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Need to set a specific order to your Creative Team for your Marquee? Scroll down to Creative Team submission panel and select Set Order. You can then choose the order of the bios. The default order is alphabetical by last name.
Em Barbra
Em Barbra is an upcoming senior at Glenvar high-school. Her favorite roles have been Mama Morton / Emcee (Chicago) and Scuttle (The Little Mermaid Jr.). She is excited to play Mama Ogre and would like to thank her mom for always supporting her ambitions.
Carter Jackson Cecil
Hello! I’m Carter Cecil, and I’ve been involved in theatre since kindergarten. Some of my favorite roles include Phineas Trout in Willy Wonka Jr., Jay in Lost In Yonkers, and Toad in A Year With Frog & Toad. I’m thrilled to be playing Lord Farquaad in Shrek The Musical and can’t wait to bring this story to life!
Gabriel Cundiff
Gabriel is a rising 5th grader at Community School. Some of his past appearances include "You're a mean one" (Max the Dog), "Finding Nemo, Jr." (Breeze), Willy Wonka, Jr. (Grandpa George), and "Aristocats" (Thomas O' Malley). He would like to thank Ms. Francesca for offering him his first role on the main stage in "Shrek" and for always being proud of him. He would also like to thank Ms. Cindy and Ms. Bethany for being amazing music teachers at MMT!
Violet Farmer
Violet Farmer is delighted to return to the Trinkle stage for her fourth production. Violet is a 9th grader at Salem High School. Her favorite credits include Ariel (The Little Mermaid Jr), Chum (Finding Nemo Jr), Tessie (Annie), and North Pole Elf (Elf the Musical). Violet is an accomplished singer, composer and pianist who has been recognized for her original music in MTNA and Virginia PTA Reflections. Violet’s favorite hobbies are reading, cheerleading, singing and playing piano. She hopes that Pinocchio and the fairy tale creatures inspire you to let your freak flag fly! Violet wishes to thank her mom for driving her everywhere, Bethany Costello, her family, and the whole team at MMT for believing in her. Follow Violet on Instagram @violetwfarmer
Autumn Farmer
Autumn Farmer is thrilled to return to the Trinkle Stage for Shrek! Autumn is a rising 6th grader at Andrew Lewis Middle. Her favorite credits include playing Annie (Annie), Nemo (Finding Nemo Jr), a North Pole Elf (Elf the Musical), Captain Hook (Peter Pan Jr) and Miss Hannigan (Annie Jr). When she’s not on stage, Autumn is a competitive gymnast, dancer, and artist. Autumn would like to thank the amazing staff and creatives at MMT, Jorie and Tori for their vision and direction of Shrek, and her family for supporting her growth as a performer. Follow Autumn’s professional journey on Instagram @autumnrosefarmer
Emma Harvey
Emma is beyond excited to be returning to the Trinkle Mainstage for her eighth and final youth production with Mill Mountain Theatre! Some of her favorite credits include Matilda (Miss Honey), Annie (July), Finding Nemo JR. (Coral/Breeze/Eel), The Addams Family (Wednesday), and The Sound of Music (Marta). She has been a student with MMT Conservatory for seven years and is a member of the Student Advisory Board. Emma is a recent graduate of Blacksburg High School, where she was a 4-year member of the Madrigal Singers. When not performing, she enjoys reading, writing, recording audiobooks, playing piano, and spending time with her cat. This fall, she will be attending James Madison University to pursue a Bachelor of Music in Voice with a concentration in Music Theatre. She would like to thank MMT and ALL of her teachers (past and present) for believing in her and inspiring her to follow her passions.
Naomi Jeffers
Naomi Jeffers is thrilled to be making her Mill Mountain Theatre debut as the Dragon in Shrek the Musical TYA! She’s incredibly excited to bring this larger-than-life character to the stage. Some of her favorite recent roles include Mrs. Peacock in Clue, Lumiere in Beauty and the Beast, and Junie B. Jones in Junie B. Jones Jr. Naomi hopes everyone enjoys the show as much as she’s loved being a part of it. She sends a huge thank you to her family and friends for their constant love and support!
Macalan Johnson
Bo Jack McNamara
Bo Jack is thrilled to be a part of Shrek the Musical at Mill Mountain Theater! This is Bo Jack’s Mill Mountain Theatre debut! His favorite past role is Michael Darling in Peter Pan, Jr.
Bo Jack would like to send special thanks to Mill Mountain Theatre for this opportunity! Thank you also to Ms. Brynn and his family for supporting him. Thank you to his amazing teacher, big sister, Belle, and his super-cool mentor along the way, Calan Johnson. "What makes us special, makes us strong!"
Belle McNamara
Belle McNamara is a rising 8th grader at North Cross School. Belle has performed in over twenty productions in the Roanoke Valley. Recently, you may have seen Belle as "Annie" for Mill Mountain Theatre's holiday production, "Lavender" in Matilda the Musical at her school and in Little Leapers “The Wicked”. Belle is a member of the International Thespian Society and Mill Mountain Theatre’s Conservatory. Belle is so excited to be in this fun show, and hopes you enjoy watching all of us on the “Big, Bright, Beautiful” STAGE!
Emily Mower
Emily is a rising 10th grader who is thrilled to be back on stage this summer! She enjoys all things theatre, as well as playing volleyball, dancing, and getting lost in a good book. She is a member of the MMT Conservatory Program and a few of her favorite past roles include Elf, The Musical (Elf/Ensemble), Legally Blonde Jr. (Pilar), A Christmas Story (Helen Weathers), Finding Nemo Jr. (Ensemble), High School Musical Jr. (Sharpay), and Frozen Jr. (Young Elsa). Emily would like to give thanks to her parents for being her biggest fans (and chauffers). Sit back and enjoy the show!
Riley Parks
Riley Parks is a 10th grader at Patrick Henry High School and has done over 20 shows across the Roanoke Valley. Some of her favorite roles include Young Allison(Fun Home), Audrey 2(Little Shop of Horrors), Scuttle(Little Mermaid Jr), Helen Keller(The Miracle Worker), and Pepper(Annie). Riley loves to play piano and guitar, write music, and dance. She is thrilled to be a part of Shrek at Mill Mountain Theatre and hopes you enjoy the show!!! Visit rileyparkstheatre.com for more information.
Sharv Brijesh Patel
Sharv is a 15 year old who is a student at Cave Spring High School. He has been in multiple musicals including Shrek Jr and The Lion King Jr. He is also involved in choir and has been to multiple district and state level events for choir. He enjoys acting and singing. He also enjoys track and field and piano. In piano he participated in the national guild program.
Emily Riggins-Begeman
Emily is thrilled to be making her stage debut in Shrek the Musical! A 10-year-old with a big voice and an even bigger imagination, she loves singing, dancing, and bringing characters to life. When she's not guarding towers or singing fiery songs, she enjoys reading, video games, and spending time with her friends and family. She thanks her director, castmates, and family for their love and support on this magical adventure!
Eva Rose Lucille Sarver-Wolf
Eva Rose is starting her senior year at Community High School, and is so excited to be back on stage with Mill Mountain Theatre! Shrek will be her fourth production with MMT, as well as being a part of the Conservatory Program. Her favorites of her past credits include Wednesday Addams in The Addams Family, Helena in A Midsummer Night's Dream, and Duffy in Annie. She is greatly looking forward to bringing this well-loved story to life during her last year with Mill Mountain Theatre.
Brent Saunders
Brent Saunders is a rising sophomore at Lord Botetourt High School. He is thrilled to be returning to Mill Mountain Theatre’s mainstage in Shrek the Musical as the Big Bad Wolf! Most recent credits include MMT’s Finding Nemo Jr. (Grouper/Moonfish), Matilda (Eric), Peter and Wendy (Tootles), VCT’s Legally Blonde Jr. (Chad/Aaron Schultz), Junie B. Jones Jr. (Herb), Willy Wonka (Mike Teavee), LBHS’s The Little Mermaid (Flounder), and Showtimers’ Lost in Yonkers (Arty). When Brent isn’t singing, acting, or dancing, he enjoys spending time outside, hanging out with friends and family, and playing with animals. He would like to thank his family, friends, and teachers for always encouraging him! He hopes you enjoy the show!!
Abigail Elaine Shepard
Abigail is a straight A /Honors Student from Bedford, Va who attends Liberty High school where she is active in her high school choir, thespian society/theater, and was a cheerleader. On top of all that, she is not new to the stage she has been singing , doing pageants, and dancing competitively, winning many awards and titles, since the age of 1, mostly at Forest Dance Academy where she studios and competes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Pointe, Acro, Contemporary, Modern, Hiphop, and Musical Theater. She became interested in Theater in Middle school and has in starred in Mary Poppins as The Ballerina Doll/ Understudy to Jane Banks. Pepper/ Annie Understudy in Annie Warbucks. Middle Anna in Frozen, Timon in the Lion King, and many other roles in plays. She plans to study theater, music education, and dance in college and is excited to be debuting at Mill Mountain.
Braelyn Grace Skelton
Braelyn Skelton is a rising Junior at Northside High School. This is her second Main Stage production with Mill Mountain. She is apart of Kevin Jones Performing Arts Studio, Mill Mountain Conservatory, and Dances at Little Leapers. Favorite credits include The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Logainne Schwartzandgrubenierre), Six: Teen Edition (Anna of Cleves), Legally Blonde Jr. (Brooke Wyndham), and Finding Nemo Jr. (Ensemble/Dory US). She would love to thank her friends and family for supporting her!
Natalie Thorell
Natalie is thrilled to be back on the Trinkle Mainstage at Mill Mountain Theatre! She is a Rising 9th grader at Hidden Valley High School. Her most recent MMT performance was in Peter and the Starcatcher (Molly Aster). Some of her favorite MMT credits include Annie, The Musical (Kate/Servant/Dance Captain/Swing), Finding Nemo, Jr. (Peach/Dance Captain, Swing), Elf, The Musical (Tiara/Swing), Matilda, The Musical (Hortensia/Dance Ensemble), The Sound of Music (Gretl Von Trapp). Natalie is a member of the Kevin Jones Performing Arts Studio, MMT Conservatory, Divine Dance Center, and the HVHS Vocal Ensemble. She is very grateful for this opportunity and wants you to remember that “What makes you special, makes you strong.”
Charlie Villier
A rising 7th grader at Community School of Roanoke, Charlie is very exicted for her first production on MMT's Trinkle Mainstage. Some favorite credits include Lady of the Lake in Spam-a-Lot Young at Part, Lavender in Matilda the Musical, Jr. (Community School Middle School), Sebastian in Little Mermaid, Jr. (MMT), and Toto in The Wizard of Oz (Attic Productions). Charlie has trained with MMT Conservatory and Brynn Scozzari Studios (SCAPA). In her spare time, Charlie enjoys drawing, writing short stories and playing Roblox. Charlie would like to thank Melanie Fox & Kim Mucha from CSMS, Ms. Brynn for audition prep constant encouragement, the whole MMT team for giving her this opportunity, and her mom and dad for continued support and sacrifice to pursue her love of theatre.
Hollis Yardley
Hollis is thrilled to be making her MMT debut! Previous roles include Peter Pan (Peter Pan, Jr.) and Lily St. Regis (Annie, Jr.) at North Cross School. She'd like to thank her friends and family for their love and support.
Reilly Blevins
Reilly Blevins first got bitten by the acting bug when she performed in her first musical at the age of six right in Blacksburg, Virginia! Since then, she has done plays and musicals across the U.S., all the way from Virginia to California! Some of her favorite roles are: Laura Wingfield (The Glass Menagerie), Belle (Beauty and the Beast), and Sheldon Potts (Junie B. Jones, The Musical.) Reilly would like to thank her parents, sister, and friends for their endless support. If you’d like to follow along her artist journey, you can follow her on instagram @reiiiiilllllyy or check out her website at reillyblevins.com :) Enjoy the show!
Alexia Buckner
Alexia Buckner is excited to return to the Mill Mountain stage in the Hits of the 60s Concert. This native Memphian joined Mill Mountain Theatre for the first time as Lily Polkadot in Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical. She was also a featured vocalist in the totally tubular Ladies of the 80s Concert. She is a B.F.A. graduate of the Dobbins Conservatory at Southeast Missouri State University. During her time in school, some of her favorite performances were as Deloris Van Cartier in Sister Act, Beneatha Younger in A Raisin in the Sun, and the ferocious Dragon in Shrek the Musical. When she is not onstage, she loves to spend her time running, traveling, and watching far too many cooking competition shows.
Matthew Carter
Matthew Carter received a Bachelor of Music from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Regional: You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Schroeder, Prima Theatre), Crazy for You (Moose, Ogunquit Playhouse), RENT (Theatre Aspen), In The Heights (u/s Benny, Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival), The Pirates of Penzance (New York Gilbert and Sullivan Players), RENT (Tom Collins, San Antonio Broadway Theatre), Sister Act (Eddie, Crane River Theater), Pippin (Lewis) and Avenue Q (Princeton, Nebraska Repertory Theatre). Concert: Good And Evil: The Music of Dracula and Jekyll and Hyde and Louder than Words (Michael Anthony Theatrical), Boy Bands Through the Ages and The Best of Broadway (Mill Mountain Theatre). Matthew would like to thank his fiancé, Mollie, and his family for their endless love and support. Matthew-v-carter.com @matthew_v_carte
Sarah Paige Coleman
Suzanne W. Cresswell
Suzanne W. Cresswell is the Development Director at Mill Mountain Theatre, bringing over 15 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising and a lifelong love of the performing arts. She began her theatre journey at MMT as a Stage and Company Management Intern after earning her BA in Drama from the University of North Carolina at Asheville. Suzanne went on to work as a professional stage manager with Actor’s Equity Association, with credits at The O’Neill Theatre Center, Olney Theatre, and others across the Northeast.
After transitioning into fund development in 2008, she returned to Roanoke and held roles with the Alzheimer’s Association, Roanoke Valley SPCA, and Carilion Clinic Foundation. In 2024, Suzanne came full circle by joining MMT’s leadership team.
She is thrilled to once again be on stage—this time as a performer—and honored to perform at the theatre where her professional journey began.
Larry Kufel
Francesca Reilly
Francesca Reilly is a Virginia-based performer and educator whose love for theatre began at 9 years old after seeing the Broadway musical, Wonderful Town.
A Northern Virginian turned Roanoke native Francesca moved to the star city after graduating from Hollins University where she received her Bachelor’s in Music with a focus in Vocal Performance. Last year Francesca decided to continue her studies and is currently working to complete her Master’s of Music Education from Shenandoah University. Other accolades include a certificate in Music Theatre Performance.
Francesca has been a member of choir for over 10 years and has sung in select ensembles at the county, district, and state levels. A few of her favorite acting credits include Mouse from Goodnight Moon the Magical Musical, and Junie from Junie B. Jones the Musical. Off the stage, Francesca likes to get her Zen on as a certified yoga instructor, extending her love of the arts and teaching to the yoga studio and specializing in children’s yoga instruction.
Francesca is excited to be a part of the MMT family as the Director of Education!
francescareilly.com
Peppy Biddy
Peppy Biddy (Joe) is happy to return to Mill Mountain Theatre and to Roanoke. Biddy is a
Professor Emeritus of Theatre at Mississippi University for Women (Columbus, MS). He earned
his MFA in Theatre at Trinity University (San Antonio, TX) and has worked as either actor,
director, or stage manager at such companies as Dallas Theatre Center, Dallas Summer Musicals,
Casa Manana (Ft. Worth, TX), Dallas Children’s Theatre, and New Stage Theatre (Jackson, MS.)
He served as the Production Manager for the Sundance Theatre Lab in Utah from 2000-2017.
Previous MMT credits include Director of The Glass Menagerie, Smokey Joe’s Café, The
Marvelous Wonderettes, The 39 Steps, Hank Williams: Lost Highway, Idols of the King and as
Production Stage Manager for To Kill A Mockingbird, On Golden Pond , Holiday Inn, Bright
Star, and Jersey Boys.. Member of Actors Equity Association.
Taylor Grace Blaszak
Taylor is thrilled to make her Mill Mountain theatrical debut as Lulu in Waitress! She has been passionate about performing from a young age and has extensive experience in dance, acting, and singing. Taylor has trained in ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, contemporary, and acrobatics with Little Leapers and LEAP Performing Arts Academy.
Her past performances include Alice in Wonderland (Little Alice), The Nutcracker (Party Girl, Battle Mouse, Chinese Tea Dancer, Candy Elf), A Toy Story (Dancer), and Rapunzel (Dancer). She has also showcased her talents in dance competitions such as Dance Machine and Hall of Fame Dance Challenge.
Taylor is excited to bring Lulu to life and would like to thank God, her family, teachers (especially Miss. Heather & Miss. Izzy), friends, and fellow performers for their encouragement and support. She hopes the audience enjoys the show as much as she loves performing in it!
