BWW Stage Mag Fat Ham - Capital Stage Stage Mag
 

Artistic Director Michael Stevenson &
Managing Director Liz Gray Present


FAT HAM

by James Ijames

Directed by Anthony D'Juan

March 18-April 19, 2026

PERFORMANCE LENGTH:  1 Hour, 30 Minutes, No Intermission


FEATURING:

James Simpson^, Brooklynn T. Solomon, Brandon Rubin*,
Kali Honeywood, Tarig Elsiddig*, Sené Goss, Xzavier Beacham*
     
  Assistant Director
Alissa Doyle
 
Scenic Designer
Stephen C. Jones**
 
Lighting Designer
Isaiah Leeper
Hair & Make-Up/Drag Consultant
Logan Jacob Germano Heller
Costume Designer
Rebecca Valentino
 
Costume Design Assistant
Leo McConnell
 
Sound Designer & Engineer
Ed Lee
 
Properties Designer
Morgan Sommer
 
Properties Design Assistant
Hailey Bowland^
 
Fight Choreographer
Jarod Wiggins
 
Dance/Movement Choreographer
Shannon Mahoney

 

Dramaturg & Intimacy Coordinator
Nicole Limón

 

Stage Manager
Melissa Jernigan*
 
     
Assistant Stage Manager
Stephen Byrum^

 

 
SPONSORED BY:
 
TED COBB

 

 

SEASON WINE SPONSOR:

 

“Fat Ham” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com
New York Premiere Co-Production by
The Public Theater
Oskar Eustis, Artistic Director Patrick Willingham, Executive Director
and
National Black Theatre
Sade Lythcott, Chief Executive Officer Jonathan McCrory, Executive Artistic Director
FAT HAM was commissioned by and received its World Premiere as a filmed production at The Wilma Theater, Philadelphia:
Blanka Zizka, Yury Urnov, James Ijames, and Morgan Green, Co-Artistic Directors
Leigh Goldenberg, Managing Director

 

 
*Member Actors' Equity Association | ^Capital Stage Apprentice | **Member Local USA 829
 

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OUR MISSION

Capital Stage is dedicated to creating transformative, thought-provoking theater experiences that challenge, inspire, and connect.

 


 

THINGS TO KNOW

HEALTH & SAFETY:

Visit our COVID-19 Safety Protocols & Procedures Page to stay up to date on our Health & Safety requirements and recommendations. 

 

VIDEO/PHOTOS:

Recording and photography during the performance are prohibited at Capital Stage by copyright law and union regulations.

 

CELL PHONES:

Patrons are asked to turn any noise making devices off upon entering the theatre.

 

LATE SEATING & RE-SEATING:

Due to the design of our theatre, we cannot guarantee seating for late arrivals or for patrons who leave the theatre during the performance. As a courtesy to our artists and our audiences, late arrivals will be seated in a suitable location by our staff if possible and at the appropriate intervals.

 

REFRESHMENTS:

Only concession items purchased in the Wine & Dessert Bar are allowed in the theatre, patio and lobby areas. Yes, you can bring your drinks and snacks into the theatre!

 

CHILDREN:

Capital Stage is noted for bringing intimate bold productions to our region and we encourage young adults to experience a live performance. Children age sixteen and up are welcome at Capital Stage unless specifically noted in the production’s description.

 

WHEELCHAIR SEATING:

Seating locations at Capital Stage for patrons using wheelchairs or with limited mobility are located in the first row. Tickets for these seats may be purchased in person or by calling the Box Office at 916-995-5464. Please call ahead to notify the staff if you required these seats.

 

RESTROOMS:

Restroom facilities are located in the lounge behind the Wine & Dessert Bar.

 

INFORMATION:

Brochures and information about upcoming Capital Stage productions and events are available in the box office or by visiting capstage.org.

 


 

 

Capital Stage is a member of Actors' Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.

 

 

Capital Stage is a member of Theatre Communications Group (TCG), the national organization for the American theatre.

 

Capital Stage is a member of the National New Play Network, the country’s alliance of leading nonprofit theaters that champion the development, production and continued life of new plays.

 

 

Capital Stage is a member of Blue Star Theatres, offering discounts to Military personnel, Military family members, and Veterans.

 

 

 

 

SDC is the theatrical union that unites, empowers, and protects professional Stage Directors and Choreographers throughout the United States.

 

The Representative Voice of Designers and Scenic Artists

Sponsors

Cast

James Simpson^
Juicy
Brooklynn T. Solomon
Tedra
Brandon Rubin*
Rev/Pap
Kali Honeywood
Opal
Tarig Elsiddig*
Larry
Sené Goss
Rabby
Xzavier Beacham*
Tio
George Hillman
Understudy (Juicy, Larry, Tio)

Creative Team

James Ijames

Playwright

Anthony D'Juan

Director

Alissa Doyle

Assistant Director

Michael Stevenson

Artistic Director

Liz Gray

Managing Director

Tony Gabrielson

Production & Company Manager

Caleb Jones

Technical Director

Melissa Jernigan*

Stage Manager

Stephen Byrum^

Assistant Stage Manager

Stephen C. Jones**

Scenic Designer

Isaiah Leeper

Lighting Designer

Rebecca Valentino

Costume Designer

Leo McConnell

Costume Design Assistant

Logan Jacob Germano Heller

Hair & Make-Up Designer/Drag Consultant

Ed Lee

Sound Designer

Morgan Sommer

Properties Designer

Hailey Bowland^

Properties Design Assistant

Shannon Mahoney

Dance/Movement Choreographer

Jarod Wiggins

Fight Choreographer

Nicole Limón

Dramaturg & Intimacy Coordinator

Samantha McLean Haas

Scenic Charge Artist

Special Thanks

Joe Bertolucci, Affordable Heating & Air, Inc.

