BWW Stage Mag High School Musical Jr. - Wayne YMCA's Rosen Performing Arts Center Stage Mag

DIRECTOR'S NOTE

Welcome to East High, Wildcats!
On January 20, 2006 High School Musical premiered on the Disney Channel and ignited a global phenomenon. It was High School Musical Mania with everything from merchandise, dance parties, a concert tour, an ice show, you name it. Its soundtrack topped the billboard and iTunes charts, going triple platinum. The franchise was also responsible for launching the careers of its stars, Zac Efron, Vanessa Hudgens, and more, turning them into household names. The overwhelming success of the first one also inspired two more films, including a theatrical release of the final installment, High School Musical 3: Senior Year; a Sharpay spinoff; and mostly recently, the Disney+ hit series High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, starring record breaking recording artist, Olivia Rodrigo.
High School Musical also inspired a renewed interest in Musical Theater. As a result, and because schools and community theaters wanted to produce their own High School Musical, a stage version was adapted, which is what we are excited to present this weekend.
18 years later, and here we are today. High School Musical has reached a new generation of Wildcats, as evident by this cast of 52 young performers, all of whom weren’t even born when it originally premiered.
As someone who grew up with the movie, and absolutely loved it, I am so glad to see High School Musical live on. This story with its earworm of a soundtrack, and its themes of friendship, acceptance, team work, individuality, and of course, music, still has something to say in 2024. It is still a beacon of joy, optimism, and positivity, in a world that can often seem cynical, which just show it's timelessness. 
After years of performing on the Rosen P.A.C stage, I couldn’t be prouder to make my directorial debut with a show that has been a part of my life,  part of my generation, and to now get to share it, and pass it along to this new one. Each and every one of these performers have worked incredibly hard to make this show, the best it can be, and deserve all the praise and applause they are about to receive.
So sit back, relax, bop to the top, sing along and enjoy High School Musical, Jr!!!

-Matthew Luminello
Director  

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Creative Team

Matthew Luminello

Director

Alyssa Goldman

Choregrapher

Edward M. Easse

Music Director

Meryl Budnick

Producer/Costumer/Prop & Set Design

Danny Viola

Sound Design

Erin Gilgur

Lighting Design

Courtney Labossiere

Stage Manager

Cheryl Wilbur

Stage Manager / Running Stage Manager

Dot Cook

Assistant Stage Manager

Jennifer Wilson

Dramaturg

Jonathan Noll

Stage Crew

EJ Calabrese

Tech Crew

Dominika Kowalska

Lighting Operator

Ellie Shah

Scenic Artist/Backstage Volunteer

Meet the Company

Isla Adamo

Thespian
Isla Adamo - Thespian Isla is excited about her first appearance at the Rosen Performing Arts Center! Isla caught the acting bug while playing “Eric” in Matilda Jr. When she’s not making up skits and making movies at home, Isla enjoys art, reading, & playing softball and soccer. Isla would like to thank her family for supporting her!

Victoria Arthur

Sharpay Evans
Victoria Arthur - Sharpay Evans Victoria is very excited to be a part of High School Musical Jr. She recently performed in George Washington Middle School's Drama Club production of Willy Wonka Jr. as Veruca Salt. For fun, Victoria enjoys shopping, trips to Starbucks and hanging out with her friends. She wants to thank her parents, grandparents, Mrs. Medley and her yellow lab Goose for always supporting her passions.

Claire Badami

Kelsi Nielsen
Claire Badami - Kelsi Nielsen Claire is happy to be cast as Kelsi Nielsen in “High School Musical, Jr.” at the Rosen Performing Arts Center. Favorite past roles include “The Sound of Music” (Gretel Von Trapp), “Bye Bye Birdie" (Randolph), “Into The Woods Jr.” (Narrator) with Broadway Arts Lab Company, “Honk” (Ugly), and “Into The Woods Jr.” (Baker’s Wife). In addition to singing and acting, Claire enjoys reading and spending time with her friends. Claire would like to thank her family for their love and support.

Emma Brobeck

Cheer Squad
Emma Brobeck - Cheer Squad Emma is excited to be performing at the Wayne YMCA's Rosen Theater again! Emma has been in several productions including: Spongebob: The Musical, Matilda Jr, and Sussical the Musical. Emma also studies music with Shamrock School of Music. In addition to theater and music Emma loves building with LEGOS, playing soccer, and hanging out with her friends and family. Emma wants to thank everyone for supporting her. Emma also wants to thank the Wayne YMCA for this opportunity to be a part of another performance.

