June 18-22
July 9-13, 2014
This joyful, high-energy romp is a perfect theatrical experience for the whole family. Gleefully based on the Old Testament tale of Joseph and his coat of many colors, this supremely popular musical is the brainchild of two young British men, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, who launched their phenomenal careers with this delightful show. Catchy songs include “Any Dream Will Do,” “Go-Go-Go Joseph,” “A Pharaoh’s Story,” “One More Angel,” “Benjamin Calypso,” and “Close Every Door.”
Lyrics Tim Rice
Music Andrew Lloyd Webber
IAN PATRICK GIBB (Joseph) is so excited to be back at MTWichita where he was a member of the resident company for 5 wonderful summers (2001-2003, 2008 and 2009), and had the pleasure of returning last summer as Marius in Les Misérables. A graduate of Oklahoma City University, Ian spent two and a half years on the 25th Anniversary National Tour of Les Misérables where he played the role of Jean Prouvaire and understudied Marius. Regionally, Ian has performed with Paper Mill Playhouse, Pittsburgh CLO, The Fireside Theater, and The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. Favorite roles include Dean in All Shook Up, Joseph in Joseph… Dreamcoat, the Production Tenor in The Producers, and Lucas in The Student Prince. Ian’s two albums, Fill in the Words and The Time of Year for Miracles, are currently available on iTunes or by going to his website www.ianpatrickgibb.com. Following Joseph, Ian will head to California to begin rehearsals at the La Jolla Playhouse for the pre-Broadway premiere of Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame, in which he will understudy the title character. Ian couldn’t thank his family, The Mine, Wayne, Nancy, and the whole MTW gang enough for all of their support. Mom and Dad this is for you! Twitter: @ianpatrickgibbAffair,” “Do Over” and The Parent Trap.
DARCIE ROBERTS (The Narrator) is a Broadway actress whose credits on the Great White Way include Crazy for You, Curtains, Aida, Dream – The Songs of Johnny Mercer, and the pre-Broadway tour of Busker Alley, as leading lady opposite Tommy Tune. She starred in the National Tours of Thoroughly Modern Millie and Barry Manilow’s Copacabana, and the international tour of 42ndStreet. A familiar face to MTWichita audiences, Darcie began here as a 15-year old, playing Maggie in A Chorus Line, with subsequent roles including Mother in Ragtime, Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady, Polly in Crazy for You, Georgia in Curtains, Gigi in Gigi, Martha Jefferson in 1776, Tzeitel in Fiddler on the Roof, Peggy Sawyer in 42nd Street, Emily Arden in State Fair, featured singer in Smokey Joe’s Café, and Judy Bernly in 9 to 5. Other starring roles in regional productions include Rita in Leap of Faith, Fanny Brice in Funny Girl, Eva Peron in Evita, Cassie in A Chorus Line, Polly in Crazy for You, Lola in Damn Yankees, Cindy Lou in The Marvelous Wonderettes and Peggy in The Andrews Brothers. Darcie has been married for 17 years to her best friend Troy and together they have 3 crazy boys – ages 8, 4 and 2! She is thrilled to be back on the MTWichita stage working with such wonderful friends – old and new.
NICHOLAS F. SAVERINE (Jacob / Potiphar) is thrilled to be back “home” in Wichita! He was the first recipient of the Elizabeth B. Koch Young Artist Fellowship Grant, and a graduate of the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, University of Central Oklahoma, and Wichita State University, where he studied voice with Dr. George Gibson and Dr. Dorothy Crum. Audiences may remember Nick from his numerous MTWichita roles, including Jean Valjean in Les Misérables (twice!), Max in Sunset Boulevard, Archibald in The Secret Garden, Quixote in Man of La Mancha, Rev. Moore in Footloose, Father in Children of Eden, Tony in The Most Happy Fella, Carriere in Phantom, Gus/ Growltiger/ Bustopher Jones in Cats, and his favorite as Wayne’s dad Clem Rogers in The Will Rogers Follies! Also twice! Nick is also very proud to have performed locally with the Mosley Street Melodrama, Cabaret Oldtown, Crown Uptown, Wichita Center for the Arts, Wichita Community Theatre, Opera Kansas, Wichita Symphony, and WSU Opera Theatre. Nick performed in numerous Words and Music editions with Stage One, and has directed and designed sets for Music Theatre for Young People. Other credits include Broadway: The Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables; Tours: Joseph … Dreamcoat; Caroline, or Change; Les Miserables; European: The Phantom of the Opera (Vienna/Hamburg), Les Misérables, Dance of the Vampires (Vienna); Regional: Man of La Mancha (Light Opera Works), Most Happy Fella (American Music Theatre of San Jose), A Christmas Carol (People’s Light and Theatre), The Baker’s Wife (Arden Theatre), Annie Get Your Gun (Hal Prince Theater), Annie, Annie Warbucks and Les Misérables (Walnut Street Theatre), Little Shop of Horrors and The Pirates of Penzance (Louisiana Lyric Opera), Jacques Brel Is … (Skylight Theatre), Camelot (West Virginia Public), and Oliver! and Sunset Boulevard (Media Theatre). Nick would like to thank Wayne, Lyndy, Jeromy, Thomas, and Nancy for another awesome experience in a long list of awesome experiences!d Coudriet. www.JoanneJavien.com
RYAN VASQUEZ (Pharaoh) is thrilled to be back at MTWichita for another summer, where this season he will be featured as Lieutenant Cable in South Pacific, Tony in West Side Story, and the Pharaoh in Joseph / Dreamcoat. Previous MTW appearances include Legally Blonde (Warner), Honk! (Greylag), and 9 to 5 (Joe). Other credits include Les Misérables (St. Louis Muny), Next to Normal (Farmers Alley Theatre), Bat Boy, and Spring Awakening. Proud University of Michigan Graduate. Love to my family, friends, and Wayne, all for daring to have so much faith in me.
