BWW Stage Mag NEWSIES - Corvallis School District Theaters Stage Mag
The CSDTheaters'
Production of
 
Disney's
 
NEWSIES
 
Music by
ALAN MENKEN
Lyrics by
JACK FELDMAN
Book by
HARVEY FIERSTEIN
Based on the Disney Film written by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White
 
Originally produced on Broadway by
Disney Theatrical Productions
Orchestrations by Danny Troob
Incidental Music & Vocal Arrangements by Michael Kosarin
Dance Arrangements by Mark Hummel
 
 
 
Directed by Laura Braning, MFA
Musical Direction by Jim Martinez

 
 
 
 
 
ANY VIDEO RECORDING MADE OF THIS PERFORMANCE IS AUTHORIZED FOR PERSONAL, AT-HOME, NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY. THE SALE OR DISTRIBUTION OF SUCH RECORDING IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED UNDER FEDERAL COPYRIGHT LAW.

Newsies Is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
www.mtishows.com

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Song List

Act One

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


Act Two

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

Jonah Smith
Jack Kelly
Elena Wright
Katherine Plumber / Tap Dance Captain
Ziva Grossman-Naples
Medda Larkin
Aven Thornhill
Les Jacobs
Henry Foltz
Spot Conlon / Guard (brawler) / Vocal Ensemble / Refuge Kid / Seitz US
Haven Christison
Crutchie
Kaiden Blickenstaff
Davey Jacobs/ Tapper
Marcus B Musch
Wiesel
Sebastian Contreras
Oscar Delancey / Darcy
Walker Puda
Morris Delancy / Bill
Ryan Emery
Joseph Pulitzer
Eric Blickenstaff
Snyder / Theater Patron / Pulitzer US
Patrick Moser
Governor Teddy Roosevelt
Adam Franks
Henry / Tapper
Anthony Benson
Race / Tapper/ Jack US
Asher Barlow
Sniper / Dance Co-Captain & Tapper
August Starcevich
Mush/ Tapper/ Race US
Elliette Barlow
JoJo / Katherin US / Dance Co-Captain / Tapper
Grace Kauffman
Finch / Tapper/ Medda Larken US / Projection Design
Ingrid Celis
Buttons / Tapper
Jonny Junkins
Romeo/ Tapper
Quinny Risely
Splasher / Tapper / Newsie Swing
Rose Davis
Specs/ Tapper
Torin Kelchner
Tommy Boy/ Newsie Swing
Bastian Sorenson
Elmer
Theo Ueng
Albert / Crutchie US
Cordelia Pryor
Moxy (Newsie & Dancer) / Tapper/ Bowery Beauty US
Ella LaJoie
Bessie (Newsie & Dancer) / Tapper
Laurel Muhly
Sissy (Newsie & Dancer) / Dance Co-Captain
Nicole Emry
Tabby (Newsie & Dancer) / Tapper
Yurika Akiyama
Kiki (Newsie & Dancer)
Annie Neves
Nun / Mrs. Jacobi / Madam Mayor
Evelynn Daniels
Hannah/ Photographer
Jennifer Thornhill
Nun / Seitz / Theater Patron / Woman on street
Lucy Petty-John
Nun / Bowery Beauty / Scab / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Seitz US
Marie Wells
Nun / Bowery Beauty / Scab / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Bunsen US
Robyn Barlow
Nun / Bunsen / Woman on street / Theater Patron / Jocobi US / Stage Manager US
Mars Foster
Newsie / Stage Manager / Swing: Multiple Roles
Agoesh Stornolio
Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid
Amy Barton
Vocal Ensemble Newsie/Chalkboard Gal / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid
Barry Clark
Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Mayor US
Corey Henriques
Policeman / Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid
Freya Harte
Vocal Ensemble Newsie/ Borough Newsie/ Refuge Kid
Isabelle Gardner-Gaynor
Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid
Lydia Fairchild
Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid
Madisen Woothtakewahbitty
Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Spot Conlon US
Zain Shaarawi
Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Scab 3 / Darby US / Bill US
Amelia Warnock
Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid/ Run Crew
Aliyah Stratton
Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew
Ariel Beatty
Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew
Carter Whitney
Nunzio / Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew
Jibril Geter
Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew
Holly Rogers
Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew
Kevin Ramirez
Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew
Luca Riley
Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew
Melanie Lee
Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew
Tate haywood
Goon / Borough Newsie / Oscar & Morris understudy
Andrew Sims
Child Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Cross Over / Les US #1
Cora Calvert
Child Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid
Liam Larson
Child Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid
Marisol Eschwey
Child Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Cross Over / Les US #2
Talia Mancini
Child Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid
Lilly Willard
Tumbler / Acro
Wrenna Thornhill
Tumbler
Alivia King
Tumbler
Natalie King
Tumbler
Addie Musson
Tumbler

Orchestra

Conductor: Jim Martinez

Student Conductor: Aria Kimdon

Keyboards: Joy Ueng, Zoe Ames, Evan Smouse

Flute and Piccolo: Melanie Sorenson

Clarinet, Soprano Sax, Alto Sax: Alex Antrim, Emily Looney, Cheryl Martinez

Violin: Shane Ong, Lillie Epps, Annika Merkel

Cello: Aria Kimdon, Joey Kimdon

Guitars / Banjo: Kim Drapek, Gale Farley

Trombone: Kai Ruebel-Schrier

Trumpet: Trevor Wilson

Bass: Kevin Kemper

Drums: Andy Weiss

Percussion: Mint Carroll

 

Creative Team

Laura Braning, MFA

Director

Elizabeth Wyatt

Producer

Jim Martinez

Music Director / Conductor

Cheryl Martinez

Vocal Director

Penelope Seldera-Bahnson

Stage Manager

Mike Brantley

Set Builder / Construction Designer

Josh Hiser

Lighting Designer / Projection Lead

Mae Hitchcock

Scenic artist

Kelly Volkmann

Choreographer

Joe Craft

Fight Choreographer

Rachel Wahl

Costume Designer / Projection Design Team

Richard McCord

Sound Design

Kristi Ervin

Box Office Assistant and House Manager

Mishele Mennett

Tap choreographer

Maggie Delos-Reyes

Assistant Stage Manager/Props Lead

Baker Celis

Sound Board Operator - Vocals

Nick Grieve

Sound Board Operator - Orchestra

Sloan Wisor

Props / Tech / Rigger

Guthrie Gallagher

Techie / Lights / Rigger

Kestrel Carpenter

Light Board Operator

Jasmine Lee

Technician - Costuming & Props

Grace Kaufman

Projection Team

Orchestra

Lillie Epps

Violin

Melanie Sorenson

Flute/piccolo

Trevor Wilson

Trumpet

Emily Looney

Alto and Soprano Saxophone / Clarinet

Shane Ong

Violin

Ella Miller

Tumbler

Alex Antrim

Reed (Alto and Soprano saxophone)

Josie Hill

Tumbler

Josie Hill

Tumbler

Director's Note

Director’s Note

We’re thrilled to present “Newsies,” a production embodying the themes of resilience, unity, and justice. It’s a performance and a reflection of contemporary struggles and victories. Our characters’ fight for their rights parallels real-world battles like recent national strikes with auto workers, actors, and writers.

Newsies is based on events in July of 1899 in New York City when newspaper sales stopped because of the Newsie strike. This strike was so profound because it was led by and for children. As a result of the strike, Newsies could incur no loss to themselves when they found they had unsold newspapers. Joseph Pulitzer agreed to buy back those unsold papers. This helped the Newsies gain a more solid economic footing. This “Children’s Crusade” was one of many strikes that led to the child labor laws we know today. Newsies is a story about heroes, young people who could have been as young as six, who organized to make their voices heard and paved the way to protect our most precious and valuable citizens, our children.

 

This production is a testament to our dedicated cast, crew, musicians, and volunteers who worked hard to share this story. I couldn’t do what I do without our fantastic team, and none of us could do what we do without you, our fantastic community. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey and supporting the arts. Together, we can achieve anything.