Ashlinn Blevins
Ashlinn Blevins is delighted to be returning to the Mill Mountain stage! You may have recently seen her on the Trinkle Mainstage as (Ensemble/Swing) Escape To Margaritaville, (Fraulein Kost) Cabaret, (Stephanie Crawford) To Kill A Mockingbird and (Star To Be) Annie. Ashlinn has her certificate in Musical Theatre from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy located in New York City. She is forever grateful for the unrelenting support from her wonderful mom, dad, and sister. They’ve helped make all her dreams come true and made the little girl who wanted to make art exceptionally happy. She hopes you leave this show with more appreciation for the “moms” in your life!
Aaron Castle
This is Aaron’s second show with MMT after bringing the Kit Kat Klub to life as the Emcee in Cabaret last season. He occasionally visits the Tampa, Nashville, and New York theatre communities for employment, but returns home to Southern California to be with his grandma. When he isn’t sneaking off to the theatre at night, you can find him serving coffee or exploring the US backcountry. Off Broadway: Sleepy Hollow (Ichabod Crane), A Christmas Carol (Ensemble). Regional: Cabaret (Emcee), She
Sade Crosby
All the way from the Sunshine State, Sade Crosby is thrilled to be back at MMT, where she was last seen in the 2023 production of Bright Star! A graduate of Jacksonville Univeristy's BFA Muscial Theatre program, she has several regional credits under her belt including Clue: The Musical (Arizona Broadway Theatre), Elf The Musical, and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (The Phoenix Theatre Company). Sade is grateful for this incredible opportunity to play a dream role in a dream show with a dream cast and crew. She thanks her family & friends for their love and support. Enjoy the show!
Tammie Harris
Tammie Harris is an actress and singer from Georgetown, Kentucky. Her first production was A Song For Coretta. Since then, she's played Effie in Dreamgirls and Glinda in The Wiz. Recent credits include The Witch in Into The Woods, Medda Larkin in Disney's Newsies and Motormouth Maybelle in Hairspray aboard Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas. When she's not at home, you can find her reading, doing research on eyebrow microblading (which she hopes to get one day), being Whitney Houston's unofficial fan club president, laughing at videos of people falling…basically, the same things she does when she's home. Tammie would like to thank her family and friends for their infinite love and support! Her advice: daily vocal warm-ups, moisturizers with SPF and Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz for sparse brows.
Macalan Johnson
Macalan is truly honored to be "opening up" in the ensemble alongside the Mill Mountain professionals in Waitress. He is a current freshman at Patrick Henry High School and is a member of MMT's Musical Theatre Conservatory. Favorite past roles include; RCPS productions of Beauty and the Beast (Lumiere), Shrek (Shrek), Newsies (Jack Kelly), and Peter Pan (Captain Hook). MMT productions of Finding Nemo Jr (Crush), Elf (Michael), and A Christmas Story (Ralphie). Grateful for the support of family, friends, and mentors who have helped shape his journey in the performing arts. Enjoy the warmth, humor, and hope of Waitress!
Keeley Morgan
Keeley Morgan is a performer from Panama City, FL and a graduate of the University of West Florida with her BFA in Musical Theatre. She recently performed with Mill Mountain in their productions of Cabaret (Frenchie), The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley (Mrs. Lambchop), To Kill A Mockingbird (Mayella Ewell), The Complete Works of William Shakespeare Abridged (Daniel), and Annie (Grace Farrell). This is Keeley's first time choreographing in the professional setting and she is so excited that she got this opportunity to work with such a talented creative team and for a company she loves so much.
Riley Parks
Riley Parks is a 9th grader at Patrick Henry High School. She has performed in over 20 shows across the Roanoke Valley including Annie(Pepper), The Miracle Worker(Helen Keller), Shrek Jr(Fiona), Footloose(Wendy Jo), and Fun Home(Young Allison). She is a member of the MMT Conservatory and serves on the Mill Mountain Theatre Student Advisory Board. She trains vocally with KJPAS and studies piano with Bethany Costello. She thanks Mill Mountain Theatre for this opportunity to be a part of this production and hopes you enjoy the show.
Francesca Reilly
Francesca Reilly is PIE-sitively thrilled to be back on the MMT stage! A performer and educator, she fell in love with theatre at the age of 9. Originally from Northern Virginia, she made Roanoke her home after earning her Bachelor's in Music and her Master’s in Music Education.
Since graduating, Francesca has toured with theatres across Virginia and North Carolina. Some of her favorite credits include Junie B. Jones (Junie), Goodnight Moon (Mouse), and Stellaluna (Pinduli). You may also remember her from MMT’s Best of Broadway and last year’s 60th Anniversary Concert.
When she’s not performing, Francesca serves as Director of Education at Mill Mountain Theatre, helping shape the next generation of stars. She sends endless thanks to the cast, crew, and loved ones for their support and dedicates this performance to the strongest woman she knows - her mom. "I love you to the moon, back, and more!"
Selena Robinson
Selena Robinson (Nurse Norma/Dance Captain) is so excited to return to Mill Mountain Theatre after appearing as Texas/Dance Captain in Cabaret and Marley in Escape to Margaritaville! She is a proud Chicago native and NYU graduate. Some of her favorite credits include Legally Blonde (Pilar, Music Theatre Works), Chicago (Liz, Arizona Broadway Theatre), Elf (Arvada Center), Little Shop of Horrors (Ronnette, Metropolis Performing Arts Centre), Matilda, Scrooge (Fireside Theatre), and The Queen’s Ball: A Bridgerton Experience (Netflix/Fever). Selena is represented by Gray Talent Group. Special thanks to her friends and family, her Physical Therapist Maddie, Matt, Ginger, and the entire MMT Team! www.selenarobinson.com IG: @selenarobinson_97
Ryan Slone
RYAN SLONE is excited to make his debut with MMT. A Cincinnati native and graduate of CCM at the University of Cincinnati, Ryan now resides in New York City but has traveled the world through his music, including as a member of the band Chasing Saturn. His adventures include cage diving with great white sharks in South Africa, a two-month solo road trip through Mexico, and a six-month performer contract with Viking Ocean.
Ryan’s traveling and music career began at age 11 when he became one of the first Americans to join the Vienna Boys Choir. Recently, he has been seen at Fireside Theatre as Monty in Saturday Night Fever and Johnny Casino in Grease, as well as roles like Gaston in Beauty and the Beast (The Growing Stage) and Pirelli in Sweeney Todd (City Island Theatre).
Ryan would like to thank his family and friends for their unwavering support.
Dylan Toms
DYLAN TOMS (Ogie) DC AREA: Signature Theatre: Into the Woods, Sweeney Todd, She Loves Me, Assassins; Kennedy Center Theatre for Young Audiences: FINN (Finn, World Premiere), The Mortification of Fovea Munson (World Premiere); Olney Theatre Center: Meredith Wilson’s The Music Man (Helen Hayes Award: Outstanding Ensemble); Adventure Theatre MTC: The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe (Peter et. al, Helen Hayes Nomination), Junie B. Jones: The Musical, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown; SOUTHERN VA: Virginia Children's Theatre: The Secret Garden (Dr. Craven), The Addams Family (Lurch); Showtimers Theatre: Cabaret (Emcee); Renaissance Theatre: Sordid Lives (Ty). EDUCATION: B.M. - George Mason University 2018.
Amanda Tong
Amanda Tong is honored to make her MMT debut in this beautiful show and dream role. Some of her past favorite regional credits include: “Steel Magnolias” (Annelle); “Jersey Boys” (Lorraine); Regional Premiere “Flashdance” (Gloria); “Into the Woods” (Cinderella); “Chorus Line” (Judy); “Escape to Margaritaville” (Rachel); “Man of La Mancha (Antonia); “Saturday Night Fever (Stephanie)*Winner for Most Impressive Actress in a Lead Role; “Cabaret”(Lulu); “Godspell” (Robin); “Marvelous Wonderettes” (Cindy Lou); Regional Premiere “Rock of Ages” (Constance, u/s Sherrie); “Crazy for You” (Polly); “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” (Woman 1); “Daughter of Society” (Herself) *New York SummerFest Winner for Best Vocalist in a New Musical; “A Wall Apart”-Air Supply Musical New York Musical Festival. Amanda was a member of the USO Show Troupe where she had the honor and privilege to travel all over the world performing for our troops, veterans and their families. Her extreme gratitude to MMT. Sean, I love you with my whole heart! Galatians 6:9
Amber Voeller
Amber Voeller is an actress, singer, performer, educator, and Props Designer based out of N.Y.C and Roanoke, VA. She received her training at Huntington University School of Arts with a B.A. in Theatre Performance and is a current vocal student under Matt Farnsworth's Vocal Studio. She is thrilled to be making her Mill Mountain performance debut and thankful to be returning as a Props Designer! When not performing she is teaching young artists her favorite thing! Playhouse Studio L.L.C is her small business where students globally can take fun and engaging theatre classes online. She would like to thank her incredible husband for being her rock, Mill Mountain Theatre staff for being so kind and supportive, and all of you here tonight. We can't have theatre with our audiences.
Jacob Wadstrom
Jacob Wadstrom recently graduated from Nazareth University with a BFA in Musical Theatre. A Roanoke native, Jacob is thrilled to be back at Mill Mountain Theatre where he originally fell in love with acting. Some favorite roles include Lank in Crazy For You (Nazareth University), Demetrius in A Midsummer Night's Dream (Nazareth University) and Romeo in Romeo and Juliet (Mill Mountain Theatre). Outside of the theatre, Jacob enjoys hiking, playing golf and rooting on his beloved Liverpool FC.
Scott Watson
Brooklyn, NY based actor Scott Watson is delighted to return to the stage for the 9th time at his artistic home-away-from-home Mill Mountain Theatre!
This production and Mill Mountain Theatre would not be possible without the talent, dedication, and heart of the small but mighty MMT creatives and staff. You make MMT and Southwestern Virginia brighter by keeping professional theatre alive.
Previous shows at Mill Mountain: Mamma Mia!, A Christmas Story (2017, 2021), To Kill A Mockingbird, The Diary Of Anne Frank, The Christians, The Putnam County Spelling Bee and The Odd Couple.
Off-Broadway: Drunk Shakespeare (Brass Jar Prod), Taming of the Shrew & Henry V (New York Classical Theatre), Going Once, Laughing Twice (St Luke’s Theatre)
Regional: Othello, Much Ado About Nothing (Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival), Twefth Night, Hamlet, Two Gentlemen of Verona, Midsummer Night’s Dream (Shakespeare on the Sound) Julius Caesar (Teatro Delle Due, prod in Italy.)
Other Credits: Scott Watson and his mustache can be spotted in numerous national commercials currently running including an Underwater Office Spot for Grammarly, a spot for Trolli Gummi Worms, a Redfin Commercial co-starring his lovely and talented partner Amanda Lea Mason, a promo for Peacock, and many more.
All my love to my better half and brilliant partner, Amanda, and to our adorable son Peanut who is weird, wonderful and also a Chihuahua. Scott is a proud graduate of Grand Valley State University, MI with a Bachelors of Arts in Theatre Performance and a Playwriting Minor.
Marci J. Duncan
Marci J. Duncan earned a BA in performance at Florida A&M University and her Masters in Acting at the University of Florida. She studied television and film acting with Evonne Suhor at Orlando’s Art Sake Acting Studio. Marci's film work includes (Just) Another Day co-starring with Jamie Hectar from HBO’s The Wire and Life is not a Fairytale: The Fantasia Barrino Story, working with Debbie Allen and Fantasia Barrino. Marci just completed a network series for NBC, Young Rock and a one woman show called Florida Girls at Emerald Coast Theatre Company. Marci provides actor coaching with her acting studio, Artists at Play and is currently on tour with her new original play, DISSONANCE.
Kerry Sandell
Kerry Sandell holds a Bachelor's degree in Theatre Performance and a Master's degree in Strategic Communication from The University of West Florida. She is passionate about connecting people through storytelling, which was the genesis for developing Dissonance with Marci. A few of her past theatrical credits inclue M'Lynn in Steel Magnolias, Ruth in Collected Stories (which she also produced), the titular role in Medea, Kate in Dancing at Lughnasa, Meg in Crimes of the Heart, and Mary in On the Verge. This is her first play collaboration with more on the way.
Chloe Barnes
Chloe is thrilled to be performing as an orphan in her first role at MMT. Chloe is 12 years old, and is in 6th grade at Read Mountain Middle School. She has been singing since she could talk, and especially loved participating in the Let’s Play Music program when she was little. She also plays piano, violin, flute, and ukulele. When she’s not doing things that are theater or music related, Chloe also loves participating in Scouts, reading, and sewing.
Ashlinn Blevins
Ashlinn Blevins is delighted to be making her return with Mill Mountain Theatre. Favorite credits include Fraulein Kost Cabaret, Kathrine Plumber Newsies, Mrs Carters The Musical Adventures Of Flat Stanley, Deb Understudy/Swing Elf The Musical, and Swing/Ensemble Escape To Margaritaville. She has a certificate in Musical Theatre from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy located in New York City. She is forever grateful for the unrelenting support from her wonderful mom, dad, and sister. They’ve helped make all her dreams come true and made the little girl who wanted to make art exceptionally happy. She hopes you enjoy this show and never lose your love of theatre!
Sadie Calderwood
Sadie is excited to be performing in her Mill Mountain Theater and professional stage debut! Sadie has previously performed in the Virginia Children's Theater youth classes, Under the Sea (Sebastian), Cirque du VCT (dancer), and Pure Imagination (Willy Wonka). Voted most theatrical in her preschool class, Sadie loves the stage, singing, dancing, and acting. She lives in Salem with her little sister, mom, dad, and three cats. When not acting, she loves to read, have sleepovers at her grandparents', ride her bike, and stage plays for her friends. She loves to travel to New York (Broadway!) and the beach. She'd like to thank her family, teachers, and "cheer" friends for their love and support. Enjoy the show! I think you're gonna like it here!
Tori Carboni
Tori Carboni is excited to make her MMT debut in Annie! Tori is a NYC-based performer, originally from Northern Virginia. She graduated from Marymount Manhattan College with a double major in Dance and Accounting. She worked for Celebrity Cruises as a dancer/aerialist, and is now a proud member of The New Jack Cole Dancers dance company in New York, bringing old-school jazz into the new modern era. She'd like to thank Jeremy, her family, friends, Resolute Artists Agency, and Annie's Director/Choreographer, Michael Anthony Sylvester, for bringing her along for this journey! IG: @tori_carboni
Grace Conlee
Violet Farmer
Violet Farmer is delighted to return to the Trinkle stage for her third MMT production. Violet is an 8th grader at Andrew Lewis Middle School. Her favorite credits include Chum in Finding Nemo Jr. and a North Pole Elf in Elf the Musical. Violet is an accomplished singer, composer and pianist who has been recognized for her original music in MTNA and Virginia PTA Reflections. Her favorite hobbies are reading, cheerleading, singing and playing piano. She hopes that Annie reminds the audience that the sun will always come out tomorrow! Violet wishes to thank her mom for driving her everywhere, Bethany Costello, and the whole team at MMT for the incredible opportunity to be part of a holiday classic. Follow Violet’s music on Instagram @violetwfarmer
Autumn Farmer
Autumn Farmer is thrilled to return to the Trinkle Stage for Annie, a dream role! Autumn is a 5th grader at North Cross School. Her favorite credits include playing Nemo (Finding Nemo Jr), a North Pole Elf (Elf the Musical), Captain Hook (Peter Pan Jr) and Miss Hannigan (Annie Jr). When she’s not on stage, Autumn is a competitive gymnast, dancer, and slime connoisseur. She loves her theatre family and delights in bringing joy and hope through sharing Annie’s story. Autumn would like to thank the amazing staff and creatives at MMT, Bethany and Thomas Costello, her NCS teachers, and her family for supporting her growth as a performer. Follow Autumn’s professional journey on Instagram @autumnrfarmer
Emma Harvey
EMMA HARVEY is thrilled to be returning to the Trinkle Mainstage for Annie! She is a senior at Blacksburg High School, where she is a member of the Madrigal Singers and has been selected for VCDA All-State, ACDA Southern Region, and VMEA Senior Honor Choirs. Previous MMT credits include Finding Nemo JR. (Coral/Breeze/Eel), Matilda (ensemble), High School Musical (Kelsi), and The Sound of Music (Marta). Other past credits include The Addams Family (Wednesday) and Cinderella (Gabrielle) with BHS and The Secret Garden (Dreamer), Cinderella (Fox Puppeteer/Footman), The Addams Family (Ancestor), and Annie (ensemble, Annie u/s) with Virginia Children’s Theatre. Emma is a student with MMT’s Musical Theatre and Dance Conservatory and also serves on the MMT Youth Advisory Board. When not performing, she enjoys reading, writing, and competitive cat watching.