Dan Brunner

CapRadio

Donna Chipps

CSUS Department of Theatre & Dance

Di Arie Vineyard & Winery 

Oak Park Brewing Company

Priority Parking


 

 

Production Staff

Artistic Director - MICHAEL STEVENSON

Production & Company Manager - TONY GABRIELSON

Director - ANTHONY D'JUAN

Assistant Director - ALISSA DOYLE

Stage Manager - MELISSA JERNIGAN*

Assistant Stage Manager - STEPHEN BYRUM^

Technical Director - CALEB JONES

Scenic Designer - STEPHEN C. JONES**

Scenic Charge Artist - SAMANTHA McLEAN HAAS

Lead Carpenter - CONOR WOODS

Carpenter, Painter - SUNNY MACKEY

Lighting Designer - ISAIAH LEEPER

Lead Electrician - SHAE MERCER

Costume Designer - REBECCA VALENTINO

Costume Design Assistant - LEO MCCONNELL

Hair & Make-Up Designer & Drag Consultant - LOGAN JACOB GERMANO HELLER

Sound Designer & Engineer - ED LEE

Properties Designer - MORGAN SOMMER

Properties Design Assistant - HAILEY BOWLAND^

Build Crew - SUNNY MACKEY, CONOR WOODS, CALEB JONES

Painters - SAMANTHA McLEAN HAAS, CALEB JONES, SUNNY MACKEY, CONOR WOODS

Wardrobe/Run Crew - STEPHEN BYRUM^, HAILEY BOWLAND^, LYDIA CRIST^ 

Dramaturg & Intimacy Coordinator - NICOLE LIMÓN

Fight Choreographer - JAROD WIGGINS

Dance/Movement Choreographer - SHANNON MAHONEY

Resident Dramaturg - K. KEVYNE BAAR, PHD

BIAPOC Liaison - MATTHEW HANJOONG

Infection Control Manager/Admin. & Payroll Assistant - ELIJAH PETERS

Graphic Designer, Marketing Manager, Webmaster - MISTY MCDOWELL

Photographer - CHARR CRAIL

 

^ Capital Stage Apprentice  |  * Member Actors' Equity Association | ** Member Local USA 829


 

About The Play

by K. Kevyne Baar, PhD

 

“I’d say, come and see it and have a laugh. Come and see it and maybe see a version of yourself reflected back to you that you’ve never seen before. I’d say, come and see it because it is trying to capture the journey from pain to pleasure. Come to see it if you’re interested in transformation, how people can become new, how people can become better versions of themselves.” – James Ijames

 

The Pulitzer Prize in Drama is awarded “For a distinguished play by an American author, preferably original in its source and dealing with American life.” In 2022 that award went to James Ijames for his play Fat Ham, described by the Pulitzer Prize Committee as “A funny, poignant play that deftly transposes ‘Hamlet’ to a family barbecue in the American South to grapple with questions of identity, kinship, responsibility, and honesty.”

In every interview Ijames has given, it should come as no surprise to anyone reading this that he is asked why he chose to adapt Hamlet, to which he answers:

“I always think of Hamlet as a Cain and Abel story: the story of a sibling killing their sibling to get ahead. Anybody can relate to that; that’s a [narrative] that you inherit and moves with you through generations. And the younger folks in the play have to make some decisions about whether or not they want to continue that, whether that’s what they want their lives to look like and their relationships to each other to look like. I’m calling into question the stories that we’ve been passed down as wisdom. Because sometimes it’s wisdom, but more and more I look at those stories as cautionary tales of what you shouldn’t do. Vengeance isn’t gonna help Juicy [our Hamlet]. Killing his uncle is not gonna help Juicy’s life get any better.” 

For Ijames, “Fat Ham proves that family drama never goes out of style. Using the setting of a backyard barbeque.”  He emphasizes that Shakespeare’s Hamlet is just that: a family drama.”

Like Hamlet, “we have a musing, melancholy main character, dressed in all black, mourning the surprising death of his father and the quick remarriage of his mother to his uncle.” They both speak directly to the audience, pouring out their hearts with words some of which will be familiar to those who know Shakespeare’s Hamlet. But don’t panic, as Jesse Green, the theatre critic for the New York Times assures us, “You don’t need to make any of those ‘Hamlet” connections to enjoy ‘Fat Ham.’”

Ijames reminds us that, “In Fat Ham, the family aren’t royals; they’re people who own a barbecue restaurant. I knew I wanted to set the play in a world that moved in and out of brutality, so that I could have a conversation about how cycles of violence and trauma move through families, how the culture that the family deals with in their vocation seeps into who they are.” At the same time he makes sure we understand that he adapted this Shakespearean tragedy into a play he calls, “unabashedly Black and undeniably exuberant, resilient, and queer.”

 


 

About The Playwright

by K. Kevyne Baar, PhD

 

“When I was about 13, my parents split up and I had a lot of anger and frustration, and one of the ways that my family tried to encourage me to work through that was to write. And so I started writing little skits and plays, and I just have been writing in dramatic form ever since. I think it’s a way for me to metabolize all the things that I’m thinking about or curious about.” –James Ijames

 

In an interview for the Southern Review of Books in 2021, Ijames gave us this brief, but cogent biography: 

“Well, I am originally from a tiny town in North Carolina, called Bessemer City, that looks like Mayberry. It has the Main Street with all the little shops and City Hall. I grew up there and was heavily involved in arts and performing in school. I was in band, and choir – I got really intense about choir in high school. 

I went to college in Georgia at Morehouse College to get a degree in music with a concentration in Choral Music Conducting, ‘cause that’s what I thought I wanted to do. I got [to Morehouse] and really quickly discovered that [I] didn’t want to [do that] – it was awful, I hated it. And my voice teacher at the time who was very nice but also could see that I was miserable, was like, ‘They’re doing a musical over across the way at Clark Atlanta. They’re doing ONCE ON THIS ISLAND.  You should audition for it. See if you like that.’ I think he could tell that that’s what I should be doing. And I did. And that was the bug – I got in and it was over. I was a Theatre major. And then I went on to get an MFA in Acting from Temple University. That’s what brought me to Philly. I’ve been here doing anything that people will let me get away with for almost twenty years.” 

As to being a playwright, Ijames found that, “I metabolize all my questions about the world—past, present and future—through the art form of dramatic writing. FAT HAM was inspired initially by seeing a production of HAMLET that, I felt, put an ocean between me and the characters, in spite of the fact that I have loved HAMLET since I first read it in college. It’s thick with family drama, political intrigue, sex, violence. It’s a blockbuster of a play, but the production I saw reduced its world down to ideas embodied versus a true examination of the human condition, which of course is what I think theater, at its most potent, can achieve. So I started reading HAMLET, watching HAMLET, reading what old white men had said about HAMLET, and from that I started to try to pull the play closer to me and, in my own language, render this story. The language of my family, my communities, my ancestors.”