-Miz B

 

Dramaturgy Note:

Dramaturgy Note

The Spanish-American war is often referred to as the first media war as it was the first in which the press played a significant role in shaping public opinion. Through sensationalized reporting and provocative (if misleading) headlines, newspapers such as the New York World and the New York Journal provided the public with detailed information from the frontlines. These attention-grabbing headlines and overdramatic retellings played a massive role in pushing public support for the United States to enter war with Spain. The owners of the World and the Journal, Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst, inspired by increased sales due to wartime coverage, found a way to increase their profits further by undercutting those at the very bottom of the tall tower they occupied.

 

In the late 1800s, New York streets were filled with the cries of newsies. Newsboys and girls could buy 100 papers for 50 cents, selling each paper for .10 making a $4 return on their 50-cent investment. Hearst and Pulitzer decided the way to make more money was to raise the distribution price to 60 cents for 100 papers.

 

Newsies were young, poor, often orphaned children. They lived in dilapidated tenements, often bringing home their earnings to help feed their brother and sisters. They could be found in poorly funded lodging houses; many lived on the streets. Selling newspapers allowed them to earn real money, often much more than they would earn in a factory or other work considered suitable at the time for children. They relied on headlines to sell papers, and newspaper sales began to wane when the wartime headlines began to wane. The price increase remained, however, and the newsies began to struggle.

 

Inspired by the increase in labor unions across the country, the newsies joined together to start a union of their own, held rallies, and organized across all five boroughs, including New Jersey, and beyond. They were supported by members of the Vaudeville community, the adults who ran the standing newsstands, and even press members. Their strike lasted two weeks and ended with equitable change for the newsboys and inspired lasting improvements in the form of increased worker unions, labor laws, and child labor restrictions.

 

Their story is incredible, not just because they were children but because the divide in wealth and power between the two opposing sides was so deep. The “Once And For All” lyrics perfectly illustrate this: “This is for the kids shining shoes in the street with no shoes on their feet every day.” The newsboys strike of 1899 was a true David & Goliath tale: no one believed a group of dirty, ragtag, street kids could take on Pulitzer and Hearst and win-but they did. They showed the world (and the World) that when humans band together–we are unstoppable.

Tech Director's Note

Wow! What a great show to return to CSDTheaters with! In my absence during Cinderella, there has been so much growth in all of our staff as they stepped up and took over all the little pieces of my position while I was out last year. I am happy to say I am healthy and recovered and so glad to be back here with these amazing students, this staff, and this incredible community that supports them!

From a Technical Director standpoint, the show has some exquisite sights to see! From the projections that Josh Hiser and Laura Braning put together to Josh's amazing lighting design, to our fantastic costumer Rachel Wahl, to the scenic artistry provided by Mae Hitchcock, and finally to our tech club students who participated in every part of the creative process - we are so lucky to live here!

With a cast and crew of nearly 100, our orchestra and production team have their hands full mentoring this new generation of youth!

We are trying out Reserved Seating for the first time and are definitely experiencing some quirkiness with the process on occasion. Thank you in advance for your patience. Please call the box office if you have any trouble at all. 541-750-7990 

NEWSIES is a favorite show of ours and we hope you will spread the word to bring others along on this musical journey!

Best - Mz Wyatt

 

Meet the Company

Jonah Smith

Jack Kelly
Jonah Smith - Jack Kelly Jonah Smith plays the role of Jack Kelly. He is a Senior at Crescent Valley High School and has been a part of CSDTheaters since "Post-COVID Mamma Mia (the revival)". Jonah loves going to rehearsals to be with their friends and has fun singing and dancing along to some awesome show tunes. He says, "we find the goofiest ways to entertain ourselves during breaks in rehearsals or shows, making each other laugh." Jonah is so grateful for the direction of Miz B and the choreography of Kelly Volkmann, helping to propel the show forward and craft a fantastic show. Jonah wants to continue to do theater and maybe even make it onto Broadway one day. Jonah is absolutely delighted to be part of the CSDTheaters production of Newsies. This is his Third year doing theater and his third show at CHS. Past roles include Finch in the MVMT production of Newsies, Knight and Prince understudy in Cinderella at CSD theaters, an entertainer at the Enchanted Forest theme park in Salem, as well as having competed in a few musical events and competitions over the years.

Elena Wright

Katherine Plumber / Tap Dance Captain
Elena Wright - Katherine Plumber / Tap Dance Captain Elena is excited to be part of CSD theater´s Newsies! This is her 10th production at CHS, having started in 3rd grade with The Music Man as a towns-person and tap dancer. Being able to tap in another show has been a great full-circle moment! Most recently, she played Charlotte (the evil stepsister) in Cinderella. Next year, she will begin college and study nursing. She feels very grateful to all the actors, technicians, production team, audience members, parents, and others who made this show possible. Thank you for everything you put into this show!

Ziva Grossman-Naples

Medda Larkin
Ziva Grossman-Naples - Medda Larkin Ziva is very excited to be playing the part of Medda Larkin in this year's musical. She was a dancer in Cinderella last year and Mamma Mia in 2022. Ziva studies voice with Beverley Park and has been dancing since she was 3, most recently with Donna Ervin at Modern Dance Technique, Kristen Jones at Corvallis Academy of Ballet, as well as Amy McDonald and Heather Vencill. In her free time Ziva likes to rock climb, hang out with her friends and write music. She would like to thank everyone involved in this amazing production, her parents for all the driving they do and her dog, Blue, for listening to her rehearse.

Aven Thornhill

Les Jacobs
Aven Thornhill - Les Jacobs Aven Thornhill (Les) is excited to be part of Newsies at CSDTheaters.  His previous credits include LeFou in Beauty and the Beast Jr. at the Majestic Theater and Storybook Child/Puppeteer in Cinderella at CSD Theaters.  Aven is a 6th grader at Linus Pauling Middle School.  His other activities include playing cello in the Willamette Valley Junior Honors Symphony, baseball and skiing.  He wants to thank his mom, dad and sister for all the support along the way. Thank you for coming to see our show!

Henry Foltz

Spot Conlon / Guard (brawler) / Vocal Ensemble / Refuge Kid / Seitz US
Henry Foltz - Spot Conlon / Guard (brawler) / Vocal Ensemble / Refuge Kid / Seitz US Henry is delighted to be a part of Newsies this year. This is his first show since elementary school, and as a senior, he is happy to be a part of another production before he graduates. When he isn’t busy procrastinating doing his homework, he loves to spend time reading and being outside, especially by taking long walks at night. Henry is planning on going to college (he hasn’t decided where) and studying something (he hasn’t decided what). He would like to thank the cast and crew for making everything possible, and he’d like to thank his parents for giving him the idea and encouragement to audition. He is looking forward to an amazing show!

Haven Christison

Crutchie
Haven Christison - Crutchie Haven got his start in theater at the age of 11 as Percy in the CSD production of Miracle Worker. Since then, he has taken part in the production every year as an ensemble in both productions of Mamma Mia and as a Pinkelton Page and Pinkelton understudy in Cinderella. Now a junior in high school, he is excited to take on the role of Crutchie in the popular musical, Newsies. Outside of theater, his interests include fencing(sword fighting, not the building), coding, and eating potatoes.

Kaiden Blickenstaff

Davey Jacobs/ Tapper
Kaiden Blickenstaff - Davey Jacobs/ Tapper Kaiden is a Senior at Crescent Valley High school. He has been a part of 4 shows at CHS including; both runs of Mama Mia, Cinderella, and Radium Girls. Outside of theatre, Kaiden spends the majority of time singing and playing music. His favorite part about theatre is the energy and love created by the cast, and how positive and encouraging everyone is when someone is stepping up into a new part. Kaiden is extremely thankful for the exceptional direction team and wonderful cast members at CSD theaters. He can’t wait to share Newsies with the community!