Burke Hutchinson
Burke is an NYC-based actor, musician, and filmmaker. He is elated to be returning for his third show with MMT and to spend his holiday season with this iconic show! Previously with MMT: Bright Star and Jersey Boys. Recently: Girl From The North Country (First National Tour). Regional: Illumination (Prima), Ragtime (Dutch Apple), We Will Rock You (Scranton Shakes). Ithaca College ‘22. He is ever-grateful to his family, Taylor, friends, and the FSE team. Instagram @burkehutch, burkehutchinson.com, stream his EP, February, on all platforms.
Jorie Janeway
Jorie Janeway cannot believe her luck that she gets to play her dream role in one of her absolute favorite theatres in the world! Jorie was previously seen on the Mill Mountain stage in A Christmas Story, White Christmas, 42nd Street, The Odd Couple, and The Sound of Music. Other past favorites include National Tours: Hairspray (Female Authority Figure) Regional: The Drowsy Chaperone (Chaperone), Sister Act (Ensemble), Shrek (Fairy Godmother) and The Secret Garden (Mrs. Medlock). Love to my dear family and my main little man, Rooster (Yes, my dog IS named for Rooster Hannigan)!
Caitlin McAvoy
Caitlin is honored to be with MMT for the 25th Anniversary Season!
You may recognize Caitlin from MMT productions including "Lucy" in Bright Star, "Graziella" in West Side Story or "Bebe" in A Chorus Line.
When not the vapid or the villainous, you can catch Caitlin on The Hallmark Channel’s A Holiday Spectacular, Hulu’s Dopesick and for her silver screen debut playing a young Beverly D’Angelo in No Address coming to movie theaters this spring!
In her freetime Caitlin loves coaching students in dance, acting and audition prep. Love to her family, Guy, and you for taking the time to embrace the magic of the season.
Jeffrey McGullion
Jeffrey is thrilled to be performing in his 20 th production at Mill Mountain Theatre. Originally from Los
Angeles, Jeffrey has performed throughout the southeast with Barpeg Productions, Barter Theatre,
Roanoke Children’s Theatre, Temple Theatre, Texas Shakespeare Festival, Wohlfahrt Haus, The Barn
Dinner Theatres, and as co-founder of the Roanoke Valley Shakespeare Festival. He was last seen at Mill
Mountain Theatre as Bob Ewell in To Kill a Mockingbird. Other MMT credits include Herr Schultz/Max in
Cabaret, JD in Escape to Margaritaville, Walter in Elf, the Musical, Daddy Murphy in Bright Star, Clown 1
in The 39 Steps, Felix in The Odd Couple, Wilbur in Hairspray, and Mr. Dussel in The Diary Of Anne Frank.
Other favorite roles include Prof. Moriarty in the regional premiere of Sherlock Holmes and the Case of
the Jersey Lily and Louie in Lost in Yonkers. He is a Cum Laude graduate of the University of Georgia
Theatre Department. Jeffrey thanks Ginger Poole and all of MMT’s staff for the opportunities.
Belle McNamara
Belle McNamara is thrilled to be returning to Mill Mountain Theatre’s Trinkle stage for Annie! Belle is a 7th grader at North Cross School, and cannot wait to be together with you this holiday season! You may have recently seen Belle in Mill Mountain Theatre’s Finding Nemo, Jr., Elf the Musical and Matilda. Belle is a proud member of MMT’s Conservatory. Belle would like to thank everyone who has supported her and all who continue to help her reach for her goals. Special thanks to all of Mill Mountain Theatre’s Education Team, Kayla Ryan Walsh, Brynn Scozzari and Thomas Costello. Wishing you all very Happy Holidays!
Keeley Morgan
Keeley Morgan is a performer from Panama City, FL and a recent graduate of the University of West Florida with her BFA in Musical Theatre. She recently performed with Mill Mountain in their productions of Cabaret (Frenchie), The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley (Mrs. Lambchop), To Kill a Mockingbird(Mayella Ewell), and in The Complete Works of William Shakespeare Abridged! Keeley is beyond excited to perform in the final show of her apprenticeship with Mill Mountain and eternally grateful to Matt, Ginger, and her fellow apprentices for making these 8 months an experience she will always cherish.
Andi-Grace Novell
Andi-Grace Novell is a junior in the Mill Mountain Theatre Conservatory and is so grateful to be on the Trinkle Mainstage this holiday season! Some of her recent credits with MMT include Finding Nemo Jr (Gurgle/Mask Dancer/ U/S Coral and U/S Breeze), Frog and Toad (Bird 1/Dance Captain), Charlotte's Web (Sheep), as well as VCT's Beauty and the Beast (Dance Ensemble). Andi-Grace is a member of both the MMT Dance and Musical Theatre Conservatory and has been since her freshman year. She also serves as the current secretary of the Student Advisory Board here at MMT. She would like to give a big thank you to the staff at MMT, her family, and her friends for their continuous support!
Riley Parks
Riley Parks is excited to return to the Trinkle Mainstage this year in Annie. You may have seen her in some recent productions including Finding Nemo Jr. (Dance Captain/Swing), Footloose (Wendy Jo), Shrek Jr. (Fiona), and Newsies Jr. (Race). She trains with Kevin Jones Performing Arts Studio, Brynne Scozzari Studios, Bethaney Costello, and MMT Conservatory. Riley enjoys playing piano and uploading covers to social media. Follow her @rileyparkstheater and @rileyparks_singing, visit her website rileyparkstheatre.com. She hopes you enjoy the show and remember, you're never fully dressed without a smile.
Amelia Raring
Amelia is excited to return to Mill Mountain Theatre’s Trinkle Stage for Annie! She is a student at Hidden Valley and Mill Mountain Theatre Conservatory. You may recognize Amelia from this fall’s MMT production of To Kill A Mockingbird where she played Scout; she also performed in MMT’s Matilda (Matilda), Write Stuff, and Peter and Wendy (Master Panther). Other credits include Grandin Film Lab’s Wysteria: the Series (Young Mary), StageCenter Louisiana’s productions of Matilda (Lavender), The Little Mermaid Jr. (Flounder), and Annie Jr. (Tessie). Outside of theatre, Amelia enjoys reading, cross country, and ninja and bo staff training. She extends her heartfelt appreciation to the MMT Staff, her family and friends, and invites you to enjoy this festive tale as you sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!
Joseph Raring
Joseph is excited to arf! and bark! into your heart as Sandy, Annie’s dog in his acting debut! Joseph is a 3rd grader at Green Valley Elementary and loves to play sports, read, and train in ninja, parkour, and bo staff. Always the optimist, he hopes you know the sun will come out tomorrow. He would like to thank his family, MMT, and you! Enjoy the show!
Eva Rose Sarver-Wolf
Eva Rose is thrilled to be back with Mill Mountain Theatre! This is her third show with MMT, after playing The Tall and Terrible Frog in A Year with Frog and Toad and Anchor in Finding Nemo Jr.. Eva Rose is a junior at Community High School, where she's participating in their production of Our Town. Her favorite past roles include Wednesday Addams in The Addams Family, Elsa in Frozen Jr., Ursula in The Little Mermaid Jr., and Gabriella in High School Musical! Eva Rose is 17 and her favorite things to do outside of theatre are playing guitar, making jewelry, reading, and spending time with her friends!
Don Seward
Don is thrilled to be at Mill Mountain Theater with this amazing cast and crew. Some favorite credits include. 25th… Putnam County Spelling Bee (Nat’l Tour/Mitch Mahoney), Amazing Grace (Nat’l Tour/ Thomas), Ragtime (Coalhouse Walker ; Carbonell Nominee), Sister Act ( Curtis) The Wiz (Lion) & Dreamgirls (Curtis Taylor Jr) 5 Guys Name Moe ( Eat Moe) He dedicates this performance to his Mother Charlette Seward and Family as well as his now Guardian Angels Ellen Davis and Christopher McKennon. “Thank You guys for always pushing and believing in me.”
Larry Robert Smith III
Larry Robert Smith III born in Southern California, is an alumnus from West Virginia University with a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre and a B.A. in Dance. At WVU, he performed as Prince Topher in Cinderella, Daryl Ames in Bright Star, and Billy Nolan in Carrie. Other credits include Cabaret (Mill Mountain Theatre), Tarzan, Annie, and The Wizard of Oz (Theatre West Virginia). Apart from performing, Larry is a very passionate choreographer and director. Most recently he restaged his choreography, "Indecorous"; which explores themes of seduction, propriety, and authority. He is beyond thrilled and grateful to be with Mill Mountain Theatre for their 60th season. Be sure to see him in MMT’s upcoming productions of The Complete Works of Shakespeare (Abridged) and Annie. Instagram: @larry_thespian Website: larrythespian.com
Kenan Starnes
Kenan Starnes is an award-winning, Charlotte based actor whose past few years have been spent exploring the world of acting for the camera and performing on stage. He has worked professionally in Atlanta, Charlotte, Richmond, and many other areas surrounding the Southeast, and has been on projects spanning from high-budget feature films and commercials, to low budget short films and musical productions. Kenan’s professional endeavors have proven beneficial as they have lead to accomplishments such as: Best Teen Actor at Talent Inc. Showcase (2022), Top 6 Best Actor at the Blumey Awards (2022), and an Associates Degree in Arts. Some notable roles include: Jack Kelly in Newsies the Musical (2022), Ernst Ludwig in Cabaret (2024), Boo Radley in To Kill A Mockingbird (2024), Nicely-Nicely Johnson in Guys and Dolls (2020), Marcus in Formative Years (2023), and The Critic in Appetite (2023).
Simeon Taylor
Natalie Thorell
Natalie is thrilled to perform in another holiday show at Mill Mountain Theatre! She is an 8th grader at Hidden Valley Middle School. Her most recent MMT performance was in Finding Nemo, Jr. (Peach/Dance Captain/Swing) . Some of her favorite MMT credits include Elf, The Musical (Tiara//Swing), Matilda, The Musical (Hortensia/Dance Ensemble), The Sound of Music (Gretl), and Peter and Wendy (Tinkerbell). Natalie is a member of the Kevin Jones Performing Arts Studio, MMT Conservatory, Divine Dance Center, and the HVMS Choir. Natalie is very grateful for this opportunity and hopes you know that you’re never fully dressed without a smile!
Jacob Wadstrom
Jacob Wadstrom recently graduated from Nazareth University with a BFA in Musical Theatre. A Roanoke native, Jacob is thrilled to be back at Mill Mountain Theatre where he originally fell in love with acting. Some favorite roles include Lank in Crazy For You (Nazareth University), Demetrius in A Midsummer Night's Dream (Nazareth University) and Romeo in Romeo and Juliet (Mill Mountain Theatre). Outside of the theatre, Jacob enjoys hiking, playing golf and rooting on his beloved Liverpool FC.
Cameron Wimbish
Cameron is ecstatic to be a part of Mill Mountain's production of Annie! Some other notable credits include Mr. Wormwood in Matilda the Musical, Frog in A Year With Frog and Toad, Wadsworth in Clue, and James in The Miracle Worker among many others! He thanks you for supporting live theatre, and encourages you to follow his socials to see what he's up to next! Enjoy the show!
Cindy Blevins
Cindy Blevins is a lifelong theatre enthusiast and performer. She began performing in and around the Richmond area for several years. After moving to the New River Valley she continued performing with Opera Roanoke, Summer Musical Enterprise, Mill Mountain Theatre, Blacksburg Master Chorale, Virginia Tech Theatre Department and Virginia Children’s Theatre. She stays busy as a collaborative pianist/accompanist with individuals and groups, and as a director and coach with music makers of all ages, most recently serving as Musical Director for Bat Boy the Musical at Radford University. Past MMT productions she has supported as an actor include 2019 The Sound of Music and 2020 Timeless Twenties; as a keyboard player includes Jersey Boys, Elf the Musical and the 60th Anniversary Concert; and she was the Music Director for Cabaret. Cindy is the Chairperson for Summer Musical Enterprise headquartered in Blacksburg, and the Assistant Director of Music at Blacksburg United Methodist Church. She is also a Licensed Professional Counselor with Life in Balance Counseling Center in Christiansburg. Cindy is always thrilled to be performing with her Mill Mountain Theatre family!
Timothy Booth
Timothy is humbled to be retuning to MMT to take a swing at this iconic role. He's originally from Charlottesville and graduated with a B.A. in theatre from VA Tech. This is Timothy's 9th production with MMT from '87 to the present including: A Christmas Story, Mamma Mia!, The Sound of Music, My Fair Lady, and Tomfoolery. He performed many years on Broadway and on tour with Mamma Mia! and has numerous theatrical credits from across the country, the world, and the open seas. He's been on TV, radio and Film as well as catching the directing bug. He hopes audiences will truly hear these beautiful words by Harper Lee (dramatized by Christopher Sergel) and sit with them. Swim around with them awhile. And, perhaps, just maybe, begin to consider things from someone else's point of view every now and then. Proud AEA member since 1990.
Keira Booze
Keira Booze is ecstatic to make her Mill Mountain Theatre debut. She is a high school senior who won the Best Supporting Actress award from Glenvar High last year. She is also part of the Burton Center for Performing Arts program. In addition to school performances, she has been seen on stage with Showtimers and Attic Productions over the last 8 years. Favorite roles include Annie (Annie), Winnie Foster (Tuck Everlasting), Gracie Shinn (The Music Man), Winnie Tate (Annie Get Your Gun), Miranda (The Tempest), Maria (9 to 5) and Madam Arcati (Blithe Spirit).
Jade Dyer
Jade Krystal Dyer (JKD) is an actor from sunny South Florida. In the Spring of 2024, JKD completed her Acting Apprenticeship at New Stage Theatre where she performed in shows such as Elf the Musical, The Secret Garden, Anne and Emmett, and Junie B. Jones the Musical. Outside of her apprenticeship, JKD has acted in shows like Hair the Musical, Men on Boats, Julius Caesar, and Sweet Charity. In addition to performance, JKD also has experience producing and directing, working as Assistant Director on Chicken and Biscuits, and acting as an Associate Producer for Tri-County the Series. JKD is ecstatic to perform in her first Mill Mountain production and become a part of the Mill Mountain family!
Rory Grant
Rory is delighted to be back on the Trinkle MainStage. He has been acting in the Roanoke Valley for 8 years, taking MMT Conservatory classes since he was 6. Some of his favorite roles include Bruce Bogtrotter in Matilda, Jim Hawkins in Treasure Island, and Charlie Winslow in Holiday Inn. He was recently in a film celebrating the 250th anniversary of Smithfield Plantation, Roots of a Nation. When he’s not on stage, he enjoys playing Dungeons & Dragons and video games, reading, and participating in scouting. He would like to thank his parents for their support and all of you for coming to see the show!
Larry Kufel
As a graduate of the University of Buffalo with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and accounting, Larry spent most of his career in the financial field within the wholesale and retail industry in his native area of western New York. He relocated to Roanoke in 2000 to assume the position of director of financial planning and analysis with Advance Auto Parts. He later held a similar role with the Sheraton Roanoke Hotel and Conference Center until his retirement in 2015. Larry began his career with Mill Mountain Theatre by volunteering his services as the theatre house manager before he was employed as the business manager. Larry has made singing appearances in the Mill Mountain Theatre Crooner’s Concert, Best of Broadway concert, and the 60th Anniversary Concert this year.
MaryJean Redon Levin
MaryJean Redon Levin is pleased to return for the tenth time to Mill Mountain Theatre”s stage, especially with this extraordinary cast and crew. She has appeared in numerous other local and regional theatres, including Off the Rails, Dumas Drama Center, Roanoke Children’s Theatre, and most recently as Flora, Countess de Lage in The Women at Showtimers and in Overnight Sensations at Hollins University. She is also an interior design consultant at Halifax Fine Furnishings.
Keeley Morgan
Keeley is a recent graduate from The University of West Florida where she acquired her BFA in Musical Theatre. Some of her recent roles include Suzy in The Marvelous Wonderettes, Brooke Wyndham in Legally Blonde, and Carla in Nine. She previously performed in Cabaret and in The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley here at Mill Mountain Theatre and she couldn't be more grateful for the opportunity to perform as one of MMT's Apprentices this season!
Anders Plunkett
Anders Plunkett is delighted to be making his debut with Mill Mountain Theater. Recent credits include Newsies, Peter Pan, and Matilda, at James Madison Middle School for which he is grateful for introducing him to the art of acting. He is a student at Patrick Henry High School and the Roanoke Valley Governor’s School. When he’s not on stage or at school, he may be found playing soccer, refereeing the sport, or chatting it up with friends.