BROOKE LACY (Mrs. Potiphar), a 2014 graduate of the University of Oklahoma with a BFA in Musical Theatre, is truly grateful to return to MTWichita for a third magical summer season before she bids farewell to the Midwest and moves to NYC this fall! Some of her fondest MTW memories include Spamalot (Laker Girl),Les Misérables (Factory Girl #5), and Mary Poppins (Fannie). Favorite OU credits include: Carousel (Julie Jordan), On The Town (Dance Capt./ Ens.), and Seussical (Bird Girl). Tremendous amounts of love and thanks to her wonderful family for their support, and to Wayne, Nancy, and Josh for providing such an inspirational, challenging, and supportive learning environment that has largely contributed to the performer and person she is today!
ROBERT ARIZA (The Butler) is honored to be in his third season at MTWichita! Originally from Queens, NY, Robert is a recent graduate of The University of Michigan. UM credits include Dance with Me (Featured Singer), Disney’s workshop of Bedknobs and Broomsticks (Radio Singer), Crazy for You (Bela Zangler),Sunday in the Park with George (Mr./Lee Randolph), Spring Awakening (Hanschen), Next Fall (Brandon). Robert was the recipient of the 2013 Roger Sturtevant Musical Theatre Award from Actors’ Equity Association, and recently received the Lys Symonette Award from the Lotte Lenya Competition. Thanks to everyone at MTW and my friends/family at UM and in NY.
MATTHEW BORCHERS (Benjamin) is beyond stoked to be making his MTWichita debut! A St. Louis native, he will start his senior year this fall with the Weitzenhoffer School of Musical Theatre at The University of Oklahoma. Credits: OKC Philharmonic: The Christmas Show (Mistletoe Dancer). Lyric Theatre OKC: Bye Bye Birdie (Harvey Johnson). OU University: The Drowsy Chaperone (Superintendent), Carousel (Dance Captain), On The Town (Ensemble), Seussical (Ensemble). Endless thanks to Wayne and Nancy for this amazing opportunity; so much gratitude and love to the Big Man Upstairs, family, friends and teachers for their constant love and guidance. BOOMER!
JACOB CHANCELLOR (Levi) is thrilled to be returning to Wichita for his third summer. Originally from Edmond, OK, he just finished his senior year at the University of Oklahoma—Boomer Sooner! OU University: On The Town (Chip), The Drowsy Chaperone (Aldolpho), … Forum (Protean), Carousel. Lyric Theatre OKC – Xanadu, 42nd Street, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Broadway Rose (Oregon): The Drowsy Chaperone (George). And of course, 10 fabulous MTWichita productions over the past few years—here’s to 5 more! Thanks and love to family, friends, and the whole MTWichita team!
KEVIN CLAY (Simeon) is a junior at Penn State pursuing a BFA in Musical Theatre. Some of his favorite roles there include Nathan Detroit in Guys and Dolls and John in John and Jen. Kevin spent last summer performing at the Wagon Wheel Theatre in Indiana where he had the pleasure to play Pinocchio in Shrek, Barnaby in Hello, Dolly!, and Jinx in Forever Plaid. He is so excited to be a part of this season here at Wichita and looks forward to a great summer! Thanks to mom, dad, and Crew 15!
CALEB DICKE is thrilled to be returning to Wichita for his third summer! You may remember him from past shows, such as Fiddler on the Roof (Russian), Honk! (Barnacles), Spamalot (Flying Nun), and Mary Poppins (Dancing Statue). Originally from Ohio, he is a recent dance performance graduate from Oklahoma City University. While at OCU, he has performed in the American Spirit Dance Company’s Home for the Holidays Christmas Show and Spring Show, as well as Legally Blonde (Kiki) and The Wedding Singer (Billy Idol). He would like to thank Wayne, Nancy, and his family.
MICHAEL GRACEFFA (Stewpot) is thrilled to be spending his first summer with MTWichita! He has recently been seen traveling American with the First National Tour of Catch Me If You Can. Regional Credits: Forestburgh Playhouse, North Shore Music Theatre, Reagle Music Theatre. Favorite roles: Bernardo (West Side Story), Rocky (Rocky Horror Show), Kyle (Legally Blonde). A recent Vassar College grad with a BA in Drama. Love to his amazing teachers, family, and friends.
WONZA JOHNSON (Henry) is a current BFA Musical Theater junior at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. This is his first summer with MTWichita and he couldn’t be more excited to be working with such an amazing organization. All thanks go to his beautiful Mom, Dad and his newborn sister Evelyn. Past Roles:Romeo and Juliet (Romeo), Little Shop of Horrors (Seymour),West Side Story (Bernardo). “Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can’t Lose.”