Jordyn Buckley

Cheer Squad
Jordyn Buckley - Cheer Squad Jordyn is excited about her first appearance at the Wayne YMCA's Rosen Performing Arts Center. Jordyn has been cheerleading for 3 years and is always tumbling any chance she gets! She loves singing on stage at sleepaway camp and her talent shows at school. When she's not singing and dancing, Jordyn loves hanging with her brother, making movies on her phone, and eating sushi. Jordyn would like to thank her mom, dad, brother Jared, and dog Oliver for supporting her and watching her home performances on a nightly basis.

Lizzie Callahan

Cheer Squad
Lizzie Callahan - Cheer Squad Lizzie is excited to make her musical debut in High School Musical Jr. Her first experiences on the stage came during the YMCA’s White Pines Summer Camp Shows. When she isn’t dancing away, Lizzie loves reading, arts and crafts, and basketball. Lizzie would like to thank her family for all their support. Go Wildcats!

Dorothea Cook

Jock
Dorothea Cook - Jock Dorothea is excited to be returning to the stage at the Rosen PAC! She was previously in Shrek, Beauty & the Beast, Elf, and Addams Family. She’s also enjoyed helping stage manage for this performance. When Dottie’s not on stage, she’s in a boat, rowing for her high school, defending her State Championship! She would like to thank Meryl & Cheryl for the opportunity to learn the ropes backstage, and her parents for driving here every weekend.

Roscoe Cook

Cheer Squad
Roscoe Cook - Cheer Squad Roscoe is thrilled to be in his first performance at the Wayne YMCA's Rosen PAC! Roscoe has previously performed as a “jock” in High School Musical for Essex Youth Theater. In addition to his love for singing and dancing, Roscoe also enjoys Tae Kwon Do, art, and film making.. Roscoe wants to thank his sister Dot, and his cousins Zoey, Sam and David for doing this show with him!

Charlotte Cullen

Cheer Squad
Charlotte Cullen - Cheer Squad Charlotte is excited about his first appearance at the Wayne YMCA's Rosen Performing Arts Center in High School Musical! Charlotte is no stranger to the spotlight , she stared in Jack in the Bean Stalk as Jack's Mother and was a competitive cheerleader for three years. In her free time, Charlotte is learning to play the guitar and loves illustrating her own stories. Charlotte is bound to be star and thanks her parents for their constant support and confidence.

Larisa Epstein

Brainiac
Larisa Epstein - Brainiac Larisa is excited to return to the stage this season! Her previous performances include The Little Mermaid, The Addams Family, Shrek, SpongeBob and Matilda. She enjoys performing, playing lacrosse, summers at camp and cheerleading! She is in 5th grade, and is looking forward to continuing her theatre journey throughout middle school.

Natalia Estrada

Cheer squad
Natalia Estrada - Cheer squad Natalia has expressed wanting to be part of a play for some time now and she is full of excitement to be making her theatrical debut in one of her favorite shows! When Natalia is offstage, she enjoys riding her bike, reading, singing and swimming. Natalia would like to thank her parents, sister and family for all of their support!

Johnathan Foord

Coach Bolton
Johnathan Foord - Coach Bolton Introducing the whimsical and talented Johnathan Foord! Get ready to be captivated as he takes the stage for his first appearance at the Wayne YMCA. Though this may be his debut at the YMCA, Johnathan is no stranger to the world of theater. His journey began at the tender age of 7, and he has been stealing hearts ever since. You might have caught a glimpse of Johnathan's extraordinary talent in various productions at the Art Quest, presented by the Wayne Education Foundation. From High School Musical Jr. to The Little Mermaid, Shrek to Disney's Descendants, Johnathan has left an indelible mark on each character he brings to life. But perhaps his most cherished role to date is the lovable Genie in Aladdin. But Johnathan's artistic prowess doesn't end there. He's a multi-talented musician who tickles the ivories with finesse. If you happen to find yourself at Anthony Wayne Middle School, you might catch him delighting audiences with his piano skills. His preference for jazzy compositions like "Linus and Lucy," "Maple Leaf Rag," and "The Entertainer" showcase his versatility and love for toe-tapping rhythms. Currently, he's working on the iconic "Take Five" to further dazzle his fans. With his infectious enthusiasm and undeniable talent, Johnathan Foord is set to take the Wayne YMCA by storm. So, sit back, relax, and prepare to be whisked away on a whimsical journey with this rising star!

