RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL

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Song List

Overture
Holly Jolly Christmas ............................................................................... Sam, Ensemble
Jingle, Jingle, Jingle ........................................ Santa Claus, Donner & Mrs. Donner
We are Santa’s Elves ..................................................................................................................... Elves
I am Not Just a Misfit .................................................................................... Hermey, Rudolph
Jingle, Jingle, Jingle (reprise) .................................................................. Young Reindeer
There’s Always Tomorrow ..................................................................... Clarice, Ensemble
We’re a Couple of Misfits ......................................................................... Rudolph, Hermey
Fame and Fortune ............................................................................................... Yukon, Hermey
Silver and Gold ........................................................................................................ Sam, Ensemble
The Most Wonderful Day of the Year ................................................... The Misfit Toys
There’s Always Tomorrow (reprise) ...................................................................... Rudolph
We are Santa’s Elves (reprise) ............................................................................................. Elves
Holly Jolly Christmas (reprise) ................................................................ Sam, Ensemble
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer ..................................................................... Company

Cast

Creative Team

ABOUT THE PRODUCTION

SPECIAL THANKS

Jeff Revels and the staff at Orlando Repertory Theatre; the entire team at Character Arts, LLC

Financial assistance for this project has been generously provided by Missouri Arts Council, Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund, The Shubert Foundation, Muriel McBrien Kauffman Family Foundation, and Theater League.

The Coterie is a 501(c)3 nonprofit professional theatre, and a member of Theatre Communications Group (TCG) and Theatre for Young Audiences/USA: The US chapter of ASSITEJ, the International Association of Theatre for Children and Young People. Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical is a professional production employing members of Actors’ Equity Association, founded in 1913, representing more than 45,000 professional actors and stage managers in the U.S.

The video taping or other video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited. Cell phones are to be put away during the performance.

+ Denotes Coterie resident artist

* Denotes member of Actors’ Equity Association, the union of professional actors and stage managers in the United States.

All elements of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer © and TM under license to Character Arts, LLC.

ABOUT THE WRITERS

Robert Penola
(script adaptation)
For over 25 years, Bob has been in the business of show. His summer job while getting his BA in English from William and Mary was performing at a local cabaret club and dancing in a local theme park on the weekends. After touring the world as a performer, Bob settled in NYC and was accepted into the prestigious BMI Lehman-Engel Musical Theatre Workshop as a lyricist. While there, he wrote many adaptations for children's stories which toured extensively with American Family Theatre (Philadelphia). A proud member of the SDC, Bob naturally brings theatrical storytelling to any project he touches, and has helped transform corporate events into moving experiences - as a result, Bob has conceived, created and directed literally hundreds of corporate meetings, events, product launches and commercial theatrical productions for a wide variety of satisfied clients, including Oprah Winfrey (LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE Tour). In addition to his corporate work, Bob is an award-winning playwright; his musical revue Heartbeat It's a Lovebeat won the Bistro Award in NYC as Outstanding Musical Revue, and played to sold-out houses in NYC and London for over 3 years. Bob has also created and directed custom musical shows for Regent Seven Seas and Seabourn luxury cruise lines, and for Busch Gardens, Opryland and SeaWorld Entertainment theme parks. Bob's favorite project has been adapting and bringing to life the beloved holiday classic Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer on stage as a live musical. Bob splits time, on or near the water, between NYC, NJ and Brazil, from which his partner Oswaldo hails.

Johnny Marks
(music and lyrics)
Johnny Marks (November 10, 1909-September 3, 1985) was born in Mt. Vernon, NY. After graduation from Colgate University and Columbia University, Marks studied in Paris. He served during World War II as a Captain in the 26th Special Service Company where he received a Bronze Star and 4 Battle Stars for his service. In 1949, Marks formed St. Nicholas Music. His wealthy catalog includes stellar contemporary Christmas carols most notably “Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer”. The song was based on a poem by the same name, written by Marks’ brother-in-law, Robert L. May. Other highlights in the Marks catalog include “Don’t Cross You Fingers, Cross Your Heart”, “Address Unknown”, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”, “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day”, “We Speak of You Often”, “She’ll Always Remember”, “What’ve You Got to Lose But Your Heart”, “A Merry Merry Christmas”, “The Night before Christmas Song”, “Everyone’s a Child at Christmas”, “Summer Holiday”, “Neglected”, “Who Calls?”, “Happy New Year, Darling”, “When Santa Claus Gets Your Letter”, “I Guess There’s an End to Everything”, “How Long Is Forever”, “Free”, “Chicken Today and Feathers Tomorrow”, “A Holly Jolly Christmas”, “Silver and Gold”, “There’s Always Tomorrow”, “The Most Wonderful Day of the Year” and “Jingle, Jingle, Jingle”. Marks also served as the director of the Association of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) from 1957 through 1961.