TREVOR McCHRISTIAN, a Wichita native, is beyond excited to be returning for his fourth summer and first full summer as a company member here at MTWichita! In summer 2013, he was honored to represent MTWichita’s Jester Awards in New York City at the National High School Musical Theatre Awards for his role as Finch in How to Succeed. Favorite credits include Betty Blue Eyes (U.S. Premiere), Singin’ in the Rain, Fiddler on the Roof, and Disney’s The Little Mermaid. He sends many humble thanks to Wayne, Nancy, Josh, Thomas, Amy, Doris, and his family for their abundance of support.
ALEXANDER H. MILLER is honored to return to MTWichita for a second season. Alex is a rising junior at the Univ. of Michigan. Credits include MTW: Mary Poppins (Bert u/s), Les Misérables(Jean Prouvaire), Betty Blues Eyes. U of M: Rent (Angel),Les Misérables (Foreman), Crazy For You, A Little Night Music. Lyric Theatre of OK: Oliver!, Hairspray. Alex wishes to graciously thank Wayne, Nancy and MTW family for this spectacular summer opportunity. Love always to Mom, Dad and Elle. Thank you to the UMich faculty for your time and dedication to our education in performing arts. GO BLUE!
TANNER PFLUEGER is so excited and honored to be making his Wichita debut this summer. A Nebraska native, Tanner is currently studying at Oklahoma City University as a dance performance major. While at school, he has performed in the American Spirit Dance Company’s annual Home for the Holidays Christmas Show and Spring Show. Credits include Broadway: Billy Elliot (Billy) West End: Billy Elliot (Billy) Regional:Grease (Johnny Casino/ Teen Angel), Seussical (Wickersham Brother), and Beauty and the Beast (Chip). Much love and many thanks to his family, teachers, and mentors for their constant support. endless support!
JULIAN RAMOS is a recent graduate from Indiana University in Musical Theatre and couldn’t be more excited to join the MTWichita family this summer! For Rocky Mountain Rep: A Chorus Line (Richie), How To Succeed (Toynbee/ Pirate Dancer), and Peter Pan. In 2012 he attended the School at Jacob’s Pillow for Jazz/ MT Dance under Chet Walker. Favorites at IU include: [title of show] (Jeff), Hair, Damn Yankees, Chicago, and touring China with the Singing Hoosiers. So much love and thanks to Mom, Pops, Mis Abuelos (Te quiero mucho), Wayne, Nancy, and my crazy B-Town Family!!
LUKE STEINHAUER (Asher) was thrilled to make his MTWichita debut as Big Deal in West Side Story. Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Luke is currently pursuing his BFA in musical theatre at The University of Michigan. Recent U of M Credits: Crazy for You, Bedknobs and Broomsticks (Disney Theatricals Workshop), Romeo and Juliet and In the Next Room. Luke has also performed with the Pittsburgh CLO in Singin’ in the Rain, The Music Man, Grease, and Oklahoma!, and at Theatre Aspen as the role of Schroeder in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown! Luke is also a National YoungArts Foundation winner in spoken and musical theatre. Many thanks to family, friends, and MTW for this wonderful opportunity.
DARYL TOFA is excited to be making his professional stage debut with MTWichita this summer, performing on the same stage as his older brother Andy. Daryl comes from St George, UT where he will be completing high school and his 2-year College Associates Degree at the same time this coming year. At the age of 9 he began studying ballet, jazz and tap at his home studio where he now teaches his own style of hip hop to children and teens and also continues to study and perform. Daryl would like to thank his directors from back home, Brian and Melinda for everything they have done for him, for without them I would be who I am and where I am today! Daryl sends love to Mom, Dad and little brother Gordon, thanks for all you do and always supporting me.
CAITLIN BELCIK is thrilled to be a first-year MTWichita company member after last performing here at age 11! Caitlin just graduated from Edmond North H.S. in Oklahoma and will be a freshman musical theatre major at Penn State University this fall. Broadway: How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (Annie Who); Regional: White Christmas (Susan Waverly) – MTW; Sweet Charity, Bye Bye Birdie, Tarzan, Sound of Music, HSM2, Fiddler, Oklahoma!, Annie – Lyric Theatre; A Little Night Music (Fredrika) – OCU; Annie (Annie) – Sooner Theatre; West Side Story (Maria) – ENHS. Much love and gratitude to Wayne, Nancy and the entire MTW team for this wonderful opportunity, and to my parents and teachers for their support!
REBECCA GANS is overjoyed to be joining the MTWichita family again for her second season. Rebecca is a Wichita native who recently graduated from Oklahoma City University with a Bachelor of Performing Arts in Dance Performance. Some favorite performing opportunities include A Chorus Line (Bebe) at the Crown Uptown Dinner Theater and The King and I(Topsy) at MTW and The Muny. She would love to thank Wayne Bryan for this amazing opportunity, all the directors and choreographers for such hard work and dedication, her parents, sisters and Rile for their endless love and support, and to God for such a blessing of a life.
CLAIRE GERIG (Nellie u/s), a Wichita native, couldn’t be happier to spend another summer with MTWichita, where credits include Disney’s Mary Poppins (Mrs. Banks) and Betty Blue Eyes (Mrs. Metcalf). She is a recent musical theatre graduate of Wichita State University where she was last seen in the title role of Violet, directed by Stephen Kopel. While a student at Maize High School, Claire was selected to represent the Jester Awards in the Leading Actress category at the National High School Musical Theater Awards in New York City and was awarded “The Spirit of the Jimmys” award. Endless thanks to Wayne and the incredible MTW family for all they have done for her. Love to Linda, Amy, Marie, Bret, Pina, Mom & Dad.sing of a life.
