Acts App -

Meet the Production Team of BLACK COMEDY

SHARON KAYE MILLER (Director & Costume Designer) has a bachelor’s degree in Theater Arts and Speech Communications from Howard Payne University and additional theater credits from Texas Christian University and Tarleton State University through five seasons of summer stock work at the Granbury Opera House during its charter years. As a high school theater director Sharon Kaye directed over twenty UIL One-Act Plays advancing to the state level five times throughout her career. She directed and co-directed over sixty plays and musicals, mostly at Martin High School here in Arlington, her hometown. Since retirement, Ms. Miller is a member of TTAO serving as a UIL One-Act Play adjudicator and a One-Act Play clinician helping high schools prepare for One-Act Play contests. Sharon Kaye has also been honored to serve on the board of directors at Theatre Arlington working with her longtime friend and mentor Steve Morris. She served as a costumer and director for Sylvia, Dead Man’s Cell Phone and Ripcord. This year she is incredibly proud to be directing Black Comedy, teaming up once again with her talented friend, set and lights designer, Bryan Stevenson. Mrs. Miller would like to thank her incredibly talented cast and company for their tireless work and creative contributions as they bring Black Comedy to our cherished audiences at Theatre Arlington. She also thanks her wonderfully supportive husband and children for their patience and encouragement throughout the play production.

MARIA LEON HICKOX (Stage and Production Manager) is excited to start her first season with Theatre Arlington as the resident stage and production manager. Maria has recently stage-managed The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Sister Act and The Piano Lesson here at Theatre Arlington. Maria’s recent works have included stage manager for Always Patsy Cline and Greater Tuna with Bright Star Productions, stage manager for Frozen Jr. with Shine Theatre, production manager at Casa Mañana for the 2017-2020 seasons and props designer at Casa Mañana for the 2016 -2017 seasons. Maria would like to thank her friends and family for their support, especially her husband Josh Hickox, who puts up with her crazy antics. Love you!

VICTORIA ESQUIBELL (Assistant Stage Manager) is very excited to be a part of her second show at Theatre Arlington! She has previously served as a sage manager at Creede Repertory Theatre, Great River Shakespeare Festival and Oklahoma City Ballet. Congratulations to the cast and crew of Black Comedy!

BRYAN STEVENSON (Set & Lighting Designer) holds a B.F.A. in Theatre from Texas Wesleyan University and an M.F.A. in Design from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. He has designed at many local theatre companies including Fort Worth Shakespeare in the Park, Stage West, Jubilee and Circle. Nationally, Bryan designs for the Boy Scouts of America National Conferences and Shows. Bryan is an active participant in the United Institute of Theatre Technology, where he has served on panels on lighting and scenic design. He is also a member of Stagehands Union, IATSE Local 126.

RYAN SIMÓN (Sound Designer) is a sound designer, composer and playwright from Fort Worth, Texas. He is a recent graduate of Texas Wesleyan University where he earned his BFA in Musical Theatre. Ryan is excited to return to Theatre Arlington after previously designing the sound for Sister Act and The Piano Lesson. He has previously worked as a Sound Designer on Fabulation, Lil & Satchmo, and If Pretty Hurts at Jubilee, On the Exhale at Stage West and as music director for his original musical Bibliophilia, which premiered at Texas Wesleyan University. Ryan is a member of the Dramatists Guild.

ROBIN DOTSON (Properties Designer) is the proud mother of college junior Sydney, who discovered the wonderful world of theater through Theatre Arlington when she was 9 and is now majoring in musical theater! An elementary teacher by day, Robin has worked on props for many T.A. youth shows, as well as Calendar Girls, Legally Blonde, Footloose, 9 to 5, A Few Good Men, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, A Raisin in the Sun and Sister Act at Theatre Arlington the past few seasons. Enjoy the show!

Meet the cast of BLACK COMEDY

JENNA ANDERSON (Clea) is so excited to be returning to the brand-new Theatre Arlington stage after a long theater hiatus. This will be her 6th production with Theatre Arlington. She has previously been seen in A Few Good Men, Dead Man’s Cellphone, Sylvia, Boeing Boeing, and The Nerd. Other DFW credits include One Man, Two Guvnors and A 3D Adventure at Circle Theatre, A Lost Leonardo at Amphibian Stage Productions and Psycho Beach Party, The Liar, Seminar, and Less Than Kind at Theatre Three. Jenna also serves on the Board of Directors at Theatre Arlington. She would like to thank you all for your support of this wonderfully hilarious production. Remember to tip your bartender!

HANNAH BELL (Miss Furnival) is a Texas native who returned to the home stages after the opportunity to direct, perform and build educational theater programming for youth in Germany, Utah, China and California. Her favorite credits include directing Into the Woods (KMC Onstage) and performing in The Little Mermaid, Tarzan (Chongqing Fantasy Performing Arts), A Streetcar Named Desire and Young Frankenstein (KMC Onstage). Since her return, she has performed in Damn Yankees, Hayfever (Tarrant Actors Regional Theatre), The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas (Theatre Arlington), Blithe Spirit (Graham Regional Theatre) and various virtual productions. Recently she had the privilege of directing Old Enough to Kill for the Original Works Series at the Fort Worth Arts Center.

MICAH JL BROOKS (Brindsley Miller) is making his Theatre Arlington debut. Select recent credits include Fenris Ulf/White Stag in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Jimmy Ray Dobbs in Bright Star, Cedric/Voldy in Puffs, Father Winter/Boreas in Jack Frost, Jud Fry in Oklahoma, and Action in West Side Story. Thank you Theatre Arlington and everyone who is helping create safe live theater right now.

JAKIE CABE (Colonel Melkett) (AEA) is making his first performance at Theatre Arlington, but he served as the Director of Education and Outreach from 2000 – 2001, where he directed The Wind in the Willows for the Youth Summer Camp show. Currently, an Associate Professor of Theater at Tarrant County College -Northeast, Jakie has been an actor, director, fight choreographer and teacher/ professor in the DFW area for the last 30 years having most recently appeared in the area premiere of Dry Powder by Sarah Burgess at Second Thought Theatre. Before that he performed in the world premiere of Raptured by Matt Lyle at Theatre 3. He was also recognized for critics’ awards for his work in The Big Meal at WaterTower Theatre, Life Sucks, A Streetcar Named Desire, Stones in his Pockets, Around the World in 80 Days at Stage West, Mass Appeal, Chesapeake at Circle Theatre and Fiction, Time Stands Still at Amphibian Stage Productions. Television credits include the Fox series Prison Break, Dallas, Barney and numerous commercials and industrials. Voice-over work includes Cartoon Network, IFC and Boomerang including Dragonball Z, Dragonball GT and Yu Yu Hakashu. He is represented for film and television by the Kim Dawson Agency. Jakie has an MFA in Acting from Louisiana State University with independent study completed at the National Theatre London and a B.A. in Theatre & Dance from Appalachian State University.

ALLI FRANKEN (Carol Melkett) is so excited to be making her Theatre Arlington Debut! She has a BFA in Theater with an Acting Emphasis from TCU, where she focused her honors thesis on Musical Theatre Dance and Choreography. Recent credits include Clue (Assistant Director/Female Understudy) and The Sound of Music (Assistant Director/Female Understudy) at Dallas Theater Center, Legally Blonde (Associate Director/Choreographer) and Matilda (Dance Captain, Ensemble) at Firehouse Theatre, Puffs (Sally/Others) at Imprint Theatreworks, Six Flags’ Holiday in the Park (Choreographer) and Grand Prairie Arts Council’s The Wiz (Choreographer). She’s also worked closely with Circle Theatre, Amphibian Stage, Garland Summer Musicals and Prism Movement Theatre. Enjoy the show!

KELLEY GARLAND (Georg Bamberger) is very excited to be returning to Theatre Arlington in this production of Black Comedy. He has also performed as Julius Alexander Randolph in A Few Good Men at Theatre Arlington. Last seen in Sweat with Aiming Up in Mansfield. Some of his past credits include Miracle on 57^th Street and Sorry, Wrong Chimney at Onstage in Bedford as well as The Innkeeper in TARTs Man of La Mancha. Kelley has also performed as a Supernumerary with the Dallas and Fort Worth Operas as well as co-starred in the short film Odd Jobs by KD Studios.

MICAH GREEN (Harold Gorringe) is thrilled to be returning to the Theatre Arlington stage, having recently directed Spelling Bee. TA audiences are used to Micah’s antics from his appearances in previous shows. He has also been seen onstage with Uptown Players over in Dallas (When Pigs Fly and Pageant). Aside from being a professional goober, he also serves as the Fine Arts Coordinator of Theatre & Dance for Arlington ISD. Micah sure hopes you have a fabulous time tonight, and that you’ll plan another visit to Theatre Arlington.

ANDREW NICOLAS (Schuppanzigh) is beyond excited to be making his debut at Theatre Arlington and get a chance to work with these remarkably talented individuals. Andrew is a current student in the BFA Acting program at TCU (Go Frogs). Andrew’s most recent credits include The Odd Couple (WaterTower Theatre), Twelfth Night (Shakespeare Dallas), Bright Star (Firehouse Theater) and The Great Lonely Roamer (Echo Theater). Andrew would like to thank the entire creative team for taking a chance on him, and for allowing him to play a part in bringing this wonderful play to life. He would like to thank God, as well as his mom for being there every step of the way. Andrew would like to dedicate his performance to his dad.

MEET THE CAST & DIRECTOR OF AMERICAN SON

VICTORIA ANGELINA CRUZ (Kendra Ellis-Connor) a Birmingham, Alabama native is finishing her 3rd and final year at SMU as a Graduate Acting Candidate. She was most recently seen in Rage at the Dallas Theatre Center for the Elevator Project, Sublime at Stage West and SMU’s Midsummer Nights Dream, as Bottom. She will be performing in The Tempest at Shakespeare Dallas this summer. When she is not on stage she spends time coaching and providing audition prep for local actors in the DFW area and teaching the Art of Acting on a collegiate level.

RODNEY HONEYCUTT (Scott Connor) was born and bred in Fort Worth Texas and has lived there all of his life. His love for theater started in high school and has continued to this day. He has performed at several theaters in the metroplex and has always had a love for the good people at Theatre Arlington. He is very excited for the journey that this great organization has begun! His free time is spent with his wonderful wife Cindy, his amazing son Nathan, one small dog named Holly and, for some reason, five cats who sometimes answer to Oliver, Rowan & Martin and Annie & Oakley.

TIM CRABB (Officer Paul Larkin) having just closed Sister Act here at Theatre Arlington alongside our director Ken’ja, is pleased to be back so soon. You might have seen him in Bob: A Life in Five Acts (Theatre Off The Square) and he’s a regular player at ONSTAGE in Bedford and Arts 5th Avenue. You may have also seen him in a few commercials as well (if you watch daytime television.) He is an alumni of Theatre Wesleyan as well as a student of The Extra Mile Working Actors Workshop. Thank you, as always, for your time and attention.

SEKOU CALHOUN (Lieutenant John Stokes) began his acting career in his home town of New York City as a spoken word poet. After relocating to Dallas a coworker asked him to audition for a church play and the rest is history. Three years later he has appeared in Greg Ellis’ Juneteenth and Watch Night, and T.B.A.A.L. A Soldier’s Story (Private Smalls). Film/TV credits include: Vindication and Washington’s Armor. Sekou is an Honors graduate from Liberty University and his currently pursuing a M.A. in I/O Psychology. He is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and Army.

KEN’JA L. BROWN (Director) is an actress, singer, writer, director, online radio personality and all-around creative. Having brought to life several characters across the stages of DFW, she is so excited to be sitting in the director’s chair and being given this opportunity by Theatre Arlington. She has proven herself to be an extraordinary actress and now she is grabbing hold to the production side. A Chicago born and raised native, Ken’ja has made Texas her second home. “When given the opportunity to perform on stage, it brings me so much joy and now that OPPORTUNITY has spread its wings and I am filled with even more Joy! I thank God, Mom (RIH), my boys, my partner, and family for their love and support. Always remember to dream bigger and keep moving forward in your PURPOSE!”

MEET THE CAST & DIRECTOR OF FADE

CHRISTIAN ARRUBLA (Abel) is thrilled to return to Theatre Arlington where he was previously seen as Lord Farquuad in the 2018 production of Shrek Jr. Other theatre includes Andi Boi (Dallas Children’s Theater), Ride A Story (Kitchen Dog Theatre), 1968 (Teatro Dallas), Much Ado About Nothing (Junior Players), Romeo and Juliet (Junior Players), Lend Me A Tenor (BTWHSPVA) and The Outsiders (D203 Experiment). Christian was selected as a finalist in 2021 for the National YoungArts Foundation for Theatre. He will also be training at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts later this year. Agradecido a mi familia por todo el amor y apoyo.

MARIA LEON HICKOX (Narrator) Maria is beyond excited to be on the stage instead of behind it. Most of her credits involve production work. Maria has recently stage managed The 25^th annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Sister Act and The Piano Lesson here at Theatre Arlington. Maria’s recent works have included stage manager for Always Patsy Cline and Greater Tuna with Bright Star Productions; stage manager for Frozen Jr. with Shine Theatre; production manager at Casa Mañana for the 2017-2020 seasons; Props designer at Casa Mañana for the 2016 -2017 seasons. Maria would like to thank her friends and family for their support, especially her husband Josh Hickox, who puts up with her crazy antics. Love you!

BETHANY MEJORADO (Lucia) is currently a BFA Acting student at The University of Texas at Arlington. Her college acting credits include Ceci in Lydia and Gwendolen Fairfax in an adaptation of The Importance of Being Earnest. Bethany is currently working at Stage West Theatre as an intern/assistant teacher and director for their youth summer camps. She loves the arts and she loves teaching others to love it too. She is so happy to be here at Theatre Arlington and she hopes you enjoy this story!

DIANA FIGUEROA STORY (Director) completed her BFA in Theatre Arts from the University of Texas Arlington, studied costume design at SMU and received her MA in Theater Arts from the University of Houston. Diana has been working in the theater community in the DFW area for over 35 years. Like many theatre professionals, she assumed many roles and responsibilities, but she is particularly pleased to be directing this play reading of Fade for Theatre Arlington. Growing up DIana didn’t see many theater professionals that looked like her – or see stories that reflected the many experiences of the LatinX community. Diana applauds Theatre Arlington for their efforts to break that barrier by providing more opportunities for an underrepresented community.

Meet the 2022 COMEDY CLUB TROUPE

BEN FORT (Director) is thrilled to make his Theatre Arlington debut! Ben is a graduate of Second City Chicago and has written and directed many sketch revues, plays and fictional podcasts in Fort Worth and Chicago. Favorites include co-writing The Lockout: A Musical, a basketball comedy included in Theatre On The Lake’s 2014 season, and developing Funny Beliefs, a religion-themed sketch show for the 2018 TCU Crossroads Lecture on Faith and Public Life. Ben has taught comedy writing for Four Day Weekend and Amphibian Stage, and he’s really glad you’re here.

TYLER THOMPSON (Assistant Director) is a graduate of The University of Oklahoma where she received a BFA in drama. She had the amazing opportunity of spending her final semester of college in Chicago after being accepted into The Second City’s Comedy Studies program. She is a graduate of The Second City of Chicago’s Conservatory Program as well as The iO Theater Improv Program where she performed with the Harold Team Interrobang. Tyler has studied clowning under Paola Coletto, performed at Chicago Sketchfest, Donny’s Skybox at The Second City, The Women’s Funny Festival, The Del Close Marathon and is a graduate of Four Day Weekend in DFW. Tyler loves being a teaching artist at Theatre Arlington and encourages everyone to support the arts and arts education.

FRED Daisy was born in Dallas, Texas on a snowy day in February. She survived the cold and now lives with her best friend, her dog, and her cat. She dreams of one day making shoes and baking cookies in a tree. She would like to thank Shannan Calcutt, Stinky and Bunny, and Ben and Tyler for bearing witness to her musical performances. FRED would also like to thank you for continuing to exist in this reality. YOU MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE. Thank you for being a part of it!

MATTIE LILLIAN DAVIS is thrilled to part of The Comedy Club at Theatre Arlington. Mattie is not a stranger to performing and has been seen in musicals across the DFW area. Some favorite theatre credits include Holiday Inn (Lila Dixon), No Way to Treat a Lady (Sarah Stone) and Beehive (Principle soloist). Mattie was also set to play Lola in Damn Yankees at Theatre Arlington prior to the Covid shutdown. In addition to performing, Mattie also choreographs and is pursuing a M.Ed in both Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. Mattie holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from TCU. Be on the lookout for her single “Wonderboy” available on streaming services March 25, and you can catch her next as a nun in Sister Act at Theatre Arlington. “Humor is just truth, only faster!” -Gilda Radner

REILLY JONES is making his debut at Theatre Arlington performing comedy. He is in his 3rd year studying Theatre Arts at the University of Texas at Arlington. He wants everyone to know that life is better with a laugh, and he can’t wait to laugh with y’all!

PETER LUBY has written and performed sketch comedy, songs and stories for venues including Four Day Weekend, Oral Fixation and TCU. Fifteen years ago, he used to pull all-nighters to finish his community radio show “One Man Band” on WVEW in Brattleboro, VT, and he still requires a deadline to ever finish anything. Peter grew up in Arlington and lives there again with his wife and kids.

WHITNEY MOATS is making her Theatre Arlington debut. She has previously been a member of several improv house teams at Four Day Weekend in Fort Worth, and has performed with the comedy team L. Society. Whitney’s stage work includes the role of Napoleon Bonaparte in her 4th grade musical, as well as Candy Cane Jane in her 5th grade Christmas pageant. She was educated at Four Day Weekend’s Training Center.

JOSHUA NERIO will be making his second appearance on the Theatre Arlington stage. He is currently pursuing his undergraduate degree in Theatre Arts at the University of Texas at Arlington, and would like to thank his friends and family for their everlasting support.

ODYSSUS PATTERSON Age: 20 Height: 69” Likes: Making art, video games, and long walks on the beach. Dislikes: The State of Maine.

LUCY PERRY is proud to be making her Theatre Arlington debut with the Comedy Club! Forever Arlington proud, she is a graduate of Arlington High School and UT Arlington. She lives in Dallas with her husband Matt and son Sam – but refuses to give up her 817 phone number. She has studied improv, sketch comedy and stand up with The Dallas Comedy House, The Stomping Ground, The Dallas Comedy Club and with Dean Lewis. As a graduate of the Dallas Comedy House improv program, she performed in their house improv team, Grandma’s Perfume before the club’s closure in 2020. Currently she can be seen performing stand-up throughout Dallas and improv at The Dallas Comedy Club in their club team, 3rd Degree.

HANNAH SLIGAR is thrilled to be returning to performance after a long hiatus studying engineering at UTA and becoming a Project Manager for Nokia. After years of making jokes in meetings, she realized the part of herself that belongs on stage needed to be set free. She grew up performing at Theatre Arlington in Annie Get Your Gun and Bridge to Terabithia, and in Lamar HS productions as Lucy in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Godspell and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Hannah thanks her mom, brother, friends, yoga moms, sorority sisters, and hopes to make her dad laugh in heaven.

LIZ THRESHER secured a BSW at UNT and unrelatedly took her talents from in front of the bathroom mirror to a real stage. Since then, she sang the national anthem at Wrigley Field, appeared in incalculable live productions (Young Frankenstein, Footloose, Welcome to Arroyo’s, The Vagina Monologues, Bushwhacked at Bronco Bob’s, et al.), created a mini comedy web series and released an album titled A Different Hue, which is available where all streams flow. Liz appreciates the support and inspiration she has received from her family and friends and hopes to pay it forward continually.

Meet THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Band

MARK MULLINO (Music Director/Keyboard) is a Dallas-based director/musical director/pianist/painter. Mark has worked extensively throughout DFW in professional, collegiate and educational theater. He has been on production teams for Garland Summer Musicals, WaterTower Theatre, Uptown Players, Dallas Theatre Center, Firehouse Theatre, Lyric Stage, Theatre Arlington, Flower Mound Performing Arts Theatre and Imprint Theatre. Mark has also taught and/or musical directed at local colleges: Collin College, Richland College, KD Conservatory, University of Texas at Dallas and SMU. Mark’s passion for youth theater has been seen at Junior Players, Our Productions Young Artist Training Program as well as the organization he co-founded, Dallas Young Artists. In addition to theater, Mark has played many cabaret venues throughout DFW and is a painter of musical paintings.

MARK ALEWINE (reeds) is a private instructor for the Plano Independent School District and teaches woodwinds at The Hockaday School in Dallas. He is an active woodwind performer and adjudicator throughout Texas and has served as a guest clinician at the Texas Music Educators Association Convention. Mark has performed with the Texas Wind Symphony, Dallas Wind Symphony, Texas Saxophone Quartet, Turtle Creek Chorale, Dallas Street Choir, Contemporary Chorale, Dallas Women’s Chorus, Dallas Theatre Center, Theatre Three, Water Tower Theater and many other musical theatre productions in the DFW area.