Addyson Fucetola

Thespian
Addyson Fucetola - Thespian Excited to return to Rosen PAC for High School Musical, Addyson Fucetola's passion for theater began in Kindergarten with "The Little Engine That Could." With roles in Willy Wonka, The Adams Family, SpongeBob SquarePants, and Matilda, she's embraced a diverse theatrical journey. In addition to her creative pursuits, Addyson finds joy in crafting stories, as well as, learning to play piano and the game of chess. Her family, a constant source of support and laughter, holds a special place in her heart. Whether it's sharing moments of joy or creating lasting memories together, Addyson cherishes the time spent with her loved ones. Grateful for the incredible journey with High School Musical, Addyson extends her heartfelt appreciation to the cast and crew for creating an unforgettable experience.

Riley Gaines

Brainiac
Riley Gaines - Brainiac Riley is excited to be returning to the Rosen PAC, having previously been seen in “Into the Woods.” Riley has been in several other productions at the Rosen PAC, Adams Family, Shrek Jr. and Matilda She is currently in her middle school production of The Sound of Music. In addition to acting and singing Riley is an avid reader, she enjoys relaxing with a good mystery. When not practicing her lines, songs or dances she can be found practicing her flute. Riley would like to thank her family and friends for all of their love and support.

Giuliana Gasperino

Brainiac
Giuliana Gasperino - Brainiac Giuliana is excited to return to the Wayne YMCA's Rosen Performing Arts Center. Giuliana was previously a townsperson in Into The Woods Jr. at the Y. She has been in several productions at school including: Aladdin Jr., Willy Wonka Kids and Dear Edwina. In addition to acting and singing, Giuliana loves riding horses, swimming and reading Harry Potter books. Giuliana would like to thank her family for their support and the Wayne YMCA's Rosen PAC for this opportunity.

Zoey Gilgur

Cheer Squad
Zoey Gilgur - Cheer Squad Zoey is so excited about her second appearance at the Wayne YMCA's Rosen Performing Arts Center and to perform alongside her cousins today! In addition to acting and singing, Zoey loves being a Girl Scout, swimming, gymnastics, and art. Zoey would like to thank her family for their love and support and thanks to the Wayne YMCA's Rosen PAC for this opportunity.

Zachary Goteh

Troy Bolton
Zachary Goteh - Troy Bolton Zach loves preforming at the Rosen PAC theater. Has been in many shows and always has a great time. Zach also enjoys playing football and video games with his friends. He will be performing in his middle school play next month as SpongeBob SquarePants in SpongeBob the musical.

Emma Greenwood

Thespian
Emma Greenwood - Thespian Emma is thrilled to be back with the Wayne YMCA’s Rosen PAC in the production of High School Musical Jr. Emma has been in several productions since her first appearance in The Little Mermaid Jr. at age 4. She’d like to give a special thanks to Ahma S and Ahma V for coming to see all of her plays!

Megan Gutierrez

Thespian
Megan Gutierrez - Thespian Megan is thrilled to be returning to the Wayne YMCA's Rosen Performing Arts. Megan has been in several productions at RosenPAC including: Moana (Ancestor), Elf (Shawanda), Dear Edwina (Annie) and Little Mermaid (Sea Creature). Megan has been studying gymnastics at Riverview Gymnastics since she was 8 years old. In addition to acting, Megan likes to draw, sing and dance. Megan would like to thank her parents and brother for their love and encouragement. Megan is very appreciative of cast members and teachers for their support and training.

Noah Hancock

Cheer Squad
Noah Hancock - Cheer Squad Noah is happy to be returning to the RosenPAC, having previously been seen in Into the Woods. Noah has also recently performed in Annie, Jr. at Theunis Dey Elementary School. Noah has been a member of the Wayne Y’s Theater Club for two years and has enjoyed singing, dancing and acting with his fellow classmates. Noah has also been studying dance since the age of 3, and has continued his studies for the past 3 years at Le Danse dance studio in Wayne, NJ. When he is not honing his skills in the performing arts arena, Noah loves to spend time on the court playing basketball, video gaming with family and friends, learning defensive skills at karate, and participating in his local pack of Cub Scouts. Noah would like to thank his family and friends for all their love and support and hopes they enjoy the show as much as he has enjoyed being a part of it!