Marcus B Musch

Wiesel
Marcus B Musch - Wiesel Marcus is very excited to be in his first big musical performance, he has been in multiple shows before such as King Agnar in Frozen Jr and Dr John Watson in Sherlock Holmes and the Baker Street Irregulars. Marcus has taken voice-over lessons and improv classes and wants to be a voice actor when he graduates this year, so open your ears and listen for his voice. He will be auditioning for the next Corvallis District Theater play at CV Almost, Maine let's cheer him on and hope he gets in!

Sebastian Contreras

Oscar Delancey / Darcy
Sebastian Contreras - Oscar Delancey / Darcy Sebastian is hyped to be a part of Newsies at CSDTheaters. He recently played Arthur Roeder in Radium Girls for the CHS Drama Club, and got to go on for the final weekend of Cinderella as Jean Michael at CSDTheaters. This past summer, Sebastian was lucky enough to attend UNCSA’ s Summer Drama Intensive, where he worked hard for three dense weeks on the craft. Besides theater, Sebastian has served two terms as class president, works during the summer for Go Giddy Pops at the Saturday Market, and has a passion for creating student films as an actor and director. He hopes the show sticks with you!

Walker Puda

Morris Delancy / Bill
Walker Puda - Morris Delancy / Bill A senior this year, Walker Puda decided to dip his toes into the high school theater scene for the first time. He’s immensely enjoyed his role as Morris Delancey—he’s never had so much fun beating up kids (not actually). He had no idea stage combat could be so engaging. He’d like to thank Ms. B and Ms. Wyatt for supporting this theater endeavor of his and being the driving forces behind the Corvallis High School theater program. He also wants to thank his friends who persuaded (pestered) him to audition. After the production is over, he’s thinking of stepping further into the theater world and acting in a one-act or two. Or perhaps this play will just be an amazing one-time experience, and afterward he’ll return to his hobbies of singing, blacksmithing, ultimate frisbee.

Ryan Emery

Joseph Pulitzer
Ryan Emery - Joseph Pulitzer This is Ryan's 9th show in community theaters throughout the Willamette Valley. Some of his most memorable roles were "Beast" in Beauty and the Beast and "Harold Hill" in The Music Man. This is his first time back on stage after ten years away. Ryan owns American Hero Carpet Cleaning, and In his spare time, Ryan and his family race dirt track race cars all over Oregon. He is the proud father of 4 children, including Nicole Emry (Tabby), who is in the show with him. Ryan is thankful to be part of an amazing cast under the guidance of a wonderful director and crew. He would like to thank his beautiful wife of 27 years, Traci, for supporting this craziness we call theater.

Eric Blickenstaff

Snyder / Theater Patron / Pulitzer US
Eric Blickenstaff - Snyder / Theater Patron / Pulitzer US Eric is overjoyed to be part of a talented CSDTheaters Production of 'Newsies!' He most recently stepped in as the US for Bill, in the production of 'Mamma Mia' (2022 Ver). Other roles/plays he has been thrilled to share the stage in were: Ensemble for Mamma Mia (2020) Santa and Ensemble in 'A Christmas Story' and several plays at ACT. Eric's formal training began on the basketball court where he learned how to fake being fouled. He later polished his skills studying under Mark Summers at ACT. Eric is proud of his son Kaiden, who is cast as Davey in this production, and loves sharing the stage with him. He loves watching his other son (other pride and joy), Leif, on the basketball court. Eric's joy for theater is due to, 'it's a place of many laughs, where dear friends are made, and a place for everyone.' Eric gives shout outs to Mrs. B, Ms. Wyatt, Kelly, Jim, Cheryl, Josh and all of the other adults who have nurtured he and his son.

Patrick Moser

Governor Teddy Roosevelt
Patrick Moser - Governor Teddy Roosevelt Patrick (he/him) is delighted to be making his CSDTheaters debut; and is thankful that you are attending our show! His past favorite roles include: Cogsworth (Beauty and the Beast); Captain Hook (Peter Pan); and George Banks (Mary Poppins). Patrick is a sports and theatre fanatic! When not on stage, you may find him cheering on the Blazers as a Season Ticket holder; or in the audience of one of the over 50 live theatrical productions he attends each year.

Adam Franks

Henry / Tapper
Adam Franks - Henry / Tapper Adam is a Junior at Corvallis High School. He played Sebastian in last year's Cinderella and this is his fourth production at CSD Theaters and has been in several Majestic Theater productions. He has always loved doing theater and dreams of making it to Hollywood someday. When he isn't participating in a theater production, Adam loves going to the gym and going on adventures with his friends.

Anthony Benson

Race / Tapper/ Jack US
Anthony Benson - Race / Tapper/ Jack US The Newsies have been messing with Race’s cigar stash. He hasn’t noticed yet. Start a union, enjoy the show, and may the world be your ester. Tootles! (Extra shout out to Margy Buchanan; you’re the King of New York.)

Asher Barlow

Sniper / Dance Co-Captain & Tapper
Asher Barlow - Sniper / Dance Co-Captain & Tapper Asher Barlow plays Sniper (Newsie) and is a Dance Captain. He’s a sophomore at CVHS, 15 years old, and loves to dance. He enjoys hip-hop, country swing, jazz, and tap dancing. This is his 7th show at CHS and he has performed here since he was eight years old. Asher has been in Cats (Kitten), Beauty and the Beast (Village Child), Mamma Mia (Dancer/Vacationer), Cinderella (Dancer/Knight), and more. Although Asher spends most of his time onstage, he likes being involved in all parts of theater, including lighting, costumes, set building, etc. Asher is beyond excited to be performing in Newsies and hopes you enjoy the show!

August Starcevich

Mush/ Tapper/ Race US
August Starcevich - Mush/ Tapper/ Race US August Starcevich plays Mush (a member of Jack’s crew), and is also the understudy for Davey and Racetrack. He is a junior at CHS. August was in both Mamma Mia productions, Cinderella, and Radium Girls, as well as in a few productions at the Majestic Theater and ACT. August says that working on this show has been extremely enjoyable. His favorite part was working on dance. It was extremely rewarding when, after working on a dance, it could finally be done at show speed. August is thankful to be able to work with these amazing people and can’t wait to keep working with them on future productions.

Elliette Barlow

JoJo / Katherin US / Dance Co-Captain / Tapper
Elliette Barlow - JoJo / Katherin US / Dance Co-Captain / Tapper Elliette Barlow plays JoJo (Newise), Katherine’s Understudy, and is a Dance Captain. She’s a seventeen-year-old senior at CHS. She’s been performing since she was 8 and has been in a total of twelve shows, 8 of them here. Some of her favorite roles have been Cinderella here at CHS (Rodgers and Hamerstein’s Cinderella), Mary at OSU (Secret Garden), and Lucy at ACT (The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe). After graduating she plans to continue her love of performing with a BFA in Musical Theatre. In the little time she has outside the theater she likes to crochet, listen to music, and frequently participates in vocal competitions. She couldn’t be more excited to have Newsies as her last musical at CHS.

Grace Kauffman

Finch / Tapper/ Medda Larken US / Projection Design
Grace Kauffman - Finch / Tapper/ Medda Larken US / Projection Design Grace is a Senior at CHS, and has been in several CHS musicals, such as playing the Wicked Stepmother in Cinderella. Grace enjoys singing, drawing, and filmmaking, which they plan to pursue in college. Their favorite thing about theater is getting to meet new people and hang out with friends that share their interests.

Ingrid Celis

Buttons / Tapper
Ingrid Celis - Buttons / Tapper Ingrid is excited to be a part of Newsies at CSD Theaters. Her previous shows have included Mamma Mia!, Cinderella, and Radium Girls, as well as having acted in productions every year since first grade. She is a senior at Corvallis High School. In her spare time, Ingrid enjoys singing, dancing, creative writing, and playing the ukulele. She would like to thank her family and friends for being her greatest supporters.

