NEWSIES

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From The Producing Artistic Director

Welcome to the final production of our 2024/2025 season, and from the bottom of my heart, thank you for being here.

This letter is especially meaningful to me, as it is the last I will write to you as Producing Artistic Director of this remarkable theatre, a place that has been my creative home for the past 26 years and my honor to lead for the last 18.

It is difficult to put into words what this journey has meant to me. Together, we have shared unforgettable stories, taken bold artistic risks, and built something truly special, not just a theatre, but a community. Your support, your candor, your belief in what we do here, it has all mattered more than I can say. You have lifted us up when we soared and challenged us to grow when we stumbled. I have learned from every moment.

This is, for me, a bittersweet goodbye. But more than anything, it is a hopeful one. I leave this position knowing that the Guild’s future is bright, that this theatre will continue to be a beacon: welcoming, inspiring, and rooted in the values that make it a vital part of this community.

Thank you. Two small words that carry the full weight of my gratitude.

With love and deep appreciation,
Josh

Song List

Act I

Overture

Santa Fe - Prologue

Carrying the Banner

The Bottom Line

That's Rich

I Never Planned On You / Don't Come a-Knocking

The World Will Know

Watch What Happens

Seize the Day

Santa Fe - Reprise

Intermission

Act II

King of New York

Letter from the Refuge

Watch What Happens - Reprise

The Bottom Line - Reprise

Brooklyn's Here

Something to Believe In

Once and for All

Finale

Cast

The Orchestra

Conductor/Keyboard: STEVE PARSONS 

Reeds: WILLOW DIGIACOMO 

Trumpet: MICHAEL WILLARD 

Trombone: AARON THORNBERRY 

Guitar: TREVOR MATTHEWS

Keyboard: BRET TASSONE 

Violin: MARY BONTRAGER 

Cello: ABIGAIL BONTRAGER 

Bass: JEREMEY POPARAD 

Creative Team

Production Team & Front of House

COSTUME TEAM

Kate Joseph (Assistant Designer)

Grace Erichsen

Liberty Erichsen

Tyra Grisak

Daryl Robinson

SET CONSTRUCTION

Ross Carmichael (Technical Director)

Michael Burke

Megan Herbert

Michaela Muckelrath (Scenic Charge Artist)

Natalie Steen

BACKSTAGE CREW

Michael Clark

Bill Joseph

Susan Mullikin

Nataly Nash

Bethany Riggs

Chase Sexton

Alex Sweat

Amanda Tatum

Doreen Tatum

FRONT OF HOUSE

Fran Nichols (Event Staff Security)

The Amiot Family

Kayla Amstutz

Kelly Aneshanel

Barbara Berasi

Joe Bosh

Laura Cline

Diana Collum

Marilyn Davies

Michelle Davis

Pat Donald

Samuel Dorto

Jeanette Fatigati

Sandy Feielin

Krista Gibson

Ingrid Green

Karen Halter

Kathy Hinamon

Barb Hostetter

Steve Hostetter

Joan Hudson

Hannah Jolly

Linda Keith

Tim Keith

Geri Lewis

Tina Louise

Anne Martin

Kathleen McClure

Molly Moriarty

Susan Mullikin

Esther Oustampasidis

Mary Jane Philips

Chris Pisanellii

Andrea Raffle

Laura Rich

Hannah Roberts

Chris Roca

Kathy Rogers

Sandy Rosetta

Jo Roten

Jennifer and Tim Rowles

Joyce Ryan

Brian Salinas

Karen Schaaf

Nancy Shanklin

Barb Stephens

Tristan Stutter

Carol Warner

Mary Ann White

Judy Whitman

Jill Williams

Janet Wilcox

Karen Wilson

Cindy Wingerter

Laurie Zupp

HOUSE MANAGERS

Molly Moriarty

Missy Hays

Meet the Company

Edward Bazzell

Crutchie

is a 26 year old performer based in Youngstown. He studied at The University of Wyoming to get his BFA in musical theatre performance. Edward is mainly known for his work with The Millenial Theatre Comapny, where he has played roles such as Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors, Cliff in Cabaret, and Sir Robin in Spammalot. He would like to thank his family, friends, and his girlfriend Hannah for their continued love and support.