ABOUT THE COTERIE

The Coterie Theatre was designated by TIME magazine in the top three theaters for young audiences in Nov. 2004, calling it “groundbreaking... one of the nation’s most respected.” As a not-for-profit professional company founded in 1979 in Kansas City, Missouri, The Coterie has been at the forefront of commissioning new works or adaptations that contribute to the field of theatre for young audiences. More than 100 world or American premieres for all ages have been produced by The Coterie over the last 44 years, including hosting multiple major Broadway composers and lyricists to shape quality musicals for youth and families. The Coterie is interested in intergenerational conversation, and consistently includes teen programming in its season and outreach efforts. The Coterie’s community programming redefines traditional notions of work for young audiences with its unique dramatic writing programs (Young Playwrights' Roundtable), teen LGBTQ work (Project Pride), and mental health workshops in a dramatic format (Project Daylight), all free of charge. All these components serve an average of 97,000 per year through over 350 performances. The Coterie Theatre School has locations throughout greater Kansas City. Donate at www.thecoterie.org.

Meet the Company

Robert Vardiman

Sam the Snowman

Robert Vardiman credits his fifth grade teacher and his family for getting him into theatre. Robert returns to The Coterie after previously playing The Rabbit in ALICE'S WONDERLAND. Other recent credits include KINKY BOOTS at The White Theatre, THE ROYALE at Kansas City Repertory Theatre, TONI STONE at Unicorn Theatre, HAIR: THEN & NOW, BLAME IT ON THE BOOGIE, RAGTIME, IN THE HEIGHTS, and NELLY DON THE MUSICAL at Music Theater Heritage, MA RAINY'S BLACK BOTTOM, MEMPHIS, and THE MEETING at The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City, as well as educational productions of CRONKITE, SCHOOL HOUSE ROCK LIVE!, and CABARET. A native of St. Louis, MO, Robert is a graduate of Missouri Western State University.

Bradley J. Thomas

Santa

Bradley J. Thomas got into theatre because the stage has been the only place that ever truly felt home for him! Bradley has performed for the past 40 years, internationally in Germany, the U.K. and Canada as well as around the U.S. Locally, he's appeared at every theatre in Kansas City and loves working with veterans and young professionals alike.

Franci Talamantez-Witte

Mrs. Donner/Mrs. Claus

Franci Talamantez-Witte got started performing at age five after watching several shows specifically for young audience. Every time a production came to her school, she would say, “I want to do that when I grow up!” Now she does!! Franci is extremely excited to perform in her first production at The Coterie, especially since she's surrounded by so many friends and students. She has performed all over the Kansas City metro area, with some of her favorite roles being Katherine in FREAKY FRIDAY at New Theatre and Restaurant, Miss Shields in A CHRISTMAS STORY and Rosie in BYE BYE BIRDIE at MTKC Pro, Mrs. White in CLUE with Padgett Productions, Miss Hannigan in ANNIE at The White Theatre, Mrs. Wormwood in the midwest premiere of MATILDA with Theatre in the Park and May in JUNIE B JONES with Theatre for Young America. Last summer, Franci made her Off-Broadway debut as Willamina Cole in PREJUDICE AND PRIDE, written by and featuring Sam Writes. Franci is originally from Wichita, KS, where she was fortunate to perform with theatre companies such as The Crown Uptown and Music Theatre Wichita. She studied Music, Theatre, and Dance at Kansas State University. She has kept up her training and studied teacher training with the National Dance Institute. Franci loves sharing the art of performing with people of all ages and teaches performing arts all over Kansas City.

Jake Golliher

Donner/Birdfish Snoken

Jake Golliher enjoyed story time with his mom at the public library, which led to his interest in the performing arts. Since playing George Washington in a school play in the 5th grade, he’s loved being on stage. Jake returns to The Coterie after being in the casts of RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL in 2014, 2016, and 2018. He was also an actor in The Coterie’s Dramatic Health Education Project: STDs/HIV. He holds a BFA in Acting from Webster University. Other credits include SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD at Hope Summer Repertory Theatre and BARE: A POP OPERA at New Line Theatre. When not on stage, Jake can be found yo-yo-ing, gun twirling, beat- boxing, whistling, and guitar-strumming.

