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World Upside Down 501c3 nonprofit

The Brand

World Upside Down is a vibrant nonprofit arts studio in Greenville, South Carolina. We are dedicated to making the arts accessible, inclusive, and inspiring for all ages and abilities. As a 501(c)(3) organization, we offer a diverse range of programs that blend creativity through music, dance, theater, and visual arts.

Our inclusive approach welcomes children and youth to explore their creative potential. We partner with World Upside Down Arts Studio to provide ABA therapy with arts integration. Join us for our core programs: after school, theater, and camps.  You can also take weekly classes in all the arts.

Mission

Teach the arts, change the world.

We believe that the arts have the power to transform lives. By nurturing creativity and building community, we aim to turn the world upside down. We do so by sharing the mind and heart of Jesus through every class we teach.  In doing so, we can give people a hope and a future.

Founder

Joanna Puello

Joanna Puello has over 25 years of experience as an educator, nonprofit founder, senior instructional designer, and entrepreneur. A musician and performer, she started playing violin at 4 and performed in the Grand Rapids Youth orchestra from ages 11-16. She started playing piano and performing theater productions at 7. In high school, she landed lead roles in Les Miserables, Mary Poppins, Sound of Music, Fiddler on the Roof, and Annie. In the university, she performed lead roles in Antigone, I Never Saw Another Butterfly, and Peter Pan. While living in the Dominican Republic, she directed The Sound of Music and an original Easter production. Joanna has done voiceover work for radio, TV, and churches. She holds a BA in Creative Writing and an MS in Instructional Design.

Joanna founded World Upside Down nonprofit in 2013 and World Upside Down Arts Studio in 2023 out of a firm belief that creativity is a gift from God and reflects her Creator’s beauty, majesty, and infinite love for her. She believes that arts education is the best tool she can use to change the world and give a legacy of hope for the next generation.

Advisory Board

We’re thrilled with the support of our Advisory Board of World Upside Down. They are a dynamic team of leaders, creatives, educators, and advocates who share our passion for transforming lives through the arts and meaningful connection. Each member brings unique expertise and heart to our mission, offering guidance, vision, and support as we continue to grow our impact in the community. With their insight and collaboration, World Upside Down is better equipped than ever. Join us as we empower young people, celebrate creativity, and build a world where every voice matters.

Founder

Joanna Puello

Joanna Puello has over 25 years of experience as an educator, nonprofit founder, senior instructional designer, and entrepreneur. A musician and performer, she started playing violin at 4 and performed in the Grand Rapids Youth orchestra from ages 11-16. She started playing piano and performing theater productions at 7. In high school, she landed lead roles in Les Miserables, Mary Poppins, Sound of Music, Fiddler on the Roof, and Annie. In the university, she performed lead roles in Antigone, I Never Saw Another Butterfly, and Peter Pan. While living in the Dominican Republic, she directed The Sound of Music and an original Easter production. Joanna has done voiceover work for radio, TV, and churches. She holds a BA in Creative Writing and an MS in Instructional Design.

Joanna founded World Upside Down nonprofit in 2013 and World Upside Down Arts Studio in 2023 out of a firm belief that creativity is a gift from God and reflects her Creator’s beauty, majesty, and infinite love for her. She believes that arts education is the best tool she can use to change the world and give a legacy of hope for the next generation.

Jairo Puello
Vice President

Jairo Puello

Jairo Puello was born in the Dominican Republic and began his musical career in Puerto Rico, where he earned his college degree. He later returned to the Dominican Republic to serve as the national director of Awana Clubs International. A talented musician, Jairo has released seven albums, including You Are Exalted, I’ll Stay With You, Attached to You (nominated for the 2008 Cassandra Awards), and On the Rock. He is an active member of worship teams at NewSpring Church (Greenville, SC) and Foothills Church (Seneca, SC). Jairo currently serves as the music director for the theater program, bringing his passion and experience to the stage.
Christy Shumaker
Board Member

Christy Shumaker

Christy has a joy and passion to teach children of all ages and to show them the love of Jesus. With over 25 years of experience teaching and directing kids’ ministries and events, she delights in understanding children’s hearts and relating to them in a fun, energized, and creative way. She holds a BA degree in Communications from Moody Bible Institute. Her motto in life: Love Jesus. Teach Children. Eat Chocolate! She teaches puppetry and crafts at the studio.
Board Member

Jenelle Ferrer

Raised in Miami, Florida, Jenelle has called Central Florida home since 2006. She is a proud Oviedo resident and loves all that Central Florida has to offer its residents. With over 20 years experience in the real estate and hospitality industries, Jenelle has learned to evolve and thrive with the constant changes and fluxes of the market. Though working in the real estate industry for many years, it wasn’t until 2007 that she received her real estate license while working on a large development in Orlando, Florida.

She holds a B.A. degree in Communications and a minor in Business from Southeastern University and a M.S. degree in Entertainment Business from Full Sail University. Her experience in working with customers from all over the world and love of real estate led her to open Waypointe Realty in early 2016. In 2021, she merged with the fastest growing real estate company in the world, eXp Realty, as Waypointe Group with eXp Realty.

Jodi Gritter Gilbert
Board Member

Jodi Gritter Gilbert

Jodi Gritter Gilbert is a dedicated high school Spanish teacher at the Coweta County School System in Newnan, Georgia. An alumna of Calvin University, she brings a strong academic foundation to her role, fostering engaging and immersive language learning experiences for her students. Known for her commitment to student development and cultural enrichment, Jodi plays a vital role in shaping her students' global perspectives through language education.
Board Member

Christi Hicks Davis

Christy Hicks Davis is a seasoned professional with a strong background in commercial contracts and human rights. Holding credentials such as JD, CCCM, and CPCM, she has established herself as an expert in her field. Her expertise encompasses commercial contracts and human rights, reflecting a commitment to excellence and advocacy. Christy is recognized for her contributions to the industry and her dedication to upholding ethical standards in her work.

Nonprofit Leaders

World Upside Down was founded as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization on March 21, 2013. As leaders in the nonprofit industry, we are committed to demonstrating our accountability as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We are proud to rank as gold star members of the Guidestar Exchange Program. You can access details about our programs, impact, financials, and tax records on our Guidestar World Upside Down.

Blog

Theater

Youth Theater in Greenville: Disney’s Aladdin JR & KIDS by World Upside Down

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Grants

Use the Education Scholarship Trust Fund (ESTF) for World Upside Down Tuition

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Theater

World Upside Down Enchants Audience with The Little Mermaid Jr.

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Theater

World Upside Down Thrills Audiences with Under the Sea: King Eric Edition

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Theater

World Upside Down’s The Lion King Jr. is a Roaring Triumph

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Theater

World Upside Down’s Seussical Jr. the Musical Makes a Hit

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