Zach Geiger

Zach Geiger (Quentin Roosevelt), is thrilled to be performing at the Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens. With roles like Melchior in Spring Awakening at Brookfield Theatre, Actor 1 in All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 at Goshen Players, and Tunny in American Idiot at Landmark Community Theatre, Zach's versatility shines. He is grateful for the chance to work with such talent and he extends heartfelt thanks to family and friends for their unwavering support. Zach aims to dive into more film acting. He is currently starring in a feature film titled Misfits, set to be released in 2025. You can find his previous films and other videos at zachgeiger_8 on Instagram.

Kathleen Green

Kathleen Green (Flora Payne Whitney) is honored to work with the Quentin cast and production team and has fallen in love with the script and music! She is thrilled to be directed by Carol Ziske again, who directed Kathleen in a staged reading of Little Women. Kathleen is looking forward to her 6th season with Shakesperience Productions this August in the cast of Romeo and Juliet (Shakespeare in the Litchfield Hills). Favorite roles include Kathryn (Radium Girls), Ariel (The Tempest), and Louise (Gypsy). The acting bug first bit Kathleen at Seven Angels Theatre (Miracle on 34th Street and 13 The Musical) and when she played Jane Banks in Mary Poppins at Thomaston Opera House (Landmark Community Theatre). She also enjoyed working with Community Theatre at Woodbury as Babysitter (New York by David Rimmer). Kathleen is a graduate of Smith College with a degree in Theatre.

Joyce Follo Jeffrey

Joyce Follo Jeffrey (Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney) is happy to be performing at The Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens. She is a seasoned actress with over 50 years of acclaimed performances in theatre. From one of her first roles as one of the king's children in The King And I to recent roles like Grumpy Old Men-The Musical at Seven Angels, Joyce has delighted audiences. Some of her notable roles include Dolly Levi in Hello Dolly, Mama Rose in Gypsy, and Maria in The Sound Of Music. She has been a guest artist with the CT Gay Men’s Chorus and has participated in hundreds of musical reviews and cabarets across the tri-state area. Passionate about supporting theatre youth, Joyce dedicates her time to HALOS, where she has served as a judge for 20 years. Joyce thanks Dave, Marissa, Chris, Louie and Katy for their support as always. Alongside her theatrical achievements, Joyce cherishes her role as Nonna to Elliot, Emilina, Michelina and Valli (the dog).

Jeffrey Alan Solomon

Jeffrey Alan Solomon (Harry Payne Whitney): began his show business career as a child actor at age 9 in summer camp productions playing The Artful Dodger in Oliver, Sandor in Bells Are Ringing and Tevye in Fiddler On the Roof. Jeff is an accomplished singer/songwriter/musician. High points include acquiring two record deal offers from RCA/Salsoul records in 1979, and having two songs he co-wrote chart nationally in the Cashbox Hot 100 Country singles chart in the mid 80s. Jeff has been active as a Theater, Television and Film actor since 2011 having joined SAG in 2015. Some of his favorite theater roles include: Johnny (Frankie & Johnny in the Claire de Lune), Slim (Of Mice & Men), and Juror #10 (12 Angry Men). Jeff can also be seen in film, television, music videos and commercials: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5716190/

Eric Lindblom

Eric Lindblom (Teddy Roosevelt) is a high school English teacher and the host of Backstage on WZBG. He has been performing in the area for the last nine years. Some favorite roles include Thomas Nostradamus in Something Rotten (Warner Theatre), Wadsworth in Clue (Warner Theatre), Marty in It Shoulda Been You (Goshen Players), and Thernardier in Les Miserables (Southington Steeple Players).

Maddy Flagg

Maddy Flagg (Lisette) is thrilled to be working with the amazing cast and creative team of Quentin. Currently pursuing a BFA at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) in NYC, Maddy brings a dynamic presence and a versatile set of skills to the stage. She recently captivated audiences as Elle Woods in the Hartford Stage Summer Series production of Legally Blonde, showcasing her vibrant acting and powerful vocal talents. Trained at the Hartt School of Music, Maddy's vocals span a wide range, allowing her to move effortlessly from sweet melodies to powerful show-stopping belts. In addition to her vocal abilities, Maddy is also an experienced dancer. With a strong foundation in ballet, tap, jazz, and lyrical dance, she infuses her performances with expressive physicality.