JAY MAJERNIK (drums) is a freelance drummer/percussionist based in Dallas. He performs in all genres of music including orchestral, musical theater, jazz, pop/rock and world/ethnic. Musical theater companies with which he has performed include WaterTower Theatre, Theatre Three, Junior Players, Stage West, Dallas Children’s Theatre, Theatre Arlington and many others. He is also an educator who works at Bishop Lynch High School, Booker T. Washington HSPVA, Coram Deo Academy and Gray School of Music. He is an endorser for Evans drumheads, Paiste Cymbals and Pro-Mark drumsticks.

BRIAN SEO (cello) was born in South Korea, but he was raised in the DFW Metroplex. As a kid in Seoul, Brian studied piano, violin, Gugak (traditional Korean music) and participated in Young Astronauts Korea as well as national math competitions. At the age of eleven, he and his family moved to Texas where he discovered his interest in the cello. Brian went on to attend the University of North Texas on a full scholarship where he received his Bachelor of Music degree in cello performance. Brian was the principal cellist of the UNT Symphony and Opera orchestras and was the featured solo cellist for UNT Symphony’s Grammy Award project with the classical saxophonist Eugene Rousseau in Saxophone Espressivo. He also attended South Texas College of Law Houston from 2020 to 2021 as a Dean’s Merit Scholar and during his downtime, Brian enjoys competitive gaming researching, and exercising.

Meet THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Cast

SINCLAIR FREEMAN (Mitch Mahoney) is making his Theatre Arlington debut. He’s been seen at Firehouse Theater in Elf, Flexible Grey/Uptown Players in Cooties and The Rehearsal at Imprint Theaterworks. Up next, Sinclair can be seen in Artstillery’s Fair Park Project.

DONOVAN MARIE LAWSON (Olive Ostrovsky) is thrilled to return to the TA stage for a dream show! She has a BFA in Theater for Young Audiences with a minor in Directing from Oklahoma City University and is part of the marketing team/creative staff at NTPA. Recent credits: Miss Honey in Matilda, multiple Cabaret shows (Theatre Arlington), Rusty in Footloose, Dorothy in Magical City of Oz, Shy in The BLWT, Maxine in Hooray for Holidays!, The Addams Family and Beauty and the Beast. Special thank you to Micah and Mark for this opportunity to portray her dream role. A huge thank you to my fiancé, family and friends for their constant love and support!

JUDE LAINE LEWIS (Schwarzy) is ecstatic to finally be back in the theater they first began performing in at the age of 8! The last time they were on the TA stage was for Shrek Jr. as Teen Fiona and as Summer in The School of Rock. Other credits include Winnie in Tuck Everlasting at Casa Mañana, Miriam in Dear Ruth with Plaza Theatre and Anne in The Diary of Anne Frank which will resume performances this July at Plaza Theatre Company! They are excitedly preparing to attend Columbia College Chicago for a BA in Musical Theatre in the fall. Enjoy the show everyone!

DARIN MARTIN (Leaf Coneybear) is a graduate of Texas Wesleyan University where he received a BFA in Musical Theatre. His regional credits include Theatre Wesleyan: Rod (Avenue Q), Ernst (Spring Awakening), B Flat (Second Samuel); Casa Mañana: Ensemble (Sweeney Todd); and Theatre Arlington: Ensemble (Sister Act). He would like to thank his friends and family for their immeasurable support.

STEVEN D. MORRIS (Panch) started performing with Theatre Arlington in 1981 and has done over 60 shows here as an actor, director and writer. Steve is thrilled to be the Executive Producer at Theatre Arlington and work with such a great staff and Board of Directors. When Mr. Morris retired after 27 years of being the Director of Theater at Lamar High School, the school’s auditorium was named for him. Steve is very active with his church Unity of Arlington. Steve is blessed by great love in his life from his family, friends, his canine companion Elvis and new feline friend Smokey. Be sure to follow Steve @thefamousmorris on Twitter, although he rarely posts and is not that interesting. “I am happy you are here.”

JAYDEN RUSSELL (Marcy Park) is so excited to be back on the Theatre Arlington stage for the third time. Favorite experiences include St Jimmy in American Idiot, Clea in Black Comedy, Tina in Sister Act, Simon in Jesus Christ Superstar and Colombia in The Rocky Horror Show.

MAXIMILIAN SWENSON (Barfee) is currently attending UT Arlington for his BFA in Performance. He is excited to be working with Theatre Arlington, especially in one of his favorite musicals. His favorite roles include Gomez in The Addams Family, Connor in Good Kid, and Caldwell B. Cladwell in Urinetown. He would like to thank his family, friends and teachers for constantly pushing him to do his best and push through his limits as an actor.

BRETT WARNER (Rona Lisa Peretti) is thrilled to make her Theatre Arlington debut in one of her favorite roles! Most recently, she has appeared at Stage West in First Date (Woman 1), Imprint Theatreworks in MurderBallad (Sara) and Casa Mañana in Grease (Miss Lynch). Other favorite DFW appearances include Seussical (Mayzie LaBird), A Charlie Brown Christmas (Lucy Van Pelt), The Nance (Carmen) and Fellowship! The Musical (Pippin). Love to Todd and the dogs. IG:@thebrettandbutter

GARRETT CAELAN WEIR (Chip Tolentino) is delighted to make his Theatre Arlington debut as a performer! Select regional: World premiere of The Supreme Leader (Dallas Theater Center/dir. Kevin Moriarty), Grease, Clue: On Stage!, Ken Ludwig’s The Gods of Comedy and Urinetown (Okoboji Summer Theater). Garrett is a 2021 graduate of Texas Christian University with his BFA in Acting. Most recently, he was Ren McCormack in Footloose as a guest artist with GraceArts LIVE (Lake Havasu City, AZ). In addition to performing, he discovered a new passion when assistant directing Sister Act at Theatre Arlington. Born and raised in San Diego, Garrett enjoys also working as a private acting and audition coach for young performers and substitute teaching. He is eternally grateful to God, his family and friends, his mentors and the entire Theatre Arlington family for another incredible opportunity! garrettweir.com | IG:
@bombsauce

Meet THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Production Team

MICAH GREEN (Director) is super thrilled you are here to watch these talented humans onstage and even more excited for you to experience this newly renovated theater! Micah is the Fine Arts Coordinator of Theatre & Dance for Arlington ISD, and also serves as the Arlington Independent School District liaison to Theatre Arlington. We are proud of our growing partnership with TA in providing opportunities for students within the arts. As an actor, Micah is no stranger to the Theatre Arlington stage, and will be seen in the next play, Black Comedy, as well as the Christmas show in December. Be sure to get tickets to his July 1st cabaret, Micah Green: It’s Today! Enjoy the show!

MARK MULLINO (Music Director) is a Dallas based director/musical director/pianist/painter. Mark has worked extensively throughout DFW in professional, collegiate and educational theater. He has been on production teams for Garland Summer Musicals, WaterTower Theatre, Uptown Players, Dallas Theatre Center, Firehouse Theatre, Lyric Stage, Theatre Arlington, Flower Mound Performing Arts Theatre and Imprint Theatre. Mark has also taught and/or musical directed at local colleges: Collin College, Richland College, KD Conservatory, University of Texas at Dallas and SMU. Mark’s passion for youth theater has been seen at Junior Players, Our Productions Young Artist Training Program as well as the organization he co-founded, Dallas Young Artists. In addition to theater, Mark has played many cabaret venues throughout DFW and is a painter of musical paintings.

LESLIE JONES (Choreographer) grew up near Dallas, Texas where she started performing at a young age. She graduated from Texas Wesleyan University with a BFA in Musical Theatre. Leslie has performed in theme parks, industrial shows, musicals, plays, videos, concert dance and vocal recordings all over the US. Leslie has won several awards for her contribution to dance education and her commitment to the arts. She currently teaches dance, voice and acting. She is thrilled to be making her debut as a choreographer at Theatre Arlington.

MARIA LEON HICKOX (Stage and Production Manager) is excited to start her first season with Theatre Arlington as the resident stage and production manager. Maria has recently stage-managed Sister Act and The Piano Lesson here at Theatre Arlington. Maria’s recent works have included stage manager for Always Patsy Cline and Greater Tuna with Bright Star Productions, stage manager for Frozen Jr. with Shine Theatre, production manager at Casa Mañana for the 2017-2020 seasons and props designer at Casa Mañana for the 2016 -2017 seasons. Maria would like to thank her friends and family for their support, especially her husband Josh Hickox, who has been an amazing partner in life. Love you!

MICHAEL GREEN (Assistant Stage Manager) Michael is happy to once again be a part of the magic at Theatre Arlington. While he is working behind the scenes of Spelling Bee you may have just seen him as Monsignor O’Hara in Sister Act. Other roles at Theatre Arlington include Senator J.T. Wingwoah in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and Roger in Hooray for Holidays. Favorite past shows include The Wedding Singer (Stolen Shakespeare Guild), Perchik in Fiddler on the Roof (WCT) and Asher in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (WCT). Many thanks to the cast, crew and directors of the show!

BRYAN STEVENSON (Set & Lighting Designer) holds a B.F.A. in Theatre from Texas Wesleyan University and an M.F.A. in Design from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. He has designed at many local theatre companies including Fort Worth Shakespeare in the Park, Stage West, Jubilee and Circle. Nationally, Bryan designs for the Boy Scouts of America National Conferences and Shows. Bryan is an active participant in the United Institute of Theatre Technology, where he has served on panels on lighting and scenic design. He is also a member of Stagehands Union, IATSE Local 126.

RYAN SIMÓN (Sound Designer) is a sound designer, composer and playwright from Fort Worth, Texas. He is a recent graduate of Texas Wesleyan University where he earned his BFA in Musical Theatre. Ryan is excited to return to Theatre Arlington after previously designing the sound for Sister Act and The Piano Lesson. He has previously worked as a Sound Designer on Fabulation, Lil & Satchmo and If Pretty Hurts at Jubilee, On the Exhale at Stage West and as Music Director for his original musical Bibliophilia, which premiered at Texas Wesleyan University. Ryan is a member of the Dramatists Guild.

JANICE PENNINGTON (Costume Designer) has loved creating clothing and costumes since childhood. She is a retired teacher who holds a Bachelor of Science degree from TCU and a Master of Liberal Arts degree from ACU. Janice has built costumes for ACU, Lamar High School, TCC and Theatre Arlington. When she isn’t working on costumes, she enjoys gardening, painting and family. She is thankful to Steve Morris for the opportunities to work with the theatre and to her husband, Alton, for his constant support.

ROBIN DOTSON (Properties Designer) is the proud mother of college junior Sydney, who discovered the wonderful world of theater through Theatre Arlington when she was 9 and is now majoring in musical theater! An elementary teacher by day, Robin has worked on props for many TA youth shows, as well as Calendar Girls, Legally Blonde, Footloose, 9 to 5, A Few Good Men, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, A Raisin in the Sun and Sister Act at Theatre Arlington the past few seasons. Enjoy the show!

ANGIE GLOVER (Scenic Artist) is a multi-disciplinary artist working primarily in acrylic paint. She enjoys accurate depictions of her subject matter and telling a story through her images. The joy in helping others express their creativity has resulted in the popular and fun event, Painting Party with Angie! held every month at Theatre Arlington. In 2018, Glover became Resident Scenic Artist at Theatre Arlington creating magical and transformative sets and scenic elements. She has also lent her scenic paint skills to The Gaylord Hotel in Grapevine, Texas, The Fort Worth Opera, Kalita Humphreys Theater in Dallas, OnStage! at Bedford Boys Ranch and The Firehouse Theatre in Farmers Branch. During this time, she was also commissioned to paint a 1/32-inch scale replica of the Hotel Settles that now resides at the Museum of American Railroad in Frisco, Texas. Her canvas paintings and murals have been commissioned from Maryland, Georgia and throughout Texas, most notably her accurate renditions of human and pet portraits. Glover is currently living and working in Hurst, Texas. https://angieglover.myportfolio.com

THE PIANO LESSON CAST

DAVID WENDELL BOYKINS (Wining Boy) has been an actor since 1997. He has performed Off-Broadway, on tour, in film and television. He is excited to be here with you and to work with such a talented ensemble. Thank you!

SEKOU CALHOUN (Avery) began his acting career in his home town of New York City as a spoken word poet. After relocating to Dallas a coworker asked him to audition for a church play and the rest is history. Three years later he has appeared in Greg Ellis’ Juneteenth and Watch Night, and T.B.A.A.L. A Soldier’s Story (Private Smalls). Film/TV credits include: Vindication and Washington’s Armor. Sekou is an Honors graduate from Liberty University and his currently pursuing a M.A. in I/O Psychology. He is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and Army.

KEVIN DAVIS JR. (Lymon) is very excited to be in his second show at Theatre Arlington. He was most recently seen as an ensemble member in Sister Act, a featured dancer in Kings Concert, Sam in Southern Boys, Richie in A Chorus Line, Nathan in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Pepper in Mamma Mia and Off-Broadway as Dasher in 911 Knome. Other Credits include Ray in Bubbling Brown Sugar, Fox in The Gifted and in ESPN’s Carter 30 for 30. Kevin knows with God all things are possible! For updates go to www.KevinDavisJr.com

SEAN MASSEY (Boy Willie) would like to thank Theatre Arlington for allowing him to share the stage with the wonderful cast under the brilliant direction of Natalie King.

ALYSSA MELTON (Maretha) Alyssa Melton is a 7th-grade student at the Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts. She is both thrilled and honored to be making her Theatre Arlington debut in The Piano Lesson. In the past, she has enjoyed performing with Dallas Theater Center, Casa Mañana, Plaza Jr., Texas Music Theatre Company, Grand Prairie Arts Council, Upright Theatre Company and Artisan Children’s Theatre. She would love to thank her family, friends and mentor for supporting her in her passion for theater.

SHAUNDRA NORWOOD (Bernice) is excited to be blessed with the grand opportunity to work with a group of talented, fun and awesome humans! This is Shaundra’s second show with Theatre Arlington! August Wilson is her favorite playwright, his words are ever relevant. Her experience is extensive but that does not diminish her humility and gratitude. She thanks Calvin for encouraging her and her family for their support. “Without God I am nothing!” – Thank you.

JAYDEN RUSSELL (Grace) is so excited to be back on the Theatre Arlington stage after taking DFW audiences to Heaven in Sister Act! Favorite experiences include St. Jimmy in American Idiot, Holly/Delores in Prime Time For Murder!, Clea in Black Comedy, Claire in Six Flags Over Texas’ 2017 & 2018 production of Arania’s Nightmare as well as the Bride of Frankenstein in the 2021 Fright Fest show, Love at First Fright, Simon in Jesus Christ Superstar and Colombia in The Rocky Horror Show.

JERROLD TRICE (Doaker) comes to us as a native of Rock Island, Illinois, where he was born and raised. He’s accomplished a great deal in the realm of theater, yet he is still motivated by ambition and a desire to learn and improve as an artist. He is currently writing plays and developing a theatre company that tours children’s shows. The Piano Lesson is his first production here at Theatre Arlington and it is one of his favorite works. He was previously featured in Soul Rep’s production of Bourbon at the Border; he played Slow Drag in Jubilee’s productions of August Wilson’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom; you may also have seen him in A Lesson Before Dying on stage with African American Repertory Theatre and in Playwright’s in the Newsroom – an original work that premiered at Dallas Theatre Center’s Wyly Theatre. Jerrold considers his role as Tico in (a Cara Mia production) a great example of his exploration into diversity as an actor. He received training at Illinois State University where he earned a BFA in acting, and from there, took his theatrical talents to stages in Atlanta, Chicago, St. Louis and San Antonio, just to name a few. He is extremely grateful to Director Natalie King, cast, crew and the staff at Theatre Arlington for this opportunity.

THE PIANO LESSON PRODUCTION TEAM

NATALIE KING (Director) is an accomplished actor, director, and educator here in the Dallas-Ft Worth area. She is excited to be directing her first show for Theatre Arlington. After beginning her career as an actor/director, King fell in love with the art of storytelling. She created a performance company called Universal Connection which focused on the children’s stories of African descendants throughout the diaspora. The troupe toured and taught in dozens of elementary schools in the Dallas and Mesquite area. Her gift for storytelling was noticed by a casting director at Walt Disney World and King became the first African American Storytelling character at Walt Disney World in Florida and one of the few performers of color as they experimented with the programming for Walt Disney World’s newest park, the Animal Kingdom. After several months as a Storyteller, King was asked to create a storytelling show to be performed exclusively for Walt Disney World’s American Express Gold Club Members. King returned to Dallas to begin a journey into the field of arts education. She became the theater director at South Oak Cliff High School and is now the theater director at Skyline High School. King never stopped performing and directing professionally, even while running a high school theater program. King believes that there is no better way to speak your truth than the theater and feels blessed to do what she loves. King’s professional directing credits include The Glass Menagerie–Circle Theatre, A Raisin in the Sun–WaterTower Theatre, History Lesson–Deep Ellum Theatre, Universal Connection–Tour, Soweto in ‘76–South Dallas Cultural Center, Sideshow–Deep Ellum Theatre, My Castle’s Rockin’–The Story of Alberta Hunter– Circle Theatre, Sunny South–Soul Rep. Her non-professional credits include, Shipwrecked! An Entertainment, The Pillowman, Sister Act: A Divine Musical, The Story, The Wiz, Insurrection: Holding History, Neighborhood 3: Requisition Of Doom, Little Shop of Horrors, Mudtracks, Joe Turner’s Come And Gone, Reckless, Ruined, Five Women Wearing The Same Dress and Grease. Natalie would like to thank her family and friends for their support.

MARIA LEON HICKOX (Stage and Production Manager) is excited to start her first season with Theatre Arlington as the resident stage and production manager. Maria’s recent works have included stage manager for Always Patsy Cline and Greater Tuna with Bright Star Productions; stage manager for Frozen Jr. with Shine Theatre; production manager at Casa Mañana for the 2017-2020 seasons. Props designer at Casa Mañana for the 2016 -2017 seasons. Maria would like to thank her friends and family for their support, especially her husband Josh Hickox, who has been a never-ending pillar of support and love in all her endeavors.

VICTORIA ESQUIBELL (Assistant Stage Manager) is very excited to be a part of her first show at Theatre Arlington! She has previously served as a Stage Manager at Creede Repertory Theatre, Great River Shakespeare Festival and Oklahoma City Ballet. Congratulations to the cast and crew of The Piano Lesson!

BRYAN STEVENSON (Set & Lighting Designer) holds a B.F.A. in Theatre from Texas Wesleyan University and an M.F.A. in Design from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. He has designed at many local theatre companies including Fort Worth Shakespeare in the Park, Stage West, Jubilee and Circle. Nationally, Bryan designs for the Boy Scouts of America National Conferences and Shows. Bryan is an active participant in the United Institute of Theatre Technology, where he has served on panels on lighting and scenic design. He is also a member of Stagehands Union, IATSE Local 126.

RYAN SIMÓN (Sound Designer) is a sound designer, composer and playwright from Fort Worth, Texas. He is a recent graduate of Texas Wesleyan University where he earned his BFA in Musical Theatre. Ryan is excited to return to Theatre Arlington after previously working as Assistant Music Director/Board Op for Hooray for Holidays. He has previously worked as a Sound Designer on War Words and On the Exhale at Stage West, Fabulation and Lil & Satchmo at Jubilee, and as a Music Director on his original musical Bibliophilia, which premiered at Texas Wesleyan in March of 2021. Ryan is a member of the Dramatist Guild.

DIANA STORY (Costume Designer) enjoyed her first professional costuming job in 1984 creating the costumes for Steve Morris’ Alice in Wonderland at Theatre Arlington. Many years of theater creativity have happened since that time, including an undergraduate and graduate degree in theater, design and costume work for many of DFW’s community and professional theaters, TV /film work and construction for professional costume shops in the area. But the most cherished part of her career was as a high school theater teacher alongside the aforementioned Mr. Morris. She now lives in Houston with her beloved husband and is excited to be asked back to work with this new crop of Theatre Arlington artists.

JANICE PENNINGTON (Costume Design Assistant) has loved creating clothing and costumes since childhood. She is a retired teacher who holds a Bachelor of Science degree from TCU and a Master of Liberal Arts degree from ACU. Janice has built costumes for ACU, Lamar High School, TCC and Theatre Arlington. When she isn’t working on costumes, she enjoys gardening, painting and family. She is thankful to Steve Morris for the opportunities to work with the theatre and to her husband, Alton, for his constant support.

ROBIN DOTSON (Properties Designer) is the proud mother of college junior Sydney, who discovered the wonderful world of theater through Theatre Arlington when she was 9 and is now majoring in musical theater! An elementary teacher by day, Robin has worked on props for many T.A. youth shows, as well as Calendar Girls, Legally Blonde, Footloose, 9 to 5, A Few Good Men, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and A Raisin in the Sun at Theatre Arlington the past few seasons. Enjoy the show!