Noah Michael Horvath

Chad
Noah Michael Horvath - Chad Noah is thrilled to be returning to the Rosen PAC stage for his third show, having previously been seen as "Mal" in "The Addams Family, Jr." and "Rudolpho" in "Matilda, Jr." Noah also recently played "Olaf" in "Frozen, Jr." at St. Cassian School in Montclair. When not performing on stage, Noah can be found playing some smooth jazz on his alto saxophone, tickling the ivories, or building Lego. Noah would like to thank his parents, brother, and grandparents for their support as well as the Wayne YMCA's Rosen PAC for this opportunity. Let's go Wildcats!

Anabella Kievit

Taylor McKessie
Anabella Kievit - Taylor McKessie This is Anabella's 10th show at the Rosen Pac! She's loved being a part of this awesome cast. This spring she'll be performing with The Children's Travel Theatre with Papermill. They will be bring theatre to local special education schools. When not performing, Anabella enjoys playing guitar and singing with her vocal group.

Nick Kievit

Jock
Nick Kievit - Jock Nick is thrilled to be in his first ever production! He is playing the role of a basketball player and was also excited to win his first tournament this year for Wayne Boys and Girls club. He is happy to be in the show with his sister Anabella and niece Emma. Nick also enjoys performing on the Drums! Nick hopes you enjoy this fun show!

Siena Knick

Jackie Scott
Siena Knick - Jackie Scott Siena is excited about her first production with the WAYNE YMCA. Siena has been in other productions, such as: High School Musical Jr. (Cheerleader/Jock) and Willy Wonka Jr. (Mrs.Salt) both at GWMS Drama Club , Suessical Jr. (Bird Girl) and Mean Girls Jr (Taylor). She is currently working on Frozen Jr. (Olaf) at her middle school. She also enjoys cheerleading. Siena is grateful for the support of her family, friends, and her chorus teacher.

Ariya Koburov

Thespian
Ariya Koburov - Thespian Ariya is so excited about her first appearance at the Wayne YMCA’s Rosen Performing Arts Center. She started her professional acting career at Theunis Dey Elementary School in the production of Annie, where she perfected the roll of Pepper. In addition to acting at school or at the YMCA, Ariya sings, dances and constantly entertains her family and friends. Being in the spotlight and on stage is where Ariya thrives and what she enjoys most. Ariya would like to take this opportunity to thank the cast and crew at the YMCA for allowing her personality to continue to shine and inspire!

Natalia Kowalski

Thespian
Natalia Kowalski - Thespian Natalia is very excited to return to the stage at the RosenPAC to be in High School Musical Jr. after being in last years production of Matilda Jr. Natalia has been in several productions at school including: Annie Jr and Aladdin Jr. In addition to acting and singing, Natalia also enjoys playing soccer, painting and baking. Natalia would like to thank her parents and friends for their support, and appreciates the Wayne YMCA's Rosen PAC for giving her the opportunity to be in this show and to develop her acting skills. Enjoy the show!!!

Peyton Lehansky

Brainiac
Peyton Lehansky - Brainiac “High School Musical Jr.” marks Peyton’s fourth appearance in a RosenPAC Production. She enjoys singing and dancing in each show and promises another fantastic performance! In school, Peyton participates in Chorus and Windows Art. She also studies ballet, tap, acrobatics, jazz, and lyrical dance. She is a Girl Scout, as well as a cheerleader for the Wayne Panthers. Peyton would like to thank her family for their encouragement and support. GO WILDCATS!

Sophia Leiman

Cheer Squad
Sophia Leiman - Cheer Squad Sophia is excited about her first appearance at the Wayne YMCA's Rosen Performing Arts Center. In addition to acting and singing, Sophia enjoys reading and drawing. Sophia would like to thank her parents for always supporting her passions.

Rylee Luterzo

Jock
Rylee Luterzo - Jock Rylee is happy about her first appearance at the Wayne YMCA's Rosen Performing Arts Center. Rylee has performed in 10 shows. A few of her favorite roles are We Will Rock You Jr. (Oz) and Finding Nemo Jr. (Breeze). In addition to theater, Rylee likes to play piano and spend time with friends. Rylee would love to thank all of the friends she's made for making amazing memories with her.

