June 18-22
June 25-29, 2014
Jerome Robbins’ breathtaking dances are only one vibrant component of this electrifying show. This contemporary re-telling of “Romeo and Juliet” also features the pulsing, Latin-flavored score of Leonard Bernstein, the incisive lyrics of Stephen Sondheim, and the brilliant script by Arthur Laurents, combining forces in one of the most dynamic shows ever created. The great songs include “Tonight,” “Maria,” “America,” “One Hand, One Heart,” “Cool,” “I Feel Pretty,” “Gee, Officer Krupke!,” and “Somewhere.”
Based on a Conception of Jerome Robbins
Book by Arthur Laurents
Music by Leonard Bernstein
Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Entire original production Directed and Choreographed by Jerome Robbins
Originally produced on Broadway by Robert E. Griffith and Harold S. Prince
By Arrangement of Roger L. Stevens
ALI EWOLDT (Maria) has been fortunate to perform in West Side Story all over the country and the world, and is thrilled to now play Maria with MTWichita! Ali made her Broadway debut as Cosette in the 1st Revival of Les Misérables, a role she also played on the Broadway National Tour, and recently completed a run as Luisa in The Fantasticks Off-Broadway. She played Maria in the Broadway 1st National Tour of West Side Story (directed by David Saint and the late Arthur Laurents) as well as in the WSS International Tour and in productions at Pittsburgh CLO, The MUNY, and Maputo, Mozambique. Her other credits include: Tuptim in Baayork Lee’s tour of The King and I, Jasmine in Aladdin at Disney’s California Adventure, and Fan in A Christmas Carol at The McCarter Theatre. She has performed in concerts at The Town Hall, Alice Tully Hall and Carnegie Hall and 54 Below, was featured on “The Michael J. Fox Show” and in the short film Yield with Leviathan Lab. She has a BA in Psychology from Yale University and is a proud member of Actors’ Equity. www.aliewoldt.com
RYAN VASQUEZ (Tony) 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.
SHINA ANN MORRIS (Anita) Broadway: Annie (Star to Be, Boylan Sister), Anything Goes (Erma u/s), West Side Story (Consuela), Nice Work If You Can Get It, Cinderella. NY: City Center Encores! Most Happy Fella and Bells Are Ringing. A Wichita native, Shina is ecstatic to be back in her old stomping grounds! She got the performing bug starting at Wichita Children’s Theatre & Dance Center, followed by joining the Teen ensemble here at MTWichita in 1999. Later, she joined the resident company for 4.5 seasons! Also studied at Kansas Dance Academy, and was in 8 seasons of The Nutcracker at Ballet Wichita (then Metropolitan Ballet of Wichita). West Side Story is one of her all time favorites, and this will actually be her 5th production of it. Rosalia in MTYP’s (2004), Margarita in MTW’s (2004), Consuela at Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera’s (2008), Consuela at The Palace Theatre on Broadway (2009-2011), and now, as Anita! A million thanks to God, mom, Sasha, family, Wayne, Nancy, Mark Madama, Mark Esposito, Thomas, Annette, the Davis family, Miss Diane, Miss Jill, Miss Patti, the Brittons, all her mentors and teachers, and my love, Mark. Mambo! Mambo! GO!
KEVIN MUNHALL (Riff) is thrilled to be back at MTWichita where he spend 5 beautiful summers in the resident company and had the pleasure of playing roles such as Tom Sawyer in Big River and Randy Dexter in Curtains. His New York credits include the original Broadway Company of Anything Goes, The Sound of Music at Carnegie Hall, Bells Are Ringing at City Center Encores, and Hansel and Gretel at Avery Fisher Hall. Regionally he has been seen as Tommy Djilas in The Music Man at the Walnut Street Theatre, Riff in West Side Story at the Ogunquit Playhouse, as well as shows at Kansas City Starlight and Tuacahn Amphitheatre. His TV credits include “One Life to Live” and “Smash”. He is a proud graduate of East High School and The University of Michigan. Much love goes out to Mr. G and Mr. Riney over at EHS for opening his eyes to the theatre, Wayne for deepening his appreciation and nudging him down this path, and Mark Madama for helping make it all possible. Allah’u’abha!
MICHAEL GRACEFFA (Bernardo) 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.