Jocelynn Leigh Benson

Darcy

is over the moon to be in her second Players Guild production. Jocelynn recently graduated high school in 2024 and is currently studying Theatre at Kent State University. Jocelynn has been in previous shows, such as Memphis (Ensemble), Sister Act (Pablo), Chicago: Teen Edition (Velma Kelly) and Hairspray (Seaweed’s Gang). She has also danced for 14 years and choreographed for 3 years. She would like to thank her family and friends, as well as her teachers and mentors throughout the years. Lastly, she hopes everyone enjoys the show! IG: jocelynnleigh

Cale Bishop

Buttons

is very excited to return for his second show at the Players Guild. Two years ago, he was in SpongeBob the Musical and is now coming back to perform in his favorite show of all time. Cale is a Senior at Massillon Washington High School and has performed many shows there. These shows include, and are not limited to: Shrek the Musical, Tuck Everlasting, Guys & Dolls, and Fiddler on the Roof. He is very thankful that he is allowed to contribute to this wonderful production this year as he transitions to college.

Flynn Bryson

Ike

is so excited to perform again here at the Player Guild Theatre! He is a sixth grader at Jackson Memorial Middle School. His most recent role was as the Boy in Cat in the Hat earlier this year. Previously, he was cast in the teen ensemble at the North Canton Playhouse in The Snow Must Go On. He has participated in theatre camps, such as two years at Barberton Magical Theater K.I.D Camp and Theatre 815 Youth Summer Theatrical Class. He plays percussion in the band and runs with the Jackson 6th grade Run Club. He would like to thank the director for giving him this opportunity to shine on stage!

Dominic Comeione

Newsie

is thrilled for his first show at the Players Guild. He is a senior at Perry High School and has been in 7 of their productions,from being backstage helping to being on the cast for 2 of them. At Perry High School Dominic was in the cast for Legally Blonde his Sophomore year as Padamadan and Anastasia his senior year as First man/ Male reporter #5. Dominic is thankful to his friends and family for always supporting him in what he loves to do.

Todd Cooper

Pulitzer

is excited to be reprising this iconic role which continues to resonate and remain relevant with audiences, particularly in the discussion about the role of media, social injustice, exploitation, and the rights of workers. Todd previously portrayed this ruthless villain in the 2022 Weathervane Playhouse production. Todd grew up a hustling paperboy, so this show, like so many others, holds a special place in his heart. Some of Todd's more recent credits include: A Christmas Carol / Musical (Ebenezer Scrooge), Elf (Walter), God Of Carnage (Alan), Joseph...Dreamcoat (Pharaoh/Mr.Potiphar), A Gershwin Review (Al Jolson), A USO Tribute (Bob Hope), Rock of Ages (Dennis Dupree), Titanic (J. Bruce Ismay), If / Then (Stephen). Todd is a longtime supporter of the theatre, and a firm believer in its transformative power. He would like to thank his family and friends whose support and love have made everything possible.

Heather Curtis

Newsie

A worship pastor by day and a musical theatre enthusiast by night, Heather is excited to be back on stage for another production here at the Guild. Some past favorite roles include Mother (Ragtime), Dorothy Brown (Thoroughly Modern Millie), Emma Carew (Jekyll and Hyde), and Mrs. Bucket/Mrs. Gloop/Wonka Assistant (Willy Wonka). Special thanks to her amazing husband David for supporting her on this journey, and to her mom Kathy for all those years of dance lessons!

Horacio Evans

Elmer

is very excited to be making his debut at the Players Guild Theatre as Elmer, along with this being his first experience in theatre since middle school! He is a junior at Louisville High School and is very involved in the music program, being in choir and marching band since the sixth grade. He is thankful for the chance to be in this production.

