that Barbara and Pauline have created.
PROGRAM DIRECTORS
BARBARA VAN HOLT
From 1966-1996
PAULINE MARANIAN
From 1996-2022
AMBER REYES
2022- Present
Alumni in Entertainment
Amy Decker
Cesar Coto
Colby French
Guy Meyers
Jason McBeth
Jayne Hubbard
Jim Cooper
Joanne Fantozzi
John Decker
Kim Fox
Lonnie Alcarez
Michelle Noh
Mitch Hurwitz
Paula Tomei
Richard Maher
Samuel Cruz
Spencer Kayden
Stephanie Burden
Sterling Gates
There are many talented graduates of this program, if we inadvertently excluded someone,
please let us know!