Ginger Poole
Ginger Poole is a proud member of Actor’s Equity Association and an Associate member of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Union. She has studied, taught, choreographed, and performed throughout the U.S. She has worked in GA, HI, FL, MS, SC and VA with, Theatre in the Square, The Alliance City Series, Theatre Gael, Synchronicity Performance Group-GA, Mill Mountain Theatre-VA and SC Children’s Theatre. Originally from Atlanta, she has worked with the N.F.L. and The Atlanta Falcons as their director and choreographer and The Atlanta Opera. Prior to coming to Mill Mountain Theatre, she was based out of North Carolina where she has worked with Flat Rock Playhouse, the State Theatre of North Carolina, in over 25 productions. She was a part of the Education program at Flat Rock Playhouse for 5 years where she taught for their Apprentice Companies and their Conservatory Program in Acting, Dance, and Musical Theatre. Ginger has taught at The University of Southern Mississippi, Western Carolina University, William Carey College, Mississippi University for Women, and currently teaches at Hollins University. With Ginger’s strong background in dance she finds herself not only acting and dancing on stage but also directing the choreography and classroom skills for her students. Ginger holds her M.F.A. in Acting Performance from the University of Southern Mississippi and continues to teach acting and dance. She has worked with students that range in age from kindergarten through professionals.
Ginger has worked in commercials, voice-overs, film, stage, and the classroom, and was profiled in the book FIRESTARTERS as “the actor”.
Ginger serves on the following Board of Directors: South Eastern Theatre Conference (SETC Secretary, Second Term), Junior League of the Roanoke Valley (Past President and Current Nominating Committee, Second Term), Burton Performing Arts Advisory Board, The Roanoke City Public Schools Education Foundation, and she has served on the Review Panel for theVirginia Commission for the Arts. She was the recipient of the DePaul’s Women of Achievement Award in the Arts in 2013 and was named the 2016 Kendig Award recipient for Individual Artist. Ginger is also a guest host with WSLS, the NBC affiliate, Daytime Blue Ridge television show, and is the host of the new Mill Mountain Theatre Podcast, Meet Me at Mill Mountain. She is very proud to be a member of the Mill Mountain Theatre team and looks forward to its continued growth, success, and artistic influence in the region.
Akilah Ramsey
Akilah, born and raised in the Star City, was born to be a star! She has always been a performer whether at work or with some of the acting guilds of Roanoke City. Akilah has done a great deal of productions with Opera Roanoke including “Sweeney Todd”, “Carmen” and “The Pirates of Penzance.” She’s performed with Showtimers in “Rent” and “Amen Corner.” She has performed with Virginia Children’s Theatre in “The Addams Family”, “Madagascar” and “James and the Giant Peach.” Her latest show was "Song of Mark" with Logos Theatricus for the second go round! Akilah is looking forward to making her debut with Mill Mountain Theatre and many more to come!
Amelia Raring
Amelia is delighted to return to Mill Mountain Theatre’s Trinkle Stage for To Kill a Mockingbird, playing one of her favorite literary characters. She is an 8th grade student at Hidden Valley Middle School and a Mill Mountain Theatre Conservatory student. You may recognize Amelia from her performances in MMT’s Matilda (Matilda), Write Stuff, and Peter and Wendy (Master Panther). Other credits include Grandin Film Lab’s Wysteria: the Series (Young Mary), StageCenter Louisiana’s productions of Matilda (Lavender), The Little Mermaid Jr. (Flounder), and Annie Jr. (Tessie.) Outside of theatre, Amelia enjoys reading, cross country, and ninja and bo staff training. She extends her heartfelt appreciation to the MMT Staff, her family and friends, and invites you to absorb and reflect on this marvelous tale as you sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!
Frank Riley
Frank Riley is a Native of Richmond, Va. and a Father of two adult Sons. This will be his second time a Mill Mountain Theatre. He was previously in Dreamgirls as Marty before covid. He played Rev Sykes at the Little Theatre of Alexandria. I played Hambone in August Wilson two trains running at Arena Stsge in DC. I played the same role at Seattle Rep. I was in the movie Harriet where I played Joe. I was in a tv series called Dailey Bread.
Chris Shepard
Chris Shepard is thrilled to return to MMT, once again taking on the role of Heck. He was last seen on this stage as Officer Krupke in West Side Story. Recently, Chris portrayed Thomas Jefferson in 1776 at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest. Other credits include such roles as Jesus in both Jesus Christ Superstar and Godspell, Juror #7 in 12 Angry Men, Berger in Hair, and Bill Sikes in Oliver!. Chris is grateful for the opportunity to rejoin MMT and contribute to this classic production.
Larry Robert Smith III
Larry Robert Smith III born in Southern California, is an alumnus from West Virginia University with a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre and a B.A. in Dance. At WVU, he performed as Prince Topher in Cinderella, Daryl Ames in Bright Star, and Billy Nolan in Carrie. Other credits include Cabaret (Mill Mountain Theatre), Tarzan, Annie, and The Wizard of Oz (Theatre West Virginia). Apart from performing, Larry is a very passionate choreographer and director. Most recently he restaged his choreography, "Indecorous"; which explores themes of seduction, propriety, and authority. He is beyond thrilled and grateful to be with Mill Mountain Theatre for their 60th season. Be sure to see him in MMT’s upcoming productions of The Complete Works of Shakespeare (Abridged) and Annie. Instagram: @larry_thespian Website: larrythespian.com
Kenan Starnes
Kenan Starnes is an award-winning, Charlotte based actor whose past few years have been spent exploring the world of acting for the camera and performing on stage. He has worked professionally in Atlanta, Charlotte, Richmond, and many other areas surrounding the Southeast, and has been on projects spanning from high-budget feature films and commercials, to low budget short films and musical productions. Kenan’s professional endeavors have proven beneficial as they have lead to accomplishments such as: Best Teen Actor at Talent Inc. Showcase (2022), Top 6 Best Actor at the Blumey Awards (2022), and an Associates Degree in Arts. Some notable roles include: Jack Kelly in Newsies the Musical, Nicely-Nicely Johnson in Guys and Dolls, Marcus in Formative Years, Naphtali in Joseph..., Prince Eric in The Little Mermaid, and Ernst Ludwig in Cabaret.
Scott Watson
Brooklyn, NY based actor Scott Watson is delighted to return to the stage for the 8th time at his favorite theatrical home, Mill Mountain!
Thank you to Ginger and the rest of this hard-working, passionate, and fearless team of artists at Mill Mountain who make all this possible!
Previous shows at Mill Mountain: Mamma Mia!, The Diary Of Anne Frank, A Christmas Story (2017, 2021), The Christians, Putnam County Spelling Bee, The Odd Couple.
Off-Broadway: Drunk Shakespeare (Brass Jar Prod), Taming of the Shrew & Henry V (New York Classical Theatre), Going Once, Laughing Twice (St Luke’s Theatre)
Regional: Othello, Much Ado About Nothing (Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival), Twefth Night, Hamlet, Two Gentlemen of Verona, Midsummer Night’s Dream (Shakespeare on the Sound) Julius Caesar (Teatro Delle Due, prod in Italy.)
Other Credits: Scott can be spotted in many national commercials, including campaigns for Grammarly, Ray-Ban, Midea, NJM, Giant, Zenni, Hopper, the NFL and more!
Much love to Amanda and their Chihuahua Peanut. BA Grand Valley State University, MI.
Sophia Ametepe
Sophia is a rising 4th grader at Wasena Elementary School with a passion for theater. She has participated in four productions with Roanoke City Public Schools and is thrilled to be making her debut with Mill Mountain Theater this summer. She looks forward to continuing to grow her talents on stage. Sophia is excited to go with the flow with the rest of the amazing cast and crew of Nemo Jr.
Ben Armstrong
Ben Armstrong is excited to be returning to Mill Mountain Theatre. You may remember Ben from Best of Broadway (Soloist), Matilda The Musical (Doctor/Ensemble), Bright Star (Ensemble/Daryl U/S), Elf The Musical (Ensemble/Swing), Escape to Margaritaville (Ensemble/Swing) and most recently Mill Mountain Theatre 60th year celebration concert (soloist) here at Mill Mountain Theatre. Some of his other favorite credits include Cinderella (Prince Topher) and The Secret Garden (Dickon) at Virginia Children's Theatre. Ben was the 2021 Sarabeth Hammond Scholarship recipient at Virginia Children's Theatre. He is also apart of the conservatory program as well as a member of the Student Advisory Board here at MMT. This fall, Ben plans to continue his education and pursue his BFA in Musical Theatre at Marymount Manhattan College In NYC. Ben would like to thank his mom, the cast and the entire Mill Mountain Theatre staff for their continued love and support.
Alivia Brown
Alivia Brown is a rising high school senior. She enjoys being an active member of MMT's Conservatory, particpating in numerous classes and camps. She is thrilled to return to the Mill Mountain mainstage this summer. Alivia's favorite production credits include ensemble roles in The Addams Family, Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella, Secret Garden, and Matilda. She has enjoyed bringing characters to life on stage in productions of Apologies (Valerie), Lift Every Voice (Star), Madagascar: A Musical Adventure (King Julien), and Legally Blonde Jr. (Paulette). Alivia is thankful for the support of her family and friends and reminds you to "Just keep swimming!"
Carter Cecil
Carter Cecil is a rising 8th grader at Read Mountain Middle School. He most recently appeared as Toad in A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD at Mill Mountain. Other favorite roles include Jay in LOST IN YONKERS, Phineas Trout in WILLY WONKA Jr, John Darling in PETER PAN Jr, and Sergei in MATILDA. Carter thanks his family for their love and encouragement.
Megan Corbett
Megan is an 8th grader at Roanoke Catholic School. She has been in numerous productions around the Roanoke Valley but is excited to be making her Mill Mountain Theatre debut in Finding Nemo Jr. Her favorite past credits include Chrysalis, Little Mirage, The Sound of Music, Gretel, and The Addams Family, Young Wednesday. She would like to thank MMT for helping to support her love of acting.
Drew D’Alessandro
Drew is excited to swim together with the cast and creative team of Finding Nemo Jr. His most recent Mill Mountain production was Elf The Musical (Charlie/Ensemble). Other Favorite productions include: Matilda The Musical (Tommy/Ensemble), James and the Giant Peach (James), Willy Wonka Jr. (Charlie), and A Christmas Story (Schwartz). Drew is a rising freshman at Cave Spring High. He hopes you enjoy the show.
Archer Eades
Archer Eades is a rising 10th grader at Patrick Henry High School. He is excited to make his MMT debut as Sheldon in Finding Nemo Jr! Recent credits include Guys and Dolls (Arvide Abernathy) and Shrek Jr (Pinocchio) He would like to thank his friends and family for their support!
Violet Farmer
Violet Farmer is a rising 8th grader and is thrilled to return to the Mill Mountain Theatre stage. Her favorite credits include being a North Pole Elf in Elf the Musical and playing the goofy villain Chum in Finding Nemo Jr. Violet is an accomplished singer, composer and pianist who has been recognized for her original music in MTNA and the Virginia PTA Reflections contest. Violet’s favorite hobbies are reading, writing, singing and playing piano. She hopes that Finding Nemo Jr reminds the audience that when life gets tough, you just keep swimming! Big thanks to Hector Flores Jr., Bethany Costello, and the whole creative team for an amazing show.
Autumn Farmer
Autumn Farmer is a rising 5th grader and is excited to return to the Trinkle Stage for Finding Nemo Jr. Her favorite credits include playing a North Pole Elf (Elf the Musical) at Mill Mountain Theatre and being a sassy Miss Hannigan (Annie Jr) at North Cross School. When she’s not on stage, Autumn enjoys gymnastics, dancing, and playing with slime. There is so much to love about the story of Nemo, but overall she hopes it reminds people to never give up and to lean on your friends when you need support. Autumn would like to thank her fellow cast members and creatives, as well as her family and friends for being there for her.
Emma Harvey
EMMA HARVEY is a junior at Blacksburg High School, where she is a member of the Madrigal Singers. Favorite credits include The Addams Family (Wednesday) and Cinderella (Gabrielle) with BHS; Matilda (ensemble), High School Musical (Kelsi), and The Sound of Music (Marta) with Mill Mountain Theatre; and The Secret Garden (Dreamer), Cinderella (
Andi-Grace Novell
Andi-Grace Novell is a rising senior in the Conservatory and is thrilled to join Shrek TYA as Jr. Choreographer! She has performed in several Mill Mountain Theatre productions, including Annie(Ensemble), Finding Nemo Jr. (Gurgle/Mask Dancer), and Frog and Toad (Bird/Dance Captain). Andi-Grace recently solo choreographed Aristocats Kids at MMT and is the choreographer for Salem High School’s show choir. This marks her first time assisting on a mainstage production! She has taught at Little Leapers and trains with Broadway Artists Alliance NYC, where she was of 12 selected dancers this winter and self-choreographed her solo. She has also studied dance with LEAP Performing Arts and the MMT Dance Conservatory. Big thanks to the MMT staff, Tori, and her friends for trusting her creativity!
Jessica Gaffney
Jessica Gaffney (Costume Designer) earned her Master of Fine Arts in costume design at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. Ms. Gaffney has designed costumes for over eighty theatrical productions for a variety of Off-Broadway, Off-Off-Broadway, and Regional Theatre companies. Favorite Mill Mountain credits include costume designs for Cabaret, Next to Normal and Fun Home. In addition to theatre Ms. Gaffney has served as costume designer and/or production designer for several award-winning film projects, having most recently designed the video Decades of Fashion for Reeds Jewelers.
Amber Voeller
Amber Voeller is so happy to return to Mill Mountain for her third production with them as a Props Designer, with her first two designs being Annie and Waitress. As an actor, you might have seen her on stage as one of the Featured Ensemblists in Waitress earlier this season. Amber is a New York City-based Actor and Theatre Artist who loves to read, camp, and hike when she isn't performing or designing props. When not on stage or behind the scenes, she loves to privately coach theatre students under her company, Playhouse Studio. She loves the Roanoke community and these kiddos so much. Break all the legs and get Shreked!
Cindy Blevins
Cindy Blevins is a local musician and performer in both the classical and musical theatre realms and a lifelong theatre enthusiast and performer. She stays busy as a collaborative pianist/accompanist with individuals and groups, and as a director and coach with music makers of all ages. Cindy is excited to be returning to Mill Mountain Theatre and support this amazing production of Shrek TYA. Other MMT productions include: Jersey Boys, Elf the Musical, 60th Anniversary Concert (Keyboard 1) and Cabaret, Annie, Waitress, Hits of the 1960’s Concert (Music Director); Sound of Music (Nun, 2019) Timeless Twenties (Zelda Fitzgerald, 2020), To Kill A Mockingbird (Mrs.Dubose/Townsperson, 2024). She was excited to teach Musical Theatre 1 this past Fall, and serve as Music Director for this Summer’s Production Camps of The Little Mermaid Jr. and Aristocats Kids! In addition to her musical life, Cindy is also a Licensed Professional Counselor with Life In Balance Counseling Center in Christiansburg.
Caroline Eades
Caroline is a current student at Penn State University getting her BFA in Stage Management and this is her first show with MMT. She is so grateful to have been able to work on this fantastic show! As well as getting to meet and work with so many incredible people!
Mike Havens
Havens regularly performs with professional ensembles as an acoustic guitar soloist, rock guitarist in local groups, is heard as a member of the classical guitar and flute duo Con Eleganza with Julee Hickcox, and often appears as guitarist and bassist for Roanoke's professional Mill Mountain Theater. Mike Havens also performs as the “Electric Santa” for the popular Roanoke Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops and its musical tour of Virginia’s Blue Ridge.
Born and raised in Roanoke, Havens received his first guitar at the age of 12 and began studies with guitarist Tim Martin and later classical training with Craig Sams. He attended Radford University, studying classical guitar under the direction of Dr. Robert Trent. Havens was awarded a full scholarship toward a M.M. in classical guitar performance with Clare Callahan at the prestigious University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music.
In 2001, Havens returned to Roanoke and began teaching guitar studies at Radford University, Emory and Henry College, Sweet Briar College, Randolph-Macon College, and Lynchburg College. In 2008, he was offered a full-time position at Patrick Henry High School in Roanoke where he continues to teach guitar class/studies for all levels, as well as Electronic Music/Audio Production.
JT Fauber
’84 degree in Music Management from JMU
Professional experience playing at Kings Dominion and Commodore Cruise Lines.
Currently playing percussion with the Bedford Community Orchestra, Winds of the Blue Ridge, Valley Chamber Orchestra, First Baptist orchestra, Salem Choral Society
I own and run Sun Tan City, Buff City Soap, and My Salon Suite
My family and I have been a part of over 25 shows at MMT
Jeff Hofmann
Jeff has become a regular with the MMT orchestra, playing upright and electric bass.
Jeff also teaches bass at Hollins Univeristy.
His playing can be heard on over 70 albums, as well as TV and movie soundtracks, and with a host of varying music groups in the region.