CATHERINE HELM (Ens. Janet MacGregor) is so excited to join Music Theatre Wichita for a third summer season. A recent graduate of the University of Cincinnati and its College Conservatory of Music’s Musical Theatre Program, Catherine would like to thank Wayne, Nancy, and Josh for this incredible opportunity to be a part of the MTW family, and her parents and family for their endless love and support. Favorite MTW credits include Betty Blue Eyes, Les Misérables, Honk!, Mary Poppins (Katie Nana), and Fiddler on the Roof.
LILY KAUFMANN couldn’t be more excited to be making her MTWichita debut! Lily just completed her freshman year at Florida State University where she is pursuing a BFA in Music Theatre. As a native Kansan, Lily has worked in theaters in Kansas City such as KC Starlight, New Theatre Restaurant, Theatre in the Park, Music Theatre for Young People, and more. Favorite credits include The Drowsy Chaperone (Janet Van DeGraff), Seussical (Mayzie), Bye Bye Birdie (Rosie),Spamalot (u/s Lady of the Lake/ Laker Girl), My Favorite Year (Alice), and Urinetown (Little Becky Two Shoes). Endless love goes out to her unbelievably supportive family, friends, mentors and MTW for this wonderful opportunity!
KELSEY RYAN MOORE (Liat u/s) is from Stuart, FL and is so excited to be making her MTWichita debut this summer! She is a graduate of the University of Michigan Musical Theatre Department where she has played Fredrika in A Little Night Music and Susie in Crazy For You. Other favorite roles include Eponine in Les Misérables and Ti Moune in Once On This Island. Many thanks to MTW for this wonderful opportunity and to her family for their unending support. She sends love to MT14 and forever Go Blue!
BECCA PETERSEN is so excited to spend her second summer with MTWichita! She is originally from Carmel, Indiana, and recently graduated with a BFA in Music Dance Theatre from Brigham Young University. Favorite credits: The Light in the Piazza at BYU (Clara), Thoroughly Modern Millie at The MUNY (Lucille/ Ensemble), Dreamgirls at The Muny (Sweetheart/ Ensemble), Spamalot at MTW (Laker Girl), and Mary Poppins at MTW (Ensemble). Becca would like to thank everyone at MTW for this wonderful experience. Also a big thank you to her family and friends for their endless support!
EMILY PIRTLE, a Wichita native, was elated to make her MTWichita debut in West Side Story! She recently graduated from Wichita State University with a BFA in Musical Theatre and a Bachelor of Music in Piano Accompanying. Favorite WSU and local credits: Ilona (She Loves Me, dir. Wayne Bryan), Patsy (Crazy For You), Sr. Amnesia (Nunsense), Brenda (Hairspray), Woman 2 (Edges), and Sadie (I Love A Piano) at Crown Uptown Dinner Theatre. She recently music directed and played piano for Violet at WSU (dir. Stephen Kopel). Emily is beyond grateful to Wayne and the MTW staff for this incredible opportunity. Much love to all her teachers and family for their constant support.ring up kids in.
HALLI TOLAND is excited to be making her debut at MTWichita this summer! She is a rising sophomore Musical Theatre major at the University of Michigan, and is originally from Toledo, Ohio. Some of her favorite roles include Janet in The Drowsy Chaperone, Brooke Wyndham in Legally Blonde and Amber Von Tussle in Hairspray. She would like to thank her instructors Brent Wagner, Linda Goodrich, and Catherine Adams, as well as her family and friends back home and at UM for their love and encouragement. Lastly, special thanks to MTW for this wonderful opportunity. Go Blue!
KATIE WESLER (Ens. Dinah Murphy / Dance Captain) is thrilled to return to MTWichita! She recently graduated from CCM with a BFA in musical theatre and is a 2013 winner of the Kurt Weill Foundation of Music Emerging Talent Award and the Actors’ Equity Roger Sturtevant Musical Theatre Award. At CCM: Kathy Selden in Singin’ in the Rain, Sally Slaton in Parade, The Arbiter’s Assistant in Chess, Les Mis, Into the Woods, Oklahoma! and Out of This World. At Tent Theatre, roles included Peggy Sawyer in 42nd Street. Katie thanks Wayne, Nancy, and MTW for another wonderful season and her family for their support. www.katiewesler.com
HAYLEY WILHELM is thrilled to return to MTWichita for her second summer! Hayley is a recent graduate of Oklahoma City University with a degree in dance management. OCU credits include the American Spirit Dance Company’s Home for the Holidays, Spring Show, and OCU’s production of Legally Blonde. Favorite shows here at MTW include Les Misérables, The King and I, Betty Blue Eyes, and Mary Poppins. Hayley would like to thank Wayne, Nancy, and Josh for this amazing opportunity and would also like to thank her husband Zachary, Mom, Dad, Hannah, and Grandmommy for their support!
DAISY WRIGHT is absolutely thrilled to be making her MTWichita debut this summer! Originally from St. George, UT, Daisy is an upcoming junior Musical Theatre major at the University of Oklahoma. Her credits include: OU University Theatre: On The Town (Ivy u.s./ Ensemble); The Drowsy Chaperone (Mrs. Tottendale u.s./ Ensemble). OKC Philharmonic: The Christmas Show (Dancer). Infinite love and thanks to everyone at MTW for this incredible opportunity, and to mom, dad, family, friends, and teachers past and present, for their continued love and support.
