admin
Our teams are split between a Board of Directors and Staff that make up our administration.
Gus David Sanchez
Gus is a barista by trade, but also a director and producer in Las Cruces. They co-founded Blank Conversations, and has been a part of several organizations in the Cruces area. Their previous credits include producing and directing The Death of Walt Disney, The Play That Goes Wrong; Wilde Man, and more. They’re incredibly grateful to the patrons and volunteers who have helped make Blank Conversations what it is today!
Co-Founder & President
Carson Denney
Denney is a high school English teacher and a lifelong lover of the theatrical arts. He first joined Blank Conversations in 2025, and has since been in a number of productions, most notably the most recent musical Alice By Heart. He is excited to be a part of Blank Conversations, and all the amazing things they have planned for the upcoming year.
Secretary
TreasurerBenjamin Ramsey
Ben is entering his second year as part of the Blank Conversations board and is excited to get the 2026 season started! He has been a member of the community since 2022, ever since being cast in American Idiot. He has been in several Blank Conversations productions since then and is excited to continue the great work that Blank Conversations has done. He also has a Theatre degree at NMSU and has been involved in several productions over there as well. He hopes to grow the community and expand collaboration with not only the other theatre companies in town, but other facets of artists here in Las Cruces!
Executive DirectorAJ Tumminaro
AJ Tumminaro has been a member of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees since 2018, during which he has refined his skills as a Set Designer, Set Construction Coordinator, Set Decorator and Art Director. He has served as a board member at multiple theater companies through the years, and enjoys volunteering his time supporting the local theater community. His primary career path is the performing arts. He has had the privilege of performing in many productions, some of which include, Sound of Music, Gypsy, Life Span Of A Fact, Play That Goes Wrong, Misery, and others. AJ also enjoys performing improv with the Super Secret Improv Show.
Marketing DirectorLaura Padilla
Laura graduated from NMSU with a Bachelor's degree in Fine with an emphasis in Graphic Design. She brings years of experience in IT as a web developer complemented by a strong creative background in photography, video editing, and painting. Laura has worked with a variety of businesses, helping them strengthen their branding and develop effective marketing strategies. She has also served as Director of Photography for several student films, combining her technical expertise with her passion for visual storytelling.
Co-Founder & Education ChairBryan Berard
Bryan Berard is a music educator and theatre artist based in Las Cruces, New Mexico. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Music Education from New Mexico State University and currently serves as the Choir Director at Camino Real Middle School. Bryan is an active member of NMMEA, NMACDA, NAfME, NATS, and the Vocal Artistry Art Song Festival, and continues to work in education, performance, music direction, and community theatre.