Cindy Blevins
Cindy Blevins is a local musician and performer in both the classical and musical theatre realms and a lifelong theatre enthusiast and performer. After studying piano for 14 years and earning a BA in Music she went on to teach voice and piano both privately and in public school systems and also sing with different groups in and around Richmond, VA, her hometown. After moving to the New River Valley she continued performing with Opera Roanoke, Summer Musical Enterprise, Mill Mountain Theatre, Blacksburg Master Chorale, Virginia Children’s Theatre and Virginia Tech School of Performing Arts. She stays busy as a collaborative pianist/accompanist with individuals and groups, and as a director and coach with music makers of all ages. She was the Chairperson for Summer Musical Enterprise, headquartered in Blacksburg, starting in 2009. During her tenure with SME she performed on stage, and also served as Vocal Director, Stage Director, Musical Director and Executive Producer. Cindy works with Radford University for their Audition Classes/Workshops and Year End Review and served as Musical Director for their 2024 production of Bat Boy the Musical! She is excited to be Musical Director of Music of the 60’s! Other MMT productions include: Jersey Boys, Elf the Musical, 60th Anniversary Concert (Keyboard 1) ; Cabaret, Annie and Waitress (Musical Director); Sound of Music (Nun, 2019) Timeless Twenties (Zelda Fitzgerald, 2020), To Kill A Mockingbird (Mrs.Dubose/Townsperson, 2024). Cindy also is a Teaching Artist with MMT teaching Musical Theatre 1 and 2. In addition to her musical life, Cindy is also a Licensed Professional Counselor with Life In Balance Counseling Center in Christiansburg.
Zoe Keith
Zoe is an actor/costumer from Mayville, NY who graduated from Radford University. Although she also has a passion for the stage, her costume work includes assistant designing Silent Sky, designer for The Aliens, and wardrobe head for Trojan Women, all at RU. Zoe has worked in a costume shop for over 3 years. She is thrilled to be joining the Mill Mountain team for her first position here!
Erin Alexis Markham
Erin Markham is a Roanoke native with a lifelong passion for the theatre. She graduated summa cum laude from Radford University with a B.S. in Theatre and an emphasis in stage management. Along with stage managing several productions and student projects at Radford, Erin worked as a House Manager, Box Office Assistant, and an Assistant to the Chair. Her most recent work includes Assistant Stage Manager for Mill Mountain Theatre’s productions of Annie, To Kill a Mockingbird, Cabaret, Escape to Margaritaville, and Elf. Erin has enjoyed getting to learn the ingredients of this show with such a wonderful group of women at the work table.
Amy Baldwin Efird
Amy Baldwin Efird has performed in over 70 regional theatre productions between DC and Seattle, and has been seen at Mill Mountain Theatre in Mamma Mia!, Next to Normal, The Cake, Cabaret, and other productions. She is thrilled to be part of the creative team at MMT for WAITRESS! Amy has directed at Virginia Tech, Showtunes Music Theatre (AD), Paramount Center and serves as an acting and public speaking coach. She is an avid hiker and wants you all to know that dogs are the best--particularly rescue dogs.
Keeley Morgan
Keeley Morgan is a performer from Panama City, FL and a graduate of the University of West Florida with her BFA in Musical Theatre. She recently performed with Mill Mountain in their productions of Cabaret (Frenchie), The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley (Mrs. Lambchop), To Kill A Mockingbird (Mayella Ewell), The Complete Works of William Shakespeare Abridged (Daniel), and Annie (Grace Farrell). This is Keeley's first time choreographing in the professional setting and she is so excited that she got this opportunity to work with such a talented creative team and for a company she loves so much.
Ashley Raper
Ashley Raper: Stage Manager (She/Her) is an AEA stage manager currently based out of Atlanta, Georgia. Her theatre credits include: Mill Mountain Theatre: Waitress (SM); Annie (SM); Cabaret (SM); Elf (SM). Horizon Theatre Company: Amélie the Musical (SM). Dark and Stormy Productions: The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (SM); God of Carnage (SM); Jacuzzi (SM). Artistry: Godspell (SM); Shrek the Musical (SM) PRIME Productions: The Revolutionists (SM). Park Square Theatre: Airness (SM); The Diary of Anne Frank (ASM); Face to Face: Hmong Women’s Experiences (SM); Paige in Full (SM). Sod House Theater: Arla Mae’s Booyah Wagon (SM). University of Minnesota: Ted Mann Concert Hall (SM). Kentucky Opera: Barber of Seville (PA); Rigoletto (PA). Commonwealth Theatre Center: The Ugly Duckling (SM); Little Red Riding Hood (SM). NC Summer Repertory: Sweeney Todd (ASM); Sunday in the Park with George (ASM). Triad Stage: The Price (ASM).
Camilla Morrison
Camilla Morrison is a Costume Designer, Draper, Artist, and Teacher. Camilla is an Assistant Professor at Radford University. She earned her MFA in Costume Design and Technology at Louisiana State University and her BA in Theatre from Salisbury University in Maryland. Camilla was a 2020-2021 North Dakota Council on the Arts Individual Artist Fellow from which she created her devised work “Of the Earth: Stories of Women in North Dakota” by interviewing women from North Dakota and creating costumes based on their collective experiences surrounding aging, motherhood, relationships, and being a woman in North Dakota. Camilla was named an Emerging Artist in the 2019 USITT Exhibited Artists in the Prague Quadrennial, where her devised work, Nightmares Are Dreams, Too, was exhibited. Companies with which Camilla has worked include Empire Theatre Company, Theatre B, Black Hills Playhouse, Texas Shakespeare Festival, Serenbe Playhouse, and Hangar Theatre.
Savannah Woodruff
Savannah was born and raised in Southern Pines, North Carolina but is happy to now consider Roanoke, Virginia their home. They are a graduate of The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where they recieved a BFA in Technical Production. Since joining the staff of Mill Mountain Theatre, Savannah has served in a variety of roles, most recently becoming the Director of Production. They have also been able to expand into design work with the support of MMT, and are thrilled to be working as the Lighting Designer for Waitress. Savannah is grateful for the never-ending support of their partner and their family (and their cats) in their endeavors, and for the trust placed in them by MMT.
Laurie Powell-Ward
Holding an MFA in Scenography from UNC-Greensboro, her regional design credits include work with the Williamstown Theatre Festival, Charleston Stage Company, Nashville Children’s Theatre, and Struthers Library Theatre, among others. Locally, she has designed scenery for Opera Roanoke, Mill Mountain Theatre, and Virginia Children's Theatre. Laurie has also worked extensively as a scenic artist, painting for regional companies such as the Guthrie Theatre, Children’s Theatre Company, Tennessee Repertory Theatre, Opryland USA, and Sesame Street Live. Prior to her life in Virginia, she was the Assistant Production Manager for the Spoleto Festival USA in Charleston, SC; however, after over two decades of being "new here," Laurie is proud to call Roanoke home.
Cindy Blevins
Cindy Blevins is a local musician and performer in both the classical and musical theatre realms and a
lifelong theatre enthusiast and performer. After studying piano for 14 years and earning a BA in Music
she went on to teach voice and piano both privately and in public school systems and also sing with
different groups in and around Richmond, VA, her hometown. After moving to the New River Valley she
continued performing with Opera Roanoke, Summer Musical Enterprise, Mill Mountain Theatre,
Blacksburg Master Chorale, Virginia Children’s Theatre and Virginia Tech School of Performing Arts. She
stays busy as a collaborative pianist/accompanist with individuals and groups, and as a director and
coach with music makers of all ages. She has been the Chairperson for Summer Musical Enterprise,
headquartered in Blacksburg, since 2009 and has led the organization through the last 15 musicals, two
relocations (2010 and 2011) due to electrical issues at Haymarket Theatre, and COVID. During her
tenure with SME she has performed on stage, and also served as Vocal Director, Stage Director, Musical
Director and Executive Producer. She was slated to be the Musical Director for Radford University
Department of Theatre and Cinema’s 2020 production of Urinetown which was canceled due to COVID;
however was thrilled to serve as Musical Director for their 2024 production of Bat Boy the Musical!
She is excited to be returning to Mill Mountain Theatre and support this beautiful production of
Waitress. Other MMT productions include: Jersey Boys, Elf the Musical, 60 th Anniversary Concert
(Keyboard 1) and Cabaret (Musical Director); Sound of Music (Nun, 2019) Timeless Twenties (Zelda
Fitzgerald, 2020), To Kill A Mockingbird (Mrs.Dubose/Townsperson, 2024), Annie (Musical Director). In
addition to her musical life, Cindy is also a Licensed Professional Counselor with Life In Balance
Counseling Center in Christiansburg.
Savannah Woodruff
Born and raised in Southern Pines, North Carolina, Savannah has been a resident of Roanoke since they graduated with a BFA in Technical Production from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Savannah is an aficionado of a variety of arts and crafts, and is thrilled to be able to continue working and growing (and crafting!) with Mill Mountain Theatre. They are grateful for the support of their family, including their cats, in all of their endeavors.
James Webb
James Webb is a New York-based playwright, director and educator, whose work is centered on the southern Black experience. His plays include The Contract (Lorraine Hansberry National Playwriting Award); Mississippi Crossroad (O'Neill Semifinalist); The House of Jean-Rene; Wrestling with Angels, a hip-hop children's musical; and Sibling Rivalry. His work has been presented at the National Black Theatre Festival, Ensemble Theatre Studio/LA, Kraine Theatre NYC, FAMU Essential Theatre, Confrontation Theatre, and Producer's Club. Webb is an Assistant Professor of Theatre and Communications at Bronx Community College and spends his summers as a resident playwright for the Irene C. Edmond Youth Theatre.
Ginger Poole
Ginger Poole is a proud member of Actor’s Equity Association and an Associate member of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Union. She has studied, taught, choreographed, and performed throughout the U.S. She has worked in GA, HI, FL, MS, SC and VA with, Theatre in the Square, The Alliance City Series, Theatre Gael, Synchronicity Performance Group-GA, Mill Mountain Theatre-VA and SC Children’s Theatre. Originally from Atlanta, she has worked with the N.F.L. and The Atlanta Falcons as their director and choreographer and The Atlanta Opera. Prior to coming to Mill Mountain Theatre, she was based out of North Carolina where she has worked with Flat Rock Playhouse, the State Theatre of North Carolina, in over 25 productions. She was a part of the Education program at Flat Rock Playhouse for 5 years where she taught for their Apprentice Companies and their Conservatory Program in Acting, Dance, and Musical Theatre. Ginger has taught at The University of Southern Mississippi, Western Carolina University, William Carey College, Mississippi University for Women, and currently teaches at Hollins University. With Ginger’s strong background in dance she finds herself not only acting and dancing on stage but also directing the choreography and classroom skills for her students. Ginger holds her M.F.A. in Acting Performance from the University of Southern Mississippi and continues to teach acting and dance. She has worked with students that range in age from kindergarten through professionals.
Ginger has worked in commercials, voice-overs, film, stage, and the classroom, and was profiled in the book FIRESTARTERS as “the actor”.
Ginger serves on the following Board of Directors: South Eastern Theatre Conference (SETC Secretary, Second Term), Junior League of the Roanoke Valley (Past President and Current Nominating Committee, Second Term), Burton Performing Arts Advisory Board, The Roanoke City Public Schools Education Foundation, and she has served on the Review Panel for theVirginia Commission for the Arts. She was the recipient of the DePaul’s Women of Achievement Award in the Arts in 2013 and was named the 2016 Kendig Award recipient for Individual Artist. Ginger is also a guest host with WSLS, the NBC affiliate, Daytime Blue Ridge television show, and is the host of the new Mill Mountain Theatre Podcast, Meet Me at Mill Mountain. She is very proud to be a member of the Mill Mountain Theatre team and looks forward to its continued growth, success, and artistic influence in the region.
Michael Sylvester
Michael Anthony Sylvester- is Thrilled to be making his Directorial debut with Mill Mountain Theatre's Production of ANNIE THE MUSICAL. Michael was last seen at Mill Mountain as Associate Director/Choreographer. He is currently based out of New York City but has worked all over the U.S and Canada as a Performer, Director, Choreographer, and Instructor. Performance Credits: Tour: Todrick Hall Presents the Toddlers Ball, Oz The Musical and Twerk Du Soleil. Regional: In The Heights (Walnut Street Theatre) In The Heights, Elf The Musical, and Rocky Horror Show, The WIZ (TUTS) Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat, In The Heights(Dallas Theatre Center) Fiddler On The Roof, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Best LIttle Whorehouse (Casa Manana), Cirque Dreams as well as many other theaters in the Dallas/Fort Worth Texas area, and across the country! TV/ Film: MTV Movie Awards 2015, BET Soul Train Awards Commercial 2015, Featured dancer on Season 1 of TodrickDocu-Series on MTV, FIAT 500 Commercial, Dance Moms, Little Women:Dallas, Poopourri’s Music Video Imagine Where You Can Go, Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade 2022!
Choreography Credits include: Snow White, Rudolph The Red nosed Reindeer World Premiere, Alamo the Musical, Alice in Wonderland for (Casa Manana) Footloose, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Artisan Center Theatre) Beauty and the Beast, All Shook Up (Plaza Theatre Company) La Cag Aux Folles (Uptown Players) Hairspray (GLCT) Damn Yankees ( Onstage in Bedford). Most recently he was the Associate Choreographer for Ava Della Pietra for her hit single Reindeer Rebellion which can be viewed on the CW’s HOLLYWOOD CHRISTMAS Parade on December 1st. He also choreographed the family friendly movie "RISING STAR'S" starring Kyle Riabko, Leon Thomas III, and featuring Rebecca St. James which is available on Amazon Prime, Itunes, and Apple TV!! Michael also serves as a Tour Remount Director and Choreographer for TheaterWorksUSA Childrens Tours, which can be seen touring all over the US!!!
When not performing Michael also developed a passion and love for giving back to the arts community through education and community outreach. He’s worked for Fort Worth’s Kids Who Care as an instructor and Choreographer as well as Casa Manana’s Performing Arts Conservatory, Dallas Theatre Centers Summer Stage program, and Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS) Humprey’sSchool Of Music as a guest teaching artist for their community outreach program. He is currently an instructor for Iconos Kids in the Bronx, NY a program which focus on providing education arts programming for children in lower income communities so that they can have the opportunity to find inspiration through the arts. IG: oohmikeyy
Michael is a Proud Member of Actors Equity Association.
Erin Alexis Markham
Erin Markham is a Roanoke native with a lifelong passion for the theatre. She graduated summa cum laude from Radford University with a B.S. in Theatre and an emphasis in stage management. Along with stage managing several productions and student projects at Radford, Erin worked as a House Manager, Box Office Assistant, and an Assistant to the Chair. Her most recent work includes Assistant Stage Manager for Mill Mountain Theatre’s productions of To Kill a Mockingbird, Cabaret, Escape to Margaritaville, and Elf. She is thrilled to be returning for her fourth holiday show at Mill Mountain and thinks you’re gonna like it this year!
Audrey Hamilton
Audrey Hamilton delights in joining Mill Mountain Theater as Costume Designer of Bright Star.
Audrey earned a BFA in Theatre from the Mississippi University for Women and an MFA in Costume Design and Technology from the University of Alabama. Costume/hair/makeup designs include: Le Nozze di Figaro, Rigoletto, Gianni Schicchi, La Bohème, Don Giovanni, (La Musica Lirica, Novafetria, Italy) Die Fledermaus, Il Barbiere di Siviglia, The Ballad of Baby Doe, Cinderella (Opera in the Ozarks, Eureka Springs, AR) La Traviata, Sweeney Todd (Opera Roanoke), Wittenberg, Antony and Cleopatra (American Shakespeare Center) Shrek (New Stage, Jackson, MS).
Currently, Audrey is visiting assistant professor of costume design and technology at Roanoke College. Roanoke College Costume Design: The Importance of Being Earnest(Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival Faculty Design nomination), Blood Wedding, and Mac Beth.
Addie Pawlick
With an MFA in lighting design from the University of Houston, Addie has designed at several theatres in the Houston area including A.D. Players, Rec Room, and The Landing Theatre. While Addie currently calls West Palm Beach Florida home, she is a Virginia native and received her undergraduate degree from Radford University. Some of her favorite credits from various theatres include: The Fairytale Lives of Russian Girls, Dear Charlotte, Pass Over, and Stuart Little the Musical.
Matt Shields
Matt Shields is a native of Virginia. Having grown up in Loudoun County, he first moved to the region in 2013 to attend school at Radford University where he graduated with a BS in theatre. After working for a few other companies, Matt is happy to call MMT his artistic home. In the past few years Matt has served in a variety of jobs around Mill Mountain, including Props Master, Costumes Manager, Teaching Artist, Scenic Designer, and Company Manager. Matt is very happy to now be serving MMT as the Production Manager and is grateful to MMT for all the faith they have put in him over the years.