Jonny Junkins

Romeo/ Tapper
Jonny Junkins - Romeo/ Tapper Jonny is thrilled to be part of the Newsies cast! He first caught the acting bug in the fifth grade when he was cast as Tumnus in “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” Past credits with CSD theater include parts in Mamma Mia, Cinderella and Radium Girls. In Newsies, he especially enjoys the big tap and dance numbers and fight sequences. He would like to thank his fellow cast mates, directors, production crew members and family. When not in the theater, Jonny can be found making ceramics, playing the upright bass and reading with his dogs.

Quinny Risely

Splasher / Tapper / Newsie Swing
Quinny Risely - Splasher / Tapper / Newsie Swing Quinny Riseley is a sophomore at Corvallis High School who has a love for the dramatic and a distaste for the mundane. She has been a dancer for thirteen years, and an actor for eight. Most recently, she played Gabrielle in Roger's and Hammerstein's Cinderella at CHS, and she was a newsie in the Mid Valley Theater Company's production of Newsies. Quinny is so grateful for the loving and raucous atmosphere created by the cast and crew of this show and hopes that the hours of exhaustion, laughter, and absurdity, pay off and leave the audience inspired perform, the way that Quinny was when watching her first CSD Theater's production.

Rose Davis

Specs/ Tapper
Rose Davis - Specs/ Tapper Rose is a senior at CHS. As well as theatre, she also enjoys dance and tennis. She has been in a few other shows with CSD Theaters such as Robin Hood, Cinderella, and Radium Girls. She first joined the CSD Theaters community in 6th grade with her first show and it has been a huge part of her life ever since. Her most memorable moment was during Cinderella when she fell off the stairs in the middle of a song. She wants to thank Miz B and Kelly Volkman for the support and direction she has gotten from them during her years of theater. After High-school, Rose hopes to pursue a career in musical theatre or teaching dance to young kids. She is so excited for everyone to see the amount of work the cast and crew has put into this show. Ps. Look for the newsie with glasses!

Torin Kelchner

Tommy Boy/ Newsie Swing
Torin Kelchner - Tommy Boy/ Newsie Swing Torin is a junior at CV and is excited to be in his third CSDT production! He was in Cinderella (Dancer/Knight) and Mamma Mia (Island Teen) in the two years previous. He has also been in productions through the Majestic Theater including his most recent role of Antipholus of Ephesus in Comedy of Errors over the summer. In his free time (which is few and far between during the theater season), Torin enjoys playing Ultimate Frisbee, hanging out with friends, and playing the trumpet.

Bastian Sorenson

Elmer
Bastian Sorenson - Elmer Bastian Sorenson is a junior at Crescent Valley High School. He is very delighted to be part of this production, his fourth with CSD Theaters. Bastian's previous roles included Jean-Michel in Cinderella and Morris in Sherlock Holmes: The Baker Street Irregulars. When not acting and singing his heart out on stage, you can find him playing his heart out on the French horn or playing Dungeons and Dragons with friends. His love of theater and performance was seeded early in life by tagging along to years of pit orchestra rehearsals at CHS with his musician parents. Bastian is grateful to be part of such a talented, close knit and supportive theater community.

Theo Ueng

Albert / Crutchie US
Theo Ueng - Albert / Crutchie US Theo Ueng is thrilled to return to the CSDTheaters stage in their production of Newsies. He has recently been involved in MVMT's production of Newsies as Les and Gaston in Beauty and the Beast Jr. at the Majestic Theatre. Theo takes vocal lessons at the Beverly Park Voice Studio and goes to school at Franklin K-8. He would like to thank his family for supporting his endeavors and hopes you enjoy the show.

Cordelia Pryor

Moxy (Newsie & Dancer) / Tapper/ Bowery Beauty US
Cordelia Pryor - Moxy (Newsie & Dancer) / Tapper/ Bowery Beauty US Cordelia Pryor is a junior at Crescent Valley High School. Newsies is her second musical and she is excited to have been able to work with the amazing people at the CHS theater. Cordelia first auditioned out of a love for all things dance yet found the singing, acting, and community bringing her back. Outside the theater she spends her time working on her endless supply of art projects. With this passion, she will likely pursue a career in design, but for now she’s content to be a part of fun high school productions with all her friends.

Ella LaJoie

Bessie (Newsie & Dancer) / Tapper
Ella LaJoie - Bessie (Newsie & Dancer) / Tapper Ella LaJoie is a Junior at Crescent Valley High School. She is looking forward to playing Bessie, a Newsie/Dancer, in her first ever theater production! Outside of rehearsal and school, Ella spends much of her time going to the gym, hanging out with friends, and working at Trader Joes. She is also involved in other performing arts programs such as the Corvallis Youth Symphony and plays the flute in her school’s Wind Ensemble. So far, Ella has felt very welcomed into the theater community and is looking forward to future productions where she can expand her acting, singing, and dancing abilities! Above all, she is extremely grateful to dance choreographers Kelly Volkmann and Mishele Mennett for their amazing contribution to the show, and to her friends who convinced her to try out for this year’s production. She hopes you find this show just as humorous, exciting, and memorable as she has, and if a part of the cast—break a leg!

Laurel Muhly

Sissy (Newsie & Dancer) / Dance Co-Captain
Laurel Muhly - Sissy (Newsie & Dancer) / Dance Co-Captain Laurel Muhly is a senior at Crescent Valley High School. She is a dance co-captain, dancer, and Newsie in Newsies, her second production with CSD Theaters. She was in CSD Theater's Cinderella in 2023 and the Regional School of Ballet's The Nutcracker from 2016 to now. She has danced for 12 years and ballet for nine years. She takes vocal lessons and plays percussion in a band. She has previously played flute and cello. She has learned a lot of choreography and technique during rehearsals and is excited for everyone to see the show.

Nicole Emry

Tabby (Newsie & Dancer) / Tapper
Nicole Emry - Tabby (Newsie & Dancer) / Tapper Nicole Emry is a senior playing the role of Tabby in newsies. When Nicole was younger she did Music Man and Meet me in St. Louis. Nicole has been a dancer for 16 years and had performed on stage many times but this is her first show with csd theaters. Nicole has wanted to do this show for a very long time but never had the time to do theater till now. Nicole wants to thank her family and her friends who has supported me and helped push me into this decision, and wants to thank everyone who she has met along this journey in theater

Yurika Akiyama

Kiki (Newsie & Dancer)
Yurika Akiyama - Kiki (Newsie & Dancer) Yurika Akiyama, is senior dancer and a proud exchange student from Japan, making her debut on this stage at 18. Embracing her senior year with a twirl and a leap, she bring sthe energy of the East to the performance. A massive shoutout to her incredible cast mates and directors for their unwavering support. Pumped for the magic we're creating in this show, and beyond that, she set to pirouette into a future filled with more international theatrical adventures. Let's dance through this journey together! Konnichiwa!

Annie Neves

Nun / Mrs. Jacobi / Madam Mayor
Annie Neves - Nun / Mrs. Jacobi / Madam Mayor Annie has participated in community theater many years, first in the San Francisco East Bay and now in the Willamette Valley, in acting/singing roles, wig wizardry, choreography, and stage management. She is in two dance groups, including a group in Seattle for “vintage women.” Annie feels the best part of participating in district productions is supporting the youthful cast and making them all look good! Retired from the school district, Annie and husband Vic maintain a small home farm, camp and travel. She thanks Vic for all his support and encouragement.

Evelynn Daniels

Hannah/ Photographer
Evelynn Daniels - Hannah/ Photographer Evelynn is a Junior at CHS and has been in multiple CSDTheaters shows including Cinderella and Mamma Mia. She has also been in Frozen Jr and Seussical the Musical at ACT. Evelynn is a writer and plans on getting published as soon as possible and wants to help folks who are less fortunate with her activism. Shout out to Anthony, Corey (my theater brothers in spirit), their mom, and their Cat "Winnie".