Gabriel Factora

Mike

is ecstatic to play Mike the Newsie in his 1st performance with The Players Guild Theatre. Gabriel's passion for the stage started in 2nd grade and he has most recently been in Peter Pan, Footloose and Beauty and the Beast. He is a 7th grader at North Canton Middle school, plays tennis and is on the YMCA swim team. In his free time, he enjoys music, drawing and video games. Gabriel would like to thank the Newsies Team for this opportunity and is looking forward to singing and dancing in these fantastic shows!

Tyler Ferrebee

Snyder

is thrilled to portray Snyder in Newsies! With over a decade of experience in community, regional, and professional theatre, some of his favorite roles include George Banks (Mary Poppins), Adolfo Pirelli (Sweeney Todd), Chef Louis (The Little Mermaid), Uncle Fester (The Addams Family), and Patrick Star (The SpongeBob Musical) among others! Tyler is endlessly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside this talented cast and dedicated crew, whose passion and hard work bring the show to life. He sends heartfelt thanks to his friends, family, and fellow artists for their constant support. Enjoy the show and seize the day!

Josiah Gregory

Tommy Boy

is excited to make his Players Guild Theatre debut as Tommy Boy! This is his first musical production and he is thrilled to be a part of it. He currently attends the University of Akron and is majoring in Computer Science. Josiah would like to thank the entire cast and crew, as well as his family and friends.

Nicholas Grover

Davey

is so excited to be playing Davey in his Players Guild Theatre debut! He has previously been seen on stage in Cinderella (Jean-Michael), Titanic (Bruce Ismay) and many others. Outside of theater he is also involved in Boy Scouts earning his Eagle Scout Rank and playing lacrosse. Being in Newsies is a dream come true! He would like to thank his family for always supporting him in everything he does. He hopes you enjoy the show! Now is the time to seize the day!

Thomas Haren

Race

is happy to be a part of his 4th show here with the Guild. He has been involved in productions with NDPAA at the Cultural Center and he also was Scarecrow in the Wizard Of Oz Festival. Thomas goes to college here at Kent Stark where he studies for a degree in communications and a minor in theatre. Thomas would like to thank the production team and crew for all of their hard work and the cast for their friendliness and dedication.

Danny Headland

Wiesel/Stage Manager/Mr. Jacobi/Mayor

Well folks - this is my 6th show with PGT, FROM SWEENEY TODD, RAGTIME, JEKYLL AND HYDE, MARY POPPINS, A CHRISTMAS CAROL, and now NEWSIES and I'm loving every minute of it, working with these very talented people. At 66 years young I never would have thought this could happen after being off the boards for thirty years. I am very grateful for PGT taking a risk and casting me in their shows and I hope many more shows are in my future. I thank you all for supporting PGT and continue to do so. So once again it is never too late to join us here at PGT. Thank you.

Andrew Horning

Les

is a sixth grader at Alliance Middle School. Newsies marks his fifteenth musical production, including a previous opportunity to play Les with Carnation City Players. He was most recently seen tap dancing to Conjunction Junction in his school’s production of School House Rock Live Jr. and as Nemo in CCP’s production of Finding Nemo Jr. Andrew enjoys soccer/futsal, Star Wars, Harry Potter, and copying his sister Avery’s tap dancing

Madison Kearney

Mush

is so excited to cross Newsies off her musical bucket list alongside such an incredible cast! Recently, she has performed at the Guild in Willy Wonka (Mike Teavee et al), Junie B. Jones the Musical (Junie B.), A Christmas Carol (Past/Mrs.Cratchit), and Mary Poppins (Ensemble). She would like to extend her thanks to the cast, crew, production team, and incredibly supportive friends and family. Enjoy the show, and may it serve as a reminder of the great things we can achieve by standing united against injustice!

Braylie Law

Jo Jo

is excited for her first production at the Players Guild. In the past she has been in many shows at Hoover High School, some being Les Miserable (Young Cosette), Clue (Mrs. White), and The Play that Goes Wrong (Sandra) Recently she was also in Hadestown as a worker at the North Canton Playhouse. She is currently a student at Kent State University majoring in Criminology and minoring in Forensic Anthropology. In her free time she likes to dance, go to Playhouse Square, attend concerts, and spend time with her friends and family.