Keegan Smith

Keegan Smith (Teddy Roosevelt Jr.) is a Connecticut native and proud graduate of Southern Connecticut State University (B.S. Psychology, Class of 2022), where he earned multiple distinctions from the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival. Keegan recently concluded a two-week run as Shakespeare in Shoreline Theatre Company’s production of Something Rotten. Additional credits (select): Once (Billy), A Bronx Tale (Crazy Mario/Doo Wop Guy), Footloose (Willard)(BroadwayWorld Regional Award Nomination), You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Snoopy). Keegan also plays the tenor saxophone and sings backup for CT local band, JULAI and the Serotones, who are releasing their second album in July 2024! Website: ksmitty134.wixsite.com/keegansmith | Instagram: @Keegan_Smith1.

Dante Woods

Dante Woods (Hamilton Coolidge) is excited and honored to be a part of a new musical that is based on true events and that has never been seen in it’s entirety before. He was recently in a production of All is Calm at the Goshen Playhouse , was an Electric skate in The SpongeBob Musical at The Warner Theater and Matthew in The Altar Boyz with K and E Theater group. Dante has also recently been involved in a short film and continues to perform in every creative outlet that will have him. Thank you for everyone’s support.

Keli Solomon

Keli Solomon (Edith Roosevelt) is an actor/director/producer, and member of the League of Professional Theatre Women - CT Chapter. She received her Bachelor’s degree from WCSU in Theatre Arts, and a Master’s degree and 6th year in History. Some favorite acting credits include: Ruth - Calendar Girls (Ridgefield Theater Barn), Bananas - House of Blue Leaves (Sherman Playhouse), and Frankie - Frankie & Johnny in the Claire de Lune (Community Theater at Woodbury). Keli has directed productions at the Sherman Playhouse, and most recently the production of Wait Until Dark at Theatreworks in New Milford where she is a member of the Board of Directors. Keli can also be seen in film & television, and is currently in two nationally running commercials: www.imdb.com/name/nm8027663 - Follow her Instagram: @KeliSolomonActor

Michael Carrano

Michael Carrano (Narrator/Small Roles) is thrilled to participate in another Carol Ziske/William Linster production, marking his fourth collaboration with the duo. He originated the role of Benny Monterissi in the first table read of Hurricane Jimmy and was one of the narrators in its first staged reading at Phoenix Stage Company. Additionally, he was the narrator in the April 2024 staged reading of Quentin, Act 1 (Palace Theater). As a classically trained upright bassist who has performed in trios, jazz bands and orchestras including the CT Pops, he is happy to participate in the arts in a different capacity. He is grateful to director Carol Ziske for the opportunity to be part of Quentin, acknowledging her wealth of experience in theatre as inspiring. Michael also wishes to acknowledge composer William Linster, whose unique musical contributions add depth and vibrancy to the play. Excited to be among the talented cast and crew, he eagerly anticipates sharing this experience with the audience.

William Linster

William Linster (Music) is a Connecticut native and New York-based composer, pianist, music director, and arranger. A graduate of the world-renowned New School For Jazz And Contemporary Music, William has studied and worked with some of the greatest musicians in the world, including Grammy® nominees Bobby Sanabria, Dave Douglas, Charles Tolliver, Cecil Bridgewater, and Andy Mckee, as well as Grammy® winners Bill Kirchner, Robert Sadin, and Hank Schocklee (Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee, Public Enemy). While at The New School, William became the songwriting protege of music industry mainstay Billy Seidman, whose former students include Bebe Rehxa and Rachel Platten. As an accompanist and session musician, he has worked with artists such as Katie Stevens (American Idol, The Bold Type), Coyle Girelli (Your Vegas, The Chevin), Ron McClure (Blood, Sweat & Tears), R&B hitmaker James "D-Train" Williams, and numerous other Broadway stars and opera singers. Upon first working with William, the late acclaimed librettist Roger O. Hirson (Tony Award®-nominee, Pippin) simply said, "He's a genius." He made his Carnegie Hall debut at age 16 and was featured on NBC Nightly News at 17 while at the Havana International Jazz Festival in Cuba. William is also a trained vocalist, in addition to having received training on violin, trumpet, clarinet, mallet percussion, concert percussion, drums and handbells. He recently served as the Music Director for the Off-Broadway production of Fringe Deaths (2019). William is currently in the process of developing four full-length musicals he wrote with late Hollywood screenwriter, Lawrence Alexander (Charlie’s Angels, CHiPs, Barnaby Jones, The Six Million Dollar Man). Social Media: @WilliamLinster

