RCC’s Board of Directors
Melissa Barnes
RCC board president Melissa Barnes became a Reveler in 2018 while completing her doctorate at the University of Oregon. She likes to think that she sparked the seed for our first theater show in February of 2020, when we performed Chicago at the Wildish. (And she’s right!) Not only did aerial arts show her a different, non-traditional creative outlet, but Revelers also provided a safe and welcoming community during incredibly challenging parts of her life.
“I was honored to be nominated to the RCC Board because Revelers has a very distinct place in my heart. Without Revelers, my life and my spirit would be missing something special.”
Melissa is a Clinical Psychologist and works at the Seattle VA with veterans who have trauma experiences, substance use issues, and romantic relationship struggles. In Seattle, she spends many summer evenings floating on the lake. And, fun fact, Melissa's partner proposed while they were floating in Lake Washington! While Seattle has enriched her life in many ways, Melissa continues to search for an aerial home that is as exceptional as Revelers.
Shannon Hoell
RCC board member Shannon Hoell is a Revelers mom since 2021, a massage therapist and movement instructor, and a water polo mom. She loves seeing the artistry and athleticism of aerial performances and is “endlessly fascinated by what the human body can do in movement.” She also believes in the transformative power of circus.
“To say Revelers has been life changing for my child would still not fully do it justice. My daughter has blossomed and found her people in a supportive, nurturing environment where they simultaneously accept her fully for who she is at the moment and encourage her to continue to grow and challenge herself in new ways.”
In her free time, Shannon loves taking walks with friends and hanging out with her family.
Emily Jerome
Picture and bio coming soon!
Crystal Phipps
RCC board member Crystal Phipps is a Revelers mom since 2018. Crystal believes that circus arts are great for individuals and for our community, and she supports individuals of all shapes, sizes, and orientations growing and thriving as performers in a supportive and loving atmosphere.
“As a parent, I am always aware of the safety related to whatever sports my children choose. [Revelers] is a safe environment - physically and emotionally - for my daughter and anyone to be themselves, and that’s what I love.”
Crystal Witt
RCC board member Crystal Witt is a Revelers mom since 2017 and serves as both RCC’s Board Secretary and Treasurer. Through the years, she has seen just how important performing arts are in her daughter’s life and how much aerial has shaped her daughter’s love for performing.
“Aerial is challenging, rewarding, and takes strength only an aerialist will understand.
I cannot wait to watch RCC grow and provide opportunities in the community so others can experience the love of circus arts. Being a part of a non-profit that is both diverse and inclusive is important to me. A safe place to be yourself while learning from amazing coaches who want nothing but your best, whatever that might be. It is just what our community needed!”
Megan Yellowtail
RCC board member Megan Yellowtail is a senior in high school, a musician, and an aerialist. She joined the Revelers community six years ago and has performed in a number of Revelers shows, including our very first theater show at The Wildish in Feburary 2020. Megan also designs and performs her own acts to showcase with Revelers and at aerial competitions.
Megan believes in the power of circus and its benefits to both mental and physical health. She credits her time practicing and performing to improved confidence, self-esteem, and trust in her body.
“It’s extremely gratifying to figure out a move and know that it was possible due to hard work and strength.”
When she’s not in school or training at the studio, Megan enjoys taking her dog Leo on walks near the river and enabling his passion for chasing lasers.