Jimmy Ray Ward
With an MFA in Design from UNC-Greensboro, his credits include work at many theatre companies along the East coast such as Spoleto Festival USA, Williamstown Theatre Festival, Seaside Music Theatre, Flatrock Playhouse, and the Gainesville Theatre Alliance. Locally, Jimmy designs for Opera Roanoke, Roanoke Children's Theatre, and Mill Mountain Theatre, where he worked as resident designer for its last nine seasons. Some favorite designs over the years include scenery for Il Trovatore, The Flying Dutchman, The Adventures of Frog and Toad, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, Seussical, and Grease, costumes for Hamlet, Beauty and the Beast, Joseph…Technicolor Dreamcoat, and lighting for Driving Miss Daisy, Wit, and Rapunzel, among many others. Despite years of working in a field he loves, Jimmy feels that his best productions to date are his children, Henry and Lily, Gracie and Frank.
Savannah Woodruff
Born and raised in Southern Pines, North Carolina, Savannah has been a resident of Roanoke since they graduated with a BFA in Technical Production from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Savannah is an aficionado of a variety of arts and crafts, and is thrilled to be able to continue working and growing (and crafting!) with Mill Mountain Theatre. They are grateful for the support of their family, including their cats, in all of their endeavors.
Sydney Poole
Sydney B. Poole (Associate Costume Designer and Wardrobe Supervisor) recently celebrated her for first anniversary with Mill Mountain Theatre and is overjoyed to get to be a part of this amazing company. While in the fourth grade Sydney was inspired by her High schools musical production and eventually fell in love with the art form as she became more involved with her high school theatre dept. She’s since received her B.S. from Radford University in Theatre with a focus in Costume design and construction and a minor in Peace Studies. During her time at MMT she’s had a hand in Holiday Inn, Jersey Boys, Matilda, Elf and Escape to Margaritaville. She’s grateful to have found an artistic and creative family at MMT and would like to thank Ginger, Matt, and Héctor for believing in her. Along with her mom for always encouraging her to follow her passion. She is excited to keep making more magic with and for the city and artists of Roanoke.
Kennedy Swineford
Kennedy is a junior at Roanoke College, working toward her degree in Theatre. Previously, she was assistant costume designer and hair and makeup designer for multiple productions, including Machinal and Cabaret at Roanoke College. This is her first professional design project and she is so excited for audiences to see everyones incredible work on stage!
Amber Voeller
Amber Voeller is a multidisciplinary Theatre Artist in Performing, Props Designing, Music Directing, and Teaching. She received her B.A. in Theatre Performance from Huntington University School of Arts under Jay Duffer. She has worked as a Theatre Professional for 12 years working across the nation and internationally in China. Voeller is so excited to be making her behind the scenes debut at Mill Mountain Theatre and is very thankful for how welcoming and kind the team has been. In her free time she loves to travel, camp and hike with her husband Alex Voeller and Sonya their cat. Enjoy the show!
Walker Johnson
Walker is excited to be spotlighting the talented actors of Annie from behind the scenes. He previously worked spotlight on Finding Nemo Jr and recently finished a technical theatre class taught by Matt Shields here at MMT. Walker is a 7th grader at Roanoke Catholic School and participates in archery, cross country, and theater. He will be playing the role of Weselton in Roanoke Catholic's upcoming spring production of Frozen Jr. Congrats to the Annie cast and crew - keep shining bright!
Ashley Raper
Ashley Raper: Stage Manager (She/Her) is an AEA stage manager currently based out of Atlanta, Georgia. Her theatre credits include: Mill Mountain Theatre: Annie (SM); Cabaret (SM); Elf (SM). Horizon Theatre Company: Amélie the Musical (SM). Dark and Stormy Productions: The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (SM); God of Carnage (SM); Jacuzzi (SM). Artistry: Godspell (SM); Shrek the Musical (SM) PRIME Productions: The Revolutionists (SM). Park Square Theatre: Airness (SM); The Diary of Anne Frank (ASM); Face to Face: Hmong Women’s Experiences (SM); Paige in Full (SM). Sod House Theater: Arla Mae’s Booyah Wagon (SM). University of Minnesota: Ted Mann Concert Hall (SM). Kentucky Opera: Barber of Seville (PA); Rigoletto (PA). Commonwealth Theatre Center: The Ugly Duckling (SM); Little Red Riding Hood (SM). NC Summer Repertory: Sweeney Todd (ASM); Sunday in the Park with George (ASM). Triad Stage: The Price (ASM).
Cindy Blevins
Cindy Blevins is a local musician and performer in both the classical and musical theatre realms and a lifelong theatre enthusiast and performer. After studying piano for 14 years and earning a BA in Music she went on to teach voice and piano both privately and in public school systems and also sing with different groups in and around Richmond, VA, her hometown. After moving to the New River Valley she continued performing with Opera Roanoke, Summer Musical Enterprise, Mill Mountain Theatre, Blacksburg Master Chorale, Virginia Children’s Theatre and Virginia Tech School of Performing Arts. She stays busy as a collaborative pianist/accompanist with individuals and groups, and as a director and coach with music makers of all ages. She has been the Chairperson for Summer Musical Enterprise, headquartered in Blacksburg, since 2009 and has led the organization through the last 15 musicals, two relocations (2010 and 2011) due to electrical issues at Haymarket Theatre, and COVID. During her tenure with SME she has performed on stage, and also served as Vocal Director, Stage Director, Musical Director and Executive Producer. She was slated to be the Musical Director for Radford University Department of Theatre and Cinema’s 2020 production of Urinetown which was canceled due to COVID; however was thrilled to serve as Musical Director for their 2024 production of Bat Boy the Musical! She is excited to be returning to Mill Mountain Theatre in support of this production of Annie. Other MMT productions include: Jersey Boys, Elf the Musical, 60th Anniversary Concert (Keyboard 1) and Cabaret (Musical Director); Sound of Music (Nun, 2019) Timeless Twenties (Zelda Fitzgerald, 2020), To Kill A Mockingbird (Mrs.Dubose/Townsperson, 2024). In addition to her musical life, Cindy is also a Licensed Professional Counselor with Life In Balance Counseling Center in Christiansburg. Cindy wishes to thank her family for their unending love, and their support of her musical passions!
Richard Clompus
Everyone comes to Roanoke with a story. After twenty years in private practice as an optometrist in West Chester, PA, I was
recruited by Johnson & Johnson to join a new spectacle lens company in Roanoke. Our youngest children grew up in Roanoke. My wife and I recently moved back to enjoy all of our kids and grandkids. I have been photographing since 1970 carrying a camera to many parts of the world and have studied with Ralph Gibson, Mark DePaola, Mark Cohen and Michael Smith. When venturing out to photograph, my kids tell me that “I look like a tourist in my own town”. It suits me well. IG: @rclompus
Richard Maddox
Richard enjoys being behind the camera as much as the folks he records enjoy being on the stage.
Over the past 15 years, Richard has recorded countless shows on both the Trinkle Mainstage and Waldron Stage for archives as well as clips that actors use in their reels.
Over the years, many of the promotional videos for MMT social media have been recorded and edited by Richard along with B-Roll footage for TV stations around the valley.
In his spare time, Richard gets great pleasure and satisfaction working with several local churches in and around the Roanoke valley; helping with their audio and video solutions.
Richard is most happy when he is hanging with one of his four children or eleven grandchildren. He would like to thank Mill Mountain Theatre and Ginger Pool for giving him this opportunity to be a part of what the Mission Statement says..."Mill Mountain Theatre strives to inspire, entertain, enrich, educate and challenge audiences of Southwest Virginia through high-quality, professional theatrical productions and experiences.”
Neil David Seibel
Neil David Seibel (he/him) is a multifaceted artist with a career spanning acting, directing, playwriting and education. His directorial work has been showcased at venues such as the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, Teatro Prometeo in Miami and MiniTeatern in Stockholm, Sweden. A proud member of Actors Equity, he has appeared Off Broadway in New York City and nationwide on such stages as the Denver Center Theatre Company, the Alley Theatre in Houston, Actors Theatre of Louisville and six seasons in the Rocky Mountains as a company member of Theatre Aspen. Onscreen credits include the role of Lewis in the TV musical Passages: Lewis & Clark, the award winning indie film Unspoken, and the dance-theatre film Clown at War.
Seibel is a playwright whose works, including The Normal Giant, Paternity Leave and The Daughters of Abraham, have been staged across the country and abroad. His solo show, My Appalachia, was recorded at the LA Improv and featured on PBS. A Kentucky native who now resides in Alabama, he earned a Bachelor’s degree from Northern Kentucky University and an MFA from the University of California, Irvine. He currently serves as a Distinguished Teaching Professor at Auburn University at Montgomery. Roanoke audiences may recognize his contributions to the partnership between Mill Mountain Theatre and the Playwrights Lab at Hollins University, where he teaches alternating summers.
Peppy Biddy
Michael Krek
Michael Krek is an Assistant Professor of Theatre at Auburn University at Montgomery. He is also the Technical Director of Theatre AUM. He has been active in professional theatre for over 30 years in a variety of capacities: actor, director, designer, technical dirctor, and lead carpenter. Michael has worked extensively across Canada and the United States, and also in the United Kingdom and China. He is excited to be joining Mill Mountain Theatre, albeit remotely. Break legs!!!
Tony Veronese
Tony Veronese is a Contemporary Painter and the Assistant Professor of 2D and Digital Art at Auburn University at Montgomery. Tony earned his M.A and M.F.A at the University of Dallas in Irving, Texas. Awards and Recognitions for Tony include: Edward L. Robbins Award (2023), Wells Fargo Artist Grant (2021), Oso Bay Biennial Invitational (2018), Rising Star of Dallas Artist (2018).
Samuel Wood
Samuel Wood is from West Monroe Louisiana and is a graduate of Radford University. Throughout his studies, he designed sound for several productions at Radford University including recent productions like Rainbow Fish: The Musical, Much Ado, and Silent Sky. He also designed scenic for productions like Red Light Winter and Cows Don’t Fly and Other Known Facts. He is currently working as a production assistant, as well as, a sound and set designer. He would like to thank all his family and friends who have supported him in pursuing his passion for theatre.
Savannah Woodruff
Matt Shields
Matt Shields is a native of Virginia. Having grown up in Loudoun County, he first moved to the region in 2013 to attend school at Radford University where he graduated with a BS in theatre. After working for a few other companies, Matt is happy to call MMT his artistic home. In the past few years Matt has served in a variety of jobs around Mill Mountain, including Props Master, Costumes Manager, Teaching Artist, Scenic Designer, and Company Manager. Matt is very happy to now be serving MMT as the Production Manager and is grateful to MMT for all the faith they have put in him over the years.
Jesslyn McAllister
Jesslyn is a current junior at Roanoke College and is majoring in Theatre. Jesslyn worked as
Costume Assistant for Opera Roanoke’s production of The Marriage of Figaro and their
production of The Turn of the Screw. She has also worked as Costume Design Assistant at Mill
Mountain for their production of Bright Star.
Héctor Flores Jr.
Héctor Flores Jr. (Director/Choreographer) is a multi-hyphenate theatre professional. Producer credits include Sueños: Our American Musical (Concept EP), Xena: Warrior Musical (Cast Album). Dir./Chor. credits include, In The Heights (MMT, OCT & PSF), Westside Story (Flatrock Playhouse), Matilda (MMT) and Elf: The Musical (MMT). Performance credits include US Spanish Premiere of In The Heights (Gala Hispanic Theatre), Sol of el Barrio (Jacob’s Pillow), On Your Feet (Gateway Playhouse), Urinetown (FIPAP), Mamma Mia! (Flatrock Playhouse), Kiss Me Kate (St. Petersburg Opera) and is coming back to Direct and Choreograph, Cabaret at MMT fresh off originating a role in the world premiere of, Mad Hatter, The Musical. You can follow @HectorFloresJr35 and/or @NewYorkTheatreBarn on instagram for more info and the latest news on the musicals of tomorrow.
Jessica Gaffney
Jessica Gaffney (Costume Designer) earned her Master of Fine Arts in costume and scenery design at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. Ms. Gaffney has designed costumes for over seventy-five theatrical productions for a variety of Off-Broadway, Off-Off-Broadway, and Regional Theatre companies. Favorite Mill Mountain Theatre credits include Costume Design for Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr. and A Christmas Story. In addition to theatre Ms. Gaffney has designed costumes and scenery for several award-winning film projects, having most recently designed the video "Decades of Fashion" for Reeds Jewelers.
Samuel Wood
Samuel Wood is from West Monroe Louisiana and is a graduate of Radford University. Throughout his studies, he designed sound for several productions at Radford University including recent productions like Rainbow Fish: The Musical, Much Ado, and Silent Sky. He also designed scenic for productions like Red Light Winter and Cows Don’t Fly and Other Known Facts. He is currently working as a production assistant and a sound and set designer. He would like to thank all his family and friends who have supported him in pursuing his passion for theatre.
Sydney Poole
Sydney B. Poole (Costume Design Assistant/Wardrobe) recently celebrated her first anniversary with Mill Mountain Theatre and is overjoyed to get to be a part of this amazing company. While in the fourth grade Sydney was inspired by her High schools musical production and eventually fell in love with the art form as she became more involved with her high school theatre dept. She’s since received her B.S. from Radford University in Theatre with a focus in Costume design and construction and a minor in Peace Studies. During her time at MMT she’s had a hand in Holiday Inn, Jersey Boys, Matilda, Elf and Escape to Margaritaville, most recently designed A Year with Frog and Toad, and now Cabaret. She’s grateful to have found an artistic and creative family at MMT and would like to thank Ginger, Matt, and Héctor for believing in her. Along with her mom for always encouraging her to follow her passion. She is excited to keep making more magic with and for the city and artists of Roanoke.
Miranda "Mo" Smyka
Miranda “Mo” Smyka is excited to be returning Mill Mountain Theatre, where she was an Assistant Stage Manager for Cabaret! Mo graduated from the University of West Florida with a double major in Theatre Design/Technology with an emphasis in Stage Management and Arts Administration. She stage managed multiple shows at UWF including Clybourne Park, The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe, 9 to 5, and Blithe Spirit. As well as being an Assistant Stage Manager for A Christmas Carol, and Shakespeare In Love. Other previous credits include Ain’t Misbehavin’, Something Rotten, Rock Of Ages, Rocky Horror, and Home for the Holidays. She would like to thank her family and friends for their support!
Bethany Costello
Bethany Costello is a Roanoke-based Music Director, Educator and Theatre Artist. A BFA Musical Theatre Graduate of the SC School of the Arts and the proud Conservatory Music Director at Mill Mountain Theatre, Bethany loves sharing her passion for joy-centered, accessible performing arts locally and nationally. This passion has led her to working on regional premiers, national tours and creating with companies such as The REV Theatre Company, The Kennedy Center, Florida Repertory Theatre, Mill Mountain Theatre, Virginia Children’s Theatre, Lexington Children’s Theatre, Missoula Children’s Theatre, CentreStage and Anderson University. Favorite creative team credits include: MATILDA, FINDING NEMO JR., TUCK EVERLASTING, ANNIE JR., SISTER ACT, SHE LOVES ME and every Musical Theatre Conservatory Class she has been blessed to teach at Mill Mountain Theatre. Bethany hopes to empower students of all ages and backgrounds by listening to their stories, equipping them with new tools to effectively engage with others and reminding them of their greatest power: themselves.
Bill Webb
Bill is thrilled to be returning to Mill Mountain Theatre as the Lighting Designer for Million Dollar Quartet. Bill is a native of Alfred, NY, where he received his Bachelor of the Arts in Theatre from Alfred University in 1988. He continued training at The University of North Carolina School of the Arts where he earned his Master of Fine Arts in Scenic Technology in 1994. Since 1996 Bill has been on faculty at Elon University in North Carolina where he serves as the Lighting Designer/Production Manager for the Performing Arts Department. Bill has been designing lights at Mill Mountain since the MMT production of Swing in 2014 with 30 MMT Lighting design credits. In addition to his work at Mill Mountain Theatre, Bill has worked throughout the United States for companies such as Cirque Du Soliel, I Weiss, Bungalow Scenic Studios and Arkansas Repertory Theatre.
J.T. Fauber
J.T. has been playing drums at Mill Mountain since 2008. His favorite show was My Son Pinocchio which included his wife Rachel on piano and both kids, Kyle and Caroline, on stage. Early in his career J.T. performed in the country show at Kings Dominion and on the La Boheme cruise ship. Currently he plays with The Boogie Kings, a ragtime / dixieland group that has been together since 1986. He also plays with the 1st Baptist Roanoke orchestra, The Winds of the Blue Ridge, and the Let's Dance big band. J.T. is the owner of Sun Tan City and Buff City Soap, both supporters of Mill Mountain Theatre.
Peyton Gentry
Peyton Gentry returns to Mill Mountain Theatre for Cabaret after performing Jersey Boys, Bright Star, and Elf the Musical alongside JT Fauber. Peyton is an active performer in the Blacksburg and Roanoke areas performing with groups such as the Roanoke Opera, Hollins University, Celtic Steel, and Winds of the Blue Ridge. Peyton has competed in PASIC’s International Percussion Ensemble Competition placing 3rd and 4th on separate occasions. Peyton holds a Bachelors of Arts with a duel-focus in both Music Education and Percussion Performance and a MA.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction from Virginia Tech. This summer/fall Peyton will begin teaching as a high school band director.