Lawrence Alexander

The late Lawrence Alexander (Book & Lyrics) was a prolific writer and master of his craft. His credits included numerous popular series, including the iconic Charlie's Angels, Streets of San Francisco, Baretta, Barnaby Jones, ChiPs, and The Six Million Dollar Man. His exceptional writing skills captivated audiences and earned him a reputation as one of the most versatile television writers of his time. In addition to his work in television, Alexander wrote the lyrics for Lincoln Center’s production of Dandelion Wine—a musical adaptation of Ray Bradbury's novel—which was optioned for Broadway by acclaimed producer Stu Ostrow. Bradbury himself wrote the book for this musical, while renowned composer Billy Goldenberg wrote the music. He authored several novels, including The Big Stick, which were published by Doubleday. His writing talent attracted the attention of major producers and directors, including Gene Kirkwood and John Avildsen, director of Rocky. Avildsen also directed Alexander's own comedy-drama, The Stoolie, starring legendary comedian Jackie Mason. He passed away in February 2021. All future productions of Quentin: A Roosevelt Musical are lovingly dedicated to his memory.

Carol Ziske

Carol Ziske (Director) embodies the spirit of reinvention and lifelong passion, with a career that has seamlessly transitioned across various facets of the theatre world. An accomplished theatre director, choreographer, actor, and educator, Carol has over five decades of professional experience, making significant contributions both on stage and behind the scenes. Carol's acting credits are impressive, with performances in the original run of Fiddler On The Roof (Broadway) and You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown (1st National Tour). She has shared the stage with luminaries such as John Lithgow, Robert Morse, Rudy Vallee, Rita Rudner, Chip Zien, Craig Lucas, Ron Holgate, James Woods, Jerry Zaks, and F. Murray Abraham, and worked under renowned directors including Hal Prince and Patricia Birch. Her acting repertoire also includes memorable roles in A Little Night Music, The Unsinkable Molly Brown, Jesus Christ Superstar, and How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying. With an extensive portfolio of Off-Broadway and regional directing credits, Carol has brought to life a diverse array of productions including Valadon, Mad Dog on the Loose, The Great American Backstage Musical, The Snow Queen, Harvey, Anne of Green Gables, Mame, The 1940’s Radio Hour, Evita, Our Town, and Love Letters. Recently, she directed One Touch of Ava as part of Ivoryton’s StAGEd Intent: New Play Readings for Boomers by Boomers. Current projects include developing and directing staged readings for two new musicals, Hurricane Jimmy and Quentin: A Roosevelt Musical, both by composer William Linster and late Hollywood scriptwriter Lawrence Alexander with both of these musicals having anticipated runs in New York. As an educator, Carol has left an indelible mark on aspiring performers through her teaching at Chase Collegiate School, Westover School, and The Warner Theater. She is actively involved in the theatre community, serving on the steering committee of the League of Professional Theatre Women in Connecticut and on the board of directors for the Glebe House Museum and Gertrude Jekyll Garden in Woodbury, CT. Carol's dedication to theatre has been recognized with accolades such as the Colgate Palmolive Achievement Award for Kids On the Block and the New Jersey Drama Critics Award for A Little Night Music. carolzdirector@gmail.com.

Kathleen Brown-Carrano

Kathleen Brown-Carrano (Production Assistant) wishes to thank Willliam Linster and Carol Ziske for the opportunity to assist with the many behind the scenes details that have gone into Quentin. Kathleen is an enthusiastic theatre lover and music lover. She is an associate Dramatist Guild member, a composer, and a published cartoonist. Kathleen has experience in special events, project management, digital artwork as well as research and development. Additionally she is William Linster’s and Carol Ziske’s Production Assistant for Hurricane Jimmy. She wishes to thank The Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens for the opportunity to present Quentin.