ANGIE GLOVER (Scenic Artist) is a multi-disciplinary artist working primarily in acrylic paint. She enjoys accurate depictions of her subject matter and telling a story through her images. The joy in helping others express their creativity has resulted in the popular and fun event, Painting Party with Angie! held every month at Theatre Arlington. In 2018, Glover became Resident Scenic Artist at Theatre Arlington creating magical and transformative sets and scenic elements. She has also lent her scenic paint skills to The Gaylord Hotel in Grapevine, Texas, The Fort Worth Opera, Kalita Humphreys Theater in Dallas, OnStage! at Bedford Boys Ranch and The Firehouse Theatre in Farmers Branch. During this time, she was also commissioned to paint a 1/32-inch scale replica of the Hotel Settles that now resides at the Museum of American Railroad in Frisco, Texas. Her canvas paintings and murals have been commissioned from Maryland, Georgia and throughout Texas, most notably her accurate renditions of human and pet portraits. Glover is currently living and working in Hurst, Texas. https://angieglover.myportfolio.com

SISTER ACT Cast

LANDRY BECKLEY (T.J.) is honored to make another appearance at Theatre Arlington. He was last seen here in Cocktails & Kisses, Songs of Praise, Spooky Cabaret and Comedy Tonight. His recent credits include Scarred 4 Life by David Moore, Romeo & Juliet (Paris), Godspell (Jesus) and The Seagull (Medvedenko). Landry would like to thank the people who made this opportunity happen and the loved ones who supported him throughout the duration of performing. Yuk! Yuk! Good Show!

BECCA BROWN (Ensemble) is delighted to be back at TA, having last appeared as Betty Haynes in White Christmas. She teaches dance and musical theatre at Miss Persis Studio, where she is also a proud alumnus/teacher for their non-profit dance company, Dance Theatre of Arlington. Becca received her B.S. in Theatre from NSULA, and recently completed the conservatory program with Circle in the Square Theatre in NYC. Favorite roles include Gina, Who Will Carry the Word (CITS); Ado Annie, Oklahoma (SSG); Sally Chessington, Cash on Delivery (TA); Gloria Thorpe, Damn Yankees, under the direction of the one and only, Steven D. Morris—whom we are all incredibly lucky to have leading TA! Love and thanks to Mama, Bubba, Julia and the Persii. For Daddy.

DEBORAH BROWN (Mother Superior) is thrilled to return to Theatre Arlington, where she most recently appeared in Ripcord. She’s also happy to be “back in the habit,” having played many nuns previously. In the last several decades, she has performed at many DFW theatres, including the
Granbury Opera House, Fort Worth Theater, Bass Performance Hall, Stage West, WaterTower Theatre, Dallas Theater Center and Casa Mañana (where she also spent 15 years as a Resident Company Member). Her most recent appearances include Beauty & the Beast at Dallas Children’s Theater, Man of La Mancha at Lyric Stage and The Kringle Village Holiday Hoedown at Arlington’s Knapp Heritage Park. She is a recipient of the Live Theatre League of Fort Worth’s Lifetime Achievement Award, is a long-time member of Actors’ Equity Association, and is a summa cum laude graduate from Texas Wesleyan University. Thanks to Theatre Arlington and Steve Morris for all their efforts to bring live theater back!

KEN’JA L. BROWN (Sister Mary Lazarus) is an actress, singer, writer, director, online radio personality and all-around creative. She is elated to be making another appearance on Theatre Arlington’s stage. Winner of 2 illustrious Irma P. Hall awards, Ken’ja is no stranger to the stages across the DFW area. (Bishop Arts, Jubilee Theatre, Soul Rep, African American Rep, Urban Arts Theatre Center and more). The film industry has recently accepted her talents in front of the camera. Born and raised a native of Chicago, Ken’ja has made Texas her second home. Being on stage for me is one of the greatest joys I’ve had the opportunity to experience, and OPPORTUNITY keeps spreading her wings. I thank God, my mom (RIH), my boys and my partner for their love and support that has gotten me to this point.” Dream bigger and keep moving forward in your PURPOSE!

OLIVIA CARTWRIGHT (Ensemble) is so excited to be making her Theatre Arlington debut! She is a graduate of Texas Christian University where she received her BFA in theatre with a musical theatre emphasis and is currently pursuing her Master of Higher Education Leadership degree (Go Frogs!). Some past credits include On the Town (Hildy), Bare (Nadia McConnell) and Into the Woods (Baker’s Wife). A special thanks to her amazing friends and family for all the support!

TIM CRABB (Ernie/Ensemble) is no stranger to Theatre Arlington, marching as an ensemble Marine in A Few Good Men. You might have seen him as Bob in Bob: A Life in Five Acts (Theatre off the Square) or in various commercial work (if you watch daytime TV.) He is an alumnus of Texas Wesleyan, a student of The Extra Mile Working Actors Workshop, an avid hunter and a punk rocker. Please enjoy the show, lose yourself in the music, and take a moment to bask in the soul of live theater. Thank you, as always, for your time and attention.

KEVIN DAVIS JR. (Ensemble) is very excited to be making his Theatre Arlington debut! He was most recently seen as a featured dancer in Kings Concert, Sam in Southern Boys, Richie in A Chorus Line, Nathan in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Pepper in Mamma Mia and Off-Broadway as Dasher in 911 Knome. Other Credits include Ray in Bubbling Brown Sugar, Fox in The Gifted and in ESPN’s Carter 30 for 30. Kevin knows with God all things are possible! For updates go to www.KevinDavisJr.com

MATTIE LILLIAN DAVIS (Ensemble) is thrilled to be part of Sister Act at Theatre Arlington. A few other recent roles she has taken on include Lila Dixon in Holiday Inn (Stolen Shakespeare Guild), Sarah Stone in No Way to Treat a Lady (Onstage in Bedford) in which she also choreographed and as a featured dance ensemble in The Cuban and the Redhead (Pegasus Theatre). Additionally, Mattie was set to play Lola in Damn Yankees at Theatre Arlington prior to the covid shutdown. A few of Mattie’s other artistic credits include Anything Goes (choreographer) at Covenant Christian Academy, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at The Acting Studio (director/choreographer) and Into the Woods at HITS Theatre (assistant director/ choreographer). Mattie holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from TCU and is currently pursuing a Master’s in both Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. You can see Mattie in Theatre Arlington’s upcoming Comedy Club or hear her new single “Wonderboy” available on music streaming services. Psalm 23.

NATASSIA DOMINIQUE (Michelle/Ensemble) is an actor, singer and creative based in Dallas. She is thrilled to be making her Theatre Arlington debut! Past credits include Once on This Island (Firehouse), Aida (Firehouse), The Drowsy Chaperone (Collin College), Seussical and Shrek (Dallas Young Artists). Natassia would like to thank all her friends and family for their unyielding support. IG: natassiadominique

MYIESHA J. DUFF (Deloris Van Cartier) is excited to make her Theatre Arlington debut in Sister Act as Deloris Van Cartier! She has performed in several other productions such as Elf, Black Nativity, Memphis, Cuban and the Redhead, The Color Purple, Little Shop of Horrors and Ain’t Misbehavin’. She is married and a mother of three. Myiesha enjoys showing her children that their gifts will make room for them, just as her gift has made room for her!

MICHAEL GREEN (Monsignor O’Hara) is excited to return to the Theatre Arlington Stage and to be a part of the first show in the amazing new space! This is his third show with Theatre Arlington having previously been seen as Senator JT Wingwoah in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and Roger in Hooray for Holidays. Favorite past shows include The Wedding Singer (Stolen Shakespeare Guild), Perchik in Fiddler on the Roof (WCT) and Asher in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (WCT). Many thanks to the cast, crew, directors of the show and to all his friends and family for their love and support!

PAYTON HARTWICK (Sister Mary Patrick) is making her Theatre Arlington debut in Sister Act. Her recent performance credits include Sunshine Arden in Forbidden Frontier at Cedar Point and Cool Yule Christmas with RWS Entertainment. She also toured through the US and Canada with Missoula Children’s Theatre as PT Wonder in Jack and the Beanstalk. Payton Graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Musical Theatre from Northwestern State University of Louisiana in 2019 with credits including Into the Woods, Spring Awakening, Young Frankenstein and Honky Tonk Angels.

CAITLIN MARTELLE (Sister Mary Martin of Tours) is very excited to be appearing on the Theatre Arlington stage for the first time. Caitlin holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Musical Theatre from the University of Central Oklahoma. Recent roles include Jerusha Abbott in Daddy Long Legs at The Firehouse Theatre and Val in A Chorus Line at Mainstage Irving-Las Colinas. Much love and thanks to her friends and family for all their support and love. Special thanks to my husband, Preston: “I love you so much. Thank you for being the best partner on the stage and off!”

ALEX KOCH (Joey) is a tenor from Dallas, Texas, and is a recent graduate of Texas Christian University. This is Alex’s first production with Theatre Arlington, and he is excited to perform in one of his favorite musicals! Credits include The Island of Tulipitan, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee and The Fantasticks at venues such as Seagle Music Festival, Opera in the Ozarks and Marjorie Lyons Playhouse. Koch’s TCU credits include Midsummer Night Dream, Falstaff, Service Provider, The Island of Tulipitan, Italian Straw Hat and Yeltsin in Texas, just to name a few. (Yeltsin being his favorite performance experience to date!) Alex is excited to perform this summer with Utah Festival Opera as Arpad in She Loves Me, as well as a principal lead in two other shows.

AARON LEDAY (Eddie) was raised in Winnie, TX. Upon completing his military service in the United States Marine Corps, Aaron continued to follow his passion as an actor earning his Associate of Theatre Arts degree from Tarrant County College in 2018 and is currently enrolled at Texas Wesleyan University pursuing a bachelor’s degree in the same field. This will be Aaron’s third production with Theatre Arlington, previously taking on the role of Mara in Miracle On 34th Street and Kendrick in A Few Good Men. Recent productions, in which Aaron had noteworthy roles, include Neil Simon’s The Female Odd Couple (Manolo), Table Manners (Reg), Alice in Wonderland (Tweedle Dee), All My Sons (Joe Keller), Lost In Yonkers (Uncle Louie), Grease (Danny Zuko), The Water Engine (Lawrence Oberman) and Hamlet (Claudius.) “Thank you all for sharing your time with us and allowing us the opportunity to do what we love to do. As a fan and practitioner of the arts, there is no greater commendation.”

DARIN MARTIN (Ensemble) is excited to make his Theatre Arlington debut in Sister Act. He is a recent graduate of Texas Wesleyan University where he got his BFA in Musical Theatre. Regional credits include Genesis Children’s Theatre: Tyler (Boy on Billboard), Casa Mañana: Ensemble (Sweeney Todd), Theatre Wesleyan: Rod (Avenue Q), Ernst (Spring Awakening), B Flat (Second Samuel). He would like to thank his family and friends for their immeasurable support.

JOSHUA NERIO (Ensemble) will be making his Theatre Arlington debut. He is a third-year junior at the University of Texas at Arlington where he is pursuing his BA degree in Theatre Arts. He would like to thank his friends and family for their never- ending support.

TARA PARK (Sister Mary Robert) is beyond thrilled to be making her Theatre Arlington debut! Most recently she was in The Firehouse Theatre’s production of Legally Blonde (Pilar). Tara has been slowly making her way into the Dallas theatre community since 2017 and she is so grateful for all the support along the way. She would like to thank her friends and family for their unconditional love. @tarampark

CATHY PRITCHETT (Sister Mary Theresa) has previously performed in 15 Theatre Arlington shows and has worked behind the scenes on 35. She considers TA to be her “home-away-from-home” and could not be happier to be back!! Cathy received a Bachelor of Music/Education degree from U.T Arlington and a Master of Educational Administration degree from Texas A&M University. She recently retired from Texas A&M after working in higher education for over 30 years. She is grateful for the opportunity to “play” once again with the TA family and to be part of this wonderful production!! She would like to thank her incredible family and friends for their awesome love and support!!

JAYDEN RUSSELL (Tina/Ensemble) is so excited to be making their Theatre Arlington debut. Additional favorite past experiences include St. Jimmy in Lakeside Community Theater’s American Idiot, Holly/Delores in Pegasus Theater’s Prime Time for Murder!, Pilar in GPAC’s Legally Blonde, Claire in Six Flags Over Texas’ 2017 & 2018 production of Arania’s Nightmare as well as the Bride of Frankenstein in the 2021 Fright Fest show, Love at First Fright and Colombia in Brookhaven College’s The Rocky Horror Show.

ALFREDO TAMAYO (Pablo) is super excited to be in another show at Theatre Arlington! This will be his second show here and he was previously seen in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. He is excited for everyone in the cast to bring this amazing show to life! He hopes the audience enjoys the show as we are now able to create ART again!

DWIGHT TAYLOR (Curtis) is enamored to be making his Theatre Arlington debut in Sister Act! Other credits include Sparky (Forever Plaid), Mitch Mahoney (The 25th annual Putnam County Spelling Bee) and Bobby Dupree (Memphis). Dwight would like to thank all family and friends for their continuous support!

SISTER ACT Band

REX BOZARTH (Bass), a native of Houston, Texas, received his bachelor’s degree in Music Education and a master’s degree in Music Performance at the University of North Texas in Denton. His performing career covers musical theater, classical, rock and jazz genres. Musical productions include DTC’s Les Mis, Giant, Fly and many regional and national tours at Bass Hall. As a member of the FW Symphony Orchestra, he played electric and acoustic bass for such celebrities as Bob Hope, Ray Charles, Chuck Berry and PDQ Bach. His performances with the Dallas Opera include the inaugural concert for the Winspear Opera House and the world premiere of Jake Heggie’s Moby Dick. For the past 20 years, he has served as house bassist at Casa Mañana Theater in Fort Worth.

BRENT DACUS (Drums) has provided his drum set skills for 45 years to over 80 musical productions. Brent traveled throughout the U.S. for over 25 years with various artists, including Reba McEntire, Betty Buckley and Lacy J. Dalton. He is currently freelancing, adding his drumming talents to popular local bands like Trey and the Tritones. Brent does extensive studio recording and can frequently be found in the orchestra pit at Casa Mañana.

ELAINE DAVIDSON (Music Director / Conductor / Pianist / Composer) has served as conductor-music director, AMD and/or keyboards for the national tours of Phantom of the Opera, Wizard of Oz, Catch Me If You Can, Mamma Mia!, Sound of Music-China, Grease, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Evita, Cats, Bombay Dreams and Jesus Christ Superstar with Carl Anderson. A native Texan, she also performed with the national tours of Mamma Mia!, Legally Blonde, Grease, Fosse, The King and I, Evita and Big River. She has served as music director for Godspell, Washington D.C., Forever Plaid, Norfolk, VA, tlantic City, NJ, St. Cloud, MN and for My Way, Birmingham, Alabama with creator David Grapes. In the DFW area, she has served as music director with Casa Manana, Dallas Summer Musicals, Addison WaterTower Theatre, Theatre Arlington, Garland Summer Musicals and Plano Rep. She has worked with directors Cameron Mackintosh, Hal Prince, Dan Knechtges, Jeffrey Seller, Baayork Lee and Joel Ferrell; with horeographers Andy Blankenbuehler, Larry Fuller, Richard Stafford; with composers Marc Shaiman, Claibe Richardson and Danny Goggin; with music directors Larry Blank, Alex Lacamoire, Kim Grigsby, Eugene Gwozdz; performers Donna McKechnie, Cyd Charisse, JoAnne Worley, Norm Lewis, Carl Anderson, Georgia Engel, Patti Murin, Andrew Rannells and Cathy Rigby.

SISTER ACT Production Team

STEVEN D. MORRIS (Director) started performing with Theatre Arlington in 1981 and has done over 60 shows here as an actor, director and writer. Steve is thrilled to be the Executive Producer at Theatre Arlington and work with such a great staff and board of directors. When Mr. Morris retired after 27 years of being the Director of Theatre at Lamar High School, the school’s auditorium was named for him. Steve is very active with his church Unity of Arlington. Steve is blessed by great love in his life from his family, friends, his canine companion Elvis and new feline friend Smokey. Be sure to follow Steve @thefamousmorris on Twitter, although he rarely posts and is not that interesting. “I am happy you are here.”

ELAINE DAVIDSON (Music Director / Conductor / Pianist / Composer) has served as conductor-music director, AMD and/or keyboards for the national tours of Phantom of the Opera, Wizard of Oz, Catch Me If You Can, Mamma Mia!, Sound of Music-China, Grease, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Evita, Cats, Bombay Dreams and Jesus Christ Superstar with Carl Anderson. A native Texan, she also performed with the national tours of Mamma Mia!, Legally Blonde, Grease, Fosse, The King and I, Evita and Big River. She has served as music director for Godspell, Washington D.C., Forever Plaid, Norfolk, VA, Atlantic City, NJ, St. Cloud, MN and for My Way, Birmingham, Alabama with creator David Grapes. In the DFW area, she has served as music director with Casa Manana, Dallas Summer Musicals, Addison WaterTower Theatre, Theatre Arlington, Garland Summer Musicals and Plano Rep. She has worked with directors Cameron Mackintosh, Hal Prince, Dan Knechtges, Jeffrey Seller, Baayork Lee and Joel Ferrell; with choreographers Andy Blankenbuehler, Larry Fuller, Richard Stafford; with composers Marc Shaiman, Claibe Richardson and Danny Goggin; with music directors Larry Blank, Alex Lacamoire, Kim Grigsby, Eugene Gwozdz; performers Donna McKechnie, Cyd Charisse, Jo Anne Worley, Norm Lewis, Carl Anderson, Georgia Engel, Patti Murin, Andrew Rannells and Cathy Rigby.

NICOLE JAMIE CARRANO (Choreographer) is thrilled to be a part of the Sister Act team! Nicole has performed and choreographed at numerous theaters around DFW and has had choreography from her YouTube channel, DanceByFire featured on the Greatest Showman and Hamilton social media pages. Nicole is thankful every day for her ever-growing DFW theatre family, and thanks her friends and family near and far for their constant support!
@nicole_ _jamie

MARIA LEON HICKOX (Stage and Production Manager) is excited to start her first season with Theatre Arlington as the resident stage and production manager. Maria’s recent works have included stage manager for Always Patsy Cline and Greater Tuna with Bright Star Productions; stage manager for Frozen Jr. with Shine Theatre; production manager at Casa Mañana for the 2017-2020 seasons. Props designer at Casa Mañana for the 2016 -2017 seasons. Maria would like to thank her friends and family for their support, especially her husband Josh Hickox, who has been a never-ending pillar of support and love in all her endeavors.

REBECCA RICKEY (Assistant Stage Manager) is excited to be back at Theatre Arlington where she was stage manager for The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and 9 to 5: The Musical. She is a proud recipient of a Stony Award for Stage Management for TA’s productions of Blithe Spirit and A Few Good Men. Becky received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre from Oklahoma City University and worked on the technical staff at Oklahoma’s Lyric Theatre. Retired from the “corporate world,” Becky has much more free time to live the dreams life has to offer such as doing community service, theatrical productions and traveling with Dian, her beloved partner in life. Becky wants to thank Steven D. Morris and Theatre Arlington for the opportunity to contribute to this production. And oh; let’s all be kind to one another. It will change the world.

GARRETT CAELAN WEIR (Assistant Director) is honored to make his professional directing debut with Theatre Arlington! Select regional credits: World premiere of The Supreme Leader (Dallas Theater Center/dir. Kevin Moriarty); Grease, Clue: On Stage!, Ken Ludwig’s The Gods of Comedy, and Urinetown (Okoboji Summer Theater). A 2021 graduate of Texas Christian University with his BFA in Acting, notable Theatre TCU credits include 42nd Street, Pericles, Children of Eden, Batboy and A Streetcar Named Desire. Born and raised in San Diego, Garrett is also passionate about directing, screen acting, music production and relaxing at the beach. He is eternally grateful to God, his family and friends, his mentors and Theatre Arlington for this opportunity. “Thank you for taking me under your wing, Steve!” garrettweir.com | IG: @bombsauce

BRYAN STEVENSON (Set & Lighting Designer) holds a B.F.A. in Theatre from Texas Wesleyan University and an M.F.A. in Design from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. He has designed at many local theatre companies including Fort Worth Shakespeare in the Park, Stage West, Jubilee and Circle. Nationally, Bryan designs for the Boy Scouts of America National Conferences and Shows. Bryan is an active participant in the United Institute of Theatre Technology, where he has served on panels on lighting and scenic design. He is also a member of Stagehands Union, IATSE Local 126.

RYAN SIMÓN (Sound Designer) is a sound designer, composer and playwright from Fort Worth, Texas. He is a recent graduate of Texas Wesleyan University where he earned his BFA in Musical Theatre. Ryan is excited to return to Theatre Arlington after previously working as Assistant Music Director/Board Op for Hooray for Holidays. He has previously worked as a Sound Designer on War Words and On the Exhale at Stage West, Fabulation and Lil & Satchmo at Jubilee, and as a Music Director on his original musical Bibliophilia, which premiered at Texas Wesleyan in March of 2021. Ryan is a member of the Dramatist Guild.