LYNDY FRANKLIN SMITH (Co-Director / Choreographer) is thrilled to be returning to MTWichita, where she and her husband Jeromy choreographed 9 to 5, Finian’s Rainbow, Sunset Boulevard, and the U.S. premiere of Betty Blue Eyes. They recently directed and choreographed Spring Awakening at the University of Kentucky Theatre Department. Other choreography credits include Ragtime at University of Michigan MT Program and four seasons of It’s a Grand Night for Singing with the University of Kentucky Opera Program. Her performance credits include the Broadway Companies of A Chorus Line (Dance Capt.) and The Little Mermaid; three seasons at Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular (NYC); National Tours of Fosse and Irving Berlin’s White Christmas as well as numerous regional theatre credits including 42nd Street (Peggy Sawyer) and Finian’s Rainbow (Susan the Silent). Proud graduate of Oklahoma City University and AEA Member. She is also proud to be directing and choreographing here with her husband, Jeromy, after all their years of performing together at MTWichita. Great thanks to Wayne, Nancy, Mark, and Josh for their never-ending support. It’s great to be back!nity! Peace and love.
JEROMY SMITH (Co-Director / Choreographer) is so happy to be back at MTWichita again, after years of performing in the summer ensemble. He and his wife Lyndy choreographed 9 to 5, Finian’s Rainbow, Sunset Boulevard, and the U.S. premiere of Betty Blue Eyes here at MTW, as well as It’s A Grand Night for Singing at UK Opera Theatre. They also recently directed and choreographed Spring Awakening with UK Theatre. As a performer, Jeromy appeared in the National Touring Companies of 42nd Street and Swing, as well as regional productions at Paper Mill Playhouse, Houston Theatre Under the Stars, Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma and, of course MTW! Jeromy also worked for several years behind the scenes on Broadway with Jujamcyn Theatres, as well as Richards/Climan, Inc. He served as Associate General Manager with RCI, and worked on many Broadway, Off-Broadway and Touring productions including August: Osage County, November, Race, The Pee-Wee Herman Show, Blithe Spirit, Speed the Plow, Enron, Superior Donuts, and All My Sons, to name a few. He is pleased to be directing and choreographing alongside his wife Lyndy again this summer. Jeromy is a graduate of Oklahoma City University. Thanks to Wayne for this amazing opportunity.
THOMAS W. DOUGLAS (Musical Director / Conductor) is thrilled to continue his 15th season with his wonderful artistic family at MTWichita, having led 52 productions with this remarkable company. Thomas has done more than 200 musical theatre, opera, orchestral and oratorio productions, including conducting Webber’s Phantom of the Opera in Switzerland. Highlights include Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess, Bizet’s Carmen Jones, Master Class and Mondo Mangia with the late Jillene Ringle. As the Artistic Director of the Bach Choir of Pittsburgh, he is receiving acclaim for adventurous, innovative debuts and premiere programs, including Carmina Burana Africana, Messiah in Space, and a concert of standard choral masterpieces with a fusion rock band and string orchestra accompaniment, plus a presentation of Charlie Chaplin shorts with an all Bach soundtrack. On stage he has enjoyed the roles of Caiaphas in Jesus Christ Superstar, Balthazar in Amahl and the Night Visitors, Amonasro in Aida, and Fats Waller in Ain’t Misbehavin’, both in the U.S. and in Malaysia. Thomas is the Director of Choral Activities and on faculty of both the Drama and the Music schools at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. He is the proud recipient of the Mary Jane Teall Award, and is the Musical Director of the Newton Mid-Kansas Symphony Orchestra, there having commissioned an original orchestration of Maury Yeston’s December Songs with Broadway leading lady, Sara Jean Ford. Thomas most recently conducted an exciting contemporary production of Mozart’s Don Giovanni with the Neighborhood Opera Company in Pittsburgh where he is the Producing Artistic Director.
J BRANSON (Scenic Designer) For over twenty years, J Branson has been a Chicago-based designer. He is proud to have begun his theatrical career as an Apprentice at Music Theatre Wichita 35 years ago. J’s national-tour credits include The Music Man, Beauty and the Beast and Brigadoon. Original productions include both productions for The Second City Chicago’s 2007/2008 season, Shockwave (Disneyworld), Stardust, A Room With a View, The Conversation, Jungle Man and A Tale of Two Cities. Past regional work includes Thoroughly Modern Millie, Smokey Joe’s Café, Jekyll and Hyde, Chess, The Wizard of Oz (for which J received an After Dark award), Children of Eden, Rags, Assassins, Guys and Dolls and The Pajama Game. J has an array of industrial design credits and has been honored with three National Addy Awards. J’s many designs at MTWichita have included Hairspray, Legally Blonde, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Beauty and the Beast, HONK!, The Secret Garden, Children of Eden, West Side Story, High School Musical 1 & 2, The Drowsy Chaperone, 1776, Curtains, Sunset Boulevard, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, and last season’s Mary Poppins, a show he’ll have the pleasure of repeating this fall with director Wayne Bryan and choreographer Linda Goodrich for the Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia.