In FAT HAM Ijames “wanted to give the family a chance to not feel constrained by literature or by their family history. And overall, recently, I’ve started to write things that don’t obscure pain or the possibility of death, or betrayal, but that get to some sort of place where the audience can see how the world could get better. I am trying to end my writing not in devastation, but in a striving for paradise.” 
 


 

Meet the Company

James Simpson^

Juicy
James Simpson^ - Juicy James Simpson is an aspiring actor and director who had been thrilled to work so closely with amazing artists through Capital Stage’s apprentice program. With a deep passion for storytelling and performance, James has learned from experienced artists and immersed himself in every aspect of the creative process. His goal is to grow as both a performer and a visionary behind the scenes, and onstage and is using this opportunity to refine his craft working as an assistant stage manager, crew member, wardrobe constructor, and has built a foundation for a lifelong career in theater and film. James has now taken on the role of an actor with Capital Stage. He brings enthusiasm, creativity, dedication, and a collaborative spirit to every project, and is excited to take the next step in his artistic journey.

Brooklynn T. Solomon

Tedra
Brooklynn T. Solomon - Tedra Brooklynn T. Solomon is so excited to be back at Capital Stage for this beautiful production. She was last seen here in FAIRVIEW, THE ROYALE and MISS BENNET: CHRISTMAS AT PEMBERLEY. Some of her favorite performances include B Street Theatre’s BROKE-OLOGY, Big Idea Theatre’s BOOTY CANDY and SKELETON CREW, Celebration Arts' SPELL #7, A RAISIN IN THE SUN, SUNSET BABY, STICK FLY, THE BLUEST EYE and BOURBON AT THE BORDER, and Sacramento Theatre Company’s CLUE: THE MUSICAL, GLORIA: A LIFE and WHEN WE WERE COLORED: A MOTHER’S STORY. Most recently, she appeared in Celebration Arts’ 2026 season opener, THE COLORED MUSEUM. Brooklynn received her Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from Sacramento State University.

Brandon Rubin*

Rev/Pap
Brandon Rubin* - Rev/Pap Brandon Rubin is happy to return to Capital Stage for this wonderful performance. He began acting here in Sacramento and then went and received his MFA from the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University. Some of His favorite productions have been THE ROYALE by Marco Ramirez, FENCES by August Wilson, and SURELY GOODNESS AND MERCY by Chisa Hutchinson. You can also find his work on Amazon's Audible platform for audiobooks. He would like to thank his parents for always encouraging him. This performance is dedicated to my Grandma.

Kali Honeywood

Opal
Kali Honeywood - Opal Recent theatre credits include: FAIRVIEW at Capital Stage, where she portrayed Keisha, DREAM WEDDING (Lyla) with SF Playground, the workshop production of SARAI'S KNIFE (Jaeda Davis) at Capital Stage, and HARRIET TUBMAN & THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD (Minty). Additional credits include INTO THE WOODS (Cinderella) with the Sacramento State Department of Theater & Dance. With heartfelt thanks to her family, close friends and partner. IG: @KaliHoneywood

Tarig Elsiddig*

Larry
Tarig Elsiddig* - Larry Tarig trained with Celebration Arts and his mentor James Wheatley, performing in Sacramento now for the last 11 years. Tarig is thrilled to return to Capital Stage for the fourth time, last appearing in their production of KING JAMES with Ian C. Hopps*, GEORGIANA & KITTY: CHRISTMAS AT PEMBERLEY and SWEAT by Lynn Nottage. Recent credits also include LOBBY HERO, BLUE DOOR by Tanya Barfield, THE WHIPPING MAN, TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, HAIRSPRAY, THE SKELETON CREW and GOLDEN WINGS.

Sené Goss

Rabby
Sené Goss - Rabby This Midwest native has been gracing stages with her creative gifts for well over 30yrs.
Since 1998 Sené has been seen on many local theatre stages here in the Sacramento region. Sené was last seen at The Fourth Wall Theatre in 2025 as (Helen Robinson) in BIRDMOCKING. A role that required much depth, strength and personal reflection. Sené is excited to make her debut at Cap Stage in FAT HAM as "Rabby" and hopes to inspire every person that sees this production. Favorite Quote:
“Never be afraid to begin, again.” IG: @sene_goss

Xzavier Beacham*

Tio
Xzavier Beacham* - Tio Xzavier Beacham is a classically trained actor and multidisciplinary creative with over a decade of experience in the performing arts. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from Concordia University, where he completed a theater minor before graduating. He continued his formal training at The Actors Conservatory in Portland, Oregon. Recently, Beacham portrayed Langston Hughes in Zora and Langston in Sacramento, California, a production that received Best Production and Best Scored Production at the SheLA Summer Theatre Festival. He is also the creator of For Your Eyes Only: A Short Series exploring Banned Books. IG: zay_beacham

George Hillman

Understudy (Juicy, Larry, Tio)
George Hillman - Understudy (Juicy, Larry, Tio) George is excited to be a part of such a wonderful play with so many beautiful moments and people. George is currently in his final year at Sac State, working towards his BA in Theatre Arts. He loves to perform just as much as he loves to breathe, especially places in the community he has never worked with before. Some of his previous work includes Benedick in MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING at Sacramento State, Avery in THE FLICK at Big Idea Theatre and Junior in BEFORE IT HITS HOME at Celebration Arts. He hopes you enjoy the captivating tale that is FAT HAM. Insta: @Georgehthegreat