ROBIN DOTSON (Properties Designer) is the proud mother of college junior Sydney, who discovered the wonderful world of theater through Theatre Arlington when she was 9 and is now majoring in musical theater! An elementary teacher by day, Robin has worked on props for many T.A. youth shows, as well as Calendar Girls, Legally Blonde, Footloose, 9 to 5, A Few Good Men, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and A Raisin in the Sun at Theatre Arlington the past few seasons. Enjoy the show!

KAREN POTTER (Costume Designer) Karen’s work has been seen in various theatres and film festivals across the country. She is a designer for theatre, opera, film and television. She currently works as an Assistant Professor for Texas Wesleyan University. She worked for the California Institute of the Arts as a costume shop manager and adjunct faculty. She lives with her two children and husband in Fort Worth, Texas and works throughout the country and in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex.

ANGIE GLOVER (Scenic Artist) is a multi-disciplinary artist working primarily in acrylic paint. She enjoys accurate depictions of her subject matter and telling a story through her images. The joy in helping others express their creativity has resulted in the popular and fun event, Painting Party with Angie! held every month at Theatre Arlington. In 2018, Glover became Resident Scenic Artist at Theatre Arlington creating magical and transformative sets and scenic elements. She has also lent her scenic paint skills to The Gaylord Hotel in Grapevine, Texas, The Fort Worth Opera, Kalita Humphreys Theater in Dallas, OnStage! at Bedford Boys Ranch and The Firehouse Theatre in Farmers Branch. During this time, she was also commissioned to paint a 1/32-inch scale replica of the Hotel Settles that now resides at the Museum of American Railroad in Frisco, Texas. Her canvas paintings and murals have been commissioned from Maryland, Georgia and throughout Texas, most notably her accurate renditions of human and pet portraits. Glover is currently living and working in Hurst, Texas. https://angieglover.myportfolio.com

Maggie Younkin

Maggie Younkin has been teaching at Theatre Arlington since 2005, when she joined the summer camp staff and began our Outreach program, ACT UPS, at Thornton Elementary. Maggie is an accomplished performer, having worked on the Theatre Arlington stage in many productions as well as on stages in Kansas City, where she is originally from. Maggie has two children, Brooklyn and Blaise, who keep her very busy. She is also busy during the day as Theatre Arlington’s Education Manager.

Caroline Cole

CAROLINE TURNER COLE is a graduate of Rice University’s theater program and holds a masters in theater education from the University of Northern Colorado. A performer for over 20 years and a teaching artist for over a decade, Caroline teaches every student (ages 2-99!) under the assumption that all humans are creative beings who find freedom in fostering creative outlets. She has extensive experience in improvisation, musical theater, choreography, and directing youth productions and has worked throughout DFW partnering with Shakespeare Dallas, Dallas Children’s Theater, Arts Mission Oak Cliff, Watertower Theatre, Pocket Sandwich Theater, the Dallas Opera, Dallas Theater Center, Junior Players, Stomping Ground Comedy, Theatre Arlington (of course!) and others. Arts Education is the answer!

Heather Moore

HEATHER MOORE has been a part of Theatre Arlington since 2001 and hasn’t left since! She attended TA camps and classes, performing on stage and behind the scenes through college. Graduating with a BFA in theater studies from UTA- she has worked as House Manager, Stage Manager, Summer Camp Intern, Substitute and taught Acting One and Teen Acting. She loves to help others discover the joy and magic that live theater brings!

Tyler Thompson

Tyler Thompson is a graduate of The University of Oklahoma where she received a BFA in drama. She had the amazing opportunity of spending her final semester of college in Chicago after being accepted into The Second City’s Comedy Studies program. She is a graduate of The Second City of Chicago’s Conservatory Program as well as The iO Theater Improv Program where she performed with the Harold Team Interrobang. Tyler has studied clowning under Paola Coletto, performed at Chicago Sketchfest, Donny’s Skybox at The Second City, The Women’s Funny Festival, The Del Close Marathon, and is a graduate of Four Day Weekend in DFW. Tyler loves being a teaching artist at Theatre Arlington and encourages everyone to support the arts and arts education.

Daniel Hernandez

Daniel Hernandez is a graduate of Texas Wesleyan University where he received his BA in vocal performance studying under Julie McCoy. He taught elementary music for a number of years and worked as the musical director at Nolan Catholic High School. Daniel has found a home at Theatre Arlington working on 5 of 9 shows for the 2018-2019 season, including music directing the Youth Musical, Junie B Jones The Musical Jr. He is excited to be teaching Musical Theatre and private lessons at Theatre Arlington. When not working or in a show, Daniel enjoys spending time with his two nieces Ysabel and Adrianna.

WHY THEATRE ARLINGTON?

TA Holiday Party CREW

STEVEN D. MORRIS (Director) started performing with Theatre Arlington in 1981 and has done over 60 shows here as an actor, director and writer. Steve is thrilled to be the Executive Producer at Theatre Arlington and working with such a great staff and Board of Directors. When Mr. Morris retired after 27 years of being the Director of Theatre at Lamar High School the school’s auditorium was named for him. Steve is very active with his church Unity of Arlington. Steve is blessed by great love in his life from his family, friends and his canine companions Elvis and Reba. Be sure to follow Steve on Twitter, although he rarely posts and is not that interesting.

ZACK WILSON (Stage Manager) is in his first season with Theatre Arlington. He has recently worked on the Cabaret Series in August while attending UTA pursuing a theater design and technology degree. He is a graduate of Lamar High School where he was in Blue Curtain for 3 years and worked on every show. He wants to thank his family and girlfriend for allowing him to spend so much time up in the booth clicking buttons and Steve for giving him the chance to work here.

BILL EICKENLOFF (Sound Designer) is an adjunct professor and the resident Sound Designer at TCU’s Theatre Department in Fort Worth, as well as the resident Sound Designer for Theatre Arlington. He also works for Casa Mañana, Lyric Stage, Mainstage Irving Las Colinas, Brick Road Theatre, Wishing Star Productions, Prism Theatrics and the Trinity Shakespeare Festival. He is a proud graduate of Texas A&M University. See his complete bio at www.linkedin.com.

TAYLOR LOVE (Sound Board Operator) is currently a senior at Pantego Christian Academy. He is new to Theatre Arlington serving as a part of the tech crew. Taylor has been the student technical director for Pantego for the last two years. He has been the lighting and sound director for the majority of the recent productions and shows at Pantego including Act One, Big Fish, Rise of Robin Hood and Chapels.

COMEDY TONIGHT! Cast

LANDRY BECKLEY is honored to make his Theatre Arlington Debut. Landry has been seen locally in the DFW Metroplex at Six Flags Over Texas as the Witchdoctor from Arania’s Nightmare and Vocalist in Country Young Gunz. Landry’s recent roles include: Paris in Romeo & Juliet, Jesus in Godspell, and Medvedenko in The Seagull. Landry would like to thank the people that granted him this opportunity and to those who have supported him every step of the way. Yuk! Yuk! Good Show!

DONOVAN MARIE LAWSON grew up on the TA stage as a youth in various shows and continues to love performing on this stage as an adult. Donovan is a graduate of Oklahoma City University where she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre for Young Audiences with a Directing minor. She started performing at a young age at Miss Persis Studio, around DFW, and working in many children’s theatres. Donovan is the Marketing Associate and a part of the Creative Staff at North Texas Performing Arts. Credits: Rusty in Footloose (Theatre Arlington), Dorothy in Magical City of Oz (Theatre Arlington), Shy in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas (Theatre Arlington), Kathy in 9to5 (Theatre Arlington), Maxine in Hooray for Holidays! (Theatre Arlington), Broadway in the Burbs (NTPA Repertory), Beauty and the Beast (NTPA Repertory), The Addams Family (NTPA Repertory). Thank you to my family and friends for their constant love and support! Here to make you proud – to infinity and beyond, my angel Tevin.

STEVEN D.MORRIS Steve started performing with Theatre Arlington in 1981 and has done over 70 shows here as an actor, director and writer. Steve is thrilled to be the Executive Producer at Theatre Arlington and working with such a great staff and Board of Directors. Steve received his Bachelor of Arts in Communication (Speech and Theatre) from UTA and Master of Arts (Theatre) from the University of Houston. Most recently Steve acquired his Non-Profit Management Certification. Steve was the Director of Theatre at Lamar High School for 27 years and when he retired the school’s auditorium was named for him. While at Lamar Steve directed over 125 shows and received numerous awards and recognition for himself and his students including Teacher of the Year. Steve is very active with his church Unity of Arlington. He is a Platform Leader and has led a small group for several years. Community service has been important to Steve for most of his adult life. He has prepared and served dinner to the residents of Samaritan House (homeless people living with HIV) once a month for 20 years. He has also volunteered with Arlington Animal Services and The Arlington Life Shelter. Steve is blessed by great love in his life from his family, friends and his canine companions Elvis and Reba. Be sure to follow Steve on twitter, although he rarely posts and is not that interesting @thefamousmorris.

DIANE POWELL dedicates her performance to her parents, Don and Terry Powell. She also thanks Donna for her continued support.

COMEDY TONIGHT! Crew

STEVEN D. MORRIS (Director) started performing with Theatre Arlington in 1981 and has done over 60 shows here as an actor, director and writer. Steve is thrilled to be the Executive Producer at Theatre Arlington and working with such a great staff and Board of Directors. When Mr. Morris retired after 27 years of being the Director of Theatre at Lamar High School the school’s auditorium was named for him. Steve is very active with his church Unity of Arlington. Steve is blessed by great love in his life from his family, friends and his canine companions Elvis and Reba. Be sure to follow Steve on Twitter, although he rarely posts and is not that interesting.

JESSE FRY (Music Director/Pianist) is a native of Findlay, OH but has been a Texan since 2003. He has been involved with roughly 60 different productions at Regional and Community Theatres across DFW as keyboardist and/or music director. Last year’s highlights for him were The Drowsy Chaperone (Firehouse), The Producers (Casa), Annie (Casa), As You Like It (DTC), In the Heights (DTC), and the national tour of Miss Saigon (Bass Hall). Jesse is also the owner of the Music Institute at Carrollton Square, www.micsquare.com, and the co-founder of Trekorda, The Collaborative Musician’s Network, www.trekorda.com. He and his wife Emily, who is a middle school choir director, live in Carrollton and have two children Molly (10) and Max (6). This is his first opportunity to work with Theatre Arlington and he is excited and grateful to be a part of this production!

AMANDA BUENO (Stage Manager) is thrilled to be working in her first production at Theatre Arlington! Her previous credits include Dark of the Moon, Anything Goes, Alice in Wonderland, and Godspell. She would like to thank her mom for her constant support and for encouraging her to get back into the theatre as well her entire family and friends for their love and support.

TAYLOR LOVE (Sound Board Operator) is currently a senior at Pantego Christian Academy. He is new to Theatre Arlington serving as a part of the tech crew. Taylor has been the student technical director for Pantego for the last two years. He has been the lighting and sound director for the majority of the recent productions and shows at Pantego including Act One, Big Fish, Rise of Robin Hood and Chapels.

ZACK WILSON (Light Board Operator) is in his first season with Theatre Arlington. He has recently worked on the Cabaret Series in August while attending UTA pursuing a theater design and technology degree. He is a graduate of Lamar High School where he was in Blue Curtain for 3 years and worked on every show. He wants to thank his family and girlfriend for allowing him to spend so much time up in the booth clicking buttons and Steve for giving him the chance to work here.

TA Holiday Party CAST

MICAH GREEN hopes you are having a wonderful holiday season! Feel free to say hi after the show.

LESLIE HOPTON-JONES grew up near Dallas, Texas where she started performing at a young age. She graduated from Texas Wesleyan University with a BFA in Musical Theatre where she played the role of Eva Peron in Evita. Leslie has performed in theme parks, industrial shows, musicals, plays, videos, and vocal recordings all over the US. She Currently teaches dance, voice and acting.

LORI WOODS BLONDIN was last seen on the Theatre Arlington stage as Sonia Walsk in They’re Playing our Song in addition to Paulette in Legally Blonde and Adelaide in Guys and Dolls. She has been the head of the dance program and Lamar High School in Arlington for twenty years after growing up dancing at Miss Persis Studio of Dance and Dance Theatre of Arlington where she began her teaching career at the age of fifteen. As a choreographer she has worked with many local high school programs, dance studios and companies and Dallas Summer Musicals School of Musical Theatre as well as a resident choreographer for Eclipse Entertainment LLC where she wrote, cast and directed numerous industrial shows across the United States. She has an Associate Degree in Musical Theatre from Mountain View College and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre from Texas Wesleyan University. Upon graduation she began her life upon the stage at Casa Manana, Bass Hall, Circle Theatre, Theatre Three and Fair Park Music Hall to name a few. Some of her favorite roles include Charity in Sweet Charity, Bebe in A Chorus Line, Velma in Chicago and Louise in Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Love to Jayson, Mom, Dad and my amazing ViQueens who allow me to share my love of performing with them every day.

Cindy Honeycutt

Cindy Honeycutt, Education Director and Business Manager, holds a BA in Theatre Arts with an emphasis in Acting from St. Edwards University and is a teaching artist specializing in acting, musical theatre and creative dramatics. Cindy has been seen in theatres all over the metroplex and Austin in her over 40 years as a performer, starting as a child actor at Casa Manana and ending with professional credits at Circle Theatre, Stage West, Casa Manana, Theatre Arlington, Austin’s Gilbert and Sullivan Society, Zachary Scott Theatre, Thin Dime Theatre Company and Hip Pocket Theatre. She has also been seen in schools, civic auditoriums and museums all over Texas while performing with touring companies based at Zachary Scott Theatre in Austin, Fort Worth’s Shakespeare in the Park, Stage West, and CATS. Her film and television credits include Fox Kids Club in the Austin market, feature film Dust to Dust with Willie Nelson, independent films Blood is Thicker and The Entrepreneur, and commercials for TCJC, Lil’ Things, Lowe’s and Westinghouse Security Systems. Cindy is the proud wife of Rodney, mom to Nate, and lover of all animals, especially the ones in her own house.

Tiffany Gray

Tiffany Gray has an extensive and diverse dance background resulting in over ten years of experience studying, performing, and teaching dance. She has trained in several dance forms, including: Ballet, Contemporary, Modern, African, Jazz, Hip Hop, Improvisation, Tap, and Musical Theatre dance. Tiffany also attended school at Oral Roberts University and obtained a Minor in Dance. She enjoys using movement for personal expression, artistry, and…..because it is fun! She is committed to bringing this perspective to every class she teaches.

Tiffany believes that music, acting, and dance have the power to transcend language barriers and communicate easily with people across various cultures. She endeavors to use these art forms as a way to for individuals to discover their voice and be able to convey it to others. Tiffany has worked with both children and adults, she enjoys guiding them in the creative process as experienced and expressed through the Arts.

In the summer of 2019, Tiffany directed her first acting scene and began teaching musical theatre dance for Theatre Arlington. She will continue teaching classes such as Creative Play, Creative Dramatics, and Musical Theatre, etc. for Theatre Arlington. Additionally, she teaches dance at the School of the Performing Arts for the Salvation Army of Ellis County. Tiffany is actively teaching dance classes in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

Damn Yankees Cast

REMA MARTINEZ (Meg Boyd) is happy as always to be on the Theatre Arlington stage. TA credits include Mom in Winnie the Pooh, a Voice of Sonia Walsk in They’re Playing Our Song, Vi Moore in Footloose, Maudie Atkinson in To Kill A Mockingbird, and General Cartwright in Guys and Dolls. Other recent DFW roles include Alma Hix (The Music Man) and Rose Lennox (The Secret Garden) with Stolen Shakespeare Guild and the ensemble of Kiss Me, Kate at MainStage Irving-Las Colinas. Rema is married to Alvaro and is the mom of Alec and Evan.

DARRET HART (Joe Boyd) is thrilled to be returning to the Theatre Arlington stage in Damn Yankees. His debut with Theatre Arlington was as Nicely Nicely Johnson in Guys & Dolls. He was most recently seen as Dan Goodman in Musical Theatre of Denton’s production of Next to Normal. Among his favorite roles in the Metroplex have been on the Theatre Frisco stage as Don Quixote in Man of La Mancha and Peron in Evita. Other stage appearances include Motel the Tailor (Fiddler on the Roof), Cornelius Hackl (Hello Dolly), Freddy Eynsford Hill (My Fair Lady). Recent TV and Film Credits include Detective Mike Sheehan (Murder Made Me Famous) Peter Shaver (Feature Film – Triggers) and Dr Ed Cooper (Feature Film – The Jesus Freak). Darret would like to thank his amazing children for their love and support.

DAVID COFFEE (Mr. Applegate) David makes his debut at Theatre Arlington. In a career that spans 52 years, David has been welcomed by audiences from Portland, Oregon to Portsmouth, New Hampshire. After his early training at Casa Manana and earning his BFA and MFA degrees from TCU, David has built a career that encompasses all areas of performance (save Grand Opera and the Circus). He has been called a New England Tradition and the G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time) for his 26 seasons as Scrooge for the North Shore Music Theatre in Massachusetts. He also received the Elston Brooks Lifetime Achievement Award from the Live Theatre League of Tarrant County. www.DavidCoffee.org

TYLER THOMPSON (Sister) was last seen in Theatre Arlington’s production of Hooray for Holidays asCookie Callahan. She also played Rabbit in Winnie the Pooh and Shellhammer in last season’s Miracle on 34th Street. Tyler received her BFA in drama from The University of Oklahoma. She had the amazing opportunity of spending her final semester of college in Chicago after being accepted into the Comedy Studies program at The Second City. She is a graduate of The Second City Conservatory and iO Theater’s improv program where she performed on one of their Harold teams. Tyler has studied clowning under Paola Coletto and has performed at Chicago Sketchfest, Donny’s Skybox, The Women’s Funny Festival, and The Del Close Marathon. She teaches improv classes at Four Day Weekend and also enjoys teaching acting and private lessons at Theatre Arlington. Tyler is represented by Grit Talent Agency.

ABI ABEL (Doris) is excited to return to Theatre Arlington after making her debut here as Colleen in Ripcord. Her favorite credits include Colleen in Ripcord, Angel in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Bonnie in Anything Goes, Doris in Same Time Next Year, Eileen in Moon Over Buffalo, Velma Kelly in Chicago, Diane Lorimer in 42nd Street, and Azuri in The Desert Song. Thank you to this amazing cast & team and love always to family.

ERIC WRIGHT (Joe Hardy) is making his Theatre Arlington debut as well as his debut into the Theatrical world. A lover of the arts throughout high school, he is excited to finally dive back into it with new life and understanding as an adult.

NATE DAVIS (Vernon) was recently cast as Joseph Asagai in Theatre Arlington’s production of A Raisin in The Sun and is an advocate for the arts. Growing up, his excitement came from music and doing Eddie Murphy and Elvis Presley impressions. This past year Nate quit his job in order to fully focus on actualizing his entertainment career goals. You probably have seen him on Helzberg Diamonds promotional ads, or national commercials for Zaxby’s, and many other companies. Acting is his passion and one thing he learned in life is discovery is not only for the actor playing the role, it’s for the human that’s looking for their purpose. Once you find your purpose, success will find you. He will be graduating this year with a bachelor’s in Entertainment Businesses. His ultimate goal is to present ideas of understanding and love through entertainment.

JAKE KELLY HARRIS (Sohovik) is thrilled to be returning to Theatre Arlington. He was last seen at Irving Main Stage as Al in A Chorus Line. His favorite roles include Phil Davis in White Christmas, Hortensio in Kiss Me Kate, Chuck in Footloose, Harry the Horse in Guys and Dolls and Frank in Seven Brides for Seven Bros. He has s a Bachelor of Arts degree from University of North Texas in Theatre Performance. He would like to thank his friends, family and beautiful new wife, Maegan, for supporting his passion!

LANDRY BECKLEY (Smokey) is honored to make his Theatre Arlington Debut. Landry has been seen locally in the DFW Metroplex at Six Flags Over Texas as the Witchdoctor from Arania’s Nightmare and Vocalist in Country Young Gunz. Landry’s recent roles include: Paris from Romeo & Juliet, Jesus from Godspell, and Medvedenko from The Seagull. Landry would like to thank the people that granted him this opportunity and to those who have supported him every step of the way. Yuk! Yuk! Good Show!

TIM CRABB (Rocky) is up to bat, previously appearing at Theatre Arlington in A Few Good Men. He is a graduate of Texas Wesleyan University and a “Gonzo Artist”, making his stage wherever he can with comedy, music, and other fool-hardy stunts. He also brings to life monsters for haunted attractions such as Dark Hour Haunted House and Knott’s Scary Farm. Previous credits include One Slight Hitch (Harper), The Wizard of Oz (Scarecrow), and films such as Evil for Dinner, After the Festival, and Apollo 10 1/2. Your advocacy of the arts keeps this world weird and wonderful!