Jennifer Thornhill

Nun / Seitz / Theater Patron / Woman on street
Jennifer Thornhill - Nun / Seitz / Theater Patron / Woman on street Jennifer Thornhill (Seitz/Nun/Theater Patron) is thrilled to be part of Newsies at CSD Theaters. Jennifer is relatively new to the stage, having made her theatrical debut last year as Village Woman in CSDTheater’s Cinderella. Jennifer holds a PhD in Environmental Science and Policy and works as a Research Program Coordinator at Oregon State University. In her free time, Jennifer enjoys gardening, dancing, playing guitar, and spending time with family and friends. She wants to thank her husband and daughter for supporting her as she explores this new activity, her son, Aven, for joining her in this adventure and her parents for always encouraging her to try new things.

Lucy Petty-John

Nun / Bowery Beauty / Scab / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Seitz US
Lucy Petty-John - Nun / Bowery Beauty / Scab / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Seitz US Lucy is incredibly excited to take part in this wonderful production of Newsies. Lucy graduated from CHS in 2023 but returned during her gap year to be apart of this show. Before moving to Corvallis, Lucy lived in Hawaii where she participated in her small high school theater class and other community theater projects that were available to her. This is the first full show Lucy has been in. When not in the theater, Lucy enjoys writing, singing much louder than her sister would like, and painting her nails. She would like to thank her fellow cast mates for welcoming her back with warmth.

Marie Wells

Nun / Bowery Beauty / Scab / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Bunsen US
Marie Wells - Nun / Bowery Beauty / Scab / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Bunsen US Marie, an 11th grader at Crescent Valley High School, is thrilled to be performing many roles in Newsies. She is considering putting together a one-woman show very soon! Marie has been on the CSD stage twice before, most recently in Cinderella as a dancer and the Cinderella US. She played Pockets in CV's show Sherlock Holmes: The Baker Street Irregulars, and has also participated in productions at the Majestic theater, such as starring as Belle in the Majestic Theater Youth Production's Beauty and the Beast Jr. When not in rehearsals or studying (APUSH is hard), Marie loves doing all types of art and is always making music. She will be co-directing one of the one-act spring shows at CHS, and would like to encourage people to consider participating in one of those or CV's spring show, Almost Maine.

Robyn Barlow

Nun / Bunsen / Woman on street / Theater Patron / Jocobi US / Stage Manager US
Robyn Barlow - Nun / Bunsen / Woman on street / Theater Patron / Jocobi US / Stage Manager US Robyn is grateful to be included in this production of Newsies at CSDTheaters. You may have previously seen her perform as Mrs. Potts in Beauty and the Beast or as the Fairy Godmother Marie in Cinderella. Once upon a time, in the mid 1990’s, she graduated with a degree in Middle Eastern Studies and a minor in Arabic. She thought she might work abroad. Instead she stayed home and raised 4 beautiful children. She is grateful for their love, patience and willingness to humor her as she learns her way around the theater. Spending time with the dedicated, hardworking, talented students and staff here at CSDT has been a joy.

Mars Foster

Newsie / Stage Manager / Swing: Multiple Roles
Mars Foster - Newsie / Stage Manager / Swing: Multiple Roles Mars Foster is a 19 year old graduate from Corvallis High School. They have been doing musical theater since 7th grade, and have come back for another show to help out and enjoy the stage light once again.

Agoesh Stornolio

Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid
Agoesh Stornolio - Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid Agoesh is thrilled to be a part of Newsies. He has always loved this musical and the minute he saw that CSDTheaters was putting it on, he wanted to be a part of the fun! He has performed previously at the Majestic Theatre in the Frozen Jr. production in 2019. As a Crescent Valley sophomore, Agoesh also loves to mountain bike, ski, compete in track and field events, and bake. He would like to thank his mom and dad for their loving support and for helping him push past his comfort zone.

Amy Barton

Vocal Ensemble Newsie/Chalkboard Gal / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid
Amy Barton - Vocal Ensemble Newsie/Chalkboard Gal / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid Amy is very grateful to be a part of this amazing show for her senior year! She initially started theater last year in Cinderella with CSD Theaters and continued with Radium Girls and a production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat over the summer. She hopes to continue doing musical theater as a hobby during college. Outside of theater she also enjoys as many hobbies as her schedule allows, and fills her time with playing french horn in band, dancing, writing, and other chaos. Some of her favorite theater memories involve the craziness that happens backstage, especially warming up and getting ready with the cast before a show.

Barry Clark

Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Mayor US
Barry Clark - Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Mayor US This is Barry's first production with CSDTheaters! He is a College Hill High School Senior who plays trumpet and Alto Sax. Barry is hoping to attend Western Oregon University next year to get his teaching certificate to teach high school History! Barry would like to specially thank his parents for supporting him by picking him up after every rehearsal every night. Thanks Mom & Dad!

Corey Henriques

Policeman / Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid
Corey Henriques - Policeman / Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid Corey is very excited to be a part of Newsies at the Corvallis High school theater. Corey is a junior at Corvallis high school and has been in shows like Cinderella 2023 at CHS, elf the musical at the majestic theater, and Mama Mia 2022 at CHS. When he isn’t working in a show Corey develops his musical skills by learning the piano and guitar and taking vocal lessons. He also spends a lot of time with his friends playing games like Dungeons and Dragons, and Magic the Gathering. Corey also takes theater classes at CHS to become the best actor he can and eagerly awaits his next shows to come.

Freya Harte

Vocal Ensemble Newsie/ Borough Newsie/ Refuge Kid
Freya Harte - Vocal Ensemble Newsie/ Borough Newsie/ Refuge Kid Freya Harte (She/They) is 14 years old and a freshman at CHS. They are very excited to be performing in the ensemble of Newsies! This will be Freya's 18th production but first time performing on the CHS stage as almost all of their other productions have happened within the walls of the Majestic Theater. Their most recent role was as Ash in Sherlock Holmes: The Baker Street Irregulars at CV. Her favorite role to perform was Lavender in Matilda the Musical. She would like to thank her parents for encouraging her to try starting theater almost 8 years ago. When Freya isn't performing, they also enjoy gymnastics and learning as many facts as they possibly can. She can't wait for you to see Newsies and appreciate how much hard work the cast and crew have put into this show! Have fun!

Isabelle Gardner-Gaynor

Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid
Isabelle Gardner-Gaynor - Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid Isabelle is a freshman student at Corvallis High School. She is fourteen years old. She has been acting since she can remember, and it’s her favorite thing to do. She also does ballet, rides horses, plays cello, and piano, and she is a cheerleader. She is going to continue acting in adulthood as a career. She is really looking forward to her future acting endeavors.

Lydia Fairchild

Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid
Lydia Fairchild - Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid Lydia/Lee Fairchild (Ensemble 6 Newsie and Refuge Kid): Lydia/Lee is really excited about their first performance at Corvallis High School. They have also been featured in Annie Jr. (as Miss Hannagan) and as “Sprinkles” in Elf the Musical at the Majestic Theatre, Corvallis. Lydia/Lee is a gifted artist and often spends their time filling pages and pages of notebooks. They live at home in Corvallis with their parents, younger sister, Alice Jane, and their two dogs Tiberius and Rueben.

Madisen Woothtakewahbitty

Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Spot Conlon US
Madisen Woothtakewahbitty - Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Spot Conlon US Madisen Woothtakewahbitty (Newsie, refuge kid, vocal ensemble, Spot Conlon US): Madisen has been doing shows with CSDTheaters and attending STAGES summer camp since she was 8! Madisen has played the youngest child in Miracle Worker, Little Sophie in both Mama Mia productions, and a town girl in Cinderella. Madisen is enjoying school as a 7th grader at Franklin. She loves time with friends, soccer, and her dogs. She thanks her sibling for getting her into theater and her mom for everything.

