Meet The Hosts & Judges

Co-Host Edess Damis

The boisterous Edess Damis also known as “E” was born and raised in Elizabeth to immigrant Haitian parents. After becoming Double State Champion in the New Jersey Forensics League her senior year, Edess took her talents to Kean University. There, she took part in KeanTV, where she hosted multiple shows around campus and co-hosted the trendy hit radio show, “Talk to Me Nice” on Cougar Radio WKNJ 90.3 FM. E graduated with her BA in Communications with a focus in Media and Film, and left her mark on campus, literally (look for her face on the side of the Miron Student Center). E has gone on to steal the hearts of many when she became the face of Union and currently hosts multiple shows on UnionTV. Segments include a weekly show that focuses on events and fundraisers in town (Spotlight on Union), a tasty show that highlights small businesses (Let’s Eat) and insightful conversations with local elected officials, business owners, and residents (Talking with E.) There’s never a dull moment when Edess is on stage, in the studio, or in your presence, as she continues to captivate audiences with her diverse range of talents. Union’s Got Talent has been an event that she has grown to love over the years and appreciates the opportunity to now co-host and put on a great show for all to enjoy!

Joe Leo

A graduate of Union High School and Kean University, is the proud owner of Here’s the Story Bookstore in Union, which he opened in 1995. He has been an active member of the Township of Union Special Improvement District, serving on the Board of Directors for over 18 years. In addition to his business and community involvement, Joe is passionate about community theater. He currently serves as President of CDC Theatre in Cranford, a role he has held since 2017. Joe has produced numerous award-winning productions, including Mamma Mia, In The Heights, and A Chorus Line. He also enjoys performing on stage himself. Joe is a dedicated supporter of the DMK Scholarship Foundation and thanks Marie and Joe for all they have done to encourage local talent of all ages to let their gifts shine bright.

Judge - Nick Basile

A graduate from the School of Visual Arts, NYC, with a BFA in film, Nick had produced and directed a series of independent shorts including festival award winners. Nick won the Best Director at the Atlantic City Film Festival. He directed the stage production of the original sci-fi rock opera Fertility at the Players Theatre, Off- Broadway. Nick directed and produced the full-length documentary American Carny: True Tales from the Circus sideshow. The Film Institute of Lincon Center named it one of the Top 10 Documentaries of the Year. He directed the feature film DARK. The movie receiving critical praise.nNick has worked for over 25 years in theatre, television and film. He will next be seen in the upcoming pilot episode of the new series Seasoned with Mandy Patinkin for Showtime.

Jonathan Trzeszkowski

A dedicated teacher at Burnet Middle School, with a rich background in both academics and the arts. Growing up in Middletown, NJ, Jonathan developed a passion for musical theater, a pursuit he continues today as a regular volunteer with the CDC Theatre in Cranfod.. An alumnus of the University of California, Berkeley, Jonathan combines his love for education and the outdoors, often spending weekends hiking. A strong supporter and advocate for the DMK Scolarship Fund, he is committed to giving back to his community and making a positive impact on the lives of those around him.  

Judge - Jonathan Weisbrod 

Jonathan Weisbrod’s interest in film started at Kawameeh Middle School in Union. He went on to media production roles at PBS and Atlantic Records. As an independent producer, Jonathan produced two feature films: Lies I Told My Little Sister and Bear With Us distributed through Arc Entertainment and Comedy Dynamics respectively. As a writer, Jonathan has worked in the script department on Late Night and racked up more than 50 awards for his pilot scripts The People Team and Bog Water.

Judge - Victoria Duncker

Victoria Duncker is a professionally trained actor, singer, director, producer, and member of Actor's Equity Association and SAG-AFTRA. Her over two-decade career in the arts has spanned across many stages around the country, including the Obie Award-winning theater company The Paper Bag Players, and she has shared the stage with musical theater icons such as Stephen Schwartz, Leslie Odom, Jr., Chita Rivera, and even Liza Minnelli! Victoria made her record-breaking New Jersey directorial debut in March, with the production of George C. Wolfe’s The Colored Museum. A former Miss Miami-Dade Scholarship Pageant winner (of the Miss America Organization), Victoria has won numerous vocal and theater competitions. Currently, Victoria is the new Arts Director of the Union Arts Center and is thrilled to be tasked with making DMK Black Box Theater a destination for artistic excellence and cultural exchange in Union. Best of luck to all!