TIMOTHY W. ROBU (Lt. Schrank) is delighted to be a part of this year’s MTWichita season, as well as many previous ones. Audiences may remember Tim in past roles such as Thenardier in Les Misérables, Bedevere in Spamalot, John Hancock in 1776, Billis in South Pacific, the Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz, Amos Hart in Chicago, Oscar Shapiro in Curtains, Mr. Feldzeig in The Drowsy Chaperone, Herbie in Gypsy, and Lazar Wolf in Fiddler. Tim also performs at several other venues in the Wichita area, including Mosley Street Melodrama and the Crown Uptown Theatre. Tim served as Technical Director for the Crown Theatre and Artistic Director of the children’s program for over twenty years. He now works as an Exhibit Technician for Exploration Place. When not working at Wichita’s fine theatres, Tim has plenty to keep him busy as father to his two daughters, Katie and Francie. An added bonus to this year’s season is the chance to once again perform with his talented wife Karen. Thanks to Wayne and all the folks in Wichita who produce theatre, perform theatre, and enjoy theatre. They make the Wichita area a great place to work, live, and bring up kids in.
CHARLES PARKER (Doc) Having just completed his umpteenth year on the Friends University faculty, C.P. is blessed with his umpteenth opportunity to work with that wonderful group of professionals who serve MTWichita and the surrounding communities. Teaching is now replaced with the honor of performing with some of the best and for the best of audiences. Parker is blessed again with an opportunity to play some great roles. His past favorites include Biggley in How to Succeed…, Pickering in My Fair Lady, Ziegfeld in Funny Girl, Herr Schultz in Cabaret, Parchester in Me and My Girl, General Waverly in White Christmas, FDR in Annie, and R.F. Simpson in Singin’ in the Rain. Thanks to Wayne for the gracious invitation and opportunity. Thanks to the company of performers, technicians, and assistants who always make the summers a delight. Thanks to Patty for her encouragement and love. Thanks to God for all blessings.
J. BAILEY BURCHAM (Officer Krupke), a Wichita native, is splendiferously excited to be in his first MTWichita season. Nineteen years ago Bailey saw his first MTW show, South Pacific, and is so honored to now be a part of this incredible company. Recent roles include Nicely-Nicely Johnson in Guys and Dolls, Jake in Jake’s Women, and Violet’s Father in Violet at WSU. He would like to thank his loving family and his mentors Beate, Linda, Amy, and Wayne for their continued support. BAF
PAUL E. JACKSON (Glad Hand) is so pleased to be working again with this excellent theatre company. Past MTWichita roles: Jaycee Squires (barbershop quartet member) in The Music Man, Sir Hubert in On A Clear Day… and The Steward in Into The Woods. Paul is honored to see his musical A Christmas Carol being produced at The Forum again this coming December. Paul is a Program Director at University Congregational Church when not on stage. Thanks to Wayne, Mark and Nancy for always making my time here so wonderfully memorable.
ROBERT ARIZA (Chino) 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.
CLAIRE AVAKIAN (Teresita) is originally from Portland, OR, and is about to enter her senior year as a Musical Theatre student at the University of Oklahoma. She is so excited to be making her MTWichita debut this summer! Some of her favorite credits include A Chorus Line (Broadway Rose, OR), Tarzan (Lyric Theatre of OK), and The Christmas Show (OKC Philharmonic Pops). Claire can’t wait to spend her summer getting close with Spangles and Donut Whole. Thanks to Wayne and Nancy for this opportunity! Peace and love.
CAITLIN BELCIK (Clarice) 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!
MATTHEW BORCHERS (Baby John) 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 (Action) 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!
DONNIE CHAUNCEY (Nibbles) is incredibly enthused, to say the least, for his first summer in MTWichita’s resident company! It has been a high priority goal of his to perform as a Company member and he hopes that everyone can share in his delight! Credits include Wichita State University’s productions of Good News and Guys and Dolls. Other highlights include International Dance Tours with Wichita Contemporary Dance Theatre to Italy and Mexico. Thanks and love to his parents, Marylou and Don, and to his brother Luke and sister Shauna. Also, great thanks to his mentors, instructors, and colleagues at WSU for pushing him and believing in him, and to Wayne Bryan, Josh Larson, Nancy Reeves and the entire crew of MTW!
KEVIN CLAY (A-rab) 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 (Gee-tar) 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.
CLINTON FOSTER (Juano) , an upcoming senior Musical Theatre major at Oklahoma City University, is beyond thrilled to be making his MTWichita debut this summer! Favorite OCU credits include:Cabaret (Hans), Street Scene (Dick McGann, u/s), 9 to 5, and Home for the Holidays with the American Spirit Dance Company! Other favorite professional credits include Anything Goes and The Drowsy Chaperone. Clinton would like to thank his parents and OCU family for their endless love and support and Wayne, Nancy, Josh, and MTW for this incredible opportunity!