Jay Allen

Hermey

Jay Allen saw his sister in a theatre summer camp show and begged his mom to sign him up for the next one! Jay returns to The Coterie stage after appearing last summer as Tommy in DOCTOR DOLITTLE. Other recent roles include Michael in PETER RAN AND WENDY and Peter/Teen Scrooge in A CHRISTMAS CAROL at Kansas City Repertory Theatre. Jay also appeared in SURVIVING HITLER at The White Theatre, BYE BYE BIRDIE and A CHRISTMAS STORY with MTKC Pro, and THE LITTLE MERMAID, SWEENEY TODD, and DISASTER! THE MUSICAL with Summit Theatre Group, and BILLY ELLIOT with Spinning Tree Theatre. Jay is also a Blue Star award winner for featured actor as Smee in Olathe South High School’s PETER PAN.

Lucas Lowry*

Rudolph

Lucas Lowry got started performing by watching shows on Disney Channel as a kid and wanting to be just like one of the students out of HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL. He grew up singing all the songs, putting on performances for his family, and playing basketball too - just like Troy Bolton! Eventually, Lucas' parents saw his passion for performing and his aspiration to pursue it, so they enrolled him in acting/dance classes. Lucas sang in choir all throughout elementary, middle, and high school, but it was when he finally got his own voice teacher that his life felt like his own version of HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL and he's been involved in theatre ever since! Lucas is excited to return to The Coterie stage where he was previously seen as Charlie Brown in A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS, Jimmy Biddle in PETE THE CAT, and the Teenager in DON'T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS! THE MUSICAL!. Other recent credits include DREAMGIRLS and FREAKY FRIDAY at New Theatre and Restaurant, NEWSIES and MEMPHIS at The White Theatre at the J, THE WIZ at Roxy's Downton, and GREASE at Shawnee Mission Theatre in the Park. Lucas would like to thank his family, friends, mentors, students, coaches, and most of all God for the endless amounts of love, support, and guidance throughout his performing career; Treat people with kindness!

Hew McKoy

Boss Elf/Moonracer Snoken/Cowboy Snoken

Hew McKoy find his way into theatre when a middle school friend asked him to audition with her for the school musical for moral support. He had no idea that he would be cast or that it would turn out to be the best experience of his life! After that Hew was hooked. Hew returns to The Coterie after last appearing as The Pigeon in DON'T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS! THE MUSICAL! Other recent credits include TICK TICK BOOM with The Barn Players, SUESSICAL and FOOTLOOSE at Theatre in the Park, [TITLE OF SHOW] at Summit Theatre Group, and RENT with Olathe Civic Theatre Association. Hew is a graduate of Olathe South High School and Emporia State University class of 2019.

Bob Linebarger

Coach Comet/Yukon Cornelius

Bob Linebarger found a love for making people laugh early on in his life and theatre seemed like a fun and appropriate place to channel all that energy. Bob will be familiar to Coterie audiences from his roles in THE PRESIDENTS in 2012 and 2016 as well as in CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG. He is also a former teaching artist with The Coterie. Most recently, Bob appeared in MILKING CHRISTMAS at the Black Box, revising his role as Santa. Other credits include CHAINSAW: THE MUSICAL at The Living Room Theatre, HAND TO GOD at Unicorn Theatre, GUYS AND DOLLS at Music Theater Heritage, as well as playing multiple roles, including Bruno the dog, in SHIPWRECKED! with Spinning Tree Theatre. Bob has a BA in Theatre from Baker University. Since the pandemic, Bob has taken a side-step in his career and has been pursuing music, currently performing in an '80s tribute band called Retroactive as well as in an acoustic based side-project called '80s Babies. When playing his own original music, he goes by Bob the Musician.

Delilah Rose Pellow

Clarice

Delilah Rose Pellow grew up watching her older siblings perform and wanted to follow in their footsteps. She performed in her first show at the age of 3 and has loved performing ever since! Delilah is excited to make her Coterie debut in RUDOLPH. Locally, she appeared as Schwarzy in THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE at Stageright, as Kendra in 13 THE MUSICAL at Theatre in the Park, and as Small Alison in FUN HOME at Kansas City Repertory Theatre. Delilah also appeared as Little Anastasia/Alexei in ANASTASIA on Broadway and in the First National Tour as well as Cindy Lou Who in the national tour of THE GRINCH for two holiday seasons. Delilah is a sophomore in high school and when she’s not performing, she likes to horseback ride, sing, dance, listen to music, and travel.