NOLAN SHAVER (Benny Van Buren) recently was seen as Anthony Hope in Sweeney Todd at Music Theatre of Denton. Some previous roles include The Baker in Into The Woods, Bob Wallace in White Christmas, Archibald Craven in The Secret Garden (Stolen Shakespeare Guild), Scuttle in The Little Mermaid (Grand Prairie Arts Council) and Artie Green in Sunset Blvd. (Tarrant Actors Regional Theater). His favorite roles are Best Friend to Scott, Best Man both to Josh and to Brent, Big Brother to Jake, and Uncle Nolan to Carter, Caroline and Champ. As always, thanks to his family, who always show up regardless of if he has a spare comp ticket or not. In Memory of Tevin Cates – “You’ll always be my Prince Eric.”

SEAN SICARD (Henry) is ecstatic to return to Theatre Arlington. Sean is a junior at UTA pursuing a BFA Performance degree and a minor in dance. He has previously been seen in Macbeth and Bring Up the Bodies at Stolen Shakespeare Guild, and A Few Good Men at Theatre Arlington last year. Sean would like to thank his family and friends for their support.

LAYNE HILL (Linville) is extremely excited to be a ball player in one of his all-time favorite musicals! Layne was last seen as an Aggie in Theatre Arlington’s production of The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Layne has enjoyed Theatre since he was a child and is saddened as this show might be his last. He wants to make the most out of the time he has left as an actor before his snowman melts away! Good show everyone!

DONOVAN MARIE LAWSON (Gloria Thorpe) was last seen on the TA stage as Maxine in Hooray for Holidays! Donovan grew up on the TA stage as a youth in various shows and continues to love performing on this stage as an adult. Donovan is a graduate of Oklahoma City University where she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre for Young Audiences with a Directing minor. She started performing at a young age at Miss Persis Studio and around DFW. Favorite credits: Rusty (Footloose), Dorothy (Magical City of Oz), Reno (Anything Goes), Godspell. Special thank you to Morris, Lori, and Mark for this opportunity and thank you to my family for all the support! Here to make you proud – to infinity and beyond, my angel Tevin.

ERIC HELSEL (Welch) is thrilled to be back for a second season with Theatre Arlington. He appeared in The Miracle on 34th Street, A Few Good Men last season and most recently as Mayor Rufus Poindexter in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Eric enjoys being a father to his two children and would like to thank his wife, J’vette for her support and introducing him to the theater.

MATTIE LILLIAN DAVIS (Lola) is overjoyed to be making her Theatre Arlington debut in one of her favorite musicals with such a fantastic group of performers. Mattie has been seen in multiple shows in the DFW area including No Way To Treat A Lady in the role of Sarah Stone (Onstage in Bedford), The Cuban & The Redhead (Pegasus Theatre), Titanic (Uptown Players), Beehive (Jubilee Theatre), Singin’ In The Rain (Stolen Shakespeare Guild), and Jekyll and Hyde (Onstage in Bedford). While living in New York City, Mattie attended dance classes at the Joffrey Ballet School. Upon her return to DFW, she choreographed No Way To Treat a Lady (Onstage in Bedford), and just finished choreographing Anything Goes for Covenant Christian Academy. She looks forward to continuing to build her experience as a choreographer. In addition to performing and choreographing, Mattie also teaches at The Acting Studio and serves delicious Tex-Mex at Blue Goose Cantina. Mattie is a graduate of TCU with a BFA in Musical Theatre. www.mattielillian.com

BRIA HUCKABY (Miss Weston) is elated to be returning to Theatre Arlington. She’s a graduate of Texas Wesleyan University with a BA in Theatre. At Wesleyan her credits include, The Hostage (Meg Dillion), Oklahoma! (Gertie), The Important Hats of the 20th Century (Bev), and Blithe Spirit (Mrs. Bradman). She also starred in Kentucky (Bridesmaid) at the Imprint Theatre, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas (Eloise) at Theatre Arlington, Neil Simon’s Female Odd Couple (Vera) and Baby the Musical (Pam) at the MPM Studio Theatre, and To Be Young Gifted and Black (Mavis, Pale Hecate, Juno and Candace) at Jubilee Theatre.

TORRE YOUNGHANS (Lynch, Commissioner, Guard) was born and raised in California, so he’s no stranger to the stage, but this is his first time on a Texas stage, and he is honored and thankful that it’s at Theatre Arlington. Some of his favorite roles include McMurphy in Cuckoo’s Nest, Sky in Guys and Dolls, Sparky in Forever Plaid, Tom in Glass Menagerie, Horatio in Hamlet…heck, they’re all faves, and he’d list them all if he could. Biggest thanks and praise to God for putting the acting fire in my heart, and to my beautiful wife Holly, for continuing to fan that flame. Enjoy.

TRUMAN THOMPSON (Postmaster) is making his fourth appearance at Theatre Arlington. He previously appeared in Miracle on 34th Street as Hollaran, A Few Good Men as Cmdr. Walter Stone, and Hooray For The Holidays as Clarence Callahan. He is excited about being involved with this great cast and grateful to Steve Morris for the opportunity to appear at Theatre Arlington. He would like to thank his wife Glenda for her support.

ASHLEY TYSOR (2^nd Girl) is thrilled to be with Theatre Arlington. Her recent credits include Ragtime (Evelyn Nesbit) at UTA, How to Succeed… Trying (Pirate Wickette/Secretary), at Summer Stock Austin, The Music Man at UTA and Summer Stock Austin (Teen Dance Ensemble), and Company (Kathy) at UTA. She is also performed with the Maverick Dance Company at the American College Dance Association. She would like to thank her friends and family for their love and support.

LISA WARD (1^st Girl) Ward is excited to be back on stage at Theatre Arlington. Thank you to Steve and Lori for the opportunity. She was last seen in TCU’s 2018 commencement as MBA Graduate. Need help with retirement planning? See me after the show.

Damn Yankees Crew

STEVEN D. MORRIS (Director) started performing with Theatre Arlington in 1981 and has done over 60 shows here as an actor, director and writer. Steve is thrilled to be the Executive Producer at Theatre Arlington and working with such a great staff and Board of Directors. When Mr. Morris retired after 27 years of being the Director of Theatre at Lamar High School the school’s auditorium was named for him. Steve is very active with his church Unity of Arlington. Steve is blessed by great love in his life from his family, friends and his canine companions Elvis and Reba. Be sure to follow Steve on Twitter, although he rarely posts and is not that interesting.

LORI WOODS BLONDIN (Choreographer) has been the head of the Dance Program at Lamar High School going on twenty years. She has an Associate’s Degree in musical theatre from Mt. View College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre from Texas Wesleyan University. She grew up dancing at Miss Persis Studio of Dance and Dance Theatre of Arlington where she also began her teaching career at the age of 15. During her high school and college years, she sang and danced in shows at Six Flags Over Texas in the Southern Palace Theatre which led to a great career on the stage performing at local and regional theatres as well as corporate and industrial shows all over the country. She was chosen as best actress in a musical for her performance of Adelaide in Guys and Dolls as well as fan favorite here at Theatre Arlington. Other TA credits include Paulette in Legally Blonde, Sonia Walks in They’re Playing Our Song and Chrissy Callahan in Hooray for Holidays. She also recently served as the choreographer for TA’s production of The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Some of her other favorite roles include Charity in Sweet Charity, Bebe in A Chorus Line, Velma in Chicago, and Lorraine in 42^nd Street. In their extra time, she and her husband serve as foster parents for Tzu Zoo Rescue saving the world one lucky dog at a time. Love to Steven D. Morris for a lifetime of playing shows together.

KEVIN BROWN (Set Designer) is extremely grateful to Steven and the entire Theatre Arlington (TA) Family. His previous shows at TA have been Blithe Spirit (Stony Award), Footloose (Stony Award), They’re Playing Our Song, Brighton Beach Memoirs (Stony Award) and Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Kevin is an award-winning set designer and interior designer who owns Studio Brown Designs. His work includes, but is not limited to, Residential, Commercial, Multi-family Housing, Remodel Consultation, Merchandizing, Holiday Décor and Theatrical Set Design and Dressing. His work has been on various stages across the DFW area. Uptown Players, Stage West, OnStage in Bedford, MainStage Irving, Runway Theatre and Firehouse Theatre to name a few. Kevin’s favorite shows have been The Nance, It’s Only a Play, The Tribute Artist, Disaster the Musical, The View Upstairs, Cabaret (Column Award), Spring Awakening (Column Award), Xanadu, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, Peter and the Starcatcher (Column Award), Seussical (Column Award) and Billy Elliot (Best Set Design Broadway World). Kevin is excited to team up with his friend Angie (his partner in crime). www.facebook.com/StudioBrownDesigns

ROBIN DOTSON (Properties Designer) is the proud mother of college freshman Sydney, who discovered the wonderful world of theater through Theatre Arlington ten years ago and is now majoring in musical theater! An elementary teacher by day, Robin has worked on props for many T.A. youth shows, as well as adult shows such as Calendar Girls, Legally Blonde, Footloose, 9 to 5, and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas at Theatre Arlington the past few seasons. Enjoy the show!

BILL EICKENLOFF (Sound Designer) is an adjunct professor and the resident Sound Designer at TCU’s Theatre Department in Fort Worth, as well as the resident Sound Designer for Theatre Arlington. He also works for Casa Mañana, Lyric Stage, DBU, Mainstage Irving Las Colinas, Brick Road Theatre, Wishing Star Productions, Prism Theatrics, and the Trinity Shakespeare Festival. He is a proud graduate of Texas A&M University. See his complete bio at www.linkedin.com.

ANGIE GLOVER (Scenic Artist) began her scenic painting career at Theatre Arlington in 2017 with the show Shrek Jr. Since then, Angie has continued working as Resident Scenic Artist at Theatre Arlington and is hostess for the popular paint class held there, “Paint Party with Angie!” Past artistic endeavors include fabricating styrofoam sculptures for The Gaylord Texan, Lone Star Parade Floats and at Six Flags. Angie has also provided her artistic brush painting for the Fort Worth Opera and the Museum of the American Railroad in Frisco, TX. When not at the theatre, Angie can usually be found up to her elbows in any number of artistic projects. As a starving-ish artist, Angie is always available for hire. angieglover.carbonmade.com

MARK DENNIS MILLER (Music Direction/Keyboards) is happy to be back at Theatre Arlington for this production of Damn Yankees after MDing The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Selected credits include three world premiere musicals – Broadway or Bust (MD) for Pegasus Theatre, The Cuban and the Redhead (Associate MD) and Pryor Rendering (MD) for OKC Rep/Tulsa PAC. Local: Theatre Three, ICT, Jubilee Theatre, Circle Theatre, Dallas Repertory, Dallas Summer Musicals, Dallas Theatre Center, Theatre TCU and Lyric Stage. Regional: Maine State Music Theatre, Lyric/Oklahoma and Arkansas Rep. Mr. Miller is currently a Collaborative Pianist & Vocal Coach for Texas Christian University, Weatherford College, Chisholm Trail High School, Ed Wilkie and Marine Creek Middle Schools. In addition, he serves as Organist for Meadowbrook-Poly UMC in East Fort Worth.

KAREN MURK POTTER (Costume Designer) is a designer for theatre, opera, film and television. Karen’s work has been seen in various theatres and film festivals across the country. She currently works as an Assistant Professor for Texas Wesleyan University. She worked for the California Institute of the Arts as a Costume Shop Manager and Adjunct Faculty. She lives with her two children and husband in Fort Worth, Texas and works throughout the country and in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex.

BRYAN STEVENSON (Lighting Designer) holds a B.F.A. in Theatre from Texas Wesleyan University and an M.F.A. in Design from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. He has designed at many local theatre companies including Fort Worth Shakespeare in the Park, Stage West, Jubilee and Circle. Nationally Bryan designs for the Boy Scouts of America National Conferences and Shows. Bryan is an active participant in the United Institute of Theatre Technology, where he has served on panels on lighting and scenic design. He is also a member Stagehands Union, IATSE Local 126.

LAUREN URSO (Assistant Director) is thrilled to be returning to Theatre Arlington in a new creative role since her last appearance on the TA stage for Hooray for the Holidays. Lauren holds a Bachelor of Music in Musical Theatre and a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Oklahoma City University and has recently relocated to the DFW area after spending the last two years performing and auditioning in New York City. Lauren’s most notable on-stage credits include Kate/Whale Soloist in Legally Blonde (54Below), Sherrie Christian in Rock of Ages (Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma), Bonnie Parker in Bonnie and Clyde (OCU) Kate Monster in Avenue Q (Brookhaven College), Carrie in Carrie (Brookhaven College), and Millie in Thoroughly Modern Millie (Artisan Center Theatre). Lauren teaches private voice lessons and is proud to come from a family of passionate patrons of the arts. Many thanks to Steven, her supportive family and friends, and YOU for seeing this show! www.laurenurso.com

A Raisin in the Sun Cast

NATE DAVIS (Joseph Asagai) is an advocate for the arts. Growing up, his excitement came from music and doing Eddie Murphy and Elvis Presley impressions. This past year, Nate quit his job in order to fully focus on actualizing his entertainment career goals. You probably have seen him on Helzberg Diamonds promotional ads, or national commercials for Zaxby’s, and many other companies. Acting is his passion and one thing he learned in life is discovery is not only for the actor playing the role, it’s for the human that’s looking for their purpose. Once you find your purpose, success will find you. He will be graduating this year with a bachelor’s in Entertainment Businesses. His ultimate goal is to present ideas of understanding and love through entertainment.

GEN DONNELL (Bobo) Gen Donnell is excited and grateful to be a part of this amazing team and to step in the role of Bobo. As an Alumni of KD from the Musical Theatre Program, he has been pursuing that passion for acting for years. This will be Mr. Donnell’s very FIRST performance with Theatre Arlington. He has been in other productions all around DFW such as The Glass Menagerie as Tom Wingfield, Aida as Amonasro, and Once on This Island at the Firehouse Theatre, Avenue Q as Trekkie, Ruined as Jerome Kisembe at Echo Theatre, The Wedding Singer, Man of La Mancha, Sunset Blvd, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas as Mike Nolty At SSG, and The Wild Party as Eddie at Bishop Arts Theatre. Gen Donnell is looking forward to sharing a stage with this ALL-STAR cast and to share this story with all of you.

LAUREN HARRISON (Beneatha Younger) is making her Theatre Arlington debut! She is currently a freshman at the University of Texas at Arlington, earning her BFA in Theatre Performance. Recent roles include Echoes Media’s #Voiced (Shessy Garland), Shakespeare Dallas/Junior Players Dallas’s Much Ado About Nothing (Beatrice), and UTA Theatre and Dance’s The Bald Soprano (Mary). Special thanks to her family, friends, and professors for all of their support! Find Lauren on Instagram (theharrisonchronicles) and Facebook (Lauren Harrison).

Enjoy the show!

LINDA JORDAN (Lena Younger) is making her Theatre Arlington debut. She has been seen at TCC Southeast campus in Raisin in The Sun, Cabaret Theater in Wichita Ks in the musical Beehive, Lady Sings The Blues Review, 4 Divas, A Twisted Christmas and Streaking Thru The 70’s. Also Stage One’s Smokey Joes Cafe, Words & Music featuring songs written by the famous Johnny Mercer and Cole Porter. Linda is a 911 Dispatcher and First Responder for the Fort Worth Police Department.

WILLIAM KLEDAS (Karl Lindner) last appeared in a show (on this very stage) in 2017 portraying 19 different characters in The Complete Works of William Shakespeare: Abridged. Coming back to Theater Arlington after a long absence to be a part of this amazing work is a dream come true. He is humbled to be a part of such tremendous group of actors, stage professionals and friends to bring this story to you tonight. A veteran of the DFW theater community since 2010, Bill has taken the last 3 years to complete his degree in Information Technology, Cybersecurity — having graduated during the rehearsal process for this show. He thanks all of those who have supported him on his long journey.

SHAUNDRA NORWOOD (Ruth Younger) is no stranger to the theatre; however, this is her debut at Theatre Arlington. Her passion is telling the stories! She is super excited to play the role of Ruth Younger; this is one of Shaundra’s favorite plays. Shaundra has left her mark in the theatre realm during the last 10 years. Her credits include works with, WG Ministries, New Life Fellowship church (Director), Jubilee Theatre, Plaza Theatre Co (Cleburne), Carnegie Players (Cleburne), and Bishop Arts Theatre. Shaundra thanks her family, friend, and support system for their words of encouragement, prayers, and accountability. “Without God, I am nothing.”

KING PACKARD (Travis Younger) is very excited to be in the production! King is twelve years old and has been dreaming of being an actor. King has performed in some school plays like Roll of Thunder as Little Man, Winnie the Pooh as Christopher Robin, and Commedia Dell Arte. King loves to play basketball, roleplay, and hang with his friends in spare time!

BRYAN PITTS* (Walter Lee Younger) Theatre Arlington debut. He would like to thank God for this opportunity to tell this story, family (Baldwin and Washington), friends and all arts supporters. He has worked with theaters including Shakespeare Dallas, Ebony Emerald, Kitchen Dog, Second Thought, Lyric State, Theater Fusion, Cara Mia, WaterTower, African-American Rep, Theatre Three, Jubilee Theatre, Trinity Shakespeare, Dallas Theater Center, Stage West and Undermain. Other credits include, BJ’s Restaurant, Eyemakers, American Crime, Dallas and The Good Guys. He studied at Northlake College and the University of North Texas. Bryan is represented by the Kim Dawson Agency.

DURANT SEARCY (George Murchison) makes his return to the Theatre Arlington stage with this production of A Raisin in the Sun”. He was last seen at Theatre Arlington in Rent back in 2012. Durant has performed for several years on different stages in the DFW area such as Jubilee Theatre, Casa Manana, Lyric Stage, Bishop Arts Theatre, Rose Marine, and many other great venues. When he is not performing on the theatre stage, he is writing, producing, and recording original music for himself as well as other local artists.

A Raisin in the Sun Crew

MEGAN HARATINE (Director) is so grateful to be back at Theatre Arlington after having directed Brighton Beach Memoirs this past summer. It has been a humbling privilege to work alongside this amazing cast, creative team, and the whole TA family to bring this important modern classic to the community. She was most recently seen onstage in Ada & the Engine at Stage West, in Romeo & Juliet at Bass Hall as part of Stage West’s educational program, and in Babette’s Feast last Spring at Amphibian Stage Productions. She has her MFA in Acting from the University of Delaware’s Professional Theatre Training Program and has been an adjunct professor and director at TCC Southeast Campus for the last 9 years. Megan was awarded national recognition from Kennedy Center’s American College Theatre Festival in 2017 for Distinguished Direction of a New Work and now serves as Vice Chair of Texas for KCACTF. Additionally this semester, she is an adjunct instructor of theatre at both TCU and UTA. Megan would like to thank Steve Morris for granting her another opportunity to direct for her beloved hometown theatre & for choosing A Raisin in the Sun as part of the season. Above all, a special thanks goes out to Richie & the boys for their many sacrifices throughout this process & a shout out to Margie (Mom) who frequently comes to our rescue. Much love.

JASMINE SHANDS (Stage Manager) has worked in various roles both on and offstage. She is a sophomore at Tarrant County Community College and pursuing a degree in Theater Education. Some of her most notable roles and positions include Amanda Wingfield in The Glass Menagerie, Regina in Henrik Ibsen’s Ghosts, Stage Manager for Footloose: The Musical, and Stage Manager for Tarrant County College Southeast’s 2019 “Festival of New Plays.” This is her first production with Theatre Arlington and is very proud of all the hard work and talent of the cast and crew.

BRYAN STEVENSON (Set/Lighting Designer) holds a B.F.A. in Theatre from Texas Wesleyan University and an M.F.A. in Design from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. He has designed at many local theatre companies including Fort Worth Shakespeare in the Park, Stage West, Jubilee and Circle. Nationally Bryan designs for the Boy Scouts of America National Conferences and Shows. Bryan is an active participant in the United Institute of Theatre Technology, where he has served on panels on lighting and scenic design. He is also a member Stagehands Union, IATSE local 126.

BILL EICKENLOFF (Sound Designer) is an adjunct professor and the resident Sound Designer at TCU’s Theatre Department in Fort Worth, as well as the resident Sound Designer for Theatre Arlington. He also works for Casa Mañana, Lyric Stage, Mainstage Irving Las Colinas, Brick Road Theatre, Wishing Star Productions, Prism Theatrics and the Trinity Shakespeare Festival. He is a proud graduate of Texas A&M University. See his complete bio at www.linkedin.com.

HOPE COX (Costume Designer) is excited to be back at Theatre Arlington for this production. Some of her favorite costuming credits include Kitchen Witches (ONSTAGE in Bedford), Fairytale Lives of Russian Girls (LCT), Obama-ology (Jubilee Theatre), Pride and Prejudice (MainStage) and Of Mice and Men (Firehouse Theatre). Hope feels so blessed to have the opportunity to work with such a talented cast and crew.

