Meet the Magic Staff

Troy Blackwell Cook is a graduate of NYU Tisch School of the Arts and a multidisciplinary artist, educator, and producer with a career spanning Broadway, national tours, film, and live television productions. His professional credits include performing on the Riverdance tour and Broadway, serving as Head Wardrobe Supervisor for Dancing with the Stars Live in Las Vegas, and dancing with Dance Theatre of Harlem and Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, among many others.

Drawing from his extensive experience across performance, production, and design, Troy brings a unique blend of artistic excellence and leadership to his community-based work. Through his vision and dedication, he creates joyful, meaningful experiences for children and families, using the arts as a powerful tool for connection, imagination, and celebration.

began her journey in the spotlight as a Huggies baby and has grown into an extraordinary educator in NYC District 75, where she has dedicated over a decade to supporting students with diverse learning needs. A gifted artist, Nikia weaves her talents in singing, dancing, drawing, and creative expression into everything she does. Known for her ability to coordinate teams with care and clarity, she creates environments rooted in patience, joy, and excellence. At A Wish With Santa, Nikia brings warmth, organization, and imagination to every moment, helping children and families feel seen and celebrated. Her work is driven by a deep belief in nurturing every child’s potential through creativity, compassion, consistency, and love within the heart of the AWWS.

 is a real-life builder of both spaces and show magic. With a background in construction and a gift for organizing people, timelines, and details, she serves as the steady force behind the scenes of A Wish With Santa. As stage manager, Stephanie ensures every cue, entrance, and magical moment lands just right. Calm under pressure and joyful in collaboration, she keeps performers, crew, and volunteers in sync from rehearsal to curtain call. Her leadership transforms big ideas into seamless experiences, allowing the cast to shine and the story to flow. Stephanie brings structure to the sparkle, proving that when the foundation is strong, the magic can soar effortlessly for every family served.

is the calm, capable presence guiding the floor operations of A Wish With Santa. As a key member of the event’s logistics and planning team, she helps coordinate volunteers, manage transitions, and keep the experience running smoothly for families and performers alike. With the insight of a seasoned business owner, Cauley brings clarity, adaptability, and thoughtful leadership to every moving part of the event. She excels at anticipating needs, solving problems, and supporting the team with grace during moments of high energy and excitement. Whether managing flow on the floor or assisting behind the scenes, Cauley ensures that the magic of AWWS feels effortless, joyful, and welcoming for everyone who walks through the doors.

hails from Kingston, Jamaica, where he began cooking at the age of 14, developing a deep love for flavor, craft, and hospitality. After moving to the United States in 2014, he sharpened his culinary skills at The Culinary Institute of America in Dutchess County, New York, and later became the owner of Sunrise and Sunset Sorrel Wine and Drinks. At A Wish With Santa, Orville oversees all food coordination, running a tight, joyful ship in the kitchen. He ensures every dish is prepared and served with quality, care, and holiday grace. His leadership helps create a warm, nourishing experience that allows families to feel welcomed, celebrated, and truly cared for.

is a world-renowned, chart-topping artist whose voice and artistry have carried her across the globe, performing alongside many A-list artists. At A Wish With Santa, she brings that same vision and creative excellence to both the stage and the planning process. Debbi sings in the event while also providing musical supervision, shaping performances that uplift, inspire, and connect. A natural collaborator, she supports the creative team with imaginative ideas, thoughtful guidance, and heartfelt leadership. Her ability to blend artistry with organization helps ensure every musical moment feels intentional and magical. Through her passion and global perspective, Debbi helps fill AWWS with harmony, warmth, and unforgettable holiday spirit.