Luca Maritato

Zeke
Luca Maritato - Zeke Luca has been performing on stage since age 5. Some of his favorite roles he has been fortunate enough to perform include: Lord Farquaad-(Shrek), Maui-(Moana), Michael-(Elf), Flick-(A Christmas Story), Horton-(Seussical) & Pumbaa-(Lion King). Luca also enjoys playing football & basketball. Luca would like to thank the cast and production team for another great experience. He would also like to thank his mom, dad and extended family for all their support.

Brianna Melendez

Cheer Squad
Brianna Melendez - Cheer Squad Brianna is happy to be returning to the Rosen PAC for HSM Jr., having previously been seen in “Seussical”. In addition to acting, Brianna enjoys roller skating and gymnastics. Brianna would like to thank her family for their support. She would also like to thank the Wayne YMCA's Rosen PAC for this opportunity.

Isabella Monteiro

Gabriella Montez
Isabella Monteiro - Gabriella Montez Bella is extremely excited to be playing Gabriella in her last Jr show. She has previously been seen on the Rosen Pac stage as Cinderella in Into the Woods Jr, Mrs. Phelps in Matilda Jr, and Sina in Moana Jr. She has also done theater at Anthony Wayne Middle School, Marion Paroo in Music Man Jr. and is currently a member of the Drama Club at Wayne Valley. Bella would like to thank the Rosen Pac theater department, including all of the directors, music directors and choreographers for helping her discover her love of theater and helping her get out of her shell. The Wayne YMCA will always be her home.

Tomas Monteiro

Steven
Tomas Monteiro - Steven Tomas is no stranger to the stage! He has previously been seen as Tommy in Matilda Jr, Peter Pan in Shrek Jr, and Hei Hei in Moana Jr amongst other various roles on the Rosen Pac stage. He has also been seen as Charlie in Willy Wonka Jr, Tad in Finding Nemo Jr, and most recently Damian in Mean Girls Jr. Tomas attends Anthony Wayne Middle School where he is a member of the drama club. He also enjoys playing flag football and basketball. Tomas would like to thank his parents for driving him back and forth to rehearsals and practice.

Molly Joye Mundrick

Ms. Darbus
Molly Joye Mundrick - Ms. Darbus Molly is excited to be on the stage at the Rosen PAC again, this time in her first principal role as Ms. Darbus! Some of Molly's previous performances at the Rosen PAC include The Descendants, Zombies, Alice In Wonderland, Jr., The Little Mermaid, Jr., Moana Jr., The Prom, Willy Wonka and Seussical. The stage is one of Molly's favorite places to be, and she sends her thanks to everyone that has encouraged and believed in her. She is excited to bring her own style to the role of Ms. Darbus! Molly wants to thank her Mom and Dad, Grant, Hannah, Hadden, Peanut, Goose and Ivy for all their love and support.

Mackenzie Pomroy

Cheerleader
Mackenzie Pomroy - Cheerleader Mackenzie is happy to be returning to the RosenPAC, having previously been seen in Addams Family. Mackenzie also participated in Matilda Jr. at the Pequannock Summer theater camp. In addition to acting and singing, Mackenzies is a cheerleader off stage, she loves to read, play softball and spend time with friends. Mackenzie would like to thank her family for all their support and is excited to take the stage with her friends for High School Musical Jr.

Brielle Przybylinski

Martha Cox
Brielle Przybylinski - Martha Cox This is Brielle’s second show with Rosen PAC, previously seen as Shelby in The Prom! Recently she was seen as Taylor Wydell in Mean Girls. She’s very excited for more to come and is endlessly grateful for the amazing directors and producers. Thank You Eddie, the Y will miss you.

Scarlett Reyes

Brainiac
Scarlett Reyes - Brainiac Scarlett is so excited to be returning to RosenPAC after performing in her first play, Into the Woods, last year! Her love of theatre was sparked after seeing Wicked and since she has followed her heart to the stage! She is honing her skills in productions like “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” and “Frozen”. When not on stage, you can usually find her with her nose in a book or practicing with her favorite vocal coach! She is very thankful for the support from her aunts and Nana l, who never miss a performance!

Ella Rinaldi

Cheerleader
Ella Rinaldi - Cheerleader Meet Ella Rinaldi, this is her second performance at the YMCA in Wayne. She is emergeing from her shell portraying the role of a cheerleader. Ella has a new found passion for the arts and is embracing the magic of the stage at the Rosen Performing Arts Center. She extends a heartfelt thank you to the entire cast and crew for their hard work and collaboration in bringing this show to life.