ROBIN DOTSON (Properties Designer) is the proud mother of college freshman Sydney, who discovered the wonderful world of theater through Theatre Arlington ten years ago and is now majoring in musical theater! An elementary teacher by day, Robin has worked on props for many T.A. youth shows, as well as adult shows such as Calendar Girls, Legally Blonde, Footloose, 9 to 5, and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas at Theatre Arlington the past few seasons. Enjoy the show!

ANGIE GLOVER (Scenic Artist) began her scenic painting career at Theatre Arlington in 2017 with the show Shrek The Musical Jr. Since then, Angie has continued working as Scenic Artist at many theatre venues around the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Past artistic endeavors include fabricating Styrofoam sculptures for The Gaylord Texan, Lone Star Parade Floats, Six Flags and scenic elements for the Fort Worth Opera. When not at the theatre, Angie can usually be found up to her elbows in any number of artistic projects. As a starving-ish artist, Angie is always available for hire. Angieglover.carbonmade.com

Hooray for Holidays Crew

STEVEN D. MORRIS (Director) started performing with Theatre Arlington in 1981 and has done over 60 shows here as an actor, director and writer. Steve is thrilled to be the Executive Producer at Theatre Arlington and working with such a great staff and Board of Directors. When Mr. Morris retired after 27 years of being the Director of Theatre at Lamar High School the school’s auditorium was named for him. Steve is very active with his church Unity of Arlington. Steve is blessed by great love in his life from his family, friends and his canine companions Elvis and Reba. Be sure to follow Steve on Twitter, although he rarely posts and is not that interesting.

DANIEL HERNANDEZ (Music Director/Stage Manager) was most recently seen on the TA stage as Governor in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, one of the voices of Vernon Gersch in They’re Playing Our Song, as Drunken Santa/Mr. Macy in Miracle on 34th Street, the Cowardly Lion in The Magical City of Oz and as Dwayne in 9to5: The Musical and was also featured as Riff Raff in Brookhaven’s production of Rocky Horror Picture Show in the summer of 2017. He has appeared in Texas Wesleyan University Opera Workshop productions of Cosi fan Tutte as Ferrando and Manon as Le Chevalier des Grieux. Daniel was the assistant musical director for Nolan Catholic Theater productions of Shrek the Musical and The Addams Family. He has taught elementary music throughout Fort Worth, works as a Lead Drama Instructor for C.A.S.T. in Coppell, and received his B.A. in Vocal Performance from Texas Wesleyan.

RYAN SIMÓN (Assistant Music Director) is a Junior at Texas Wesleyan University, studying a BFA in Musical Theatre and a Minor in Music Composition. He has music directed previously for Mr. Burns and The Hostage at Texas Wesleyan, as well as composing for Alice! a New Musical at the Luckenbooth Theatre. Ryan is a member of the Dramatists Guild.

BRYAN STEVENSON (Set/Lighting Designer) holds a B.F.A. in Theatre from Texas Wesleyan University and an M.F.A. in Design from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. He has designed at many local theatre companies including Fort Worth Shakespeare in the Park, Stage West, Jubilee and Circle. Nationally Bryan designs for the Boy Scouts of America National Conferences and Shows. Bryan is an active participant in the United Institute of Theatre Technology, where he has served on panels on lighting and scenic design. He is also a member Stagehands Union, IATSE local 126.

BILL EICKENLOFF (Sound Designer) is an adjunct professor and the resident Sound Designer at TCU’s Theatre Department in Fort Worth, as well as the resident Sound Designer for Theatre Arlington. He also works for Casa Mañana, Lyric Stage, Mainstage Irving Las Colinas, Brick Road Theatre, Wishing Star Productions, Prism Theatrics and the Trinity Shakespeare Festival. He is a proud graduate of Texas A&M University. See his complete bio at www.linkedin.com.

KAREN MURK POTTER (Costume Designer) is happy to be part of the creative team for Hooray for Holidays. She has costumed shows at Theatre Arlington, Tarrant County College, and Lamar High school where she taught classes in Nutrition and Fashion Design. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from TCU and Master of Liberal Arts Degree from Abilene Christian. She and her husband, Alton spend time volunteering here at the theatre, traveling, and attending activities of their daughters and grandchildren.

ROBIN DOTSON (Properties Designer) is the proud mother of recent high school graduate Sydney, who discovered the wonderful world of theater through Theatre Arlington ten years ago and is now off to college to major in musical theater! An elementary teacher by day, Robin has worked on props for many T.A. youth shows, as well as Calendar Girls, Legally Blonde, Footloose, 9 to 5, A Few Good Men and They’re Playing Our Song at Theatre Arlington the past few seasons. Enjoy the show!

ANGIE GLOVER (Scenic Artist) began her scenic painting career at Theatre Arlington in 2017 with the show Shrek The Musical Jr. Since then, Angie has continued working as Scenic Artist at many theatre venues around the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Past artistic endeavors include fabricating Styrofoam sculptures for The Gaylord Texan, Lone Star Parade Floats, Six Flags and scenic elements for the Fort Worth Opera. When not at the theatre, Angie can usually be found up to her elbows in any number of artistic projects. As a starving-ish artist, Angie is always available for hire. Angieglover.carbonmade.com

Hooray for Holidays Cast

LORI WOODS BLONDIN (Krissy Callahan) Lori Woods Blondin has been the head of the Dance Program at Lamar High School going on twenty years. She has an Associate’s Degree in musical theatre from Mt. View College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre from Texas Wesleyan University. She grew up dancing at Miss Persis Studio of Dance and Dance Theatre of Arlington where she also began her teaching career at the age of 15. During her high school and college years she sang and danced in shows at Six Flags Over Texas in the Southern Palace Theatre which led to a great career on the stage performing at local and regional theatres as well as corporate and industrial shows all over the country. She was chosen as Best Actress in a Musical for her performance of Adelaide in Guys and Dolls as well as Fan Favorite here at Theatre Arlington. Other TA credits include Paulette in Legally Blonde the Musical, Sonia Walsk in They’re Playing Our Song and most recently choreography for The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Some of her other favorite roles include Charity in Sweet Charity, Bebe in A Chorus Line, Velma in Chicago, and Lorraine in 42nd Street. In their extra time she and her husband serve as foster parents for Tzu Zoo Rescue saving the world one lucky dog at a time. Mark your calendar for her cabaret show “It’s Not My Fault” December 21st right here at the Theatre.

LEO WOODS BLONDIN (Fluffy) is making his stage debut in Hooray For Holidays. He is a foster fail with tzu zoo rescue who has found his happily ever after with his sister Angel, brother Benny and his parents Jayson Blondin and Lori Woods. www.tzuzoorescue.com for more information on fostering or adopting other dogs like Leo.

JILLIAN BRADFORD (Julie) is excited to be dancing and acting on Theatre Arlington’s stage for the second time! Nowadays, you can find her studying at TCU or house managing at Theatre Arlington. She wants to thank Steve and Daniel for this fun opportunity and her friends and family for all their love and support.

WILLIE BROWN (Judy) was born in Los Angeles, CA and raised a true-blue Texan. Willie’s love for self-expression through the arts became evident as a child. As a lifetime arts student she studied Acting, Writing, Production, and Business Law at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in West Hollywood and LACC. She is the CEO and Founder of WMK Films. Multi-Lingual and talented she has several projects in development. She spends her time living and working in California and Texas. Her hobbies include writing poetry, traveling, learning new languages and spending time with her family. She is fluent in Spanish and English and is actively learning Chinese and Russian.

LUCY CHAMBERS (Ethel) is thrilled to be back on the Theatre Arlington stage! She made her debut as Susan Walker in Miracle on 34th Street last Christmas, and she has most recently loved being Roo in Winnie the Pooh and Lucille in Junie B. Jones the Musical JR.! Lucy lives in Pantego with her family, and is currently a seventh grade student at Grace Prep. In her spare time, Lucy enjoys reading, tumbling, playing soccer, singing and spending time with her friends. Lucy wants to thank Mr. Morris and Daniel for this fun opportunity, and her parents and 5 siblings for all their support. Jeremiah 29:11

MILLY CHAMBERS (Sutton) is crazy excited to be back on the Theatre Arlington stage with her sisters! She was recently seen as Camille in Junie B. Jones the Musical JR.! Milly is a 10 year old student at Chambers Academy (home-school) and lives in Pantego with her 2 sisters and 3 brothers. You can usually find Milly playing outside, singing, playing piano or volleyball or loving anything with animals and horses. Milly wants to thank Mr. Morris and Daniel for this fun opportunity, and her family for their support. Romans 5:8

RYLEY CHAMBERS (Lizzy) is thrilled to be back on the Theatre Arlington stage! She was most recently seen in the cast of Junie B. Jones the Musical JR.! Off the stage Ryley is a varsity cheerleader and she enjoys reading, baking and playing piano. She is a 9th grader at Grace Prep and lives in Pantego with her family. Ryley wants to thank Mr. Morris and Daniel for this amazing opportunity to be on stage! Isaiah 41:10

ROBBIE CLARK (Blake Devero) is pretty dang happy to be returning to the Theatre Arlington stage. All he really wanted for Christmas was to play the role of Elphaba in a Broadway production of Wicked, but while that seems highly unlikely for numerous reasons, he’s jazzed as heck to now portray the director in the world premiere of a Theatre Arlington original. After earning his BFA in Theatre Performance from UTA in 2010, he was drafted as the fourth string quarterback of the Saint Louis Rams. When that didn’t work out, also for numerous reasons, he returned to the stage, appearing as Sam Weinberg in A Few Good Men, Andrew Rally in I Hate Hamlet, and Eeyore in Winnie The Pooh. He’s glad you’re here, he hopes you enjoy the show, and if anyone’s going by Jack In The Box later, he’d love some tacos. Merry Christmas & God bless us, everyone!…except people who talk during movies and don’t silence their phones during live performances. They can just have an alright Christmas.

CALLIE CUNNINGHAM (Velma) is grateful to be back on the TA stage! Previous Theatre Arlington credits include The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, They’re Playing Our Song, Guys and Dolls and Hello, Dolly! She also was recently seen in Stolen Shakespeare Guild’s production of Anything Goes, where she also performed in the 2019 Shakespeare festival and Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Callie is an actual Aggie (Class of 2013- whoop!) and a speech pathologist in real life. She also teaches dance at Miss Persis Studio and sends her love to the Persii and the most supportive parents a girl could ask for. Romans 8:38-39.

PERSIS ANN FORSTER*(Cora Ann Callahan), a graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington with a BA in Radio/TV, has been teaching for over 40 years. She is a professional actress, singer, choreographer and has performed leading roles at Theatre Arlington (most recently as Dolly Levi), Gown Town Theatre, Casa Manana, North Shore Music Theatre outside of Boston, and Lyric Theatre in Oklahoma City. In addition to being the Artistic Director of Dance Theatre of Arlington, she is Past President of Texas Association Teachers of Dancing and a former performer/choreographer for Six Flags Show Productions. Miss Persis Studio is her family business and she lives in Arlington with her husband, Steve Burdick. “Very excited to be at TA as an Actors Equity member as they begin their track to being an Equity theatre!”

BEN GERVASI (Danny) is very excited to be back a Theatre Arlington! He was last seen at Theatre Arlington as Pinocchio in Pinocchio Commedia and School of Rock: Youth Production as Freddy Hamilton. More recently, he was seen on the Martin High School stage as Flute/Thisbe in A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Sefelt in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. Ben would like to thank his loving family for supporting him and driving him to rehearsal.

MICAH GREEN (Cousin Cooper Callahan) Merry Christmas! Micah hopes you are having a wonderful holiday season! Feel free to say hi after the show.

MICHAEL GREEN (Michael) Michael Green is thrilled to be making his second appearance with Theatre Arlington. Most recently he was seen at Theatre Arlington as Senator JT Wingwoah in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Favorite past roles include Perchik in Fiddler on the Roof (WCT), Asher/brother in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (WCT), and The Wedding Singer with Stolen Shakespeare Guild. Many thanks to the cast, crew, directors of the show and to all his friends and family for their love and support!!

DONOVAN LAWSON (Maxine) was last seen on the TA stage as Shy in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas! Donovan grew up on the TA stage as a youth in various shows and continues to love performing on this stage as an adult. Donovan is a graduate of Oklahoma City University where she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre for Young Audiences with a Directing minor. She started performing at a young age at Miss Persis Studio and around DFW. Favorite credits: Rusty in Footloose, Dorothy in Magical City of Oz, Reno in Anything Goes, Godspell. Special thank you to Morris and Daniel for this opportunity and thank you to my family for all the support! Here to make you proud – to infinity and beyond, my angel Tevin.

STEVEN D. MORRIS (Carl Callahan) is always happy to be onstage at Theatre Arlington and is delighted to be performing this show with his friends. Steve loves the simplicity of the message of this show – holidays are fun and meant to be shared with family. Thanks to my Mom and Dwain, my family and friends and Unity of Arlington for helping me enjoy the holidays and know what is really important in life. A reminder for everyone – the holidays are a great time to be kind and show our Christmas spirit but we can do that all year round. This year give the gift of love – Let’s share it everywhere!

JORDAN PRATT (Kirk Callahan) graduated with his BFA in Theatre from SMU in 2006 but has not appeared on stage since his last production here at Theatre Arlington, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Once upon a time, Jordan was heavily involved in the world of theatre, but now Jordan spends his days as the Dean of a High School and with his lovely wife and wonderful daughters. Jordan is so excited to have the chance to come back to the world of theatre with so many friends and loved ones participating in this show. Thank you to everyone involved in the show for their support and love. But the biggest Thank You goes to his wife, Forever and Ever.

ACE RAINEY (Jack) is excited to be in his second performance at Theatre Arlington. Ace lives in Arlington with his family and attends The Montessori Academy. He is in third grade and enjoys martial arts, baseball, and piano. He has been attending acting classes and summer camps at Theatre Arlington for the past 4 years. Some of Ace’s favorite roles include Ensemble in Junie B. Jones the Musical JR., Baloo in The Jungle Book, and Abu in Aladdin the Musical JR. Ace would like to thank his mom and dad for driving him to rehearsals every day. He would also like to thank Mrs. Cindy, Mrs. Maggie, and Mr. Josh for supporting him with his love for musical theatre.

GEORGE SEPULVEDA (Marty) is excited to be back on stage at Theatre Arlington after appearing in Footloose, Hello, Dolly!, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas and Guys and Dolls!. He has also performed various roles with theatres in Mansfield and Plano, Texas. He has directed many musicals and helped with the musical direction of many more. Most of his time and energy is spent on his day job teaching music at Atherton Elementary in Arlington ISD, and he is also the Co-Director of Arlington’s elementary honor choir, the Arlington Children’s Chorus. He received his Bachelor of Music Education from Baylor University.

MAXTON SIMS (Sammy) is thrilled to be back on stage at Theatre Arlington! He made his theater debut as the Owl in Theatre Arlington’s production of Stellaluna. He also had the honor of playing Herb in Junie B. Jones The Musical JR. at Theatre Arlington. Most recently, he appeared as Max the Pirate in the Artisan Children’s Theater production of How I Became a Pirate. When he’s not on stage, Maxton enjoys singing, playing the ukulele and spending time outdoors. He is currently in 6th grade studying Theater at Grand Prairie Fine Arts Academy. Maxton would like to thank Steve for this opportunity and his friends and family for all their love and support.

TYLER THOMPSON (Cookie Callahan) Tyler Thompson was recently seen on the Theatre Arlington stage as Rabbit in Winnie the Pooh. She is a graduate of The University of Oklahoma where she received a BFA in drama. She had the amazing opportunity of spending her final semester of college in Chicago after being accepted into The Second City’s Comedy Studies program. She is a graduate of The Second City of Chicago’s Conservatory Program as well as The iO Theater improv program where she performed with the Harold team Interrobang. Tyler has studied clowning under Paola Coletto, performed at Chicago Sketchfest, Donny’s Skybox at The Second City, The Women’s Funny Festival, and The Del Close Marathon. She is a graduate of the Four Day Weekend Training Center where she currently teaches and performs. Starting January 2020, she will be teaching their Level 1 improv class at the Four Day Weekend Dallas location. Tyler also enjoys teaching acting classes and private lessons at Theatre Arlington. Tyler is represented by Grit Talent Agency.

TRUMAN THOMPSON (Clarence) is making his third appearance at Theatre Arlington. He previously appeared in Miracle on 34th Street as Holloran and in A Few Good Men as Cmdr. Walter Stone. He would like to thank Steve Morris for the opportunity to appear again at Theatre Arlington and a special thanks to his wife Glenda for her support.

KYLIE REYNOLDS THORNTON (Patty), recently seen as Dawn in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, is thrilled to be returning to the Theatre Arlington stage after a long hiatus. Favorite previous roles include Little Sally in Urinetown, Olivia in Twelfth Night (both at Trinity University) and Kenni in Becky’s New Car (Theatre Arlington). When not performing, Kylie is a Production Scheduler at Alcon and enjoys watching movies with her husband and dog. She is also proud to serve on the Theatre Arlington Board of Directors. Many thanks to Steve, Mark and Lori for this opportunity! Love to my family, Cole and ZoZo.

LAUREN URSO (Lavern) is thrilled to be returning to Theatre Arlington since her last appearance on the TA stage as an elementary student. Lauren holds a Bachelor of Music in Musical Theatre and a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Oklahoma City University and has recently relocated to the DFW area after spending the last two years performing and auditioning in New York City. Lauren’s most notable credits include Kate/Whale Soloist in Legally Blonde (54Below), Sherrie Christian in Rock of Ages (Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma), Bonnie Parker in Bonnie and Clyde (OCU) Kate Monster in Avenue Q (Brookhaven College), Carrie in Carrie the Musical (Brookhaven College), and Millie in Thoroughly Modern Millie (Artisan Center Theatre). Lauren teaches private voice lessons and is proud to be the daughter of two passionate patrons of the arts. Many thanks to Steven, Daniel, all her teachers, her supportive family and friends, and YOU for seeing this show! www.laurenurso.com

CALLEIGH WHITE (Madaline) is currently a 5th grade student at Jones Academy of Fine Arts and Dual Language. She has thrived to be on stage since before she was in Kindergarten. She enjoys singing, dancing, and performing. Calleigh loves being at student at Theatre Arlington. She has been in Nate the Great and Miracle on 34th Street at Theatre Arlington. At Jones Academy, she has been in Annie JR. and Shrek the Musical JR. Calleigh would like to thank her Mom and Dad for always supporting her in theatre and her siblings, Nicholas and Kaelynne, for always helping her bring out her best. She would also like to thank her teachers at Jones Academy for helping her find her love of the Fine Arts especially theatre.

Ripcord Crew

SHARON KAYE MILLER (Director) is an actual native to Arlington, having been born here in 1956 and graduating from Arlington High School in 1974. Her theatre training was spent earning college credit from TCU and Tarleton State University working for JoAnn Miller as a charter member of the Granbury Opera House. As a high school theatre director, Sharon spent most of her years here in Arlington at Martin High School until she retired in 2015. Her close friendship and admiration of fellow artist Steve Morris brought her to Theatre Arlington where she serves as a board member and guest director. Last year she directed Dead Man’s Cell Phone and returns this year with the same love and admiration for Theatre Arlington’s gracious audiences with Ripcord. She wishes to thank her amazing cast and crew for their hard work and helpful insight as they explored this amazing script. She also thanks her husband, children and grandchildren for letting Granny direct a show during Christmas.

HAILEE DYER (Stage Manager) is excited to be back at Theatre Arlington to continue her journey as a stage manager. Hailee began her work in the theatre as an actress. As her love for her craft grew, she realized she wanted to further her knowledge. Hailee believes that being well rounded is important and is joyous to do that here with Ripcord. She hopes you all enjoy the show and get in a good laugh.

BRYAN STEVENSON (Set/Lighting Designer) holds a B.F.A. in Theatre from Texas Wesleyan University and an M.F.A. in Design from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. He has designed at many local theatre companies including Fort Worth Shakespeare in the Park, Stage West, Jubilee and Circle. Nationally Bryan designs for the Boy Scouts of America National Conferences and Shows. Bryan is an active participant in the United Institute of Theatre Technology, where he has served on panels on lighting and scenic design. He is also a member Stagehands Union, IATSE local 126.

BILL EICKENLOFF (Sound Designer) is an adjunct professor and the resident Sound Designer at TCU’s Theatre Department in Fort Worth, as well as the resident Sound Designer for Theatre Arlington. He also works for Casa Mañana, Lyric Stage, Mainstage Irving Las Colinas, Brick Road Theatre, Wishing Star Productions, Prism Theatrics and the Trinity Shakespeare Festival. He is a proud graduate of Texas A&M University. See his complete bio at www.linkedin.com.