REBECCA GANS (Anybodys) 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.
CATHERINE HELM (Estella / “Somewhere” Voice) 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.
WONZA JOHNSON (Pepe / Dance Captain) 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.”
LILY KAUFMANN (Consuela) 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!
BROOKE LACY (Allison), 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!
TREVOR McCHRISTIAN (Anxious), 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 (Diesel) 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!
KELSEY RYAN MOORE (Francisca / Maria 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 (Velma) 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!
TANNER PFLUEGER (Snowboy) 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!
EMILY PIRTLE (Emma), a Wichita native, is elated to be making her MTWichita debut! 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.
JULIAN RAMOS (Toro) 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!!
SHEA RENNE (Rosalia / Anita u.s.) was thrilled to make her MTWichita debut as Liat in South Pacific, and is happy to be performing on the Wichita stage! She is a proud recent graduate of the University of Michigan. Favorite credits include Kim in Miss Saigon and Mimi in Rent. University credits include Spring Awakening, Bat Boy, and as a featured soloist in Dance with Me. Many thanks and love to her friends and family, especially mom!
LUKE STEINHAUER (Big Deal / Tony u.s.) is thrilled to be making his MTWichita debut. 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 (Luis) 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.
HALLI TOLAND (Graziella) 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 (Minnie / 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 (Margarita) 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 (Pauline) 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.
DARIUS WRIGHT (Indio) is very excited to make his MTWichita debut! Regional: Hairspray (Thad), The Will Rogers Follies (Indian Dancer), Tarzan (Leopard), Ragtime, Bye Bye Birdie, Sweet Charity, Big River. Educational: Violet (Flick), The Pajama Game (Sid u/s), Legally Blonde (Grandmaster Chad), Jesus Christ Superstar (John). Other: Bernstein’s Mass (Rock Singer). Graduate of Oklahoma City University and a proud Houstonian. For more about Darius Wright visit DariusWright.com.
Mark Madama has directed productions on both coasts, and as far away as Ireland, Poland, and Czechoslovakia, and yet he happily celebrates his 26th consecutive MTWichita season, with West Side Story being his 42nd production as director. Favorite shows here include The Full Monty, 9 to 5, Sunset Boulevard, The King and I, The Music Man, Curtains, Big River, Aida, Annie Get Your Gun, Oklahoma!, Damn Yankees, Cinderella, How to Succeed…, Funny Girl, Fiddler on the Roof (2001 and 2012), The Pajama Game, Evita, The Music Man, The Sound of Music, State Fair, Meet Me in St. Louis, Guys and Dolls, My Fair Lady, The Secret Garden, Tintypes, Sweet Charity, Gigi, Cabaret, Into the Woods, They’re Playing Our Song, Good News!, and two previous editions of West Side Story, plus his performance as Zach in MTWichita’s first A Chorus Line. Other credits include The Producers, Aida and Cinderella, and Footloose at Kansas City Starlight, Hello, Dolly! at the New London Barn Playhouse, and two engagements teaching at Music Theatre Italy near Venice. Mark Madama and Wayne Bryan are the co-authors of the revised version of Good News!, which has received over 300 productions in the U.S., Canada, and Great Britain. Mark is an Associate Professor of Musical Theatre at the University of Michigan, where he has directed Ragtime, Sunday in the Park with George, Into the Woods, A Little Night Music, The Full Monty, Rent, Big River, City of Angels, The Pajama Game, Guys and Dolls, Assassins, Good News!, Nine, Children of Eden, Company and Horton Foote’s 1918.
Mark Esposito is a frequent collaborator at MTWichita, where he has performed as Bernardo in West Side Story, and where his choreographic credits include On the Town, West Side Story, Guys and Dolls, and two productions of Fiddler on the Roof. Mark has performed in over 16 Broadway and National Tours, and choreographed for numerous regional theaters, plus the York and Signature Theater Companies in NYC and South Pacific at The Hollywood Bowl. He has choreographed Yuletide Celebration with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and has served as associate director/ choreographer for the Radio City Christmas Show and for Disney Global Casting. His choreographic work has been seen in California at the Reprise series in L.A. (Applause), La Mirada Theatre (Guys and Dolls), Musical Theatre West (Brigadoon), Sacramento Music Circus (Camelot, Evita, The Most Happy Fella, Pirates of Penzance, The Wizard of Oz), and at Universal Studios. At the Pittsburgh CLO, where his other credits include Brigadoon, Guys and Dolls, She Loves Me, The Music Man, Tommy, Carousel, West Side Story, Oklahoma, Fiddler on the Roof and Sound of Music. As a guest professor at University of Michigan, his work was also seen in The Full Monty, Brigadoon, Evita and West Side Story. Mark has assisted or worked with Agnes De Mille, Michael Bennett, Bob Fosse, Michael Kidd, Donald Saddler, Rob Marshall, and West Side Story’s original director-choreographer, Jerome Robbins.