Ashley Raper
Ashley Raper: Stage Manager (She/Her) is an AEA stage manager currently based out of Atlanta, Georgia. Her theatre credits include: Mill Mountain Theatre: Elf (SM); Dark and Stormy Productions: The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (SM); God of Carnage (SM); Jacuzzi (SM). Artistry: Godspell (SM); Shrek the Musical (SM) PRIME Productions: The Revolutionists (SM). Park Square Theatre: Airness (SM); The Diary of Anne Frank (ASM); Face to Face: Hmong Women’s Experiences (SM); Paige in Full (SM). Sod House Theater: Arla Mae’s Booyah Wagon (SM). University of Minnesota: Ted Mann Concert Hall (SM). Kentucky Opera: Barber of Seville (PA); Rigoletto (PA). Commonwealth Theatre Center: The Ugly Duckling (SM); Little Red Riding Hood (SM). NC Summer Repertory: Sweeney Todd (ASM); Sunday in the Park with George (ASM). Triad Stage: The Price (ASM).
Jacob Wadstrom
Jacob Wadstrom is a Roanoke native who is thrilled to be back at MMT. Jacob recently graduated from Nazareth University with his BFA in Musical Theatre with a minor in Technical Production. Jacob was last seen at Mill Mountain in 2023's Mad Libs Live!
Steve Hedrick
Steve is delighted to be playing trumpet and flugel horn in MMT’s production of Jersey Boys. The first musical he played in was My Fair Lady in 1978, and he still remembers the goosebumps during the I Could Have Danced All Night, Finale. That was dramatic! After a number of other productions, his first show at MMT was 42nd Street in 1993, and since then, there have been many others. Steve enjoys making music with his friends in the Roanoke Chamber Brass which he helped co-found in 2001. He spends most of his time working at Hedrick Music which is the music education company owned by him and his wife, Teresa. Steve is the author of the Band Fundamentals Book Series which is used in hundreds of schools for teaching young bands.
Sam Saint Ours
Sam is an Equity actor, instrumentalist, and music director from the Shenandoah Valley, and he is thrilled to be working on this concert! Past music directing and composing credits include Escape to Margaritaville, Elf, Bright Star, Once, The Lightning Thief, and almost the entireity of Shakespeare's canon with multiple companies. Selected performing credits include three years and dozens of plays as a resident member at the American Shakespeare Center, the 2019 national tour of Once, and work with the Olney Theatre Center, Cape May Stage, Atlantic Theatre Co., and more. If he isn't at rehearsal, you can find Sam at any hour of the day walking his literal angel of a dog, Nona, around every nook and cranny of Roanoke, seeking out good frisbee spots and delicious vegan muffins. All thanks in the world go to his perpetually supportive family, the wonderful team at MMT, and steel cut oats.
Savannah Woodruff
Born and raised in Southern Pines, North Carolina, Savannah has been a resident of Roanoke since they graduated with a BFA in Technical Production from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Savannah is an aficionado of a variety of arts and crafts, and is thrilled to be able to continue working and growing (and crafting!) with Mill Mountain Theatre. They are grateful for the support of their family, including their cats, in all of their endeavors.
Erin Alexis Markham
Erin Markham is a Roanoke native with a lifelong passion for the arts. She graduated summa cum laude from Radford University with a B.S. in Theatre and an emphasis in stage management. Along with stage managing several productions and student projects at RU, Erin worked as a House Manager, Box Office Assistant, Carpenter, and an Electrician. In previous summers, Erin has worked with the Christiansburg Dance Academy, the Virginia Governor’s School for Arts and Humanities, and Mill Mountain Theatre’s Education tour of Curious George: The Golden Meatball. Her most recent work includes Assistant Stage Manager for Mill Mountain Theatre’s productions of Escape to Margaritaville, Elf, Bright Star, Jersey Boys, Holiday Inn, The Diary of Anne Frank, and Fun Home. Erin is thrilled to be learning a new skill in the theatre and hopes you enjoyed this blast from MMT’s muse-ical past! (ba-dum tsss)
Bethany Costello
Bethany Costello is a Roanoke-based Music Director, Educator and Theatre Artist. A BFA Musical Theatre Graduate of the SC School of the Arts, Bethany loves sharing her passion of Theatre for Young Audiences locally and nationally. This passion has led her to working on regional premiers, national tours and creating with companies such as The REV Theatre Company, The Kennedy Center, Florida Repertory Theatre, Mill Mountain Theatre, Virginia Children’s Theatre, Lexington Children’s Theatre, Missoula Children’s Theatre and Anderson University. Favorite creative team credits include: MATILDA, SISTER ACT, SHE LOVES ME, THE WIZARD OF OZ and ALICE IN WONDERLAND.
Through teaching artistry, Bethany hopes to empower students of all ages by listening to their stories, equipping them with new tools to effectively engage with others and reminding them of their greatest power: themselves! In her pursuit to foster accessibility and joy for the arts to students of all ages, Bethany is a proud Elementary Music Teacher within Roanoke City Public Schools, as well as the Conservatory Music Director here at Mill Mountain Theatre.
Trenten Woods
Trenten Woods has spent most of his life just outside of Richmond, Virginia. Prior to coming to Mill Mountain, He graduated from Longwood University in 2021 with a B.A. in Theatre. Besides this, Trenten has worked professionally as a carpenter both in and out of the theatre. He would like to thank his family for their support. Trenten is super excited to join the Mill Mountain team and continue to work and grow.
Cindy Blevins
Cindy Blevins is a local musician and performer in both the classical and musical theatre realms. After studying piano for 14 years and earning a BA in Music she went on to teach voice and piano both privately and in public school systems and also sing with different groups in and around Richmond, VA, her hometown. After moving to the New River Valley she continued performing with Opera Roanoke, Summer Musical Enterprise, Mill Mountain Theatre, Blacksburg Master Chorale and Virginia Children’s Theatre. She stays busy as a collaborative pianist/accompanist with individuals and groups, and as a director and coach with music makers of all ages. Cindy is the Chairperson for Summer Musical Enterprise headquartered in Blacksburg, and the Assistant Director of Music at Blacksburg United Methodist Church. She is also a Licensed Professional Counselor with Life in Balance Counseling Center in Christiansburg. Cindy is thrilled to be supporting Jersey Boys with her Mill Mountain Theatre family!
Matthew Carlsen
Matthew is delighted to be making his professional costume design debut with Legally Blonde at Mill Mountain Theatre. Recent credits include Seagull, Urinetown (recipient of the National KCACTF Award for Excellence in Costume Design 2020), and Cabaret with Oakland University. He is a graduate from Oakland University with a BFA in Musical Theatre; Costume Design Concentration. When he's not designing, he can be found either sewing historical garments or dressing up as late 19th Century bourgeoisie with friends. He is also a firm believer that all men should start wearing high-waisted trousers again.
Sam Saint Ours
Sam is an Equity actor, instrumentalist, and music director from the Shenandoah Valley, and he is thrilled to be working on his third show at MMT! Past music directing and composing credits include Elf, Bright Star, Once, The Lightning Thief, and almost the entireity of Shakespeare's canon with multiple companies. Selected performing credits include three years and dozens of plays as a resident member at the American Shakespeare Center, the 2019 national tour of Once, and work with the Olney Theatre Center, Cape May Stage, Atlantic Theatre Co., and more. If he isn't at rehearsal, you can find Sam at any hour of the day walking his literal angel of a dog, Nona, around every nook and cranny of Roanoke, seeking out good frisbee spots and delicious vegan muffins. A lifelong parrothead, Sam owes a huge thank you to his mom for patiently attending every Jimmy Buffett "concert" that he, his brother, and neighbors forced her to sit through (which were literally just an hour of swaying and lip syncing to the discography of their favorite nautical muse, sometimes on a weekly basis). Further thanks go to the incredible band at MMT for welcoming Sam into one of his favorite teams over these past few months; his incredible siblings for always giving him a top tier example of bravery and love to aspire to; and his parents for, well, everything!!
Spencer Wade
Spencer is a rising 7th grader at James Madison Middle School and is thrilled to join Mill Mountain Theatre’s stage crew. He got his start on tech crew with his school’s recent musical production, Matilda Jr. Outside of theatre, Spencer is a competitive diver with New River Diving and loves assembling Lego Architecture and Lego Idea sets. He enjoys vacations at the beach and his three weeks each summer at Camp Maxwelton nestled at the foot of Jump Mountain in Rockbridge Baths, VA.
Bill Muñoz
Bill Muñoz – Production Stage Manager Feeling so grateful to once again return to the ‘Noke! He was in rehearsals here in March of 2020 for Dream Girls, when everything shut down due to the pandemic. Words cannot be found to express the thrill to be back doing live theatre. Past productions at MMT, The Marvelous Wonderettes, A Christmas Story, Mamma Mia and The Sound of Music. Beginning at Flat Rock Playhouse, in Western NC, (30 seasons, over 130 productions) and working in theatres in the southeast, he has also worked as an Actor and Fight Choreographer. Thank you for supporting the Arts!
Marissa Danielle Duricko
Marissa Danielle Duricko is an actor, costume designer, director, and once-upon-a-time stage manager who has worked extensively in New York City, across the U.S., and Ireland.
Marissa’s most recent costume design credits include Sweet Charity, Rent, and The Lightning Thief for The Scranton Shakespeare Festival (PA) as well as Mill Mountain’s productions of Holiday Inn, Jersey Boys, and Elf.
The role of which Marissa is, and will ever be, most proud is that of mother to Onofrio and Davin.
Savannah Woodruff
Savannah Woodruff was born and raised in Southern Pines, North Carolina, where she was encouraged to become involved in technical theatre in high school. Savannah is a graduate of The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and received a BFA in Technical Production. Prior to joining the Mill Mountain Theatre staff, she worked as a member of Weston Playhouse Theatre Company’s Intern Company. Savannah is grateful for the support of her family (and especially her cats) in her endeavors, and is thrilled to be able to continue working and growing with Mill Mountain Theatre.
Kailey Absher
Kailey Absher is a local Virginian, growing up nearby in the New River Valley. She is a graduate of Radford University, where she earned her BS in Theatre with an emphasis on stage management, as well as minors in English and Communications. Past Credits at MMT include: Million Dollar Quartet, A Christmas Story, and Tomás and the Library Lady. Kailey has worked as part of the intern company for The Rev (Formally Fingerlakes Musical Theatre Festival) and well as two seasons of outdoor theatre. She is so thankful to be joining the team here at Mill Mountain and to their commitment to coming back together and stronger.
Teresa Hedrick
Teresa is excited to be marking her 53rd show in the Mill Mountain Theatre pit! Other theatre work includes Hollins University Theatre Department and Columbia, South Carolina's Town Theatre and Workshop Theatre where her very first show was Sweeney Todd. Teresa has been playing woodwinds since age 12, and was a member of the Dennis Reaser Orchestra, Roanoke Jazz Orchestra, founder of Star City Swing for the Salem Jazz Festival, and is in the Sway Katz Big Band. She performs regularly for area churches and special occasions, and has performed extensively around Southwest VA including concerts with Gladys Knight, The Temptations, Shirley Jones and Maureen McGovern. Teresa teaches woodwinds at Hollins University and Roanoke College, and taught at Bluefield University from 2009-2019. She also teaches woodwinds and her husband Steve teaches brass at Hedrick Music Studios. They own Hedrick Music, Inc., which publishes the Band Fundamentals Book Series.
Jeff Hoffman
An appreciator of all music genres, Jeff began his formal study of bass at Roanoke College under the direction of Alan Weinstein, Assistant Professor of Cello and Bass at Roanoke College/Virginia Tech and a member of the Kandinsky Trio. Jeff currently teaches bass at Hollins University.
Jeff has committed countless hours to his craft and has played in bands covering jazz, gypsy jazz, blues, funk, pop, Latin, Americana, 80s, and more. His passion for folk and cultural music of different eras and geographic regions drives his desire to possess a deeper understanding of music and its subtle nuances. Prompted by his desire to educate through music, Jeff created Unison Foundation in 2004 to support artists and musicians in southwestern Virginia through performances, workshops, and free promotion.
He managed and performed with four music groups who were registered with the Virginia Commission for the Arts. Additionally, he was invited to participate in the 37th annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival. His bass work has appeared on more than 60 albums, as well as television and movie soundtracks, and musical productions.
Highlights for him include a film entitled “Down in the Old Belt: Voices from the Tobacco South”, commission work for an animated trailer featured at the historic Grandin Theatre in Roanoke, VA. Additional films include “The Joneses” (David Duchovny, Demi Moore), “Baby Baby Baby” (Kelsey Grammar, Bradley Cooper, William Shatner, Cloris Leachman), as well as the pilot episode of Showtime’s “Homeland”.
Having performed internationally and with more than 30 years of experience producing and performing on the instrument, Jeff brings a wealth of wisdom to anyone seeking to expand their knowledge about the bass.
Peyton Gentry
Peyton Gentry returns to Mill Mountain Theatre for Elf the Musical after performing Jersey Boys and Bright Star alongside JT Fauber. Peyton is a current grad student at Virginia Tech completing a master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Last spring he completed his undergrad with a Bachelor of Arts with a dual focus in both Music Education and Percussion Performance. Peyton is an active performer in the Blacksburg and Roanoke areas performing with groups such as the Roanoke Opera, Mill Mountain Theatre, Celtic Steel, and Winds of the Blue Ridge. Peyton has competed in PASIC’s International Percussion Ensemble Competition placing 3rd and 4th place on separate occasions. After graduating, Peyton plans to teach middle school, elementary, or high school music and to stay in the area to continue performing.
Marci Duncan
Marci J. Duncan earned a BA in performance at Florida A&M University and her Masters in Acting at the University of Florida. She studied television and film acting with Evonne Suhor at Orlando’s Art Sake Acting Studio. Marci's film work includes (Just) Another Day co-starring with Jamie Hectar from HBO’s The Wire and Life is not a Fairytale: The Fantasia Barrino Story, working with Debbie Allen and Fantasia Barrino. Marci just completed a network series for NBC, Young Rock and a one woman show called Florida Girls at Emerald Coast Theatre Company. Marci provides actor coaching with her acting studio, Artists at Play and is currently on tour with her new original play, DISSONANCE.
Sam Saint Ours
Sam is thrilled to be back at MMT for Elf! After working on Bright Star, he's really starting to become a semi-competent piano player. Wow, he ought to be proud! Sam is a proud member of Actor's Equity, and past credits include roles with the American Shakespeare Center, Atlantic Theater Company, Cape May Stage, Laguna Playhouse, and the 2019 Once National tour. All thanks in the world go out to his ever-growing family and the five main elf food groups (especially maple syrup). Happy holidays--no matter what you choose to celebrate, may it be filled with love and joy!
Matt Shields
Matt Shields is a native of Virginia. Having grown up in Loudoun County, he first moved to the region in 2013 to attend school at Radford University where he graduated with a BS in theatre. After working for a few other companies, Matt is happy to call MMT his artistic home. In the past few years Matt has served in a variety of jobs around Mill Mountain, including Props Master, Costumes Manager, Teaching Artist, Scenic Designer, and Company Manager. Matt is very happy to now be serving MMT as the Production Manager and is grateful to MMT for all the faith they have put in him over the years.
Savannah Woodruff
Savannah Woodruff was born and raised in Southern Pines, North Carolina, where she was encouraged to become involved in technical theatre in high school. Savannah is a graduate of The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and received a BFA in Technical Production. Prior to joining the Mill Mountain Theatre staff, she worked as a member of Weston Playhouse Theatre Company’s Intern Company. Savannah is grateful for the support of her family (and especially her cats) in her endeavors, and is thrilled to be able to continue working and growing with Mill Mountain Theatre.
AnnElese Galleo
AnnElese Galleo is a performer and creative from the Roanoke Valley and a recent graduate of the Boston Conservatory at Berklee College of Music. She was previously seen with Mill Mountain in MadLibs Live! (Merrily), Bright Star (Ensemble & Dance Captain), Stellaluna in Stellaluna, Elf (Ensemble), and on staff as a teaching artist and choreographer. She is so grateful to have been an associate on this project and getting to see her choreography on a regional theater stage for the first time! AnnElese would love to thank her dearest friends, amazing family, and incredible students for all their unending support on her creative journey this past year!
To quote Jimmy, "When life gives you limes, make margaritas."
