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Founded in 1981 by Jon Johnson and Joel Talbert Repertory Arts has grown over the years from a dance company to a multi-disciplinary arts organization serving marginalized communities, their artists, and youth.  We look forward to partnering with you.

joel m. talbert
co-founder

Joel M. Talbert is the Co-Founder of Repertory Dance Theatre of Los Angeles (RDTOLA) now Jon Johnson’s Repertory Arts (JJRARTS).  He’s been with JJRARTS since it’s founding 43 years ago in 1981.  His corporate career as a Network Administrator for Walmart and his career as an Artist and Performer with the Los Angeles based Hittite Empire was another artistic way for him to expand his love for Artists and Art making.  “Our mission is to leave no artist behind because of whatever their circumstances might be, neither economic, sexual orientation, or no platform… they have a home with us!

Jaqueline zan zetina
executive director

Jaqueline Zan Zetina  is Owner and CEO of Future Dreams, Inc. and holds a BS from the University of Phoenix in Business Management.  She’s always been involved in non-profits and the arts as a cinematographer for documentary films, an accountant for Steven Speilberg’s non-profit and Propaganda Films, certified administrator, and provider of holistic senior care.  Her formal dance training started at the age of 10 and included both classical ballet and Street Dance.  After meeting Jon in 1982 she began dancing with the Company and toured internationally in 1984.  Before Jon’s transition in 2003 he Chose Zan as JJRARTS next Executive Director.  Zan has been the heart of JJRARTS and is honored to have been the one entrusted with its safe keeping

Ashitosh "ash" swarup
steam development

Ashitosh “Ash” Swarup, with his background in engineering and mathematics, brings a technical approach to the arts.  While mathematics and engineering may appear to be black-and-white subjects, there is inherent artistry and and creativity involved in both the study and the practice of both these areas.  Ash works with the grant writing and fundraising programs at Repertory Arts, and is currently working on developing the STEM division of the organization.

Jose fernando pineda orellana - exec asst.

“José Fernando Pineda Orellana is a graduate from the University of California, San Diego. He has a BA degree in Theatre Arts and a minor in Latin American Studies. As an immigrant from El Salvador, José learned about the immense diversity of cultures and peoples in Los Angeles and elsewhere. He especially cherishes his immigrant experience and multiculturalism through an appreciation of the Performing Arts. While attending UCSD, José embraced the experience that instilled a passion to discover his own artistic abilities. As an advocate for all artists, José supports artistic freedom and inclusion for everyone.”