James Ijames

Playwright
James Ijames - Playwright James Ijames is a Pulitzer Prize winning and Tony Award nominated playwright, a director and educator. James’ plays have been produced by Flashpoint Theater Company, Orbiter 3, Theatre Horizon, Wilma Theatre, Theatre Exile, Azuka Theatre (Philadelphia, PA), The National Black Theatre, JACK, The Public Theater (NYC), Hudson Valley Shakespeare Theater, Steppenwolf Theatre, Definition Theatre, Timeline Theater (Chicago IL) Shotgun Players (Berkeley, CA) and have received development with PlayPenn New Play Conference, The Lark, Playwright's Horizon, Clubbed Thumb, Villanova Theater, Wilma Theater, Azuka Theatre and Victory Garden. James is the 2011 F. Otto Haas Award for an Emerging Artist recipient, and two Barrymore Awards for Outstanding Direction of a Play for THE BROTHERS SIZE with Simpatico Theatre Company and Gem of the Ocean with Arden Theatre. James is a 2015 Pew Fellow for Playwriting, the 2015 winner of the Terrance McNally New Play Award for WHITE, the 2015 Kesselring Honorable Mention Prize winner for ....MIZ MARTHA, a 2017 recipient of the Whiting Award, a 2019 Kesselring Prize for KILL MOVE PARADISE, a 2020 and 2022 Steinberg Prize, the 2022 Pulitzer Prize in Drama recipient and a 2023 Tony nominee for Best Play for FAT HAM. James was a founding member of Orbiter 3, Philadelphia’s first playwright producing collective. He received a B.A. in Drama from Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA and a M.F.A. in Acting from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. James is an Associate Professor of Theatre at Columbia University where he serves as head of playwriting. He resides in South Philadelphia and the Morningside Heights neighborhood in New York, NY.

Anthony D'Juan

Director
Anthony D'Juan - Director Anthony D'Juan is a Sacramento based director-playwright who has been active since 1996. He was assistant and protégé to Ed Claudio, and is currently an Adjunct Professor for the Los Rios Community College District. His playwriting credits include: MEN IN RIFFS, THEORY OF THE DREAM, THE PURVEYORS, SAFE AT HOME: THE JACKIE ROBINSON STORY, 3:BLACK GIRL BLUES, THIS IS HOW IT HAPPENED, DOMESTIC DISTURBANCE, BIRDMOCKING, ANY/PERSON, US & THE REST OF ‘EM, EXIT, THEATER OF LIGHTS, LIVE LIKE YOUR FATHER’S DEAD and SUPERIOR CALIFORNIA. His stage directing credits include: SUBURBIA, ENDGAME (best drama 2004), A CLOCKWORK ORANGE (THE MUSICAL), TOPDOG/UNDERDOG (2007), THE MOUNTAINTOP, BOOTYCANDY (nominated best director), SKELTON CREW, PASS OVER, THE ROYALE, DIRECT FROM DEATH ROW:THE SCOTTSBORO BOYS, FATSO (with Logan Heller - 2023 revival), PAPI ME AND CESAR CHAVEZ, CLYDE’S, ROBIN HOOD (world premier), THE GOAT OR WHO IS SYLVIA? (nominated best director), FAIRVIEW (nominated best director), FENCES, WATER BY THE SPOONFUL, TWELFTH NIGHT and OUR TOWN (2026).

Alissa Doyle

Assistant Director
Alissa Doyle - Assistant Director Alissa is thrilled to be back at Cap Stage, learning from the legendary Anthony D'Juan and this formidable cast. Acting credits include FAIRVIEW and PREDICTOR (Capital Stage), DANCE NATION (B Street Theatre), and GRAPES OF WRATH (directed by Michael Stevenson at Sacramento Theatre Company). Directing credits include COMMEDIA ALADDIN (Sacramento City College), the remount of ZORA & LANGSTON (with Imani Mitchell at Celebration Arts), and BURIED CHILD (CSU Sacramento). Alissa is finishing her MFA in Theatre Pedagogy through the University of Idaho and is honored to include FAT HAM in her capstone projects. Love to Ry & B and our summer baby.

Michael Stevenson

Artistic Director
Michael Stevenson has served as Capital Stage's Artistic Director since 2015. For Capital Stage, Michael has directed THE SOUND INSIDE, THE LEHMAN TRILOGY, KING JAMES, ARCHDUKE, HEROES OF THE FOURTH TURNING, GLORIA, THE LIFESPAN OF A FACT, ADMISSIONS, THE HUMANS, THE OTHER PLACE, SWEAT, THE THANKSGIVING PLAY, LUNA GALE, STUPID F##KING BIRD, HOW TO USE A KNIFE, DISGRACED, MR. BURNS, IDEATION, CLYBOURNE PARK, MAURITIUS, ERRATICA (World Premiere), and LES LIAISONS DANGEREUSES. He has directed at regional theaters including: B Street Theater, Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Orlando Shakespeare Company, Perseverance Theater Company, and Sacramento Theater Company. As an actor he has appeared at many regional theaters including: 42nd Street Moon, American Conservatory Theater, The Aurora Theater, Bailiwick Repertory Theater, Capital Stage, B Street Theater, the Utah Shakespeare Festival, and Marriott’s Lincolnshire Theater. He holds an M.F.A. from the American Conservatory Theater.

Liz Gray

Managing Director
Liz Gray holds an MFA in Arts Leadership and a Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit and Nongovernmental Organization Management (Virginia Tech); a BFA (NYU, Tisch); and certifications from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (London) and the Upright Citizens Brigade (NYC). Previously, Liz worked as a strategic planner, capital campaign designer, arts marketer, accessibility auditor, community engagement coordinator, and fundraiser; and has taught accessible communications and theatre arts courses collegiately. Liz presented research on nonprofit fiscal embeddedness within city-entities at the League of Historic American Theatres’ Conference, and facilitated communications workshops at Rutgers University and the Society for In Vitro Biology.

Tony Gabrielson

Production & Company Manager
Tony has worked with many theaters and dance companies locally and around the country over the last 20 years as a stage manager, carpenter, painter, and technician. Favorite productions include: DISNEY'S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST with Barter Theater in Abingdon, VA, ON BORROWED TIME at Two River Theater in Red Bank, NJ, and developmental workshops of BOTTLESHOCK! THE MUSICAL. He is blessed and beyond grateful to continue working as an artist in our community. Love and thanks to Jessa and Piper - his favorite people.

Caleb Jones

Technical Director
Caleb is proud to be Capital Stage's Technical Director since the 23/24 Season. He is new to Sacramento but has worked at the San Diego REPertory theater and with several theaters within Fresno County. This year serves as his 11th year in the field, and he hopes you enjoy our shows. Lots of love to Clarissa and all of his loved ones.