Baley Major

Oscar Delancy

is thrilled to return to the stage after a break since high school, reigniting his passion for theatre. Having contributed behind the scenes as crew for multiple shows at the Players Guild, he’s grateful for the experience and is now excited to perform. He extends heartfelt thanks to his parents for their steadfast support, his Players Guild friends for encouraging him to audition, and his voice teacher, Amanda Medley, for helping him reach this milestone.

Tess Marie

Nun/Bunsen/Bowery Beauty/Newsie

is thrilled to be a part of this story! She was recently seen on stage here in Hairspray as a Dynamite/Nicest Kid! Some of her previous favorite roles with The Guild include A Christmas Carol (Belle/Emma), Beauty and The Beast (Babette) and Junie B. Jones The Musical! (Lucille/José/Bobbi Jean Piper). Tess would like to thank the incredibly talented cast, crew and production team for all of their hard work on this show. She would also like to give a huge thank you to her mama and her friends for all of their endless support and encouragement!

Andrew Marks

Jack Kelly

is delighted to be playing his dream role, Jack Kelly, in tonight's performance. This is Andrew's first show with the Player's Guild, but he has been performing in theater and choirs for about 15 years, starring in roles such as Jacob in Lost in Yonkers and Conrad Birdie in Bye Bye Birdie. His performance tonight is dedicated to his parents, his voice coach, and most importantly, God, without whom he would not be here. “...whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31

Isaiah McCullough

Bill

is pumped to be making his Players Guild Theatre debut as Bill as well as in the newsies ensemble. Though this is his first show at the Players Guild he’s done performances for 6 years, the biggest of which was Donkey (Shrek) as well as Man in the Yellow Suit (Tuck Everlasting). By day he works at the Boys and Girls Club of Massillon helping the next generation thrive. Special thanks to the person who helped him follow his performing dream Ms.Sullivan and a massive thanks to his mom and dad he wouldn’t be here without their help.

Alysa Musselman

Newsie

is thrilled to perform in one of her favorite musicals for her Players Guild debut. Past roles include Helga in Cabaret at Weathervane, Ariel in The Little Mermaid and Kate in Oklahoma at Summer stage Wooster, and Ensemble in Weathervane’s Ragtime. She’s so grateful to everyone involved!

Brendon Neuenschwander

Finch

is currently in the 8th grade at North Canton Middle School. Previous stage credits include Anastasia School Edition (Dimitri) at the North Canton Playhouse, Matilda Jr. (Bruce) at North Canton Middle School, 13 the Musical (Archie) at Stage Door Studios and Godspell Jr. (Jesus) at Avenue Arts. This is his first role at the Players Guild and he is so excited to be playing the role of Finch in this production of Newsies. He would like to thank his family and his vocal coach, Debbie Cardy for their constant support.

Todd Patterson

Roosevelt/Nunzio/Guard/Policeman

is a retired science teacher of 42 years and lives in Wooster. He has been directing theatre for the Wooster H.S. Drama Club and various community groups since 1994. In 2011, he founded Summer Stage Wooster, a non-profit musical theatre group, and serves as their artistic director. The company is taking a well-deserved break this summer and consequently, Todd has the rare chance to “tread the boards” as an actor. This is his first show with the Players Guild and he is most grateful for the opportunity, and to his supportive wife, Renee. Seize the day!