Zain Shaarawi

Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Scab 3 / Darby US / Bill US
Zain Shaarawi - Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Scab 3 / Darby US / Bill US Zain is excited to be part of the ensemble cast of Corvallis High School’s production of Newsies. This is his first time acting for a play of this size, and he is very excited to make his debut. In his free time he can be found playing Magic the Gathering with friends or frantically studying for his next AP History test. He would like to thank his friends, family and pet cat for their love and support.

Amelia Warnock

Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid/ Run Crew
Amelia Warnock - Vocal Ensemble Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid/ Run Crew Amelia is a performer who currently attends Corvallis High School. This is her third show at CSD theaters, and she has always had a passion for being on stage. Amelia's journey as a performer started in 5th grade.

Aliyah Stratton

Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew
Aliyah Stratton - Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew Aliyah is thrilled to be in CSDTheaters' production of Newsies this year. She is a sophomore at CHS and has been involved with performing arts since the age of four: starting with dance and acting in one play, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, before now. Dancing is her passion, but her other hobbies include mountain biking, hanging out with friends, and playing Ultimate Frisbee on the local Corvallis team. Newsies has always been a show that is close to her heart, so when she heard that it was happening locally this year she knew she had to do it. Her favorite memories from doing this show were getting to warm up with the dancers, singing backstage with the rest of her ensemble, and best of all having the privilege of getting to know a bunch of amazing people. Aliyah will definitely be back to do more shows with CHS!

Ariel Beatty

Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew
Ariel Beatty - Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew Ariel Beatty's love of theater has spurred involvement in various local productions including Elf and Annie. She is excited to be joining the Newsies cast for her first experience on the CHS stage. When she isn't spending time on stage Ariel continues honing her craft through participation in the Linus Pauling Middle School choir. In her free time Ariel enjoys running track, expressing herself through arts and crafts and spending quality time with her friends. Ariel is grateful for this opportunity and looks forward to spending more time on the CHS stage.

Carter Whitney

Nunzio / Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew
Carter Whitney - Nunzio / Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew Carter is ecstatic about making his theater debut. He is excited for the two lines he got as Nunzio the barber along with helping be a vital part of the movement of the show. Carter has always been full of energy and where better to let it out than the theater? He would like to thank Miz. B, the director for encouraging him to challenge himself and improve!

Jibril Geter

Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew
Jibril Geter - Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew Jibril is an 8th grader at Linus Pauling Middle School. He attended CSD Theater Summer Stages Theatre Camp all six years that it was available for his age group. Through Stages, Jibril developed his love for theater and honed his skills for performance. Jibril has been cast in Mama Mia, Cinderella, and now Newsies. Jibril has found CSDTheaters to be a fun, enriching and inclusive community; a place where he can truly thrive and shine. Jibril is looking forward to starting high school at CHS where he plans to take as many theater classes as possible and be cast in future performances!

Holly Rogers

Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew
Holly Rogers - Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew Holly is so excited to be a part of Newsies! They are a Junior at Corvallis High School, and love taking theater classes. When they aren't in the theater or at school, you can find them dancing with the Corvallis High dance team, or playing the piano! They would like to thank their parents for getting them to and from theater at odd hours.

Kevin Ramirez

Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew
Kevin Ramirez - Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew Kevin is a student at Linus Pauling Middle school and is very excited to be apart of the Newsies show at CSD Theater. His previous performances were in Beauty and the Beast Jr. (MAURICE) by  Majestic Theater and Cinderella (VILLAGER/ENCHANTED HORSE) by CSD Theater. He first obtained knowledgeable acting lessons in Broadway Basics and ever since continued his acting journey. During his free time Kevin loves to be sociable, write books, watch videos of history, and study the film industry. He would love to thank CSD Theater and Majestic Theater for supporting him. He dreams of becoming an actor and a writer someday.

Luca Riley

Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew
Luca Riley - Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew Luca Riley (he/ze) is in ensemble seven. He is an eighth grader at Corvallis Waldorf School, and his love of theater began there. Recently, he was Dromio in Comedy of Errors, Dogberry in Much Ado About Nothing, and Frances Scrooge in A Christmas Carol. Outside of theater he enjoys rock climbing, horseback riding, and writing. Luca is incredibly grateful to his parents, Liz and Kevin Riley, and one of his fellow cast members parents, Emily Barry and Peter Eschwey, for the countless times they disrupted their evenings to pick him up from rehearsal. He is so excited for an amazing Newsies production, and hopefully many CHS productions to come!

Melanie Lee

Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew
Melanie Lee - Borough Newsie / Goon / Run-Crew Melanie Lee is a part of ensemble 7, portraying a Newsie and a Goon. She is a sophomore at CHS and this is her second show here. Her first production was Radium Girls last year and she’s super happy and grateful to be a part of Newsies! She loved meeting new people and had lots of fun being around all her friends and this cast during rehearsals. She wants to thank our director, Miz B, for putting together this amazing show, all the other techies, and everyone else who helped out. Lastly, she would like to thank everyone who came to see the show to support everyone. She had a blast doing this musical and can’t wait for future productions!

Tate haywood

Goon / Borough Newsie / Oscar & Morris understudy
Tate haywood - Goon / Borough Newsie / Oscar & Morris understudy Tate is senior at CV, and is making her debut in her first ever CHS musical. She is the founder and president of the CV drama club, and is also the CV student director for the 2024 spring play. After highschool she plans to go to LBCC/OSU to major in Secondary Music Education, as well as Theater Education.

Andrew Sims

Child Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Cross Over / Les US #1
Andrew Sims - Child Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Cross Over / Les US #1 Andrew is excited to bring his enthusiasm back to the CSDTheaters stage in Newsies! Previously, he played Chip in Beauty and the Beast with CSDT and, more recently, an elf in Elf the Musical at the Majestic. Outside of theater you can find him on the soccer pitch or rooting for his favorite teams…go RSL and Liverpool! YNWA!

Cora Calvert

Child Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid
Cora Calvert - Child Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid Cora Lynn Calvert goes by they/them and is portraying the character of a child newsie in the background. Cora got into the play mostly because they love to sing and enjoy being in a play where they get to make friends with other actors. In the past Cora has been in one other production: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory with Chiang Mai Drama Center in Thailand. In this play, Cora was the character of a child newsie selling papers about Willie Wonka’s golden ticket. Cora is in 4th grade at Bessie Coleman elementary. Some of Cora's interests are math, literature and art. Cora is excited for this play because they like that it portrays the image of what life was like in the late 1800s and it is about children’s rights. Cora is inspired by the character Les because he is a child actor. Cora is excited to be in this production.

Liam Larson

Child Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid
Liam Larson - Child Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid Liam Larson is appearing as one of the newsies and a Brooklyn kid. Liam is a second grader at Lincoln Elementary School. Liam enjoys mountain biking, drawing, lego building, and telling stories. Liam is very excited to make his first acting debut in the Newsies Musical. He has been entertaining his friends and family with his dancing, singing, and acting, since a very young age. After participating in the summer camp, STAGES, he became inspired to be cast in a big production. Liam appreciates this opportunity and the support in learning how to be part of an ensemble. After every rehearsal, he becomes more and more inspired by his fellow cast members and directors. After this show, he aspires to take on more involved and challenging roles. Liam has passion for performing, and he is overjoyed in sharing his gifts to the world.

Marisol Eschwey

Child Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Cross Over / Les US #2
Marisol Eschwey - Child Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid / Cross Over / Les US #2 Marisol is in 7th grade at Corvallis Waldorf School, is a lover of the stage and all things horses. She has been in a few productions at the Majestic Theater including "Beauty and the Beast" and "Lion King". This is her first performance with CSDTheaters.

Talia Mancini

Child Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid
Talia Mancini - Child Newsie / Borough Newsie / Refuge Kid Talia Kassidy Mancini plays one of the Newsies. Talia is a third grader at Corvallis Waldorf School. She previously played Annie in Austin, Texas; this is her Corvallis debut. Talia loves cats, dragons, snakes, and sushi. She thinks this cast is a blast and that it’s especially cool the production is using real bread as a prop. Talia wants to thank Marisol for helping her figure things out, her brother Noah for celebrating her, her dad for encouraging her to audition, and her mom for supporting her in this adventure. Talia is excited for her first show at CHS (and hopefully not the last).