Melissa Jernigan*

Stage Manager
Melissa Jernigan* - Stage Manager Melissa most recently worked at Capital Stage on EUREKA DAY, UNSEEN and the world premiere of EVERYTHING BEAUTIFUL HAPPENS AT NIGHT. She has been stage managing at Capital Stage since 2016. Some of her favorites include VIETGONE, THE NETHER, STUPID F##KING BIRD, CLYDE’S and THE HOMBRES. Other credits include being a PA on Broadway’s LENNON, Off-Broadway: FELA! the Lagos Tour, David Cromer’s OUR TOWN, John Leguizamo: A WORK IN PROGRESS, BEAUTY OF THE FATHER at Manhattan Theatre Club, BREATH & IMAGINATION at Hartford Stage, OUR TOWN starring Helen Hunt at The Broad Theatre in Santa Monica. She was a sub stage manager on HARRY POTTER & THE CURSED CHILD in SF and this past holiday season returned to her roots as an ASM on ELF: THE MUSICAL at Broadway at Music Circus. She is a proud Equity Member. When she’s not inside the stage management booth with her good friend Ed Lee, Melissa enjoys spending time with her Husband and two sons.

Stephen Byrum^

Assistant Stage Manager
Stephen is thrilled to join Capital Stage as a 2025/26 Season Apprentice! He graduated with a BA in Performing Arts Studies from Lees-McRae College in 2012 and moved to Sacramento in 2020. He is an actor, playwright, director, and coach. Additionally, he is an avid D&D player, amateur chef, cat dad, and diehard 49ers fan! He is also a member of The Dramatists Guild, and Alpha Psi Omega. Past roles include Lady Bracknell in THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST, Gaston, in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, and Mr. McQueen in URINETOWN. His written work is available on the New Play Exchange. IG: s.byrum89

Stephen C. Jones**

Scenic Designer
Stephen C. Jones (United Scenic Artists Local 829 Lighting and Scenic Designer) Selected Regional Theatre and Off Broadway design credits include: Utah Shakespeare Festival (UT), Orlando Shakespeare Theatre (FL), The Dressmaker’s Secret (Off-Broadway), Colorado Shakespeare Festival (CO), Portland Stage Company (ME), Sacramento Ballet (CA), Alley Theatre (TX), B Street Theatre (CA), Capital Stage Theatre Company (CA), Sting and Honey (UT), American Stage Theatre (FL).Publishing credits include: Contributing Researcher world scenography1900-1997, Technical Editor- Vectorworks for the entertainment industry, contributing writer book titled Experimental Theatre-Praxis-based approaches to training 21st century Artists. Stephen has won awards across the country for is design work, and has been highlighted in trade publications. (**Member Local USA 829)

Isaiah Leeper

Lighting Designer
Isaiah Leeper is very excited to be lighting up Capital Stage again after working on THE HEART SELLERS, NOW CIRCA THEN, AMERICAN FAST, CLYDE’S, PREDICTOR, HEROES OF THE FOURTH TURNING, THE ROYALE, SMART PEOPLE, PASS OVER, and others. He was also able to bring light to the world CABARET at Folsom Lake College. He would like to take the time to thank the cast, crew, and entire company for their support and wonderful energy.

Rebecca Valentino

Costume Designer
Rebecca is delighted to return to Capital Stage where previous productions include I AND YOU, EUREKA DAY, EVERYTHING BEAUTIFUL HAPPENS AT NIGHT, FAIRVIEW, CRY IT OUT, AMERICAN FAST, HEROES OF THE FOURTH TURNING, GLORIA, THE WOLVES and THE GREAT LEAP! Rebecca has worked with many local companies including, The Aurora Theatre Company, 42nd Street Moon, Center REPertory Theatre and Solano College Theatre where she also served as the Costume Shop Supervisor from 2005-2012 and Adjunct professor of Costume and Theatre from 2007-2020. In addition she designed costumes for the Short Film GENERATIONS directed by Kourosh Ahari (The Night). She earned a BA from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and an MFA from the University of Michigan. Rebecca is currently the Costume Director for the Theatre and Dance Department at UC Davis.

Leo McConnell

Costume Design Assistant
Leo McConnell is an undergraduate student at UC Davis majoring in design, and minoring in theatre. He has designed costumes for UC Davis in their RULES OF PLAY dance showcase, and was the assistant costume designer for their production of THE DROWSY CHAPERONE. After graduating, he plans to continue working in costume design and production.

Logan Jacob Germano Heller

Hair & Make-Up Designer/Drag Consultant
Logan is thrilled to be working with capital stage again on hair and makeup. He has been working as a published freelance stage/editorial makeup artist for 10 years. Being an actor too makes these experiences so special, being able to blend his two passions has always been a dream of his. Logan also grew up in Sacramento, so this is truly a dream come true to working on a play that is a Sacramento premiere.

Ed Lee

Sound Designer
Ed is delighted to be part of another season at Capital Stage. He has been involved in almost every production since the company’s aquatic days at the Delta King, from artwork for SPEECH AND DEBATE to appearing in FIRST PERSON SHOOTER. Favorite sound design credits include: MASTER CLASS; SOMEONE TO WATCH OVER ME; 4000 MILES; MISTAKES WERE MADE; RAPTURE, BLISTER, BURN; and UNCANNY VALLEY.

Morgan Sommer

Properties Designer
Morgan is delighted to return to Capital Stage for her second show of the season, previously designing for THE SOUND INSIDE. Morgan is a graduate of Capital Stage’s Apprenticeship program (‘15/‘16), and has worked locally and on the East Coast in Stage Management, Wardrobe, and Theatre Administration. All my love to Carlos and Talvi <3

Hailey Bowland^

Properties Design Assistant
Hailey Bowland is a Capital Stage Apprentice. As a recent graduate of UC Davis with a degree in Theater and Design, Hailey is thrilled to be diving into the professional world of theater. She would like to thank the amazing people at Capital Stage for the opportunity as well as her family, friends, and professors who have continued in their support of Hailey's passion for storytelling and the arts. For her family- Love you Most!