Ashley Raper
Ashley Raper is an AEA stage manager currently based out of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Elf the Musical is her Mill Mountain Theatre premiere. Her theatre credits include Dark and Stormy Productions: The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (SM); God of Carnage (SM); Jacuzzi (SM). Artistry: Godspell (SM); Shrek the Musical (SM) PRIME Productions: The Revolutionists (SM). Park Square Theatre: Airness (SM); The Diary of Anne Frank (ASM); Face to Face: Hmong Women’s Experiences (SM); Paige in Full (SM). Sod House Theater: Arla Mae’s Booyah Wagon (SM). University of Minnesota: Ted Mann Concert Hall (SM). Kentucky Opera: Barber of Seville (PA); Rigoletto (PA). Commonwealth Theatre Center: The Ugly Duckling (SM); Little Red Riding Hood (SM). NC Summer Repertory: Sweeney Todd (ASM); Sunday in the Park with George (ASM). Triad Stage: The Price (ASM).
Brittney Nicole Price
Brittney Nicole Price received her MFA from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) with a concentration in Lighting Design and technlogy. She completed her Bachelors of Science in Theatre from Radford University in Radford, Virginia. Now a resident of Las Vegas, Nevada for the past 5 years, she has had the chance to work on a varitety of new and interesting projects. She has worked as the Assisant Lighting designer for Cirque du Soleil’s RUN, as well as Dancing with the Stars Live Tour 2020, 2022,and 2023 as the Lighting Director. She has designed for the Las Vegas Opera’s production of The Ghosts of Gatsby, as well as Super Summer’s production of Kinky Boots. Most recently, she has helped to open a new venue in Las Vegas, Voltaire, as their Head of Lighting/ Lighting Dirctor. She is over joyed to be back in Virgina near she hometown to design Mill Mountain’s production of Elf: The Musical and hopes you enjoy.
Chloe Riederich
Chloe Riederich is a theatre practitioner from California. They graduated from Hollins University with a BA in Theatre and Environmental Studies and are currently pursuing their MA in New Play Development at Hollins. Chloe is passionate about dance, acting, directing, good coffee, and connecting with people. They are so grateful to Mill Mountain for allowing them to continue to explore their love for theatre in new ways!
Joe Barros
Joe Barros (Associate Director/Choreographer) [he/him] is an award-winning queer director, choreographer and writer, and is a pioneer of the development of original musicals globally. Broadway: Gigi (associate director). Off-Broadway: Cagney (associate director, cast album), Hard Times (which became Paradise Square, New York Innovative Theatre Award nominee), The Evolution of Mann (cast album), Bastard Jones. Nat’l Tours/Regional/Int’l: A Charlie Brown Christmas, Charlotte’s Web, Beaches (Chicago’s Drury Lane, associate director), Aida (Singapore), Breathe (with Matt Doyle and Max Clayton, cast album), plus Goodspeed, DC’s Signature Theatre, Broadway in Chicago, The Phoenix Theatre Company (Keynote Speaker, 2022 Festival of New American Theatre), Bucks County Playhouse, Kaixinmahua (Shanghai). Artistic Director: New York Theatre Barn - an inclusive home for original culture-shifting musicals during incubation (16 seasons). Recent Film: The Girl Who Left Home with Paolo Montalban. Barros recently directed readings of Larry Kirwan’s Iraqi Rose and McGuire & Simon’s The Bubble, and co-wrote the musical Winner with Nico Juber (London workshop). Grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with Héctor and support his inspired vision. www.joebarros.com @bisforbarros
James Moye
James is thrilled to return to MMT after directing Million Dollar Quartet in the 2021 season. A Christiansburg native, he has directed around the country at South Coast Rep in California, The Marriott Theatre outside Chicago, and Flat Rock Playhouse in NC. His acting credits include ten Broadway shows, seven Off-Broadway shows, tours, and many regional productions. He has been seen on screen in Fair Game (with Sean Penn) and his TV credits include: Law and Order, The Blacklist, Royal Pains, The Mysteries of Laura, and several commercial campaigns. James is a graduate of James Madison University, where he received the 2017 Distinguished Alumni Award.
Sam Saint Ours
Sam is thrilled to be making his MMT debut! Performance credits include: Romeo and Juliet, Comedy of Errors, All's Well That Ends Well, The Tempest (American Shakespeare Center); Once (2019 US Tour, Engeman Theatre); Wonderland (Atlantic Theatre Company); Oil (Olney Theatre); The Lion in Winter, Billy Bishop Goes to War (Cape May Stage). Past credits as a music director: Resident artist/composer 2020-2022 (American Shakespeare Center); The Lightning Thief (Laguna Playhouse); Once, Dogfight (James Madison University); The Wild Party (Illumination Act). Sam is a proud alumnus of JMU and native of the Shenandoah Valley, where a love of bluegrass music was forever impressed upon his life. Eternal thanks to his family--especially his brothers Robert, Phillip, and John for introducing him to musicianship. *Apologies given to any legit pianists who have to watch this guitarist flap his T-rex fingers across the ivories for the next two hours*
Nick Kepley
Born and raised in Asheville, NC, Nick Kepley trained with Sandra Miller and spent summers at School of American Ballet and The Juilliard School. Concert dance: Ballet Austin, Kansas City Ballet. Broadway/NY stage: Mary Poppins (Neleus, Valentine, Ensemble), Cinderella (Asst. Choreographer), Waitress (Asst. Choreographer), Camelot (NY Philharmonic), American Dance Machine for the 21st Century (Joyce Theatre). TV/Film: SMASH (NBC), Great Performances (PBS). Choreography: Working (Prospect Theatre NY, Assoc.), Cake Off (Bucks County Playhouse, Assoc.), West Side Story (Mill Mountain Theatre), Dirty Dancing in Concert, Guys and Dolls (Flat Rock Playhouse). Kepley has served as Rehearsal Director for Dance Lab/New York (2016-2018), Ballet Master of Ballet Austin II (2013-2015), and on full-time faculty for Milwaukee Ballet's Pre-Professional Program (2021-2022). In 2010, Kepley founded MOTION Dance Theatre, a summer choreographic residency program in Asheville, NC, and served as artistic director until 2015.
Tyler B. Osgood
This is Tyler’s first time with Mill Mountain, and while it wasn’t for long, he can’t wait to come back! Normally Tyler can be found in West Palm Beach as Palm Beach Dramaworks’ Resident Assistant Stage Manager, where he has been since fall of 2021. Select regional credits include: The Sound of Music, Songs Under the Stars, The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show, Holiday Heroes 2019, A Christmas Carol 2019, and Sunday in the Park with George at ZACH Theatre and A Wrinkle in Time, A Christmas Carol 2018, Detroit ’67, and The Age of Innocence at McCarter Theatre. Tyler is a proud graduate of Texas State University, where he earned his BFA in theatre technology and production.
Bethany Costello
Bethany Costello is a Roanoke-based Music Director, Teacher and Theatre Artist. She is delighted to be at Mill Mountain this summer, sharing her passion of Theatre for Young Audiences, which has led her to creating regional premiers, national tours and performing with companies such as The REV Theatre Company, The Kennedy Center, Florida Repertory Theatre, Virginia Children’s Theatre, CentreStage and Lexington Children’s Theatre. Favorite creative team credits include Junior Stars (The REV Theatre Company), She Loves Me, Sister Act (SC School of the Arts), Finding Nemo: The Musical (Virginia Children’s Theatre) and Alice in Wonderland (Missoula Children’s Theatre).
Will Farris
Will is very excited to work on Matilda with Mill Mountain Theatre! Will was most recently the Production Stage Manager for Madlibs Live with Mill Mountain Theatre. He is from Nashville, TN, and studied at Western Kentucky University where he received a BFA in Performing Arts with a concentration in tech and design. Previous stage management credits include Nashville Repertory Theatre, Nashville Children’s Theatre, BG on Stage, and Surflight Theatre. He would like to thank his parents for always supporting him and encouraging him to chase his dreams.
Ginger Poole
Ginger Poole is a proud member of Actor’s Equity Association and an Associate member of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Union. She has studied, taught, choreographed, and performed throughout the U.S. She has worked in GA, HI, FL, MS, SC and VA with, Theatre in the Square, The Alliance City Series, Theatre Gael, Synchronicity Performance Group-GA, Mill Mountain Theatre-VA and SC Children’s Theatre. Originally from Atlanta, she has worked with the N.F.L. and The Atlanta Falcons as their director and choreographer and The Atlanta Opera. Prior to coming to Mill Mountain Theatre, she was based out of North Carolina where she has worked with Flat Rock Playhouse, the State Theatre of North Carolina, in over 25 productions. She was a part of the Education program at Flat Rock Playhouse for 5 years where she taught for their Apprentice Companies and their Conservatory Program in Acting, Dance, and Musical Theatre. Ginger has taught at The University of Southern Mississippi, Western Carolina University, William Carey College, Mississippi University for Women, and currently teaches at Hollins University. With Ginger’s strong background in dance she finds herself not only acting and dancing on stage but also directing the choreography and classroom skills for her students. Ginger holds her M.F.A. in Acting Performance from the University of Southern Mississippi and continues to teach acting and dance. She has worked with students that range in age from kindergarten through professionals.
Ginger has worked in commercials, voice-overs, film, stage, and the classroom, and was profiled in the book FIRESTARTERS as “the actor”.
Ginger serves on the following Board of Directors: South Eastern Theatre Conference (SETC Secretary, Second Term), Junior League of the Roanoke Valley (Past President and Current Nominating Committee, Second Term), Burton Performing Arts Advisory Board, The Roanoke City Public Schools Education Foundation, and she has served on the Review Panel for theVirginia Commission for the Arts. She was the recipient of the DePaul’s Women of Achievement Award in the Arts in 2013 and was named the 2016 Kendig Award recipient for Individual Artist. Ginger is also a guest host with WSLS, the NBC affiliate, Daytime Blue Ridge television show, and is the host of the new Mill Mountain Theatre Podcast, Meet Me at Mill Mountain. She is very proud to be a member of the Mill Mountain Theatre team and looks forward to its continued growth, success, and artistic influence in the region.
Michael Havens
Mike Havens was born and raised in Roanoke, VA and has been involved in music and playing guitar since the age of 12. He received his Bachelors’ degree in classical guitar performance from Radford University and was awarded a full scholarship for study towards a Masters’ degree at the University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music. In 2001, he taught guitar studies at local colleges and universities including, Radford University, Emory and Henry College, Sweet Briar College, Randolph-Macon Woman’s College, and Lynchburg College. In 2008, he was offered, and continues, a full-time position teaching guitar and electronic music at Patrick Henry High School in Roanoke, VA. Mike performs regularly as an acoustic and classical guitar soloist, is a member of the classical guitar and flute duo Con Eleganza, as a guest guitarist for the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra, and is the guitar and bassist for Roanoke’s Mill Mountain Theater.
Savannah Woodruff
Savannah Woodruff was born and raised in Southern Pines, North Carolina, where she was encouraged to become involved in technical theatre in high school. Savannah is a graduate of The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and received a BFA in Technical Production. Prior to joining the Mill Mountain Theatre staff, she worked as a member of Weston Playhouse Theatre Company’s Intern Company. Savannah is grateful for the support of her family (and especially her cats) in her endeavors, and is thrilled to be able to continue working and growing with Mill Mountain Theatre.
Michael Havens
Mike Havens was born and raised in Roanoke, VA and has been involved in music and playing guitar since the age of 12. He received his Bachelors’ degree in classical guitar performance from Radford University and was awarded a full scholarship for study towards a Masters’ degree at the University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music. In 2001, he taught guitar studies at local colleges and universities including, Radford University, Emory and Henry College, Sweet Briar College, Randolph-Macon Woman’s College, and Lynchburg College. In 2008, he was offered, and continues, a full-time position teaching guitar and electronic music at Patrick Henry High School in Roanoke, VA. Mike performs regularly as an acoustic and classical guitar soloist, is a member of the classical guitar and flute duo Con Eleganza, as a guest guitarist for the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra, and is the guitar and bassist for Roanoke’s Mill Mountain Theater.
Jackson Yowell
Jackson Yowell, a Virginia local (Broadway, Va) is working as the props designer as well as backstage crew for Elf the Musical. He has also worked in previous productions at Mill Mountain such at Matilda the Musical, Brightstar as well as Jersey Boys.
Caroline Moledor
Caroline Moledor is an eighteen-year-old multi-instrumentalist local to Roanoke. She has studied piano for thirteen years, in the private studios of Sandra Paul (Mt. Airy, NC) and Joyce Woods (Roanoke, VA). She studies voice with Seth Davis, guitar with Mike Havens, and drums independently. This is her second production playing with the MMT band, but she has also performed as an actor in fourteen productions with MMT, including Best of Broadway, The Sound of Music, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and others. She produces her own music and has released three singles on all major music streaming platforms. Caroline will be attending Berklee College of Music in the fall.
Peyton Gentry
Alan Plado
Seth Davis
Seth Davis is a Georgia native who is very excited to be a part of the Mill Mountain family after first serving as Associate Music Director for Mill Mountain’s 2013 production of The Sound of Music. Seth is a music director and musician in both the musical theater and classical music realms, in addition to being a teacher, clinician, and coach for performers and musicians of all ages. Regional credits include Kiss of the Spiderwoman, Spring Awakening, See What I Wanna See (Actor’s Express), Illyria: A Twelfth Night Musical (Georgia Shakespeare), Time Between Us, A Diva’s Christmas, Hair (Serenbe Playhouse) and The Andrews Brothers (Stage Door Players). Seth has also served as musical director for Georgia Tech and Oglethorpe University in addition to teaching at The Alliance Theatre, Aurora Theatre and judging many regional music and theater festival competitions.
Erin Alexis Markham
Erin Markham is a Roanoke native with a lifelong passion for the theatre and music. She graduated summa cum laude from Radford University with a B.S. in Theatre and an emphasis in stage management. Along with stage managing several productions and student projects at RU, Erin worked as a House Manager, Box Office Assistant, and an Assistant to the Chair. In previous summers, Erin has worked with the Christiansburg Dance Academy, the Virginia Governor’s School for Arts and Humanities, and Mill Mountain Theatre’s Education tour of Curious George: The Golden Meatball. Her most recent work includes Assistant Stage Manager for Mill Mountain Theatre’s productions of Bright Star, Jersey Boys, Holiday Inn, The Diary of Anne Frank and Fun Home. Erin hopes this show gives you all the warm fuzzies (without the swollen tongue!)
Christopher D. Littlefield
Christopher Littlefield has worked on Broadway: Spongebob (vocal coach, rehearsal pianist). Off-Broadway: Under the Bodhi Tree (music director, conductor), Shout! (keyboard), Naked Boys Singing (piano). Nat’l Tours: The Addams Family, 9 to 5 (associate conductor, keyboard). Film: Leonard Soloway’s Broadway (music supervisor, composer, arranger, pianist). Television: My Time – Oprah Winfrey Network (music director, arranger, pianist). Studio Recordings: Glory Days- Original Broadway cast, Nikkie Renée Daniels- “Home,” Scott Alan- “What I Wanna Be When I Grow Up” (piano, keyboard), Melissa Maricich- “Incandescent” (producer, music supervisor, pianist, arranger, orchestrator).
Marissa Anthony-Duricko
Marissa Anthony-Duricko is a costume designer, actor, director, and once-upon-a-time stage manager who has worked extensively in New York City, across the U.S., and Ireland. Born to a stage director mother, Marissa grew up in rehearsal rooms, costume shops, and the magic of darkened theatres. She received her formal training at the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, the Chautauqua Institute’s Conservatory Theater Company, and University College Cork in Ireland.
As an actor, Marissa has appeared numerous times Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway. Her regional credits include performances at the Delta Tennessee Williams Festival (Clarksdale, MS) the Last Frontier Theatre Conference (Valdez, AK,) and in the inaugural acting company of the Voices at the River Playwright Festival at Arkansas Repertory Theatre, to name a few. She has stage managed Off-Broadway at the Chelsea Playhouse and the Tony Award-winning Signature Theatre in New York City. A transplant to Ireland for a few years, she earned two national Irish Student Drama Association nominations. One for Best Actress as Callie in Stop Kiss and the other for Best Costume Design for The Big Boy. Her directing credits include Tennessee Williams��� Camino Real, Paula Vogel’s How I Learned to Drive, and the Irish premiere of Lanford Wilson’s Book of Days. Recent costume design credits include Urinetown, Little Women, and Sweet Charity. She is a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association since 2001.
The role of which Marissa is, and will ever be, most proud is that of mother to Onofrio and Davin.
Seth Davis
Seth Davis is a Georgia native who is very excited to be back onstage with this lovely group of performers. Seth is a music director and musician in both the musical theater and classical music realms, in addition to being a teacher, clinician, and coach for performers and musicians of all ages. Regional credits include Kiss of the Spiderwoman, Spring Awakening, See What I Wanna See (Actor’s Express), Illyria: A Twelfth Night Musical(Georgia Shakespeare), Time Between Us, A Diva’s Christmas, Hair (Serenbe Playhouse) and The Andrews Brothers (Stage Door Players). Seth has also served as musical director for Georgia Tech and Oglethorpe University in addition to teaching at The Alliance Theatre, Aurora Theatre and judging many regional music and theater festival competitions. Much love to the entire MMT family, and always, Travis.
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