AMBER EILEEN CREASSER (Costume Designer / Coordinator) is thrilled to be returning to Music Theatre Wichita for another fantastic summer! She is a recent graduate of Wichita State University with a BFA in Theatre Design and Technology. Past credits for costume design include Tartuffe (2011 Mary Jane Teall Award for Outstanding Costume Design), Merchant of Venice, Arcadia, The 39 Steps, The Pirates of Penzance, Bill W & Dr Bob, Almost, Maine, Guys & Dolls (American College Theater Festival Region V, Festival XLVI Commendation), Die Fledermaus, and Disney’s Mulan Jr. Besides costume design, Amber also enjoys scenic painting and lighting design. Amber would like to thank Wayne and Jeff for this wonderful opportunity, and her friends and family. Love to Phil.
DAVID NEVILLE (Lighting Designer) is thrilled to return for his 27th season of “Camp MTW.” In addition to many productions at MTWichita, David has designed lighting for North Shore Music Theatre, Theatre Under the Stars, Omaha Symphony, The United States Air Force, Stage One, Ordway Music Theatre, Papermill Playhouse, The University of Michigan, Penn State University, Portland Center Stage, North Carolina Theatre, Music Theatre West, Arkansas Rep, Santa Barbara Civic Light Opera, George Street Playhouse, The 5th Avenue Theatre and Off-Broadway. David’s favorite designs at MTWichita include South Pacific, Big River, Cats, Ragtime, Once on this Island, Children of Eden and Jesus Christ Superstar. David also teaches lighting and scenic design at Wichita State University. He makes his home in Wichita with his wife Robin and his kids, Ryan and Jocelyn. Jocelyn.
JOSH GORDON (Sound Designer) is thrilled to join the artistic staff this year for the first time. He started his theater career eighteen years ago at Cabaret Oldtown and has worked with many other venues since. Some highlights include working with Mandy Patinkin, Martin Short, Hal Holbrook and Bernadette Peters, as well as Godspell and Next to Normal at the Crown Uptown. Josh is a Mechanical Engineering graduate of Wichita State University and owns Event Systems, which focuses on core community partners like the Wichita Symphony Orchestra and The Orpheum. In recent years, Josh has been serving MTWichita’s audio artistic staff with systems support and designing special events such as Kelli O’Hara’s concert in May of 2011. Josh would like to thank David Muehl, Jeff Taylor and Wayne Bryan for their professionalism and for being a true joy to work with.
ALENA SELLERS (Wig and Makeup Designer) is happily returning for her fifth year at MTWichita. She lives in Wichita and spends most of the year working at Shine Salon. For her work with MTW, Alena is the recipient of the Mary Jane Teall Merit Award for the hair and makeup department. She has spent fifteen years doing hair, and has spent four years as an Aveda color educator. She has worked on Pirates of Penzance and Guys and Dolls for WSU, and worked for the last two years on shows for Wichita Grand Opera, including Otello, Marriage of Figaro, Don Pasquale and William Tell. Alena is so grateful to have the opportunity to work with so many talented people at MTWichita.ed people at MTWichita.
MARIA LEON (Property Master) is an Arizona native who has recently graduated from the University of Arizona with a bachelor’s degree in theatre production, technology, and design, with emphasis in Scenic Design. She has currently worked as an assistant scenic designer for the Arizona Repertory Theatre’s production of The Man Who Came to Dinner and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Maria was also the assistant scenic charge artist for ART’s Oklahoma and prop master for their production of Cymbeline. This is Maria’s second season with Music Theatre Wichita and would like to thank Jeff Taylor and Wayne Bryan for the opportunity. Dad!)
DEBBIE ROBERTS (Costume Shop Manager) has designed costumes for many shows here, including White Christmas, Thoroughly Modern Millie, High School Musical, State Fair, Funny Girl, The Most Happy Fella, On the Town, West Side Story, and the upcoming season finale 42nd Street, plus special costumes for Aida, My Fair Lady, Annie Get Your Gun, Man of La Mancha, Crazy for You, The Sound of Music, My One and Only, and various Festival of Broadway shows. A graduate of Friends University, Debbie received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Dance and Ballet. “I am so proud of the work that Music Theatre Wichita does. It is always a pleasure to work each season. While California remains my home, for over 20 years Wichita has been my summer home. I look forward to meeting new people and learning new skills each time. Enjoy the shows!”
JOSEPH D. SIBLEY (Wardrobe Supervisor) is excited to be spending his summer at MTWichita. Originally from Boothbay Harbor, Maine, Joseph graduated from the University of Southern Maine with a B.A. in Theatre with triple focus in Design, Performance and Directing. He has also worked with Maine State Music Theatre, IATSE local 114 (Portland, Maine) Riverside Theatre and Theatre West Virginia. Much love to Kristin, Andrew and his ever loving mother, RIP.
EVAN HILL (Master Scenic Artist) has worked as a Scenic Artist on Broadway’s Hedwig and the Angry Inch (Production Resource Group), Radio City Music Hall’s Heart and Lights (Gotham Scenic), Toledo Ballet Association’s The Nutcracker (Cobalt Studios), and many other projects for theatre, television, and events. He is a frequent scenic draftsperson for Jack Morton Worldwide in New York City on such upcoming projects as NBC Sports Football Night in America, Rogers Sportsnet NHL Studio, and Meredith Vieira’s talk show. He lives and works in the New York City area.