Shannon Mahoney

Dance/Movement Choreographer
Shannon Mahoney is thrilled to be back at Capital Stage! She is a Sacramento based actor, director and choreographer. Acting credits include FAIRVIEW, LUNA GALE, MAPLE IN VINE, CLYBOURNE PARK, and ENRON at Capital Stage; THE LADIES FOURSOME and THE SOUND OF FREEDOM at B Street Theatre; Sacramento Theatre Company’s production of THE CRUCIBLE; KILLER JOE and A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE at Big Idea Theatre. Some recent choreography credits include: VIETGONE, MR. BURNS, ANNA KARENINA at Capital Stage; RENT at Falcon’s Eye Theatre; and CARRIE THE MUSICAL for Sacramento City College. She has her MFA from CSU Fullerton and is a proud member of Actors’ Equity.

Jarod Wiggins

Fight Choreographer
Jarod Wiggins is a local performer and fight choreographer for stage and film. (As well as a former Capital Stage apprentice!) As a long time martial artist and certified actor combatant with the Society of American Fight Directors, Jarod is thrilled to bring their skills back to Capital Stage to work with the amazing cast of FAT HAM. Jarod is also currently working on fight choreography for Sac State’s PIPPIN as well as Hummingbird Theatre Company’s ROMEO AND JULIET if you want to see more of his work.

Nicole Limón

Dramaturg & Intimacy Coordinator
Nicole C. Limón is a director/actor/dramaturg and theatre faculty at California State University, Sacramento. She is founder of Matriarchy Theatre and Associate Artistic Director of Teatro Espejo. She is also a Theatrical Intimacy Coordinator and most recently served as Intimacy Coordinator for EVERYTHING BEAUTIFUL HAPPENS AT NIGHT, UNSEEN and EUREKA DAY (Capital Stage,) HAIR (Broadway Music Circus,) NOSOTROS LA GENTE: WE THE PEOPLE and ART OF WAR (B Street Theatre) BEFORE IT HITS HOME (Celebration Arts) and RASHOMON (Community Asian Theatre of the Sierras.) Nicole has served as dramaturg for several Capital Stage productions, including: ENGLISH, FAIRVIEW, FADE, THE HOMBRES, THE HEARTSELLERS, and CLYDES’S, among others. Recent directing: SWEAT; DANCE NATION; HOUSE OF DESIRES (CSUS,) QUANTUM (Matriarchy Theatre,) SANCTUARY CITY (Teatro Espejo) and BY THE WAY, MEET VERA STARK (Celebration Arts.) Nicole is an Associate Member of Stage Directors and Choreographers Society, and a member of Literary Managers and Dramaturgs of the Americas.

Samantha McLean Haas

Scenic Charge Artist
Samantha has been painting sets for over 15 years in the greater Sacramento area. She’s absolutely thrilled to be joining Capital Stage for her sixth season as Scenic Charge Artist. In addition to Capital Stage, she’s worked at Sacramento City College, Sierra College, California State University Sacramento, University of California Davis, Sacramento Theatre Company, B Street, and Broadway at Music Circus. She is an Adjunct Professor of Theatre Arts at Sierra College, where she teaches scenic painting.

ACTORS’ EQUITY ASSOCIATION (AEA)

Founded in 1913, this union represents more than 45,000 actors and stage managers in the United States. Equity seeks to advance, promote and foster the art of live theatre as an essential component of our society. Equity negotiates wages and working conditions, providing a wide range of benefits, including health and pension plans. AEA is a member of the AFL-CIO, and is affiliated with FIA, an international organization of performing arts unions. The Equity emblem is our mark of excellence.

Capital Stage Staff

MICHAEL STEVENSON - Artistic Director

LIZ GRAY - Managing Director

KIRK BLACKINTON - Development Manager

TONY GABRIELSON - Production & Company Manager

MISTY MCDOWELL - Marketing Manager

LOGAN JACOB GERMANO HELLER – Education & Box Office Manager

THEODORE ALEXANDER - House Manager

CALEB JONES - Technical Director

CONOR WOODS - Lead Carpenter

SUNNY MACKEY - Carpenter, Painter

ED LEE - Resident Sound Designer & Engineer

SHAE MERCER - Lead Electrician

CECILIA CASTILLO JUAREZ - Concessions & Box Office Associate 

YASMINE SALMERON - Production Associate

K. KEVYNE BAAR, PhD - Resident Dramaturg

JAMIE JONES, PETER MOHRMANN, GAIL RUSSELL, JANIS STEVENS – Associate Artists

ELIJAH PETERS - Infection Control Manager, Payroll & Administrative Assistant

2025/26 SEASON APPRENTICE COMPANY - Hailey Bowland, Stephen Byrum, Lydia Crist, James Simpson


 

Capital Stage Board Members

Lori Abbott Moreland
Arts Patron

Chastity E. Benson
California State Association of Counties

Dan Brunner, Treasurer
Arts Patron

Kathryn E. Doi, Board President
Feldesman Leifer LLP

Beth Hassett
CEO, WEAVE

Stephen C. Jones
Professor and Vice Chair of the CSUS Dept of Theatre and Dance

Steve Koonce
Arts Patron

Elena Lopez-Gusman, Chair of Governance
Executive Director, California Chapter, American College of Emergency Physicians

Dena Martinez
Talen Agent, Director, Actor

Kristi Quesada Mathisen, Board Vice President
Sacramento Country Day School

Clif McFarland
Attorney

Robert Medina
Director of Policy & Advocacy, Sobrato Philanthropies

Stephanie Rowe, Board Secretary
Professor, Sacramento City College

Vince Sales
Everyday Impact Consulting

Peggy Wheeler
California Hospital Association


Board Emeritus:

Stephanie Gularte, Founding Artistic Director
Capital Stage

Peter Mohrmann, Co-founder
Capital Stage

Jonathan Williams, Co-Founder
Capital Stage

Arlen Orchard
SMUD

Julie Stark
Arts Patron


 

Donors

Special Thanks to our Donors

Donation Totals from 3/16/25 to 3/16/26

Please alert us to any errors or omissions by contacting Development Manager, Kirk Blackinton at kblackinton@capstage.org.