Sarah Santiago

Cheer Squad
Sarah Santiago - Cheer Squad Sarah is excited to be performing in her first play at the Wayne YMCA's Rosen Performing Arts Center! When she isn't at play rehearsal, she enjoys training in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and Muay Thai. She is also an avid video game player and loves studying and collecting rocks and minerals. Sarah would like to thank her family for their support, especially her big sister Natalie who has inspired her to take part in theater.

Matt Savastano

Ryan Evans
Matt Savastano - Ryan Evans Matt Savastano is excited to share his first YMCA production with the audience. He has seen many of the past YMCA productions and has been in 9 total theater productions including Radium Girls (Arthur Roeder), Matilda Jr. (Mr Wormwood), Romeo and Juliet (Mercutio) and many others. Outside of Musical Theater, you could find Matt on the Basketball court or playing video games with his friends. Matt would love to give a shout-out to his family and grandparents for supporting him in his journey in Theater, and everyone on the directing team of High School Musical for putting together a wonderful show!

Hudson Schamach

Cheer Squad
Hudson Schamach - Cheer Squad Hudson Schamach is over the moon excited for his first appearance at the Wayne YMCA's Rosen Performing Arts Center! Hudson has enjoyed singing and dancing since he was a toddler. Hudson loves playing basketball and baseball, spending his summer days at the beach, and reenacting movies with his little sister and brother during his free time! Hudson has loved getting to know his cast members throughout this experience. Hudson is so appreciative of his family’s support! He has loved his carpooling adventures with friends! Hudson wishes to thank the Wayne YMCA's Rosen PAC for his first theater opportunity.

Samantha Scillieri

Cyndra
Samantha Scillieri - Cyndra Samantha is excited to be returning to the Rosen PAC for her tenth show. Sammy has enjoyed earlier roles such as Young Fiona (Shrek Jr) and Florinda (Into the Woods Jr.) When she isn't acting or singing, Sammy can be found curled up with her Kindle, reading the latest book. Samantha would like to thank her theater friends for all of the backstage fun, as well as all of the people who have made this show possible.

Andrew Silva

Jock
Andrew Silva - Jock Andrew is excited to return to the Rosen PAC Stage. He was last seen in Seussical the Musical!! Andrew has been in a few productions both at the Rosen PAC and his Elementary school. Some of his favorites were “Wonka Kids” (Willy Wonka), “Aladdin Kids” (Aladdin), “Matilda Jr” (Michael), and “Shrek Jr” (Big Bad Wolf). Andrew also participates in the YMCA’s Theatre Club, takes music lessons, and enjoys “gaming” on his iPad. He wants to thank his whole family for always supporting his dreams, grandpa for taking him to rehearsal/theatre club, and the Rosen PAC for this opportunity!

Stefany Slavin

Jock
Stefany Slavin - Jock Stefany is an 8th grader at Anthony Wayne Middle school she has been doing theater for 5 years and has been seen in shows like Newsies as as Medda Larkin, Mary Poppins as ensemble, and Music Man Junior as Maud Dunlop. She really enjoys singing, acting, and dancing and takes Latin dance classes. When she gets into High School she hopes to be accepted into any type of advanced choral program like Chamber Choir. She’s really looking forward to performing and acting in the future. Finally she would like to thank her parents, friends, and directors for these wonderful opportunities

Emma Stanley

Brainiac/Understudy Miss Tenney & Moderator
Emma Stanley - Brainiac/Understudy Miss Tenney & Moderator Emma is excited to be returning to the RosenPAC, having previously been seen in Seussical the Musical (Who), Matilda Jr (Big Kid), SpongeBob Musical (Coral), Shrek Jr. (Pied Piper) and Willy Wonka (Oompa Loompa). She also participates in theater at her middle school. In addition to acting, Emma enjoys playing softball and hiking. Emma would like to thank her family for their support and for coming to see all of her shows!

Samuel Wichert

Cheer Squad
Samuel Wichert - Cheer Squad Samuel is thrilled to be returning to the Wayne YMCA's Rosen Performing Arts Center, having previously been seen in Dancing Through The Decades! at White Pines Day Camp. Samuel also has performed as a reporter, pirate and prep student in a production of Disney’s Descendents 2. Samuel’s other interests include practicing gymnastics at USA Twisterz and around his house. Samuel would like to thank his family and friends for all their love and support.