Edmund Gaynes

As a theatre producer, Mr. Gaynes’ Off-Broadway productions include the current hit Black Angels Over Tuskegee (8 years), as well as recent long-running productions of Zero Hour (Drama Desk Award), The Devil’s Music: The Life and Blues of Bessie Smith (Drama Desk and Lortel nominations), Danny and Sylvia: The Danny Kaye Musical, The Rise of Dorothy Hale, The Big Voice: God or Merman?, Cougar The Musical, Picon Pie, Emily Mann’s Annulla, A Brush With Georgia O’Keeffe, Trolls, Panache, Chaim’s Love Song, Matty: An Evening with Christy Mathewson, Einstein: A Stage Portrait and Bein’ With Behan, which was nominated for an Outer Critics Circle Award. He produced the West Coast premieres of Marry Me a Little and Starting Here, Starting Now and was nominated for four Ovation Awards, Los Angeles’ highest theatre honors, for his productions of The Taffetas and Songs the Girls Sang. Mr. Gaynes also produced the National Tour of Gilligan’s Island: The Musical, which played coast to coast. He currently operates two Off-Broadway theatres in New York City: St. Luke’s Theatre and Actors Temple Theatre, as well as the Whitmore-Lindley Theatre Center, the Avery Schreiber Playhouse and the BrickHouse Theatre in Los Angeles. In addition to the above New York producing credits, he has produced throughout the country, with over forty productions in Los Angeles alone. He has also appeared as an actor in 13 Broadway and Off-Broadway shows including Greenwillow with Anthony Perkins, The Body Beautiful with Jack Warden, Promenade with Madeline Kahn, Edward Albee’s Bartleby and Best Foot Forward, in which he co-starred with Christopher Walken and Liza Minnelli and sang “Buckle Down, Winsocki” on the original cast album. Directors he has worked with include Elia Kazan, Stella Adler, Herb Ross, George Abbott, George Roy Hill, Bobby Lewis, Peter Hunt, George Schaeffer, Robert Moore, Alan Schneider, Joe Layton, Gene Saks, Martin Charnin and Jerome Robbins. TV credits range from Mary Martin’s “Peter Pan” to “Cheers”, “Kojak”, a recurring role on “The Patty Duke Show”, “N.Y.P.D.”, “The Sid Caesar Hour”, “Playhouse 90”, “The Ed Sullivan Show”, among many others, as well as a two-year run as Paul Stewart on “As the World Turns”. Mr. Gaynes was recently presented with a “Legend of Off-Broadway” honor by the Off-Broadway Alliance at Sardi’s in New York City.

Peter Breger, Esq.

Mr. Breger is an entertainment attorney who has represented theatre and film producers and investors, commercial and non-profit theatres, writers, directors, and performers for over twenty-five years. He is a Tony-Nominated producer of Broadway, Off-Broadway, and Regional Theatre, whose credits include the Broadway revival of Damn Yankees (directed by Jack O’Brien and starring Bebe Neuwirth), David Mamet’s Oleanna, Paul Rudnick’s Jeffrey, and Hide Your Love Away, the New York stage debut of Justin Theroux. As an attorney, Mr. Breger has represented The Fantasticks (the world’s longest running musical), Gerard Alessandrini’s Forbidden Broadway and Spamilton (the critically-acclaimed parody of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton), the Broadway and touring productions of Amazing Grace, coproducers of the Broadway revivals of Eugene O’Neill’s Desire Under the Elms (starring Brian Dennehy) and David Mamet’s Speed the Plow (starring Elisabeth Moss in her Broadway debut), the international tour of Trey Parker’s Cannibal!, and a number of Off Broadway theatres, including New World Stages, 45 Bleecker, St. Luke’s Theatre, the Theatre Center, the Players Theatre, and the Cherry Lane Theatre. Mr. Breger was the Executive Director of the Actors’ Playhouse for twelve years, continuing its proud tradition of championing new artists at the beginning of their remarkable careers since it opened at the dawn of the independent theatre movement in New York in the 1950s. The Actors’ Playhouse was the home of productions of Harvey Fierstein’s Torch Song Trilogy, Stephen Sondheim’s Marry Me a Little, the Ridiculous Theatre Company’s Murder at Mincing Manor, John Herbert’s Fortune and Men’s Eyes and Seth Rudetsky’s Rhapsody in Seth. Mr. Breger is a Founding Director and the President of the Off-Broadway Alliance (OBA), a non-profit corporation organized by theatres, producers, general managers, publicists, advertising and marketing professionals to represent and promote independent theatre. The OBA provides support, mentorship, and resources to the theatrical community, and it originated the Off Broadway Economic Impact Report, a collaboration with the New York City Mayor’s Office of Film, Theatre & Broadcasting, which documents the $500M annual economic impact of Off Broadway theatre in the City of New York. The OBA presents the annual Off Broadway Alliance Awards, which honors the best new work of each New York theatre season and the lifetime achievements of important playwrights, directors, performers, producers, and theatre companies. Mr. Breger received his JD from Brooklyn Law School. He is an attorney licensed to practice in the State of New York. He was admitted to the New York State Bar in 1979