 

Founder's Circle: $20,000+

Walter & Linda Barnes
Dan Brunner
Kathryn E. Doi
Golden 1 Credit Union
Lesley & Steve Koonce
Jim Rolewicz & Tim Curfman
Sacramento City Office of Arts and Culture
The Shubert Foundation
Chuck & Nancy Shulock

 

Executive Producer: $10,000+

John Abbott & Lori Abbott Moreland
Gloriette C. Fong
James R Hargrove
Margaret Hastings
Scott & Linda Lasher
Linda McAtee & Steve Sphar
James McElroy & Ann Gerhardt
Art & Sue Scotland
Anita Scuri & James Simon
Howard Slyter & Marge Ginsburg
Julie Stark
Patricia Wall & David Stavarek
Ruth Werner
Joan Williams

 

Producer: $6,000+

Chastity E. Benson
Ted Cobb
Drs. John & Lois Crowe
Steven Debry
Gail Finney
Matt Hart & Allison Kephart
Beth Hassett
Robert Medina
Gretchen Peralta
Stephanie Rowe
Leonard Vincent Sales
Chris & Dave Wagner

 

Director: $3,000+

Constance Batterson
Susie & Jim Burton
Beth Carlsen
Theresa Corrigan
Ellen Covairt & Bernard Kalscheuer
Jeffrey Farley & Mike Tentis
Lisa Foster
Deborah Franklin & Douglas Mitten
Carole Fritz
Diane Holt
Stephen Jones
Laura Kee & Daryl Browne
Michael Koltnow & Kathleen Stack
Dennis Link
Tiffany Little Canfield
Elena Lopez-Gusman
Clif McFarland
Keetha Mills & Phil Nanni
Glenn & Rose Rondeau
Diane Schertz
Barbara Sommer
Marty & Janet Steiner
Ed Telfeyan & Jeri Paik
Susan Wheeler
Gloria & Don Yost

 

Lead Actor: $1,200+

Jacob & Beth Appelsmith
Peggy Beasley
David Bell & Katherine Newman
Linda Brandenburger
Carol Buck & Dennis Beaty
Margaret L Buss
Sterling Dalatri
Kathy Davenport & Ken Weiss
Gayle Dax-Conroy
Jim & Kathleen Deeringer
Cindy Dunning
Susan Edling
Curtis Fritz
Helen & Glenn Hakanson
Lisa & Garen Horst
Stephanie & David Hunt
Barbara Jeffus
Janet Jensen
Peggy & Bruce Kennedy
Marion Leff
Claire Lipschultz
Shannon Mahoney & Kirk Blackinton
Kris Martin
Dena Martinez & Paul Verke
Eugene Masuda
Kristi Quesada Mathisen & Josh Mathisen
Peter Mohrmann & David Harris
Julie Morandi
Karen Neuwald
Sara Nichols & Bill Magavern
Gail Pereira
Laurie Nelson Randlett & Jim Randlett
Lowell Richardson & Paula Sugarman
Ken Rothaus
Lori Saper-Nettel & Hans Nettel
Peter Saucerman & Susan Twining
Kim Silvers & Sheila Cardno
Roger & Barbara Smith
Rae-Nani Stokes
Robert Suskind & Leslie Lewinter-Suskind
Diane Van Maren
Megan Van Voorhis
Peggy Wheeler
Buzz Wiesenfeld
Claudia Wrazel & Frank Horowitz

 

Designer: $600+

Best, Best & Krieger
Everett Brown
Linda Jones
Joyce B. Lowe
Paula Pendergast
Ann Siprelle
Cathy Stephens

In Memoriam for Arthur Finan

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chris Abare
Kathleen Anderson
Stephen & Melva Arditti
David & Marsha Baskins
Robert & Jean Bonar
Karen Broido
Celia Buckley
Donna Chipps
Les & Peggy Chisholm
Kathleen Collins
Annabel Cooper
Fred Deneke & Jim Eastman
Matt Donaldson & Steve Kyriakis
Nancy & Don Erman
Richard & Barbara Falcon
Griff Field
Pamela Fitch
Muffy & Terry Francke
Brooke Frederick
David Fulk & Keith Riedell
LSL Fund
Brian Galacio
David Goldberg & Anna Rojas
Adrienne Graham
Linda Gregory
Ed Hall & Warren Lindeleaf
Team Hanseth
Eileen Heaser
Zheyla Henriksen
Mary Herbert
Hirst Law Group, P.C.
Kim Hunter
Laura & Harold Jackson
Allyce Kimerling
Dawn & Dave King
Robert Klass & Katy Globus
Sayuri Kuo Sharper
Beverly & Ronald Lamb
Brian & Dorothy Landsberg
Sandy Lee
Dennis Mangers & Michael Sestak
John Marinko
Ed Mills
Shelley Mydans & John Griffing
AMANDA NELSON
Catherine O'Brien
Mary O'Byrne
Richard Pearson & Jean Hart
Brian Rickel
Ron Robie
Judy & Mike Scheible
Ann Siprelle
Sara Slocum
Chris & Julia Smith
Patricia Symkowick
Shirley Toy & Dwight Crocker
Stephanie Tucker
Harold & Ilah Turner
Kim Varner
Denise Verbeck
Karen Willstatter
John Wilson & Susie Monary-Wilson
Carol Wolff Barnes
Suzanne & Jesse Womack

 