ROBIN DOTSON (Properties Designer) is the proud mother of recent high school graduate Sydney, who discovered the wonderful world of theater through Theatre Arlington ten years ago and is now off to college to major in musical theater! An elementary teacher by day, Robin has worked on props for many T.A. youth shows, as well as Calendar Girls, Legally Blonde, Footloose, 9 to 5, A Few Good Men and They’re Playing Our Song at Theatre Arlington the past few seasons. Enjoy the show!

ANGIE GLOVER (Scenic Artist) began her scenic painting career at Theatre Arlington in 2017 with the show Shrek The Musical Jr. Since then, Angie has continued working as Scenic Artist at many theatre venues around the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Past artistic endeavors include fabricating Styrofoam sculptures for The Gaylord Texan, Lone Star Parade Floats, Six Flags and scenic elements for the Fort Worth Opera. When not at the theatre, Angie can usually be found up to her elbows in any number of artistic projects. As a starving-ish artist, Angie is always available for hire. Angieglover.carbonmade.com

Ripcord Cast

ABI ABEL (Collen/Woman in White) is excited to make her Theatre Arlington debut! Add to the excitement hitting the stage with two dear friends, Debbie Brown and Drenda Lewis! Favorite credits: Angel in Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Bonnie in Anything Goes, Doris in Same Time Next Year, Eileen in Moon Over Buffalo, Velma Kelly in Chicago, Diane Lorimer in 42nd Street, Azuri in The Desert Song. She would like to say Thank You to this amazing cast and team, and Love Always to family.

DEBORAH BROWN (Marilyn Dunne) is thrilled to return to Theatre Arlington. In a career spanning several decades, she has performed at many DFW theatres, including Circle Theatre, Stage West, Granbury Opera House, Fort Worth Theater, Bass Performance Hall, WaterTower Theatre, and the Dallas Theater Center. Recent performances include Beauty & the Beast at Dallas Children’s Theater, Man of La Mancha for Lyric Stage at the Majestic, and Opal’s Husband for 1:30 Productions. Debbie spent 15 years as a Resident Company Member at the Casa Mañana Playhouse, playing all manner of witches, animals, and mothers. She is also a recipient of the Live Theatre League of Fort Worth’s Lifetime Achievement Award, is a longtime member of Actors’ Equity Association, and can proudly claim to have visited all 50 United States (between early life as an Army brat and later years as a touring actress). Many thanks to Steve Morris and Sharon Miller for this opportunity to revisit a favorite character, and a favorite theatre!

JOVANE CAAMAÑO (Scotty) is excited to be making his Theatre Arlington debut! Other regional theatres he’s worked with include: Undermain Theatre (Red Chariot; Lady from the Sea), Amphibian Stage Productions (Gutenberg! The Musical!), Stage West (Everybody), Second Thought Theatre (Enemies/People), Circle Theatre (This Random World), Theatre Three (Susan and God), and three seasons with the Trinity Shakespeare Festival, as well as Wishing Star Productions’ national tour of Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer the Musical. He graduated from Texas Christian University with his B.F.A. in Theatre with an emphasis in Musical Theatre and is a proud Horned Frog. He would like to thank his family for their love and belief, his best friends for all their support, and everyone at Theatre Arlington.

ROBBIE CLARK (Derek/Zombie Butler) is beyond ecstatic to be performing on the Theatre Arlington stage once more in a show as hilarious as Ripcord. After receiving his BFA from UTA in 2010, he fulfilled his lifelong dream of being a desperate costumed performer on the streets of Los Angeles. When the struggle became far too real, he made his way back to the stage appearing in such classics as A Few Good Men, I Hate Hamlet, Winnie The Pooh, and Hooray For Holidays. His favorite color is baby pink, and his dream role is Johnny Storm/The Human Torch in the upcoming Fantastic 4 reboot at Marvel Studios. His infatuation with burgers and pizza, coupled with his hatred for working out, make achieving that goal highly improbable. He hopes you enjoy the show, and the headshot he had taken back in 2012 when he had a more pronounced jawline.

DRENDA LEWIS (Abby) While Drenda is normally found in a costume shop, she occasionally moves to the stage. She is the resident costume designer at the Granbury Theatre Company, where she has also appeared in Arsenic and Old Lace, You Can’t Take it With You and Hands On A Hardbody. Thanks to director Sharon Kaye Miller and Theatre Arlington for this opportunity.

BRENDAN MCMAHON (Clown/Lewis/Benjamin) is happy to return to Theatre Arlington! Previous Credits Include: TEXAS: Amphibian Stage: Babette’s Feast, Theatre Arlington: Dead Man’s Cellphone, The Magical City of Oz, Stolen Shakespeare Guild: West Side Story. REGIONAL: Shakespeare Theatre Company: Hamlet, Williamstown Theatre Festival: June Moon, 4615 Theatre: Macbeth, Dinner, King John, Lion in Winter, The Pillowman, The Changeling, Pallas Theatre Collective: Assassins, Brave Spirits Theatre: Antony and Cleopatra, Maid’s Tragedy, Annapolis Shakespeare Company, Romeo and Juliet.

TRAINING: Catholic University, BA in Drama. Much love to Clare and Bear.

Winnie the Pooh Crew

STEVEN D. MORRIS (Director) started performing with Theatre Arlington in 1981 and has done over 60 shows here as an actor, director and writer. Steve is thrilled to be the Executive Producer at Theatre Arlington and working with such a great staff and Board of Directors. When Mr. Morris retired after 27 years of being the Director of Theatre at Lamar High School the school’s auditorium was named for him. Steve is very active with his church Unity of Arlington. Steve is blessed by great love in his life from his family, friends and his canine companions Elvis and Reba. Be sure to follow Steve on Twitter, although he rarely posts and is not that interesting.

DON POWERS (Music Director) has been the music director for most of the musicals at Theatre Arlington since 1982. He also has been involved with Kids Who Care and Casa Mañana over the years. His favorite shows include Pump Boys and Dinettes, Little Shop of Horrors and A Chorus Line. Don spent several years in Hawaii as a keyboard player with Don Ho. He retired in 2004 after 25 years with Southwestern Bell. When not behind a piano somewhere, Don is associated with Ebby Halliday in Arlington. He and Steven D. Morris began writing a series of children’s shows (adults performing for children) in 1984. The Magical City of Oz was the first of these. They followed that with many others, including their versions of The Emperor’s Invisible Clothes, Cinderella, and Goldie and the Three Bears. His sincere hope is that these shows inspire a love of theatre in children and instill in them the magic of theatre that he discovered as a child.

HAILEE DYER (Stage Manager) is excited to be joining Theatre Arlington to start her journey as a stage manager. Hailee began her work in the theatre as an actress. As her love for her craft grew she realized she wanted to further her knowledge and gain another perspective. Hailee believes that being well rounded is important and is joyous to do that here with Winnie the Pooh. She hopes you all enjoy the show.

BRYAN STEVENSON (Set Designer) holds a B.F.A. in Theatre from Texas Wesleyan University and an M.F.A. in Design from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. He has designed at many local theatre companies including Fort Worth Shakespeare in the Park, Stage West, Jubilee and Circle. Nationally Bryan designs for the Boy Scouts of America National Conferences and Shows. Bryan is an active participant in the United Institute of Theatre Technology, where he has served on panels on lighting and scenic design. He is also a member Stagehands Union, IATSE local 126.

ALASTAIR SIGALA RAMIREZ (Lighting Designer) is excited to be working with Theatre Arlington. Alastair is a member of United States Institute of Theatre Technology, and recently received his Bachelor of Art in Theatre from Texas Wesleyan University. At Wesleyan, Alastair’s credits included Avenue Q (puppet design), The Hostage (costume design), Important Hats of the Twentieth Century( costume design), Tartuffe (Lighting design), and Oklahoma! (Properties design). Other credits include Man of La Mancha (board op/programmer) and Evita (ASM/Propers coordinator) with Lyric Stage, and Cotton Patch Gospel (lighting design) and Steele Magnolias (lighting design) with Merely Players.

BILL EICKENLOFF (Sound Designer) is an adjunct professor and the resident Sound Designer at TCU’s Theatre Department in Fort Worth, as well as the resident Sound Designer for Theatre Arlington. He also works for Casa Mañana, Lyric Stage, Mainstage Irving Las Colinas, Brick Road Theatre, Wishing Star Productions, Prism Theatrics and the Trinity Shakespeare Festival. He is a proud graduate of Texas A&M University. See his complete bio at www.linkedin.com.

JANICE PENNINGTON (Costume Designer) is happy to be part of the creative team for Winnie the Pooh. She has costumed shows at Theatre Arlington, Tarrant County College, and Lamar High school where she taught classes in Nutrition and Fashion Design. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from TCU and. Master of Liberal Arts Degree from Abilene Christian. She and her husband, Alton spend time volunteering here at the theatre, traveling, and attending activities of their daughters and grandchildren.

ROBIN DOTSON (Properties Designer) is the proud mother of recent high school graduate Sydney, who discovered the wonderful world of theater through Theatre Arlington ten years ago and is now off to college to major in musical theater! An elementary teacher by day, Robin has worked on props for many T.A. youth shows, as well as Calendar Girls, Legally Blonde, Footloose, 9 to 5, A Few Good Men and They’re Playing Our Song at Theatre Arlington the past few seasons. Enjoy the show!

ANGIE GLOVER (Scenic Artist) began her scenic painting career at Theatre Arlington in 2017 with the show Shrek The Musical Jr. Since then, Angie has continued working as Scenic Artist at many theatre venues around the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Past artistic endeavors include fabricating Styrofoam sculptures for The Gaylord Texan, Lone Star Parade Floats, Six Flags and scenic elements for the Fort Worth Opera. When not at the theatre, Angie can usually be found up to her elbows in any number of artistic projects. As a starving-ish artist, Angie is always available for hire. Angieglover.carbonmade.com

Winnie the Pooh Cast

LUCY CHAMBERS (Roo) is thrilled to be back on the Theatre Arlington stage! She made her debut as Susan Walker in Miracle on 34th Street last Christmas, and she most recently loved being Lucille in Junie B. Jones the Musical Jr. Lucy lives in Pantego with her family, and is currently a seventh-grade student at Grace Prep. In her spare time, Lucy enjoys reading, tumbling, playing soccer, singing and spending time with her friends. Lucy wants to thank Mr. Morris and Mr. Powers for this fun opportunity, and her parents and five siblings for all of their support. Jeremiah 29:11

ROBBIE CLARK (Eeyore) is excited to make his return to the Theatre Arlington stage, and he’s even more thrilled to be playing one of his favorite literary characters from childhood. He hopes you enjoy the show.

WHITNEY BLAKE DEAN (Kanga) is so excited to be a part of her first children’s show! Locally she has been seen in A Miracle on 34^th Street and Dead Man’s Cell Phone here at Theatre Arlington and the World Premier of Matt Lyle’s A 3D Adventure at Circle Theatre. She received her BFA in Acting from Texas State University, which allowed her to perform in the Austin Area as well. She has acted in everything from Experimental Theatre – as one of the founding members of Theatre Synesthesia (Austin, Texas) under the direction of the late and unfathomably artistic, Jeremy O. Torres – to Shakespeare, and everything in between. She found a love of collaborating with unproduced/new plays after working with Eugene Lee’s Black and Latino Playwriting Conference 3 years in a row, and continued that admiration by casting, acting, and helping produce staged readings of MFA Playwrights at TxSt, under the leadership of Jim Price. Whitney spent a few years in LA doing theatre, but ultimately moved back to Texas to start a family. So much love to Josh, Grayson, and fur-baby Rocky!

CINDY HONEYCUTT (Piglet) is happy to be back onstage after a 6-year break. She was last seen in TA’s “The Foreigner” as Catherine. Previous shows at Theatre Arlington include “Beau Jest”, “Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up” and “The Heiress”. Cindy holds a BA in Theatre Arts with an emphasis in Acting from St. Edwards University and is a teaching artist specializing in acting, musical theatre and creative dramatics. Cindy has been seen in theatres all over the metroplex and Austin in her over 40 years as a performer, starting as a child actor at Casa Manana and ending with professional credits at Circle Theatre, Stage West, Casa Manana, Austin’s Gilbert and Sullivan Society, Zachary Scott Theatre, Thin Dime Theatre Company, and Hip Pocket Theatre. She has also been seen in schools, civic auditoriums and museums all over Texas while performing with touring companies based at Zachary Scott Theatre in Austin, Fort Worth’s Shakespeare in the Park, Stage West, and CATS. Her film and television credits include Fox Kids Club in the Austin market, feature film Dust to Dust with Willie Nelson, independent films Blood is Thicker and The Entrepreneur, and commercials for TCJC, Lil’ Things, Lowe’s and Westinghouse Security Systems. Cindy is the proud wife of Rodney, mom to Nate, and lover of all animals, especially the ones in her own house.

REMA MARTINEZ (Mom) is pleased to share the stage with some of her favorite childhood characters following her role as a Voice of Sonia Walsk in Theatre Arlington’s production of They’re Playing Our Song. TA audiences have also seen her as Vi Moore in Footloose, Maudie Atkinson in To Kill A Mockingbird, and General Cartwright in Guys and Dolls. Other DFW roles include Alma Hix (The Music Man) and Rose Lennox (The Secret Garden) with Stolen Shakespeare Guild and the ensemble of Kiss Me, Kate at MainStage Irving-Las Colinas. Rema is married to Alvaro and is the mom of her own 2 Christopher Robins- Alec and Evan.

MICHAEL McCRARY (Christopher Robin) This is Michael’s third show at Theatre Arlington, and he is so happy to get to continue working with such great people. Michael would like to thank his friends and family for their endless support as well as theatre Arlington for the opportunity to play such an iconic character.

STEVEN D. MORRIS (Winnie the Pooh) is always happy to be onstage at Theatre Arlington and is delighted to be performing this show with his friends. Steve loves the simplicity of the message of this show – love one another and value your friendships. Please teach your children to be kind. They learn best from your example. Thanks to my Mom and Dwain, friends and Unity of Arlington for helping me to be a better person. A reminder for everyone – Be like Pooh: kind, humble, and full of sweet stuff.

SARA RAGSDALE (Owl) graduated with a BS in Theatre from A&M Commerce. Some favorite roles include “Delilah” in Lucifer Descending, “Sidney Lipton” in God’s Favorite, “Romaine” in The Laramie Project, “Lottie” in Enchanted April, and “Jean Louise” in To Kill a Mockingbird. You can hear Sara’s VO work at FUNimation.com and find upcoming work on Twitter @Ragsdalesara . “I wish to thank my Boyfriend Brian, and my Roommate Sam, you guys keep me afloat. And lastly I want to thank my fur babies Frodo, Sammy, Duncan, Shelby, Monkey, Steve and Google.”

TYLER THOMPSON (Rabbit) was last seen on the Theatre Arlington stage as Shellhammer in Miracle on 34th Street. She is a graduate of The University of Oklahoma where she received a BFA in drama. She had the amazing opportunity of spending her final semester of college in Chicago after being accepted into The Second City’s Comedy Studies program. She is a graduate of The Second City of Chicago’s Conservatory Program as well as The iO Theater Improv Program where she performed with the Harold Team Interrobang. Tyler has studied clowning under Paola Coletto, performed at Chicago Sketchfest, Donny’s Skybox at The Second City, The Women’s Funny Festival, and The Del Close Marathon. She is a graduate of the Four Day Weekend Training Center where she performs and teaches improv classes. Tyler also enjoys teaching acting classes and private lessons at Theatre Arlington. Tyler is represented by Grit Talent Agency.

MAGGIE YOUNKIN (Tigger) is thrilled to return to the Theatre Arlington stage. She was most recently seen performing with TA’s touring company Show in a Box. Along with performing onstage, she is actively involved in TA’s education program. When not at the theatre, she loves helping people better themselves through Camp Gladiator. Maggie would like to thank her supportive family and her favorite child; you know who you are! Maggie is thrilled you are here and hopes you’re ready to JUMP into an amazing adventure!

The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas Crew

STEVEN D. MORRIS (Director) started performing with Theatre Arlington in 1981 and has done over 60 shows here as an actor, director and writer. Steve is thrilled to be the Executive Producer at Theatre Arlington and working with such a great staff and Board of Directors. When Mr. Morris retired after 27 years of being the Director of Theatre at Lamar High School the school’s auditorium was named for him. Steve is very active with his church Unity of Arlington. Steve is blessed by great love in his life from his family, friends and his canine companions Elvis and Reba. Be sure to follow Steve on Twitter, although he rarely posts and is not that interesting.

MARK DENNIS MILLER (Music Director/Keyboards) is delighted to return to Theatre Arlington for this production of The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas after having recently closed his third world premiere musical, Broadway or Bust for Pegasus Theatre. Mr. Miller served as Associate Music Director on Pegasus’ world premiere production of The Cuban and the Redhead and was MD for Oklahoma City Rep/Tulsa Performing Arts joint production of the world premiere musical, Pryor Rendering. Local: Theatre Three, ICT, Jubilee Theatre, Circle Theatre, Dallas Repertory Theatre, Dallas Summer Musicals, Dallas Theatre Center, Lyric Stage and Theatre Arlington. Regional: Maine State Music Theatre, Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma, Arkansas Rep., Oklahoma Repertory and Tulsa Performing Arts. Mr. Miller is currently a Collaborative Pianist and Vocal Coach for Texas Christian University, Weatherford College and Chisholm Trail High School. He also serves as organist for Meadowbrook UMC in East Fort Worth.

LORI WOODS BLONDIN (Choreographer) is thrilled to collaborate with Steve Morris on choreography for this production. She was last seen on the Theatre Arlington stage as Sonia Walsk in They’re Playing our Song in addition to Paulette in Legally Blonde and Adelaide in Guys and Dolls. She has been the head of the dance program and Lamar High School in Arlington for twenty years after growing up dancing at Miss Persis Studio of Dance and Dance Theatre of Arlington where she began her teaching career at the age of fifteen. As a choreographer she has worked with many local high school programs, dance studios and companies and Dallas Summer Musicals School of Musical Theatre as well as a resident choreographer for Eclipse Entertainment LLC where she wrote, cast and directed numerous industrial shows across the United States. She has an Associate Degree in Musical Theatre from Mountain View College and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre from Texas Wesleyan University. Upon graduation she began her life upon the stage at Casa Manana, Bass Hall, Circle Theatre, Theatre Three and Fair Park Music Hall to name a few. Some of her favorite roles include Charity in Sweet Charity, Bebe in A Chorus Line, Velma in Chicago and Louise in Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Love to Jayson, Mom, Dad and my amazing ViQueens who allow me to share my love of performing with them every day.

REBECCA RICKEY (Stage Manager) is grateful to be back at Theatre Arlington where she was recently Stage Manager for 9 to 5: The Musical, A Few Good Men and Blithe Spirit (Stony Award for Stage Management). Becky received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre from Oklahoma City University and worked two seasons on the technical staff at Oklahoma’s Lyric Theatre. Retired from the “corporate world,” Becky has much more free time to live the dreams life has to offer such as doing community service, theatrical productions and traveling with Dian, her beloved partner in life. Becky wants to thank Steven D. Morris and Theatre Arlington for the opportunity to contribute to this production. And oh; let’s all be kind to one another. It will change the world.

KEVIN BROWN (Set Designer) is extremely grateful to Steven and the entire Theatre Arlington (TA) Family. His previous shows at TA have been Blithe Spirit (Stony Award), Footloose (Stony Award), A Few Good Men, They’re Playing Our Song and Brighton Beach Memoirs. Kevin is an award-winning set designer and interior designer who owns Studio Brown Designs. His work includes, but is not limited to, Residential, Commercial, Multi-family Housing, Remodel Consultation, Merchandizing, Holiday Décor and Theatrical Set Design and Dressing. His work has been on various stages across the DFW area. Uptown Players, Stage West, OnStage in Bedford, MainStage Irving, Runway Theatre and Firehouse Theatre to name a few. Kevin’s favorite shows have been The Nance, It’s Only a Play, The Tribute Artist, Disaster the Musical, The View Upstairs, Cabaret (Column Award), Spring Awakening (Column Award), Xanadu, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, Peter and the Starcatcher (Column Award), Seussical (Column Award) and Billy Elliot (Best Set Design Broadway World). Kevin is excited to team up with his friend Angie (his partner in crime). www.facebook.com/StudioBrownDesigns

BRYAN STEVENSON (Lighting Designer) holds a B.F.A. in Theatre from Texas Wesleyan University and an M.F.A. in Design from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. He has designed at many local theatre companies including Fort Worth Shakespeare in the Park, Stage West, Jubilee and Circle. Nationally Bryan designs for the Boy Scouts of America National Conferences and Shows. Bryan is an active participant in the United Institute of Theatre Technology, where he has served on panels on lighting and scenic design. He is also a member Stagehands Union, IATSE local 126.

BILL EICKENLOFF (Sound Designer) is an adjunct professor and the resident Sound Designer at TCU’s Theatre Department in Fort Worth, as well as the resident Sound Designer for Theatre Arlington. He also works for Casa Mañana, Lyric Stage, Mainstage Irving Las Colinas, Brick Road Theatre, Wishing Star Productions, Prism Theatrics and the Trinity Shakespeare Festival. He is a proud graduate of Texas A&M University. See his complete bio at www.linkedin.com.