Lilly Willard

Tumbler / Acro
Lilly Willard - Tumbler / Acro Lilly is very excited to perform in Corvallis High Schools Newsies. She is a 9th grader at CHS and loves it there. When she’s not in school, Lilly spends most her time doing gymnastics at PEGA. She wants to thank her Mom for always taking her to practice and supporting her throughout her athletic and academic career. (Does not appear in every performance)

Wrenna Thornhill

Tumbler
Wrenna Thornhill - Tumbler Wrenna is excited to be making her debut in Newsies at CSDTheaters. Wrenna is in 3rd grade at Lincoln Elementary School. She has been doing gymnastics since she could walk and is currently finishing up her third season as a competitive gymnast at Peak Elite Gymnastics Academy. When not flipping and spinning, Wrenna enjoys singing, dancing, and hanging out with her friends and her pets, including her new jumping spider, Bubbles. Wrenna wants to thank her parents and brother for all their love and support. (Does not appear in every performance)

Alivia King

Tumbler
Alivia King - Tumbler Alivia King is used to performing on the cheerleading mat, football sideline, or basketball sideline. She has been cheering for three years and is a Crescent Valley High School freshman. She is also on a traveling team at United Tumbling and Cheer, The Assassins. She loves to base, fly, and tumble. She loves to bake and hang out with friends in her free time. (Does not appear in every performance)

Natalie King

Tumbler
Natalie King - Tumbler This is Natalie King’s first debut on the theater stage. She spends her time on the Cheerleading competition stage, giving her all for United Tumbling and Cheer Assassin’s Team. You can see her flying, basing, and tumbling in her year-round sport of competitive cheerleading. If she’s not at practice, she still spends her time coaching and with friends at the gym. She is a Junior at Crescent Valley High School and loves to cook and work out. (Does not appear in every performance)

Addie Musson

Tumbler
Addie Musson - Tumbler Addie is very excited to make her tumbling debut in Newsies. She loves being an 11th grader at CHS. When she’s not in school Addie enjoys going to gymnastics. You'll find her at PEGA. She wants to thank her Mom and Dad for always being supportive! 

Laura Braning, MFA

Director
Laura Braning, MFA - Director Laura Braning, "Miz B," has acted and directed professionally throughout the United States and Japan. Additionally, she’s taught at multiple colleges and universities throughout the country. She is currently the theater program director for Corvallis High School, where she has directed nearly 50 productions, including 17 large-scale musicals. She is also an adjunct professor of drama pedagogy at Western Oregon University. Miz B started her career as a professional actress and makeup artist and earned an MFA in acting from the University of Louisville. She has played many roles on stage and in film, from dramatic to classical, though she can be most often found in musical comedies. Local audiences have seen her as Mother Superior in "Nunsensations" at CSD Theaters, Mama Rose in the Majestic Theater’s "Gypsy," Joan in Willamette Stage Company’s production of "Love Song," Miss Hannigan in "Annie" and the Queen in "Once Upon a Mattress," both at Corvallis High School.

Elizabeth Wyatt

Producer
Elizabeth Wyatt - Producer "Mz Wyatt" is very excited to produce Newsies. Serving as District Theater Manager and creating "CSDTheaters" in 2005, she has been part of 35 musicals and over 3000 events. Though Elizabeth has been involved with technical theater, the music industry, and computer tech since childhood, the Technical Theater part of her degree comes from Stephens College in Columbia Mo. For fun, Elizabeth sings in public with friends, plays guitar badly, and hangs with her furbabies. This May, she is set to showcase her Sound Design skills in "Spitfire Grill" for Broadway Rose Theater in Portland. Beyond the stage, she wants to thank her partner Alissa, her friends, and this community for supporting her during her triumphant battle with Ovarian cancer this past year. A beacon of pride, her daughter Stella is thriving in law school. Dedicated to the world of K-12 theater, Mz Wyatt seamlessly blends professional expertise with a contagious love for the craft of theater and these amazing children and volunteers from our community.

Jim Martinez

Music Director / Conductor
Jim Martinez - Music Director / Conductor JIM MARTINEZ has been involved with musical productions for the past 50 years, as a musician and as a musical director. Recent work includes Mamma MIa, Cinderella, and Sweeney Todd. In addition to Newsies, Jim will be busy this next year as Music Director for Majestic Theater’s Spamalot and Little Shop of Horrors. Jim thinks the best part of doing these shows is getting to work with such amazingly talented and caring people in our theater community.

Cheryl Martinez

Vocal Director
Cheryl Martinez - Vocal Director Our Vocal Director for CSDTheaters Productions, Cheryl Martinez, is a retired music teacher who taught in the Greater Albany School System during her career.  She is also currently the Artistic Director for the Corvallis Community Band, performs in the Willamette Valley Symphony on clarinet, as well as various instruments in the Corvallis Community Band when not conducting.  She performs as a pit musician in many local musical theater productions, including this show.  In Cheryl’s spare time she teaches clarinet, shows her horse in Working Equitation, and rides the local trails.

Penelope Seldera-Bahnson

Stage Manager
Penelope Seldera-Bahnson - Stage Manager Penelope (Pen) is the stage manager for NEWSIES. Currently a sophomore, she has been in the CSD Theater program since fifth grade! Pen began her stage management the summer after 8th grade, with the production Nunsensations. She has since stage managed Cinderella and Radium Girls as well. Pen absolutely loves how fun and lighthearted people in theater are, and she made one of her best friends through a CSD theater production! She is so excited for NEWSIES because of how much action and tech is involved, given the sheer size of the production. An aspiring professional stage manager, Pen hopes to go to college for stage management and join the industry after graduation.

Mike Brantley

Set Builder / Construction Designer
Mike Brantley - Set Builder / Construction Designer Mike began in these roles at age 14 and has since built over 100 sets in four states, in each case as a volunteer.  He most enjoys creating complex sets and special effects while balancing the capabilities/limitations of the facility, availability of set components and materials, funds available, function and safety, and artistic needs and desires.  At age 77 Mike continues to provide actors with sets which enhance their performance.  Mike feels we each have a responsibility to contribute to our community.

Josh Hiser

Lighting Designer / Projection Lead
Josh Hiser - Lighting Designer / Projection Lead

Mae Hitchcock

Scenic artist
Mae Hitchcock - Scenic artist Mae Hitchcock is our beloved scenic artist. She has been filling our stage with mind blowing art since 2012 when she joined us for Annie. She is part of our Tech team and teaches set painting for Stages Theater Canp.

Kelly Volkmann

Choreographer
Kelly Volkmann - Choreographer Kelly Volkmann – Public health professional by day and choreographer by night – taught jazz and ballet at the Regional School of Ballet in Corvallis for many years and is “the Maid” in The Nutcracker every holiday season. She loves working with students and seeing them transform into dancers. Kelly danced professionally in Los Angeles, was one of the dancers in the 1984 Olympic Summer Games, and owns dance shoes that are older than any of the dancers in Newsies!

Joe Craft

Fight Choreographer

Rachel Wahl

Costume Designer / Projection Design Team
Rachel Wahl - Costume Designer / Projection Design Team

Richard McCord

Sound Design
Richard McCord - Sound Design

Kristi Ervin

Box Office Assistant and House Manager
Kristi Ervin - Box Office Assistant and House Manager Kristi is an alumni of Corvallis High School and has been part of several performances including both runs of Mamma Mia, Cinderella and Sherlock at Crescent Valley High School. A recent graduate of Arizona State University, Kristi works full-time as the Program Manager for Seeds for the Sol, a non-profit working in energy efficiency. Shoutout to our tech crew and all of the lovely people working behind the scenes!

