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Raisin 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. |
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
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.
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. 
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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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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.
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.
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!
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.
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 Assistant.