KAREN POTTER (Costume Designer) is a designer for theatre, opera, film and television. Karen’s work has been seen in various theatres and film festivals across the country. She currently works as an Assistant Professor for Texas Wesleyan University. She worked for the California Institute of the Arts as a Costume Shop Manager and Adjunct Faculty. She lives with her two children and husband in Fort Worth, Texas and works throughout the country and in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex.

ROBIN DOTSON (Properties Designer) is the proud mother of recent high school graduate Sydney, who discovered the wonderful world of theater through Theatre Arlington ten years ago and is now off to college to major in musical theater! An elementary teacher by day, Robin has worked on props for many T.A. youth shows, as well as Calendar Girls, Legally Blonde, Footloose, 9 to 5, A Few Good Men and They’re Playing Our Song at Theatre Arlington the past few seasons. Enjoy the show!

ANGIE GLOVER (Scenic Artist) began her scenic painting career at Theatre Arlington in 2017 with the show Shrek The Musical Jr. Since then, Angie has continued working as Scenic Artist at many theatre venues around the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Past artistic endeavors include fabricating Styrofoam sculptures for The Gaylord Texan, Lone Star Parade Floats, Six Flags and scenic elements for the Fort Worth Opera. When not at the theatre, Angie can usually be found up to her elbows in any number of artistic projects. As a starving-ish artist, Angie is always available for hire. Angieglover.carbonmade.comSept.

COMING
SOON!

The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas Cast

A. SOLOMON ABAH JR. (C.J. Scruggs) is in the witness protection program and wishes to stay anonymous nor answer any questions even though he’s performed in the DFW area.

AMY AREVALO (Beatrice) is thrilled to be making her Theatre Arlington debut! She is a recent graduate of Hardin-Simmons University where she received her BFA in Musical Theatre. Some of her past credits include West Side Story (Maria), Little Women (Amy March), The Amish Project (America) and Anything Goes (Erma). A special thank you to my amazing family! Enjoy the show!

ALY BADALAMENTI (Angel) is elated to be back at Theatre Arlington. Her previous credits include
Footloose and 9 to 5 The Musical. A graduate from Loyola University Chicago, she originally hails
from her hometown of Portage, Michigan, where she has been performing since age nine. Some of her
favorite stage credits include Laurey in Oklahoma!, Yonah in Children of Eden, Amber Von Tussle
in Hairspray, Kate Monster in Avenue Q, and Ilse in Spring Awakening. Thanks to her mom, d
it, and Paul for their love and support. Especially Kait for the Dolly Parton wig.

HANNAH BELL (Ruby Rae) Hannah is positively giddy to be back performing in DFW after a 7 year
absence that took her on great adventures overseas. She was last seen in See How They Run at
Circle Theatre prior to relocating to Germany, where she had the privilege of joining many
productions, the highlight of which was playing Igor in Young Frankenstein. After a two year stint
in Chongqin s an instructor and performer, she is back home, and couldn’t be
happier.

KEN’JA L BROWN (Jewel) is ecstatic to be making her first appearance with Theatre Arlington. She has had the pleasure of appearing on several stages across the DFW area, best known for her musical talents at the Bishop Arts Theatre Center (BATC). She has won the Irma P. Hall Featured Actress award for the 2016 production of Black Nativity. Ken’ja also appeared as ‘Mama Nadi’ in Lynn Nottage’s Ruined, which won the Irma P. Hall award for best play of 2016. She is a native of Chicago who has made Texas her home. Although she does enjoy her traditional employment, being on the stage is where her heart fills with extreme joy. “I thank God, my Mom (R.I.H.), my boys and my partner for their love and support that has gotten me to this point and beyond.

TREY CARDONA (Aggie #77) is delighted to be making his Theatre Arlington debut. Cardona has a Bachelor of Arts from Texas Wesleyan University. Some of Cardona’s favorite roles include Bobby Strong (Urinetown), Henry (Next to Normal), Chip Tolentino (25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee), Favorite Son (American Idiot!) and Tom (Table Manners). He has been in many DFW theater productions ranging from Lyric Stage, GPAC, Stolen Shakespeare, Runway Theatre, Ohlook! and MPM Studio Theater. Cardona would like to thank his parents, siblings, and Mariah for the love and support.

CHRISTINE CHAMBERS (Dogette) is happy to be amongst so many friends and colleagues in this production of The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas! In the past, she has been in 9 other musicals at TA, the most recent being The Magical City of Oz as Aunt Em. Some favorite roles and shows she has performed in are Annie in Annie Get Your Gun, Maria in West Side Story, Fiona in Brigadoon, Widow Corney in Oliver and Eva Peron in Evita (National Tour). She has been teaching private voice and coaching performance for almost 30 years. She has a Vocal studio in South Arlington. She also teaches Theatre Voice at Texas Wesleyan University. She would like to thank friends and family for their constant love and support of her Theatre Needs!!!

CALLIE CUNNINGHAM (Durla) is grateful to be back on the TA stage! Previous Theatre Arlington credits include They’re Playing Our Song, Guys and Dolls, Hello, Dolly!, etc. She was most recently seen in Stolen Shakespeare Guild’s production of Anything Goes, where she also performed in the 2019 Shakespeare festival and White Christmas. Callie is an actual Aggie (Class of 2013-whoop!) and a speech pathologist in real life. She also teaches dance at Miss Persis Studio and sends her love to the Persii and the most supportive parents a girl could ask for.
Romans 8:38-39.

MICAH GREEN (Melvin P. Thorpe) hopes you are having as much fun watching this show as he is performing it! If you want to learn anything about him, feel free to say “Hi” afterwards!

MICHAEL GREEN (Senator Wingwoah) is thrilled to be making his Theatre Arlington debut with the amazing cast of BLWIT. Past roles include Perchik in Fiddler on the Roof (WCT), Asher/brother in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (WCT) and The Wedding Singer with Stolen Shakespeare Guild. Many thanks to the cast, crew, directors of the show and to all of his friends and family for their love and support!! Michael is a proud member of the Texas A&M Class of 2010. Yee-haw!

MARY GILBREATH GRIM (Miss Mona) is very excited to be back at Theatre Arlington. She was last seen at TA as Violet in 9 to 5 The Musical. She has performed professionally in over 60 musical productions in the DFW area including venues such as Bass Hall, Stage West, Circle Theatre, Irving Arts Center, Dallas Children’s Theatre, Casa Manana, and WaterTower Theatre. Some favorite roles include Mother in Ragtime with Lyric Stage, the Baker’s Wife in Into the Woods with Lyric Stage and Ella in Bells are Ringing with MainStage Irving. Mary has her degree in vocal performance from Texas Wesleyan University and is a theatre teacher in Fort Worth.

ERIC HELSEL (Mayor Rufus Poindexter) is thrilled to be back for a second season with Theatre Arlington. He appeared in Miracle on 34th Street and A Few Good Men last season.
Eric enjoys being a father to his two children and would like to thank his wife, J’vette for her support and introducing him to the theater. He is a graduate of UT Arlington with a BA in International Business. He would like to thank Steven Morris for the opportunity to be part of this production.

DANIEL HERNANDEZ (Governor) is thrilled to be performing again at Theatre Arlington. He was most recently seen on the TA stage as one of the voices of Vernon Gersch in They’re Playing Our Song, as Drunken Santa/Mr. Macy in Miracle on 34th Street, the Cowardly Lion in The Magical City of Oz and as Dwayne in 9 to 5 The Musical and was also featured as Riff Raff in Brookhaven’s production of Rocky Horror in the summer of 2017. He has appeared in Texas Wesleyan University Opera Workshop productions of Cosi fan Tutte as Ferrando and Manon as Le Chevalier des Grieux. Daniel was the assistant musical director for Nolan Catholic Theater productions of Shrek the Musical and The Addams Family. He has taught elementary music throughout Fort Worth, works as a Lead Drama Instructor for C.A.S.T. in Coppell, and received his B.A. in Vocal Performance from Texas Wesleyan University.

LAYNE HILL (Aggie #71) is ecstatic to be a part of his first Theatre Arlington show! He was last seen as Amos on the Martin Theatre stage. He would like to thank Director Steven D. Morris for this wonderful opportunity! Good show everyone!

BRIA HUCKABY (Eloise) is thrilled to make her Theatre Arlington debut with this fun comedic show. She’s a recent graduate from Texas Wesleyan University with a BA in Theatre. At Wesleyan her credits include The Hostage (Meg Dillion), Oklahoma: The Musical (Gertie), The Important Hats of the 20th Century (Bev) and Blithe Spirit (Mrs. Bradman). Some of her technical credits include Tartuffe (Properties Designer), Spring Awakening (Set Crew), Urinetown: The Musical (Asst. Properties Designer), VSMS (Hair & Make-up), Stop Kiss (Wardrobe Crew) and When the Rain Stops Falls (Box Office Staff). She also starred in Neil Simon’s Female Odd Couple (Vera) at the MPM Studio Theatre and Kentucky (Bridesmaid) at the Imprint Theatre. Come on down to the Chicken Ranch, ain’t nothing dirty going on.

NANCY LAMB (Wulla Jean / Dogette) keeps busy on stages around the Dallas/Ft. Worth area, including Stolen Shakespeare Guild, Theatre Frisco, Tarrant Actor’s Regional Theatre, Rover Dramawerks, Theatre Britain, Lily and Joan and Casa Mañana. Favorite roles include Betty/The Foreigner; Mag/Beauty Queen of Lenane; Dolly/Hello Dolly; Halie/Buried Child; Nanny/Hollywood Arms; Shylock/Merchant of Venice. Her previous TA roles were Carrie/Whodunnit, The Musical and Mrs. Clark and pianist/Best Christmas Pageant Ever.

DONOVAN MARIE LAWSON (Shy) was last seen on the TA stage as Dorothy in The Magical City of Oz! Donovan grew up on the TA stage as a youth in various shows and continues to love performing on this stage as an adult. Donovan is a graduate of Oklahoma City University where she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre for Young Audiences with a Directing minor. She started performing at a young age at Miss Persis Studio and around DFW. Favorite credits: Rusty (Footloose), Kathy (9 to 5, The Musical), Reno (Anything Goes), Godspell and Beauty and the Beast. Special thank you to Morris, Mark and Lori for this opportunity and thank you to my family, Tevin, and work family for all the support!

MICHAEL MCCRARY (Aggie #17) This is Michael’s second show at Theatre Arlington, and he is super thankful for the cast and crew as well as the cast and crew of Brighton Beach Memoirs for making his experience at this theatre a great one.

ALEXANDRA KOENEKE NEARY (Taddy Jo / Imogene Charlene / Dance Captain) is excited to be returning for her third show with Theatre Arlington! She was previously seen here in 9 to 5 The Musical (Candy Striper, Dance Captain) and Footloose (Ensemble). Other previous shows include Tony N’ Tina’s Wedding (Donna – ACT), Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (Ensemble – GPAC), Beverly Hillbillies (Elly May – Upstage Theatre) and Blood Wedding (Wife – Birdville). She’d like to thank her closest family and friends who support and love her unconditionally; they mean the world to her!

BOB REED* (Sheriff Ed Earl Dodd) is thrilled to be making his Theatre Arlington debut as Sheriff Ed Earl Dodd and equally honored to be the first Equity actor to work under Theatre Arlington’s new “Small Professional Theater” contract. He appeared recently as Wilbur in the highly acclaimed run of Hairspray at the Winspear Opera House in Dallas. Some of his musical roles include: Frank in Showboat, Sonny in Grease, Will Parker in Oklahoma and Jeff Douglas in Brigadoon. Other featured roles include Andrew in I Hate Hamlet, Ken in Rumors, Charlie in On Golden Pond, Drucilla in Cinderella and Luther Billis in South Pacific with Tony Award winner Sutton Foster. More recently he was seen as William Fox in Fetch Clay Make Man, Detective Jim Leavell in Oswald: The Actual Interrogation and as Alan in God of Carnage.

GEORGE SEPULVEDA III (Doctor) is excited to be back on stage at Theatre Arlington after appearing in Footloose, Hello, Dolly!, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas and Guys and Dolls. He has also performed various roles with theatres in Mansfield and Plano, Texas. He has directed many musicals, and helped with the musical direction of many more. Most of his time and energy is spent on his day jobteaching music at Atherton Elementary in Arlington ISD, and he is also the Co-Director of Arlington’s elementary honor choir, the Arlington Children’s Chorus. He received his Bachelor of Music Education from Baylor University.

ALFREDO TAMAYO (Aggie #21 / Dogette) is a recent graduate from Texas Wesleyan University. This will be his Theatre Arlington debut! He wants to thank Steve for this wonderful opportunity and his friends and family for their continued support! Good show!

KYLIE REYNOLDS THORNTON (Dawn) is thrilled to be returning to the Theatre Arlington stage after a long hiatus. Favorite previous roles include Little Sally in Urinetown, Olivia in Twelfth Night (both at Trinity University) and Kenni in Becky’s New Car (Theatre Arlington). When not performing, Kylie is a Production Scheduler at Alcon and enjoys watching movies with her husband and dog. She is also proud to serve on the Theatre Arlington Board of Directors. Many thanks to Steve, Mark and Lori for this opportunity! Love to my family, Cole and ZoZo.

PATRICE TILLEY (Doatsey Mae) is excited to return to the Theatre Arlington stage after quite a hiatus. If you’ve been around long enough, you may remember her as Prudie in Theatre Arlington’s production of Pump Boys and Dinettes – both at the “old” theatre and when it opened the very first season of Theatre Arlington at this location. Some of her other Theatre Arlington productions have included Quilters, The Women, You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown and Broadway Bound. Patrice earned her M.F.A. in Acting and Directing from the University of Southern Mississippi and has performed nationally and internationally in musical theatre companies. Patrice is proud to have toured with Armed Forces Professional Entertainment serving our troops in the Multi-National Peace Keeping Forces in the Middle East and our service men and women throughout Germany. She is married to Mark Tilley and a member of the First United Methodist Church of Irving Chancel Choir, which will be performing at Carnegie Hall in New York this coming November!

TYRELL WASHINGTON (Aggie #11) is an up-and-coming actor and it’s been an amazing experience. He appreciates everyone who has helped him through this journey. After having some difficulties, he decided to give track and field and football a break to figure out what was physically and mentally best for him. The fine arts have always been his first love and he is happy to express it in this show.

MOISES ABRAN ZAMORA (Aggie / Ensemble) This marks Moises’ second appearance at Theatre Arlington since Hello, Dolly! (2015), and he is beyond thrilled to be back with such a great cast and crew! Previous credits include Linville/Ensemble in Damn Yankees (TART), Cardigan in Sleigh Hard with a Vengeance (Camp Death), Santiago in A Few Good Men (Granbury), Sánchez/Mac in Peter and the Starcatcher (Onstage) and Robertson Aye in Mary Poppins (Rockwall). Other credits include South Pacific, Meet Me in St. Louis and Mary Poppins (Granbury), Peter Pan (Rockwall) and Songs for a New World (NTPA Repertory Theatre). His training background comes from The American Musical and Dramatic Academy of New York City (Integrated/Conservatory Program). Many thanks to his family, friends and mentors! @moi_zamoraCooper

Nik Blocker

A native South Carolinian, Nik Blocker is an Actor, Choreographer, and Theatre Artist living in Arlington, Texas. He received his training in Mass Communications, Theatre, and Dance. Nik has competed in local and state-level competitions in Play-writing, Prose Interpretation, Costume Design, and Acting, and was twice nominated to compete in the National Irene Ryan Scholarship Competition. He’s also competed on State and World level in Marching Band and Winter Guard. His choreography has been seen in both states, and most recently at Runway Theater for The Addams Family. As an actor, his recent performances include Peter and The Starcatcher as Mrs. Bumbrake (Onstage In Bedford), Quanah as Ensemble (Lyric Stage) and Crooks in Of Mice and Men (The Firehouse Theatre). Nik has also taught workshops in Acting and Dance to local and international students and hopes to continue to spread the love of the arts!

Monica Dane

Monica Dane, M.A.- Monica received her Bachelor of Music with a concentrate in Musical Theatre from The University of Texas at Arlington and her Master of Arts in Vocal Pedagogy from Texas Woman’s University while studying under Master Pedagogue, now retired Voice Professor (TWU) and former lead performer for the Metropolitan Opera, Joan Wall. Monica enjoys singing many genres of music from Broadway, Pop, Blues, Classical, Gospel and Praise and Worship. Some of her favorite Opera roles with The Regal Opera Company that span over 20 years include Lady Angela in Gilbert & Sullivan’s Patience, Little Red Riding Hood from the children’s opera, Little Red Riding Hood by Barab, Jenny in Down in the Valley, Monica in The Medium, Yum-Yum in The Mikado, Giannetta in The Elixir of Love, Annina in La Traviata, Sally in Die Fledermaus, First Lady in The Magic Flute and First Friend in The Ballad of Baby Doe. She has also performed with The Promise in Glenrose, TX as a feature soloist playing The Woman at the Well. Monica has had the wonderful opportunity to be an “off-stage singer” in Peter Pan with Cathy Rigby at Bass Hall. She has previously performed live on TV for various Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) programs. During the Summer, you can find her at Theatre Arlington musical directing the Summer Theatre Camps for ages 3-16. During the holiday season, you can find her dressed in Victorian attire and performing caroling gigs throughout the DFW Metroplex with Holiday Cheer Entertainment. She also just recently (July 2019) sang the National Anthem at the Ballpark in Arlington with the Regal Opera Chorale. Ms. Dane has taught voice and musical theatre for over 25 years and currently teaches voice at Heritage Middle School, Southlake-Carroll Senior High School and Theatre Arlington. She has previously taught voice at Casa Manana, Lifesong, The Master’s Touch School of Music, Creative Arts Theatre & School, Faith Christian School, L.D. Bell High School, Grapevine High School, Colleyville Middle School and North Richland Middle School. Many of her students have been successful under her instruction including Grammy nominated and 9-time Dove Award nominated (4 of which she won) Singer, Songwriter and Worship Leader, Kari Jobe. Ms. Dane is a current member of TMEA and a former member of NATS and served as Secretary for the DFW NATS Chapter, and a former member of the Regal Opera Board of Directors. Monica has three children, Jake (19 years), Meredith (17 years) and Audra (13 years) a dog, Katie and Max, their cat without a tail.

Acts App

2023 FALL CLASS REGISTRATION OPENS AUGUST 1

Music by Alan Menken
Lyrics by Jack Feldman
Book by Harvey Fierstein
JR. Script Adaptation by David Simpatico
Based on the Disney film written by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White

Newsies, Jr. Public Performances:

June 21, 2022 @10 am – Buy Tickets
June 21, 2022 @2 pm – Buy Tickets

June 22, 2022 @10 am – Buy Tickets
June 22, 2022 @2 pm – Buy Tickets

June 23, 2022 @10 am – Buy Tickets
June 23, 2022 @2 pm – Buy Tickets

June 24 , 2022 @ 2 pm – Buy Tickets

Book by Meredith Willson
Music and Lyrics by Meredith Willson
Based on a story by Meredith Willson and Franklin Lacey

Book and Lyrics by Willie Reale
Music by Robert Reale
Based on the books by Arnold Lobel

2023 FALL CLASS REGISTRATION OPENS AUGUST 1

Music by Alan MenkenLyrics by Jack FeldmanBook by Harvey FiersteinJR. Script Adaptation by David SimpaticoBased on the Disney film written by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White

Newsies, Jr. Public Performances:

June 21, 2022 @10 am – Buy Tickets June 21, 2022 @2 pm – Buy Tickets

June 22, 2022 @10 am – Buy TicketsJune 22, 2022 @2 pm – Buy Tickets

June 23, 2022 @10 am – Buy TicketsJune 23, 2022 @2 pm – Buy Tickets

June 24 , 2022 @ 2 pm – Buy Tickets

Book by Meredith WillsonMusic and Lyrics by Meredith WillsonBased on a story by Meredith Willson and Franklin Lacey

Book and Lyrics by Willie RealeMusic by Robert RealeBased on the books by Arnold Lobel

Music by Alan Menken
Lyrics by Jack Feldman
Book by Harvey Fierstein
JR. Script Adaptation by David Simpatico
Based on the Disney film written by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White

June 21, 2022 @10 am – Buy Tickets
June 21, 2022 @2 pm – Buy Tickets

June 22, 2022 @10 am – Buy Tickets
June 22, 2022 @2 pm – Buy Tickets

June 23, 2022 @10 am – Buy Tickets
June 23, 2022 @2 pm – Buy Tickets

Book by Meredith Willson
Music and Lyrics by Meredith Willson
Based on a story by Meredith Willson and Franklin Lacey

Book and Lyrics by Willie Reale
Music by Robert Reale
Based on the books by Arnold Lobel