Lilyan Ronske

Specs

is thrilled to be making her second appearance on the Players Guild stage! She was a part of last season's production of Beauty and the Beast (Napkin/Milkmaid). Her favorite roles have included Madame de la Grande Bouche in Beauty and the Beast, and Edna in Bright Star. Lily is a graduate student in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Kent State University. She would like to thank the wonderful cast and crew for working with her "zoo" of a schedule, as well as her family, friends, and partner for always being so supportive! Enjoy the show! :)

Anya Rummell

Medda Larkin/Nun

is beyond excited to be in another show at the Players Guild! She’s had a blast playing roles like Dynamite in Hairspray, Chiffon in Little Shop of Horrors, Katherine Blake in Freaky Friday, Fiona in Shrek The Musical, and the not-so-sweet Miss Andrews in Mary Poppins. Theater has been her happy place for as long as she can remember, and she’s thrilled to share this show with you—especially alongside her husband, Jacob! Huge love and thanks to her incredible friends and family for their endless support!

Jacob Rummell

Seitz

is absolutely thrilled to return to the Players Guild for his second show this season, after appearing as a Dynamite in Hairspray! He’s no stranger to the stage, having taken on memorable roles like Albert Peterson in Bye Bye Birdie, Lumiere in Beauty and the Beast, Ronnette in Little Shop of Horrors, the Narrator in Into the Woods, and Frederick in The Sound of Music. Jacob also trained with Blake Shelton and Pharrell Williams on Season 8 of NBC’s The Voice (yes, really!). Now, he’s excited to share the stage once again with his wonderful wife, Anya! Jacob would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to his amazing mom, dad, family, and friends for their unwavering support and encouragement!

Gabe Sawyer

Newsie

is thrilled to return to the stage with the Players Guild for his second performance, this time in Newsies. He previously performed as the young thief in Sweeney Todd, his debut role with the Guild. He has also appeared in the JC Films movie Takedown. At 13 years old, Gabe has a passion for movies and enjoys spending time with his siblings and friends. Gabe would like to thank Steve Parsons and the Players Guild for this wonderful opportunity. He’s excited to continue exploring the world of theater and looks forward to many more performances!

Josh Sawyer

Albert

is thrilled to make his Players Guild Theatre debut as Albert in Newsies! He has previously worked on crew for Jekyll & Hyde and Mary Poppins and is grateful for the opportunity to step onstage for this exciting production. He thanks Steve Parsons, the cast, and crew for their support, as well as Players Guild Theatre for welcoming him. He also appreciates his family and friends for their encouragement along the way. Enjoy the show! PS. I love you Mom!!

Sammy Sawyer

Romeo

is a high school junior, and is excited to be performing as Romeo in Newsies, his seventh production with the Players Guild Theatre. He debuted as an ensemble member in A Christmas Carol, and later performed in Beauty and the Beast, Jekyll and Hyde, and Mary Poppins, before returning to the Christmas Carol. Most recently on stage, Sammy rocked it right outa’ the malt joint as Nicest Kid “IQ” in Hairspray. Sammy can also be seen in two upcoming movies by JC Films; “Takedown,” and "A Paralyzing Redemption.” Off stage, he enjoys music, church youth group, sketching, and being with friends. Sammy thanks the directors, cast, and crew for this amazing experience, and hopes you all enjoy the show!

Justin Severns

Spot Conlon

is eager to return to the PGT stage! Most recently, Justin was the voice of the evil plant, Audrey 2, in Little Shop of Horrors at Carnation City Players. You may have also seen him at the Players Guild as Aslan in The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe, Charles Dickens in A Christmas Carol, or as Winnie-the-Pooh. He currently studies Early Childhood Education at the University of Akron. Justin would like to thank his friends and family for their constant support, and would like to thank the team behind Newsies for the opportunity! Brooklyn’s Here!

Xavier Sheridan

Henry

is excited to return to the Players Guild stage in their production of ‘Newsies.’ He is an active participant in the performance community, performing in shows such as Hadestown (Worker/Head Dancer), Descendants (Jay), and Mean Girls (Damian) among many others. When not onstage, Xavier can be found choreographing and dancing until his legs give. He would like to thank his family, friends, Miss Megan Seemann and Miss Sara Spizzichini for their consistent support for his passion

