Leanna Bodnar
About
Leanna Bodnar is an accomplished performing artist, music educator, and arts leader with over 20 years of professional theater and musical theater experience. A native of the San Francisco Bay Area, Leanna made her professional stage debut at age 17 in the renowned Broadway production 'A Chorus Line,' performing the role of Maggie. Her professional performing career spanned two decades and included principal roles in Broadway National Tours of 'Cats,' 'Grease,' and 'Jerome Robbins' Broadway,' along with numerous regional theater productions throughout the United States. Known as a 'triple threat' performer, she brings exceptional skills in singing, dancing, and acting to her teaching practice. Leanna studied under prominent mentors including renowned vocal coach Yehuda Maor, Eric Vetro, and the legendary Uta Hagen, receiving transformative training from some of the theater world's most respected artists. Since 2018, she has served as Executive Director and Artistic Director of Hickory Ballet & Performing Arts, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in Hickory, NC. Under her leadership, HBPA has tripled its student body and significantly expanded its programming to include musical theater, voice instruction, acting, and community-focused performing arts initiatives including 'Books to Ballet' and a sensory-friendly version of 'The Nutcracker.' Leanna specializes in musical theater vocal coaching, performance technique, artistic development, and building confidence in young performers across multiple disciplines.
Education & Qualifications
Professional training under Yehuda Maor, Eric Vetro, and Uta Hagen; Broadway and professional theater experience; Arts leadership and nonprofit management