Robert A. Kovach is thrilled to re-join the creative team of MTWichita, having designed Xanadu, 9 to 5 and the U.S. premiere of Betty Blue Eyes in the last three summers. Off Broadway – 45th Street Theatre: Around the World in 80 Days; Theatre Row: The Sphinx Winx; New World Stages: White’s Lies and ImaginOcean (Drama Desk Nom.); National Tours – All Shook Up; Regional Designs – Theatre Under the Stars, Memphis Ballet, Walnut Street Theatre, Paper Mill Playhouse, Fulton Opera House, Phoenix Theatre, and others. He has Art Directed and Designed for TV, Print Ads, Corporate, and Commercials for such clients as the Food Network, General Motors, Jockey, Canon, among a few. Robert would like to thank Wayne and the entire talented Wichita team. Robert is a proud member of United Scenic Artists (USA 829). www.KovachDesigns.comArtistic Director.
David Neville 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 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.
David Muehl begins his ninth season as MTWichita’s sound designer, having also served as the sound assistant previously for a season. During MTWichita’s off season, David is the audio producer for WSU’s College of Fine Arts where he oversees audio recording and live sound for fine arts and other performances. He also serves as sound designer for WSU’s Opera and Musical Theatre programs and is the sound advisor to student musical theatre & opera sound designers and engineers. Some of his favorite sound designs have been Children of Eden, Into the Woods, Les Misérables and Wizard of Oz. David has twice been sound designer for invited productions to the Region V Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival. David has also done sound design for Wichita Center for the Arts and Cabaret Oldtown. Special thanks to Dave, Jeff and the rest of the crew of Clearwing Productions in Phoenix and Josh with Event Systems for their continued support of MTWichita.
Alena Sellers 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.
Dixon Reynolds is thrilled to be back at Music Theatre Wichita after designing costumes for last summer’s Betty Blue Eyes! He is an Associate Professor of Costume Design at State University of New York at Fredonia and a freelance designer. His designs are seen in a broad range of styles from Theatre, Dance, Opera, Film and his favorite: new and experimental theatrical works, including musicals! Dixon is the resident costume designer at the Kavinoky Theatre in Buffalo, NY. Some of his designs have been seen at The Irish Classical Theatre, ART Park, Summer Repertory Theatre, Buffalo United Artists, Shakespeare in Delaware Park, The Hartt School of Music, Triad Stage, and American Dance Festival. He has also worked in the Costume Departments at the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, Playmakers Repertory Company, Roanoke Festival Park, HBO Productions and CBS Productions.
Joseph D. Sibley 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.
Debbie Roberts 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 and West Side Story, plus special costumes for Aida (the fashion show, in partnership with Matt Mitchell), 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!”
Jeff Taylor 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 fiancée Sarah.
AJ Kellison 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 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 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 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!).
For 39 seasons! Being one of the oldest members of the production staff, this will mark summer productions numbering 187 to 191. In the off season, I still keep my hand in stage managing for Ballet Wichita Orchestra (17 years) and Opera Kansas (22 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.
Tiffany K. Orr 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 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.
Jesse Warkentin 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.”
Joshua Larson 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 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.
I’m so excited for my sixth season at MTWichita. I would like to thank Wayne and all MTW for including me in the magic! During the year I work at a Goddard school, and lead Deaf Ministry at Central Community Church, interpreting services, concerts, conferences, and classes. I’m involved with Wichita Deaf Ministry Outreach and Deaf Teen Quest. Last fall I was one of 23 interpreters accepted from across America (and the only one from Kansas) for intensive music and musical theatre training in Nashville, TN. I spent a week specifically working performance interpreting, and I look forward to creating a performance that’s as impactful for the Deaf as it is for the hearing. Thanks to my girls Kara and Stephanie and to my husband for their support. Most importantly, God for the blessing He’s given me, and the opportunity to work in such an amazing place. 2 Cor. 4:16-18
Nancy Reeves 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 artist.
225 W. Douglas, Ste. 202
Wichita, KS 67202
316.265.3107
office@mtwichita.org