Mishele Mennett

Tap choreographer
Mishele Mennett - Tap choreographer Mishele- MFA in Dance and a life of teaching and performing jobs, including touring with Disney; teaching ballet, kinesiology, and Pilates at U of O, OSU, WOU, LBCC, and local dance studios. Mishele "retired" in May 2023 and has since choreographed "Cabaret" at the Majestic; performed with Pacific Tap Dance Company; and performed the role "Ariel" in "The Tempest." As Director of the annual Ten Tiny Dances® she invites new performers to apply for her upcoming show, with the theme "Broadway." Mishele loves to play pickleball, though her choreographic skills don't help on the court! She feels renewed hope for humanity after working with the talented, hardworking, enthusiastic, respectful CHS students. Big thanks to Laura, Kelly, and Elizabeth for inviting her into this well-oiled artistic team.

Maggie Delos-Reyes

Assistant Stage Manager/Props Lead
Maggie Delos-Reyes - Assistant Stage Manager/Props Lead Maggie is a sophomore at Crescent Valley High School and is happy to be a part of CSD Theaters' production of Newsies. They have enjoyed working with CSD Theaters before on Cinderella as a rigger and on Mamma Mia! as a member of the run crew. When they aren't at the theater, Maggie enjoys skiing and reading, as well as writing for the CVHS newspaper, the Crescent Crier. They want to thank their family and their cat Belle for supporting them along the way.

Baker Celis

Sound Board Operator - Vocals
Baker Celis - Sound Board Operator - Vocals Baker is extremely honored to join the tech crew for Newsies! at CSD Theaters. Outside of theater, Baker plays soccer for the Spartans, is on an indoor soccer team, enjoys ultimate and skiing, and plays doubles on the varsity tennis team during the spring season. Baker wants to thank his parents for supporting all of his pursuits, and Richard for mentoring him through the process of learning sound mixing.

Nick Grieve

Sound Board Operator - Orchestra
Nick Grieve - Sound Board Operator - Orchestra 4th year Music Technology and production student at Oregon State University

Sloan Wisor

Props / Tech / Rigger
Sloan Wisor - Props / Tech / Rigger Sloane is so excited to be working on Newsies this year. Since her first year of high school, she’s been a part of the CHS theater tech club, which is what got her to start working with wigs and doing quick changes in her first show, Cinderella. She enjoyed it so much that she decided to do some rigging for Newsies this year as well. She loves to work on art projects, even painting some props and sets for plays put on by CSD Theaters, and likes taking care of her 25 houseplants. She’d like to thank her mom for being so supportive of her passions, and her two cats, Sunset and Moonbeam for being the best emotional support cats.

Guthrie Gallagher

Techie / Lights / Rigger
Guthrie Gallagher - Techie / Lights / Rigger Guthrie is a senior at CHS and is delighted to join the crew of Newsies. He has been a member of the tech club and has enjoyed learning about technical theater.

Kestrel Carpenter

Light Board Operator
Kestrel Carpenter - Light Board Operator Kestrel is excited to be involved with CSD theatres once again. She assistant directed Sherlock and the Baker Street Irregulars this fall at CVHS and has always enjoyed tech. When not behind the scenes she is hanging out with friends or focusing on art.

Jasmine Lee

Technician - Costuming & Props
Jasmine Lee - Technician - Costuming & Props Jasmine Lee works in costumes and props for Newsies, and she is a Corvallis High School senior with an interest in science, who has been on the run crew for Mamma Mia! and Cinderella. She loved hanging out with the rest of the crew after shows on Sundays, the lunches in between Saturday shows, and creating the “Pringle wall,” among other theater traditions. Jasmine would like to thank everyone for the fun memories, and is excited to be part of Newsies as her senior show, looking forward to sharing the production with the audiences.

Grace Kaufman

Projection Team
Grace Kaufman - Projection Team

Orchestra

Lillie Epps

Violin
Lillie Epps - Violin Lillie has been playing violin since she was 6. She enjoys classical, bluegrass, and old-time fiddle music. She is a sophomore at Corvallis High School, and this is her first musical!

Melanie Sorenson

Flute/piccolo
Melanie Sorenson - Flute/piccolo Flutist Melanie Sorenson is an active performer in regional orchestras, musical theater productions, the Windswept Sextet, and is the Instructor of Flute at Linn-Benton Community College. Melanie is very proud to musically contribute to the production from the dark subterranean dwelling of the pit while her son Bastian basks in the stage lights above (as Elmer the Newsie). Did you know that if you make a wish and throw paper money in the pit, your wish will come true? Seriously, come say hi!

Trevor Wilson

Trumpet
Trevor Wilson - Trumpet Trevor has been playing trumpet for over 20 years and has been a part of the musical scene in Corvallis since 2017, where he first played in the pit for Evita at the Majestic. Other shows he has been a member of the pit orchestra include Catch Me if You Can, Beauty and the Beast, West Side Story, Cinderella, Elf, Sweeney Todd, and Matilda. Trevor will also play trumpet for the upcoming show, Spamalot, at the Majestic. He holds a Music degree from Oregon State, and being an active member in the music community, you can hear him play with the Willamette Valley Symphony and Chintimini Brass, a local brass quintet. When he is not feverishly practicing trumpet for musicals and ensembles, he can be found behind his repair workbench at Beacock Music where he fixes brass instruments.

Emily Looney

Alto and Soprano Saxophone / Clarinet
Emily Looney - Alto and Soprano Saxophone / Clarinet Emily (she/her) fell in love with the pit orchestra during her high school’s production of Cabaret in New Jersey many years ago. She loves the variety of music, the chance to play multiple wind instruments (saxophones, clarinets, flute, bassoon), and the coalescence of creative elements. Emily and her husband, Sean, moved to Oregon after spending time in New Hampshire, Idaho, and Utah for medical training. They’ve lived in Corvallis since 2016 with their house rabbits, Lily and Marshall. Emily is delighted to be in her 9th local pit orchestra (highlights include Catch Me if You Can, Elf, and Sweeney Todd at The Majestic). She also plays saxophones/clarinet in the Windswept Sextet. She is the medical director of Samaritan Evergreen Hospice and a part time primary care physician in Albany. Big thanks to JFM for his dedicated leadership and his skill at bringing a great musical community together!

Shane Ong

Violin
Shane Ong - Violin Shane is a freshman at Cresent Valley High School. This is his second pit orchestra, the first was Cinderella. He started playing violin at 11 years old and loved it. He is grateful to be a part of an amazing pit crew where he meets many amazing people.

Ella Miller

Tumbler
Ella Miller - Tumbler Ella is a 9th grader at Corvallis High School and a gymnast at Peak Elite Gymnastics Academy (PEGA). She’s been a gymnast for 8 years and particularly loves to tumble. When not at school or gymnastics Ella loves to play with her two dogs and to listen to music.

Alex Antrim

Reed (Alto and Soprano saxophone)
Alex Antrim - Reed (Alto and Soprano saxophone) Alex Antrim is a sophomore at West Albany High School. After preforming in MVMT's production of Newsies, he's excited to get a new perspective on the show by making his debut in the pit orchestra! Alex not only plays alto and soprano saxophone, but also does percussion and piano. He is involved in robotics, track (long distance) and is in his band's wind ensemble. His mom doesn't know how he has any time to get his homework done, and to be honest, he doesn't either.

Josie Hill

Tumbler
Josie Hill - Tumbler Josie has been doing competitive gymnast for a total of 6 years. She’s currently a level 8 gymnast at PEGA. She’s also an 8th grader at Franklin K-8 School. In her free time, she enjoys playing the trombone and piano, and also enjoys drawing!

Josie Hill

Tumbler
Josie Hill - Tumbler Josie has been a competitive gymnast for 6 years at PEGA. She is also currently a level 8 gymnast, and a 8th grader at Franklin K-8 School. In her free time, she enjoys playing the trombone and piano, and she also enjoys drawing!
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