Ariella Zuna

Cheer Squad
Ariella Zuna - Cheer Squad Ariella is excited about her first appearance at the Wayne YMCA’s Rosen Performing Arts Center. Ariella has been a dancer for the past three years at Gloria Frances Dance Studio, learning ballet, jazz, and hip-hop. In addition to dancing and acting, Ariella has spent two years as a competitive cheerleader at Cheernasium. Ariella would like to thank the entire HSM production team and her family for all the love and support.

Matthew Luminello

Director
Matthew Luminello - Director Matthew Luminello is thrilled to make his Rosen P.A.C Directorial debut! Matthew has appeared as an actor in multiple productions on the Rosen Stage over the years including Spongebob (Squidward), Elf (Buddy), The Music Man (Marcellus), Shrek (Lord Farquaad) and The Wizard of Oz (Scarecrow). His previous directorial credits include Almost, Maine and Some Enchanted Evening. As an arts administrator, Matthew is employed full time at South Orange Performing Arts Center, where he not only serves as their Audience Serves Manager but also the curator and founder of their hit series, Cabaret in the Loft. Matthew wishes to thank Meryl for this wonderful opportunity; the entire Creative Team, for all their hard work and support; and this incredibly talented cast, for their dedication and enthusiasm. "We're all in this together, and it shows, when we stand, hand in hand, make our dreams come true!"

Alyssa Goldman

Choregrapher
In her debut as the choreographer at RosenPAC Theatre, Alyssa is honored to work with such talented young performers. Currently, she dedicates her passion to teaching the theatre club at the YMCA. Having studied musical theatre at AMDA, Alyssa channels her education along with her stage experience into choreographing musicals, allowing her creativity to shine through each performance. Credits include performing in "Rocky the Musical" at Star Royale; Director: Brendan Stackhouse, "Hairspray" at Symphony Space; Director: Mitchell Feinberg, “In the Heights" at Montclair Operetta Club; Director: Bob Cline. Working alongside the talented Meryl, Eddie, Matt, Courtney, and Cheryl has been an incredible experience. Eagerly anticipating future productions, Alyssa looks forward to continuing her creative journey with this exceptional team.

Edward M. Easse

Music Director
Edward M. Easse - Music Director Edward has been a proud member of the Rosen PAC family since 2017! Past acting credits include Willy Wonka in "Roald Dahl's Willy Wonka" and Lumiere in "Disney's Beauty and the Beast." Last summer Edward made his directorial debut at the Rosen PAC with "The Prom." Edward resides in Bloomingdale, NJ with his two cats, Lorelei and Morty. He would like to thank the production team for their hard work and constant support. Edward also wants to wish the cast the best of luck! Break many legs!

Meryl Budnick

Producer/Costumer/Prop & Set Design
Meryl Budnick - Producer/Costumer/Prop & Set Design Meryl has always loved the theater! She credits her current involvement in theater at the Wayne YMCA to her 2 daughters Marisa and Hayley who began their love of theater and performing on the Y’s stage at the ages of 6 and 5 respectively. Since then, Meryl has produced countless shows at the Y. Meryl holds a BBA in Information Technology from The George Washington University and an MBA in Information Technology from Iona College. After working in the IT field for many years, she found her second career at the Wayne Y and has worked here for over 20 years. Meryl is also on the Board of Directors of Vanguard Theater Company based in Montclair NJ. Thank you to my husband Michael...my hours are long and you do so much to keep our family running smoothly. I love you! Thank you to my creative team, to my dedicated volunteers, and to the cast!!

Danny Viola

Sound Design

Erin Gilgur

Lighting Design

Courtney Labossiere

Stage Manager

Cheryl Wilbur

Stage Manager / Running Stage Manager

Dot Cook

Assistant Stage Manager

Jennifer Wilson

Dramaturg

Jonathan Noll

Stage Crew

EJ Calabrese

Tech Crew
EJ Calabrese - Tech Crew EJ is thrilled to be back working with the Rosen PAC community. EJ is no stranger to the company, performing in about a dozen Rosen PAC shows. However, this is his first time on a this side of the performance. He is so thankful for the opportunity!

Dominika Kowalska

Lighting Operator

Ellie Shah

Scenic Artist/Backstage Volunteer
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