Abby Brady

Elf/Dolly Snoken/Bumble/WAF Snoken

Abby Brady started performing on stage when she was about 5 years old as a dancer. Over the next couple of years, she and her mom would see different performers in shows and Disney parks, and that's when she realized she wanted to be in theater. She was 9 years old when she went to her first musical audition and was cast as an orphan in ANNIE. Since then, she has continued to dance, always with the goal of having a career in theater. Abby is excited to be in her first production at The Coterie. Some of her recent credits include BYE BYE BIRDIE with MTKC Pro as well as BAND GEEKS, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, and THE PROM with Music Theatre Kansas City. Abby is a 2023 graduate from Acellus Academy.

Nile Clipner

Fireball/Choo-Choo Snoken (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Sundays)

Nile Clipner comes from a theatrical family and began as a dancer in ballet and jazz. Since beginning acting, Nile has been curious about playing comedic characters and has also found that he has a knack for playing fun, villian roles. Nile is thrilled to make his debut with The Coterie in RUDOLPH! Some of Nile's favorite roles include playing Brett in 13 THE MUSICAL with Theatre in the Park, Fritz in THE NUTCRACKER with Kansas City Ballet, and Scar in THE LION KING with Stage Right Performing Arts. He also appeared on Wow in the World and The Story Pirates podcast DO YOU SEE WHAT I HEAR? for National Public Radio. Nile has studied with Kansas City Ballet, Kansas School of Classical Ballet, Stage Right Performing Arts, Theatre in the Park, Rise Arts Academy, and The Coterie. Nile sends gratitude to his KC Ballet teachers, Stage Right Performing Arts, his mother for being his biggest supporter, his family and friends, as well as his fellow cast mates and crew.

Avery Satterfield

Fireball/Choo-Choo Snoken (Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays)

Avery Satterfield found theatre when her mom signed me up for a summer camp and loved it. Avery is excited to make her Coterie debut in RUDOLPH! Other recent credits include FINDING NEMO JR. with Music Theatre Kansas City and MEAN GIRLS JR. at Frontier Trail Middle School. Avery attends Lexington Trails Middle School and studies at Miller Marley School of Dance and Voice. Last spring, she was also invited to participate in Broadway Artists Alliance's Spring Conservatory.

Lily Stewart

Spotted Elephant Snoken/WAF Snoken (Tuesdays/Thursdays/Sundays)

Lily Stewart has been attending theatre performances since she was two and it didn't take long before she knew she wanted to be performing on the stage too. Lily is excited to be on The Coterie stage for the first time! Past credits include MATILDA JR., ANNIE JR., BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, FINDING NEMO, and RISING STAR with Music Theatre Kansas City, THE LITTLE MERMAID, FROZEN, and SEUSSICAL with The Barn Players, WINNIE THE POOH with Culture House, and SCHOOL OF ROCK with Lawrence Arts Center. Lily sends thanks to her mom and dad for all the car rides, and Nolan and Mayzie for cheering her on!

Ruby Schubert

Spotted Elephant Snoken/WAF Snoken (Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays)

Ruby Schubert has always loved singing along to her favorite musicals. From the time she was in kindergarten, her school put on a play every year and while she remembers being so nervous, she now can't imagine not being on stage! Ruby is a Coterie acting master class student who is making her Coterie mainstage debut in RUDOLPH. Previously, she appeared in JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT at The Jewish Community Center, THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER for Theater for Young America, and HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL in The J's Stages! program.

Vivi Kapple

Charlie Snoken/WAF Snoken (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Sundays)

Vivi Kapple grew up in a theatre family, so she's always been surrounded by music. She was very shy kid, but once she got on stage, her anxiety melted away and she felt free to express herself. Vivi makes her Coterie debut in RUDOPLH, but it was her favorite thing to see shows at The Coterie when she was younger so it’s a full circle moment for her to be performing on The Coterie stage. Vivi's other recent productions include BYE BYE BIRDIE with MTKC Pro, as well as BAND GEEKS and THE PROM with Music Theatre Kansas City. Vivi attends Shawnee Mission South High School and when she's not on stage, she likes writing music. Vivi sends thanks to her family, friends, and directors for always believing in her.

Kamryn Henderson

Charlie Snoken/WAF Snoken (Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays)

Kamryn Henderson found his love of musical theatre through the Disney movie FROZEN. He started singing "Let It Go" for anyone who would listen, and discovered how much he loved to sing! When Kamryn was 4, his grandparents started taking him to The Coterie's holiday musical every year. One year while waiting for the RUDOLPH performance to begin, Kamryn’s grandmother told him that he would perform on the Coterie stage one day. He is elated that her prediction came true this year! Some of Kamryn’s recent shows include 13 THE MUSICAL at Theatre in the Park, MATILDA at Culture House, KINK BOOTS at The White Theatre, DIARY OF A WHIMPY KID: THE MUSICAL at Minneapolis Children’s Theatre, and A CHRISTMAS STORY at Music Theatre Kansas City. Kamryn, a seventh grader in Lee’s Summit, thanks his mother, sister, grandparents, extended family, and friends for their love and support.