Hannah Sinclair

Katherine

is thrilled to join the cast of Newsies! The Players Guild holds a special place in her heart, as it was here that she first took the stage in 2007—and she hasn’t stepped away since. Some of her favorite past credits include Sally in Cabaret, Veronica in Heathers: The Musical, Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors, Johanna in Sweeney Todd, Judy in 9 to 5, Brooke in the regional premiere of Be More Chill, and Mimsy in the regional premiere of It Shoulda Been You, among many others. By day, Hannah teaches high school students in an alternative education program for at-risk youth. She dedicates this performance to her students, whose resilience and spirit have inspired her just as the Newsies inspired an entire generation . She extends her heartfelt thanks to Steve and the entire creative team at the Players Guild for their belief in her and for giving her the opportunity to fulfill a lifelong dream. ig: @hannahsinclair4444”

Alexander Wagner

Morris Delancy

is a college student currently attending Stark State College. He transferred from Kent State last semester, and will be going back to finish his degree. This is his debut performance at Players Guild Theatre, and he couldn’t be more thrilled to be part of it. Coming from previous performances, like Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, he is excited to be back in another mean-spirited, yet fun role!

Alexa Warmuth

Hannah/Nun/Bowery Beauty

is so excited to be making her Players Guild debut! Alexa is a third-year student at Kent State, where she studies theatre performance and filmmaking. Previous roles include Lauren (Kinky Boots), Amber von Tussle (Hairspray), and Alice Beineke (The Addams Family). This summer, Alexa will be heading to Michigan to teach theatre at Interlochen Arts Camp. She would like to thank her mom and dad for being her biggest cheerleaders both on and off-stage. Enjoy the show!

Aliyah Wright

Splasher

is so excited for her second show at the Players Guild right after Hairspray! She has loved performing ever since her first role as Wendy in Peter pan! After high school, Aliyah studied musical theatre at AMDA in NYC and came back to perform and direct at the Geauga Theater in Chardon. Her favorite roll being Cinderella in an original adaptation written and arranged by her best friends. Aliyah is also a cosmetologist and offers lash and brow services in Chagrin Falls. On the weekends she’s a singer in an 80’s tribute band “Simply the Best”. Aliyah is beyond excited to be a newsie in her favorite show and hopes you enjoy it just as much!

JOSHUA ERICHSEN

Producing Artistic Director

Father of two amazing daughters, the oldest studying architecture, the youngest studying theatre. Husband to his dream girl wife of twenty-two years - they met at the PGT! Blessed beyond measure to have this amazing job and to be able to call the Players Guild Theatre his artistic home for twenty-five years! During that time he has had the privilege of producing, directing and designing countless productions.  Those credits include, Players Guild: Titanic, Next To Normal, Jesus Christ Superstar, Memphis, Ragtime, Hunchback…, Assassins, Cabaret, Les Miserables, A Christmas Carol (’04-present), The Full Monty, A Few Good Men, 1776 and Jekyll & Hyde.  Ohio Shakespeare Festival: Much Ado About Nothing, A Midsummer Nights Dream, Twelfth Night, The Comedy of Errors, and The Tempest.  Other credits include: Romeo and Juliet (Magical Theatre Co), Joseph… Dreamcoat (Natl. Tour), and served as producer for An Evening with George Takei, starring Mr. Takei.  Additionally, Josh is a magician, a Christopher Nolan film-fanatic, and has a true passion for all-things-Charles Dickens. Josh is a graduate of Kent State University, and is a recipient of the Spotlight Award for Outstanding Contributions to Theatre. Love to my family and my beautiful wife and daughters for their unconditional love and never-ending support!

BETH KNOX

Director of Education & Social Media

Beth is in her twelfth season at the Players Guild Theatre.  She earned her degree in Business Management and Marketing from the Ohio State University.  Beth spent the majority of her career in management in the cosmetic and fashion industry in the Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and NYC markets for brands including Ralph Lauren, Oscar de la Renta, Yves St. Laurent, Paloma Picasso, and Giorgio Armani.  Her background also includes grant writing, event planning, and fundraising. Beth is a co-founder, Executive Producer, and playwright for Red Fig Productions.

