January 10 – 26, 2020
Comedy
By David Lindsay-Abaire
Directed by Sharon Kaye Miller
| Sponsored By | Opening Night Sponsored By |
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Sundays at 2 pm
A sunny room on an upper floor is prime real estate in the Bristol Place Senior Living Facility, so when the cantankerous Abby is forced to share her quarters with new-arrival Marilyn, she has no choice but to get rid of the infuriatingly chipper woman by any means necessary. A seemingly harmless bet between the old women quickly escalates into a dangerous game of one-upmanship that reveals not just the tenacity of these worthy opponents, but also deeper truths that each would rather remain hidden.
STRONG ADULT LANGUAGE
Appropriate for audiences aged 16 and up
Presented through special arrangement with Dramatists Play Services
$26.00 (includes $2 online ticket processing fee)
Discounts available for seniors, students & groups!
CAST
Abby Binder: Drenda Lewis
Scotty: Jovane Caamano
Marilyn Dunne: Debbie Brown*
Derek/Zombie Butler: Robbie Clark
Clown/Lewis/Benjamin: Brendon McMahon
Colleen/Woman in White: Abi Abel
* Appears courtesy of Actor’s Equity Association
PRODUCTION TEAM
Director: Sharon Kaye Miller
Stage Manager: Hailee Dyer
Lighting and Set Designer: Bryan Stevenson
Sound Designer: Bill Eickenloff
Costume Designer: Sharon Kaye Miller
Properties Designer: Robin Dotson
Scenic Artist: Angie Glover
Set Construction: Lazaro Espinoza
Ripcord LIVE
Photography by Eric Younkin Photography
- All Tickets are Held at WILL CALL for every performance (We do not mail out tickets).
- Seating begins 30 minutes prior to curtain.
- No Refunds or Exchanges. All sales are FINAL.
- No lap seats or children under the age of three permitted
- Photography, video or audio recording is strictly forbidden.
- Please turn off all cell phones and noise makers.
- No food or beverage are allowed inside the theater.
- Tickets not picked up by 5 minutes before show time may be released to those on the waiting list.
If you should have any problems with our new ticketing platform, please call our box office at 817.275.7661. Thank You!
For assistance with handicap seating or other special needs, please contact our box office at 817.275.7661.
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.
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! 
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. 
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. 
NATALIE KING (Director) 
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. 
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) 
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. 
LANDRY BECKLEY (T.J.)
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
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, 
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 
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
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.
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!
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.
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!
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!” 
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
DIANE POWELL dedicates her performance to her parents, Don and Terry Powell. She also thanks Donna for her continued support.
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.
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.
REMA MARTINEZ
DARRET HART 
DAVID COFFEE
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 
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
JAKE KELLY HARRIS 
TIM CRABB
NOLAN SHAVER
SEAN SICARD
LAYNE HILL
ERIC HELSEL
MATTIE LILLIAN DAVIS
TORRE YOUNGHANS 
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 
LISA WARD
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
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). 
ROBIN DOTSON
ANGIE GLOVER 
MARK DENNIS MILLER
KAREN MURK POTTER (Costume Designer) 
BRYAN STEVENSON
LAUREN URSO 
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).
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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. 
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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
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 34th 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.
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.
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!
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.
A. SOLOMO
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
HANNAH BELL (Ruby Rae) Hannah is positively giddy to be back performing in DFW after a 7 year
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!!!
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.
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.
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!
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
uth 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!