JEFF TAYLOR (Production Manager) is extremely honored to be back with this excellent cast and crew for his 13th summer at MTWichita. Throughout the years since 2000, he’s had the chance to apprentice, build, design, and even act for MTWichita, and has now become the year round Production Manager, working closely with the awesome MTW staff. A loyal Kansan, Jeff graduated from East High and earned his BA in Musical Theatre from Friends University in 2006. In 2011, he earned an MFA in Design and Technology from UMKC. Many thanks to the MTWichita Crew, Wayne and Nancy, and his fiancée Sarah.
MITCH SOUTHERLAND (Assistant Production Manager) is very excited to be spending his first summer with Music Theatre Wichita. He is a recent graduate of the University of Oklahoma (OU), graduating with a BFA in Drama with an emphasis in Scenic Technology. While an undergraduate, Mitch was recognized by both the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) and The Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF) for his work as a technical director. Additionally, he was fortunate to lead OU’s USITT chapter as President for two consecutive years (2013-2014). Mitch’s previous credits include two summers at The Santa Fe Opera Company as stage crew apprentice and supervisor (2012 & 2013); technical director of OU’s The Drowsy Chaperone; and assistant stage manager for OU’s Carousel (2013).
AJ KELLISON (Technical Director) is glad to be back for another season at MTWichita. Since last summer, AJ has worked for Goodspeed Musicals, The Nebraska Theatre Caravan, The Public Theater and the Actor’s Studio Drama School. AJ would like to thank everyone at Music Theatre for the opportunities and support they have given him throughout the past 9 years. A special thanks goes out to AJ’s parents and his sister Laura.
BRIAN GONNER (Assistant Technical Director) just completed his first year in the MFA Scenic Technology program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Originally from Dubuque, IA, Brian has worked professionally at the Utah Shakespeare Festival, The Public Theater/New York Shakespeare Festival, and Hope Summer Repertory Theatre. He is a 2013 graduate of the University of Evansville in Indiana with a BFA in Theatre Design and Technology and a minor in Mathematics.
MADELYNN NEVINS (Asst. Lighting Designer) is a recent graduate of Wichita State University where she received a BFA in theatre design and technology. Her previous credits include Lighting Designer for 1940’s Radio Christmas Hour (Prairie Pines Dinner Theatre), Guys and Dolls (Wichita State University), and Production Stage Manager for Laughing Feet Performers. Madelynn is thrilled to be a part of her 8th season at MTWichita. She is so thankful for their summer apprentice program. If it was not for that program, she would not be where she is today. She would like to thank all of the wonderful mentors in her life as well as her family who have always supported her.
STEVE LANDES (Director of the Apprentice Program / Shopper-Buyer) is proud to return for his 21st summer as the Apprentice Program Director. A Wichita resident for twenty two years, Steve worked for Friends University, the Wichita Center for the Arts, and Shakespeare in the Park. Steve moved to the Kansas City area eight years ago for a teaching position. As an educator, Steve continues to be very excited about working with the apprentices in this unique training program (and MTW is deeply grateful for Steve’s creative dedication to our young people!).
MARY SUE DYMAK (Rentals & Inventory Director / Drop Fabricator / Orchestra Pit Manager / Archivist / A Bunch of Other Stuff) [whew!] WOW! 39 seasons! Being one of the oldest members of the production staff, this year will mark summer productions numbering 192 to 196. In the off season, I still keep my hand in stage managing for Ballet Wichita Orchestra (18 years) and Opera Kansas (23 years) while keeping our ever growing rental business running. I seem to get around a lot but only inside Century II. My life remains happily engaged in larger and more complex tasks working for my favorite employer. My thanks to WB….. I offer my deepest love and respect to all who work in this fabulous building and for our organization. No one can do it alone. Happy 65th Anniversary to Joe and Dorothy!
TIFFANY K. ORR (Production Stage Manager) is originally from Oklahoma. Tiffany spends the other 9 months of the year in the Twin Cities where she works as the production stage manager for Theater Latte Da. While in the twin cities, she has also worked with companies including the Pillsbury House Theatre, The Children’s Theatre Company, Park Square Theatre, The Playwrights’ Center, The Director’s, and the Guthrie. Prior to her move to the Twin Cities she worked on more than a dozen productions as part of the stage management team at the Phoenix Theatre, where she became a proud member of the Actors’ Equity Association.
AMANDA K. BOWMAN (Stage Manager) is thrilled to be back for her 10th summer at MTWichita and is honored to be joining AEA this season. She spent the last year at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park and will be returning there in the fall. She has also worked for Wichita Symphony Orchestra, Crown Uptown, IATSE #190, Walt Disney World, and Merrimack Repertory Theatre. Thanks and love to Wayne, Nancy, E & T, and the rest of the MTW staff for the best summers imaginable. imaginable.
EMILY F. McMULLEN (Stage Manager) is back for her 15th summer with MTWichita. Previous productions here include Les Misérables (twice!), Mary Poppins, The King and I, Legally Blonde, Singin’ in the Rain, Fiddler on the Roof, The Music Man, Sunset Boulevard, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Curtains, Gypsy, Crazy for You, The Drowsy Chaperone, The Producers, Les Misérables, Big River, …Forum, Seven Brides…, Sweet Charity, Phantom!, Seussical, A Chorus Line, West Side Story, Chicago, Good News!, and ShowBoat. Throughout the year, she is the Production Stage Manager at Merrimack Repertory Theatre outside of Boston and also teaches stage management at Tufts University. She has stage managed for Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, North Shore Music Theatre, South Coast Repertory, Capital Repertory Theater, Musical Theatre Guild, Actors Theatre of Phoenix, Broadway Texas, Theatre Emory, and The Shadowland Theatre. Proud member of Actors’ Equity Association.nsed pilot.