TYRA GRISAK

Guest Services Manager

Tyra will be celebrating her 10th anniversary with the Players Guild this season, during which she has developed numerous meaningful relationships with various patrons. Her greatest fulfillment from her role as guest services manager is seeing the joy that live theatre generates among our audience and everyone involved in the theatrical process. She takes great pride in leading the front of house volunteer team, which continues to grow and thrive. How grateful she is to be where she is in her personal life, and in her professional life with the PGT!

STEVE PARSONS

Director Resident Musical Director/Conductor

is the Resident Musical Director at the Players Guild of Canton, having served in the same capacity at Carousel Dinner Theatre from 2004-2009, where his work received the 2006 Cleveland area Times Newspapers “Outstanding Musical Direction” award. Other credits include The Riverside Theatre in Vero Beach, Florida, The Ohio Shakespeare Company, Carnation City Players, and the Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera. Additionally, he provided new arrangements for Dean Pitchford’s official revised version of FOOTLOOSE, created new versions of the NUNSENSE scores for creator Dan Goggin, wrote original music and fight song arrangements for the hit video game COLLEGE SLAM, and performed in the “Tickestra” for the FOX animated television series THE TICK. Steve was also the arranger for the Grateful Dead musical CUMBERLAND BLUES, which was presented at the New York Musical Theatre Festival, and orchestrated the regional musical IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE. An active composer, Steve has a Master’s degree in composition and numerous published symphonic pieces and choral works. His original musical version of A CHRISTMAS CAROL is published by Steele Spring Stage Rights, and has received an NYC Off-Off Broadway production, a fully staged production in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, numerous regional theatre performances across the United States, and is presented annually at The Players Guild. Steve arranged and orchestrated the hit LA musical LIFE COULD BE A DREAM and is a consultant and contributor to Defying Gravity, the biography of legendary songwriter Stephen Schwartz. He presently serves as an adjunct faculty member at Kent State University – Stark Campus in the areas of Musicology, Piano, Ensemble Direction and Conducting, and is a proud member of ASCAP and The Dramatists Guild of America.

ROSS CARMICHAEL

Technical Director

graduated from York College of Pennsylvania with a B.A. in Theatre. Since then, he has worked professionally as an actor, a director, and in technical theatre. Technical credits: Technical Director (Gamut Theatre Group) Scenic Designer (Gamut Theatre: Hamlet; The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe; Every Christmas Story Ever Told; Pericles; A Streetcar Named Desire; TYA) Production Manager (Gamut Theatre, Powerhouse Apprentice Company); Carpenter (Ohio Shakespeare Festival, Gamut Theatre, York College of PA) Lighting Designer (Ohio Shakespeare Festival, Gamut Theatre) Directing credits: FoodPlay Productions.

BREANNA ANTONIADES

Production Manager

is excited to be back for her seventh season at the Players Guild Theatre! Prior to her work here, Breanna earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Studies with a concentration of Theatre Production and a minor in Theatre Performance from Kent State University, graduating Summa Cum Laude. She has been given many titles throughout her fourteen plus years working in theatre, but her favorite title continues to be Production Stage Manager. She could not be happier that she gets to work in a career she is so passionate about! In her free time, she loves playing board games, throwing themed parties, and cuddling with her three adorable cats. She would like to thank her husband Anthony, her family, and her friends for all of their support over the years. Enjoy the show!

FRANKIE CASTROVILLARI

Lighting Designer

joined the Players Guild family in the summer of 2019 with Rock of Ages and has been around ever since. In addition to his role as lighting designer here at Players Guild Frankie also serves on the Board of Directors for the Brecksville Theatre. Frankie’s work can also be seen at Cassidy Theatre and Magical Theatre Company, to name a few.

