Prescott, Arizona (Nov. 18, 2025) – While he only recently started as an instructor at Yavapai College, Musical Productions for Performing Arts professor Benjamin Naasz has embraced the culture. 

Hired last semester as an adjunct faculty member, Naasz was hired full-time this semester. Beyond the college, Naasz is the co-owner of The Movement Studio with his wife, Sasha, and the founder of Footlight Productions, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering community theatre, youth performance, and arts education throughout the Prescott Valley region.  

“My family and I used to visit Prescott every holiday while living in Tucson, and we eventually decided that since we loved the community so much, we might as well make it home,” said Naasz. “After moving here and opening The Movement Studio, I saw that Yavapai College was producing Chicago. I auditioned, was cast as Mary Sunshine, and also joined the production team as the show’s designer — that’s how my connection with Yavapai College first began.” 

Naasz says that his experience teaching at Yavapai College has been incredible. Brought aboard to overhaul both the Technical Theatre and Theatre programs, he also oversees the Dance program.  

“Being in a position where I can bring together my performing, directing, producing, and technical experience has truly been a dream come true,” said Naasz. “I’ve been preparing for a job like this my whole life, and it’s been amazing to finally do it all in one place surrounded by such passionate students and supportive colleagues.” 

Naasz says that theatre education and training open doors to a wide range of opportunities — from acting, directing, and designing to producing, stage management, and arts administration.  

“It’s a specialized field, but for those who master their craft, there’s tremendous demand for creative, disciplined, and collaborative professionals both onstage and behind the scenes,” said Naasz. 

Not only does the field offer many job opportunities, but also something more. “Engaging in the arts nourishes people by helping them connect more deeply with empathy, imagination, and the shared human experience,” said Naasz. “Theatre has the unique power to challenge perspectives, inspire compassion, and bring people together in ways few other mediums can.” 

Naasz holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Shenandoah Conservatory and an MFA in Scene Design from the University of Arizona. Over the past 35 years, he has built an extensive career as a producer, actor, director, and designer, while also serving as an educator in multiple institutions and community programs. His work spans both the artistic and technical sides of performance, blending creativity with practical production expertise. 

While he’s been involved in the performing arts for decades, Naasz was taken with the field at a young age. “When I was about ten or eleven, my parents took me to see the national tour of Cats, said Naasz. “The moment that tire lifted and the cat sang ‘Memory,’ I was completely hooked. It’s a strange musical — but all I could see was the magic. That sense of wonder changed my life, and now I get to share that same magic with my students. Helping them experience the power of theatre and performance is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.” 

Naasz says that the most challenging aspect of his new position is the sheer scope of what he’s been given the opportunity to influence — from classes to productions, across technical theatre, performing arts, and dance.  

“Getting everything under control has been challenging, but that process is also one of the biggest successes,” Naasz said. “Once everything is streamlined, the programs will be stronger and more connected than ever. I’m genuinely excited about where things are headed — and proud of how much progress we’ve already made.” 

“For me personally, creating and teaching theatre is profoundly fulfilling,” said Naasz. “Being able to produce work that moves people — that makes them think, feel, and even forgive — is an incredible privilege. In a world that can often feel divided, I believe theatre reminds us of our shared humanity, and that’s what keeps me passionate about this work every day.” 

Yavapai College operates seven campuses and centers throughout Yavapai County and offers over 100 degrees and certificates, four baccalaureate degrees, student and community services, and cultural events and activities. To learn more about YC, visit www.yc.edu.