JESSE WARKENTIN (Associate Musical Director / Keyboards) is amazed to find himself in his 11th consecutive season with MTWichita! He conducted the Festival of Broadway orchestra for five years, and enjoyed music directing High School Musical 2 in 2009. Last year he made his debut with the Newton Mid-Kansas Symphony as piano soloist, performing Gershwin’s Rhapsody In Blue with Maestro Douglas. Throughout the year, Jesse can be found at the new Crown Uptown Dinner Theatre, conducting and musical directing. “My deepest gratitude to Wayne and Thomas for these special months of rich musical fulfillment at MTWichita, and to my incredible family for their laughter and love.”ghter and love.”
JOSHUA LARSON (Teen Choir Staging Director) Joshua has choreographed for Wichita State University, Friends University, and at various high schools, studios, organizations, and theatres in and around the Wichita area, with his choreography earning him four Jester Awards. His choreographic and directing talents have been used at MTWichita as the staging director for the Teen Choir (2006-present); director/ choreographer of Festival of Broadway (2008-2010, 2014) and Curtain Up! (2013-present); and choreographer/ adjudicator for the dance portion of MTWichita’s national audition tour (2013-present). Joshua received his undergraduate degree in dance performance from Oklahoma City University and his Master of Liberal Arts (with a Theatre Concentration) from Baker University. He has traveled the country evaluating national dance competitions including Starbound and The Elite Dance Cup. Performing credits include shows at Carnegie Hall, on the Holland America Line, and with the following groups: MTWichita, Stiletto Entertainment, Tuacahn, Silver Tree Productions, Oklahoma City University, Windwood Theatricals, and The American Spirit Dance Company.
LINDA STARKEY (Teen Choir Musical Director) continues her relationship with MTWichita, having performed in My Fair Lady, Oliver!, Cabaret, and The Sound of Music, and having conducted the Teen Choir and assisted with MTWichita’s apprentice program. Currently serving as the Director of the School of Performing Arts at Wichita State University, Linda has also served as Associate Director of the Opera and Music Theatre program there, and taught voice for more than 30 years. She has directed for Opera Kansas, WSU Opera Theatre, WSU Theatre, Wichita Community Theatre, Wichita Children’s Theatre, and the Center for the Arts. In 2005, her production of Pippin was chosen to be an alternate for the American College Theatre Festival at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C.hington D. C.
KATIE BANKS (Youth Choir Music Director) is thrilled to be back at MTWichita in a brand new capacity. Katie was last seen here as housekeeper Mrs. Brill in Mary Poppins. Other MTW roles include stepsister Portia in Cinderella (Mary Jane Teall Award) and Smitty in How to Succeed. Katie is a proud graduate of Wichita State University. She has been in both the National Tour and Broadway Companies of The Phantom of the Opera, where she was the cover for the role of Carlotta. Katie has also performed at Carnegie Hall in Jerry Springer: The Opera and many off-Broadway musical revues. She was the guest soloist with the Wichita Symphony for the Spirit of Christmas Concert. Katie has performed in various concerts around the United States and Canada. After living her Broadway dream, she is mommy to Isabelle and Benjamin. Katie is the director of drama at El Dorado High School. Her drama program’s production of Joseph / Dreamcoat was the recipient of 10 Jester Awards including Overall Production, Director and Music Director. To Wayne, Thank you! To my incredible family-I love you!rk in such an amazing place. 2 Cor. 4:16-18
JENNIFER FISHER (Signing Interpreter) “I’m thrilled for my sixth season at MTW. I would like to thank Wayne and all the super talented people at MTW for including me in the magic! During the year I work at a Goddard school, and lead Deaf Ministry at Central Community Church for the past 7 years; where I interpret services, concerts, conferences, classes, and support groups. I’m involved with Wichita Deaf Ministry Outreach and Deaf Teen Quest. I’ve been signing for 10 years and am focused on musical performance interpreting, having trained in Nashville, TN under Gate Communications. My goal is to create a performance that’s as impacting for the Deaf as it is for the hearing. Thanks to my girls Kara and Stephanie, and my husband for their support. Most importantly God, for the blessings He’s given me and the opportunity to work in such an amazing place. 2 Cor. 4:16-18″
NANCY REEVES (Producing Associate / Company Manager) joined MTWichita in 1988 as a bookkeeper and soon took on other responsibilities. She first took over the position of Company Manager and more recently added Producing Associate to her job description. As Company Manager Nancy’s duties include coordinating auditions, handling thousands of submissions each season. Other duties include handling the travel and housing accommodation arrangements for guest artists, and maintaining active communications with all department and department heads throughout the season. As Producing Associate Nancy attends auditions and participates in casting decisions, works with agents and participates in contract negotiations. Her long tenure at MTWichita and close personal connections to people throughout Wichita allow her to be an outstanding resource for MTWichita and for artists working in Wichita during the summer season. She can quickly connect a need to a resource, whether that is a qualified rehearsal pianist, an appropriate caterer for a donor appreciation event or a convenient hotel room for a guest artists.
225 W. Douglas, Ste. 202
Wichita, KS 67202
316.265.3107
office@mtwichita.org