BOBBY SEVERNS

Sound Designer/Projection & Sound Programmer

With a passion for enhancing the theatrical experience through sound, Bobby brings a wealth of expertise this production. In now his third season as resident sound designer, Bobby has been instrumental in crafting immersive audio environments through sound effects, atmospheric beds, and original musical compositions that elevate storytelling and engage Players Guild audiences. Memorable projects include A 360-degree soundscape incorporated into the 2023 production of Stephen King’s Misery, and several original compositions for the environments and battle scenes of 2024’s The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. Bobby has an extensive background in music and live sound, having worked on diverse projects including running his own DJ and Live Sound Reinforcement company (Pro Party DJ) for 25 years, performing hundreds of shows as a solo musician, and developing his own sound effects applications for the Apple iOS platform. Throughout his career, Bobby has collaborated with numerous community and professional theater groups both onstage as an actor/performer and in artistic, technical, and video production capacities. In addition to his work in theater, Bobby is actively involved mentoring through the Scouting America program, teaching K-5th Sunday school, and playing on the church worship team at Passion Hartville. By day, you will find him as a Senior Corporate Trainer for DRB Tunnel Solutions, a company that provides point-of-sale and tunnel control to the car wash industry. Outside work, Bobby is a proud father of three children and devoted husband of more than 25 years to his lovely wife Emily. Bobby is dedicated to using sound and music as powerful tools to bring stories to life and create memorable experiences for audiences. He hopes you find tonight’s performance a testament to that fact. Enjoy the show!

KATE JOSEPH

Assistant Costume Designer

is pleased as punch to be back for her third season working in the costume shop at the Players Guild! Kate is a graduate of the 2022 class at the College of Wooster where she got her Bachelor’s degree in English and Theatre. Kate has worked on every show the last two seasons here at the PGT, but her favorite show recently she has designed was *The Toxic Avenger*. Kate enjoys puppetry, making food for everyone during tech, and being the quick change champion she is. She dares you to do a quick change faster than her, and hopes you enjoy the show!

KRISTIAN KORSGAARD

Props Master

received his training at Marymount Manhattan College where he earned a BFA in Dance, Magna cum Laude. Kristian spent the next 12 years teaching dance in both Brooklyn and Queens while performing extensively in regional theater. Some favorite shows include A Chorus Line, Nunsense…Amen, Carousel, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Sweet Charity, The Will Rogers Follies, 42nd Street, Crazy for You and Annie as well as traveling to Alaska, Hawaii and through the Panama Canal performing for Holland America Cruise Lines. He also had one glorious year working as a dresser for Beauty & the Beast on Broadway. Having retired his dancing shoes, Kristian stayed in NYC for another 6 years working for a hedge fund group before moving closer to home in 2010 to open a gift shop in Hudson with his husband, Eric. Happy to be back for another show at the Guild!

ELIZABETH DOMER

Stage Manager

is an actor, director, and stage manager. After a year on the road as a Touring Actor/Director with Missoula Children's Theatre, she now spends time teaching theatre throughout NEOhio. Elizabeth is passionate about using the performing arts to inspire change, challenge minds, and promote growth. She is a graduate of the University of Mount Union with a Bachelor of Arts in Music and Theatre Performance. Favorite credits include Trouble in Mind (Judy Sears), The Toxic Avenger (Mayor Belgoody/Ma), Twelfth Night (Maria), and Quilters (Jody). Elizabeth enjoys time offstage golfing and with her cat, Bean.

MOLLY WEIDIG

Choreographer

is the owner of Inspire Performing Arts Center and specializes in musical theater, tap, and jazz choreography. She has choreographed for a variety of theaters and organizations including Players Guild Theatre, New Directions Performing Arts Academy, North Canton Playhouse, and numerous local high schools. Molly holds a BFA in Musical Theater Performance from Western Michigan University and has worked as a teaching artist for Reach Out & Dance in Akron and Artful Living & Learning in Canton City Schools. Through her work, she is passionate about helping performers discover their love of dance and feel confident—no matter their experience level. She is thrilled to bring the high-energy world of Newsies to life with this talented cast.

RACHEL TASSILE

Assistant Choreographer

is excited and honored that her first production with the Players Guild is Newsies. Rachel has choreographed for Canton Theatre Kids and area school theatre programs over the last four years and is a dance instructor at Inspire Performing Arts Center in Canton.

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