Ensemble: $300+

Candace & Doug Adams
John & Kathleen Agnew
Wendell Alderson & Ken Nather
John Angell
Karen Auwaerter
Robert & Laura Jane Young
Don Beckham
Ruthann Biel & Bill Claypool
Barbara Black
Peter Botto
Dr. William Bronston & Lisa Levering
Carin & Bob Bryans
Lyndsay Burch
Steve Buri
Marilyn Champa
Gregg & Marlene Cook
Timothy Corcoran
Gail Dartez & Don McGillivray
Jim Dodds
Katherine Downey
Andrew Enberg
Tracie & Richard Fike
Clint Fleener
Niva Flor
Kelli Frostad
Patty Garcia & Jim Mattesich
Anne Geraghty
Carol & Steven Goldberg
William & Margaret Gray
Mary Graziose
Dennis Gunvalson & Richard Bay
Chris Huber & S. B. Hadley Wilson
Linda & Simon Haines
Linda Hansen
Polly Hasemann
Dr. Brian & Sherry Haus
Robert Herne
Theresa Holden
Mike & Doris Horton
Patrick & Suzanne Hunt
Gary & Eva Incaudo
Lydia Inghram
Lawrence Jacobs
Aisha Johnk & David O'Brien
Don Johnson & Elizabeth Miller
Lial Jones
Jo Ann Joye
David & Kathy Kahn
MaryBeth Kavanagh
Leili Khalessi
Jolanta Kieturakis
Linda Kingsley & Sharon Liberatore
Jane Kirkland
Pamela Kisor
Dr. John & Rosemary Lamb
Paul & Jane Lammerding
Dan & Stephanie Leahy
Susan & Jeffrey Leider
Rick Martinez
Cheryl & Lee McDonald
Terry McLean
Steven Meinrath & Helen Nusbaum
Lynne Meredith
George & Carolyn Meyer
Steve & Cheryl Meyer
Mr. Colin A. Miller
Becky & Bob Norris
Steve Patwell
Rani Pettis
John & Sandy Peirce
Ted Prim & Marian M. Johnston
Enid Pritikin
James Queirolo
Patti Roberts
Amy & Jason Rogers
Carol Rogers & Jon Courtway
Bob & Shirley Rosenberg
Laura Rosenthal
JC Sales
Ann Samuelson
Randy Sater
Brian Sehnert
Joe Shea
Adrienne Sher
Janet S Shibamoto-Smith
Elaine Silver
Susan & Ross Siragusa
Neill SooHoo
Peggy Stare
Harry & Linda Struthers
Patricia Sturdevant
Dan & Karen Tajbl
Nina Thomson
Rachel Tooker & Randy Roberts
Michael & Barbara Ullman
Marian Ver Wey
Elaine Verbarg
James O Walker Jr
Bryan Weare
Jonathan Williams
Richard & Kathy Williams
Claudia & Olin Woods
Wendy & Mark Zlotlow

 

Patron: $150+

Ryan Adame
Elaine Alexander
David Alois & Jacquie Embs
Rebecca Armstrong
Terri Auwaerter
Debra Baldwin
Heidi Ballard
Kim Barragan
Susan Benson
Ricki Bergado
Brenda Betts
Rick Boeck
Bruce Bowers
Janis Briggs
Sandra Briggs-Howell
Constance Brown
Terry Brown
Margaret & Stephen Brush
Ted Calvert
Barbara Celli
Bernice Chin
Allison Claire
Idelle & Dan Claypool
John Collet
Dennis & Susan Cook
Marilyn Cooper
Lyn & Jim Crouch
Marcus Crowder & Laura Compton
Prietto Cueto Fund
Anthony & Margie Deriggi
Di Arie Vineyard & Winery
Kelly Dodge
Kathy Dona
John J. Donahoe
Deirdre Downes
Anne Duffey
Kathryn Dunker
Elizabeth Edwards
Carolyn Foland
Bonnie Gamble
Cynthia Gerber
Jason Gieger & David Toise
Carol Goodman & Tony Gane
Lisa Goodwill
Patricia Gregory
Ann & Charles Halsted
Dan Harlan
Alexandra Hewitt
Ian Hopps
Linda Huang
Marlys Huez
William Hunter
Anne Jennings
Jason Jong
Jonel Jorgensen & Dennis Lloyd
John Katonah
Nihal Kaur
Jamie Khan
Mimi Khan
Kay Michelle Khayat
Joann Kleemann
Derry Knight & Patricia Esgro
Nancy LaCasse
Irene Lara
Teven Laxer
John Leonard
Janice Levin
Jonathan C Lewis
Janet Lial
Alison Mahan
Joanne Matsui & Arthur Lai
Geoff Maxey
Nancy McDevitt & David Wolffs
Connor Mickiewicz
Karen Morrison
Hallie Morrow
Scott Moyer
Kimberly Mueller
Carly Narlesky
Sylvia Navari Household
Danielle & Dean Newberry
Erin O'neil
Tracey O'Reilly
Julie F. Owens
David Paul
Barbara Payne
Larry Pearson
Jeff & Karin Pelz
Nancy Petrisko
Sarah Phelan
Jessica M. Powell
Karyn Quan
Nathan Rangel
Sherry Reser
Rachel Roberts
Patrick Romano
Dr Kurt Rosen & Ms Dominique Pollara
Ruth Rosenberg
Linda Roth
Elyse Sharp
Shonna Shearson
Jean & David Shiomoto
Michael Sicilia
Karen Smith
Robert Snider
James & Janet Soller
Susanne Sommer & George Ramsey
Julie Stein
Pamela Stewart
David Stolcenberg
Claire Tauzer
Adele Taylor
Sharon Taylor
Susan & Ken Taylor
Patty Torbert & Ken Graber
Mildred Torrance
Devin Valdez
Dennis Valentine
Kristina Vandershaf
Roger Vincent
Phillip Vulliet
Kevin Walsh
John & Carole Whitelaw
Steven Winlock
Arnold Wolf & Fern Tablin
Megan Wygant
Ellie Zacks & Kathy Buxton

 

"The Crew" - Recurring Donors

Chris Abare
John Abbott & Lori Abbott Moreland
Candace & Doug Adams
John Angell
Walter & Linda Barnes
Peggy Beasley
Chastity Benson
Bill Bronston
Celia Buckley
Steve Buri
Margaret L Buss
Bernice Chin
Les & Peggy Chisholm
Kathleen Collins
Gayle Dax-Conroy
Katherine Downey
Richard & Barbara Falcon
Ellen Ferguson
Lisa Foster
Deborah Franklin & Douglas Mitten
David Fulk & Keith Riedell
Adrienne Graham
Mary Graziose
Courtney & Nate Hans
Beth Hassett
Stephanie & David Hunt
Kim Hunter
Linda Iseri
Leili Khalessi
Pamela Kisor
Shannon Mahoney & Kirk Blackinton
John Marinko
Linda McAtee & Steve Sphar
Peter Mohrmann & David Harris
Diane & Lisa Moore
Michael Moore
Mary O'Byrne
Rani Pettis
Laurie Nelson Randlett & Jim Randlett
Sherry Reser
Carol Rogers & Jon Courtway
Diane Schertz
Chris & Julia Smith
Linda & Scott Taylor
Nina Thomson
Peggy Wheeler
John Wilson & Susie Monary-Wilson
Gloria Woodlock
Claudia Wrazel & Frank Horowitz

 

Learn more about "The Crew": capstage.org/play-a-part/donate/ 

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