Nolan Stewart

Elf/Dog Snoken (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Sundays)

Nolan Stewart got his start in theatre by attending a lot of shows at a young age. Nolan is thrilled to be making his Coterie debut in RUDOLPH. Past credits include MARY POPPINS at Blue Valley High School, BYE BYE BIRDIE, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, and RISING STAR REVUE with Music Theatre Kansas City, PINOCCHIO COMMEDIA with Theatre For Young America, LITTLE MERMAID JR. and FROZEN JR. with The Barn Players, and ANNIE JR. with River City Community Players. Nolan sends thanks to his parents and his sisters for their continuous support.

Tessa Brasel

Elf/Dog Snoken (Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays)

Tessa Brasel got hooked on theatre performing in school plays each year at the one-room schoolhouse she attended. She loved being on stage, playing different characters, engaging with the crowd, and building something really cool with the other actors and production members. Tessa is overjoyed to make her Coterie debut in RUDOLPH! Recently, Tessa has performed in MATILDA and JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT at The White Theater, BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER at Theater for Young America, and performing with Team Shakespeare. Tessa is a freshman and has a passion for drawing, reading, playing guitar, and hanging out with her friends. And her cats! Tessa would like to thank her mentors, Val, Franci, and Susan, for their support, as well as her parents for all they do. She wishes you all a happy holiday season and hopes you enjoy the show!

Nora Mae Dixon

Elf (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Sundays)

Nora Mae Dixon loved singing and dancing around the house. Then, after her grandpa took her to The Coterie when she was three and later went to a children's choir, she quickly learned that she loved performing. Nora is thrilled to be in her first show at The Coterie with the wonderful RUDOLPH cast and team! Nora's other recent credits include RAGTIME: IN CONCERT with The Barn Players, MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS at Theatre in the Park, BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER at Theatre for Young America, and a holiday show at Music Theatre Kansas City. Nora loves crafts, slime, aerial silks and dancing with the Minitainers at Miller Marley School of Dance and Voice. Nora sends thanks to her family, friends, and Franci!

Nora Brasel

Elf (Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays)

Nora Brasel enjoys making people laugh and nothing is better than being on stage and hearing the audience enjoying a show. Nora is thrilled to make her Coterie debut in RUDOLPH! Nora recently performed in MATILDA AND JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT at The White Theater, and THE GREATEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER and PRINCESS AND THE PEAR at Theater for Young America. Nora is in the seventh grade and enjoys taking classes at Theater for Young America, dance, and appreciates the guidance from her voice teacher, Susan Campen-Preuter, in chasing her theater dreams! Nora's free time is dedicated to dog cuddles, friends, and playing the drums. She would like to thank her parents, friends, and family for their support.

Lainey McManamy

Elf (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Sundays)

Lainey McManamy grew up watching her two older sisters perform around town and decided she wanted to be up on that stage too! Lainey is a Coterie master class student who makes her mainstage debut in RUDOLPH. Lainey's other credits include THE SECRET GARDEN with Music Theater Heritage, CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF and A CHRISTMAS CAROL with Kansas City Repertory Theatre in 2018, 2019, and 2022. She also appeared in 13 THE MUSICAL and SCHOOL OF ROCK with Theatre in the Park, and SHREK and RISING STAR REVUE with Music Theatre Kansas City. Lainey is thirteen years old, in 7th grade, and loves art, baking, singing, as well as playing piano, soccer, and basketball.

Ailia Ford

Elf (Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays)

Ailia Ford watched her older brother, Kieran, as he loved acting and made it look like fun. So, when she was four years old, she decided to sign up for a Coterie summer acting camp and got bitten by the acting bug too! Alia is thrilled to make her Coterie debut with the amazing cast of RUDOLPH! Recent roles include WHITE CHRISTMAS with Music Theatre Kansas City and MARY POPPINS at Blue Valley High School. She also played in ANNIE with The White Theatre, Small Alison in FUN HOME with Highlander Theatre, and BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER with Theatre for Young America. Ailia studies acting with The Coterie, dance with Miller Marley School of Dance and Voice; and voice with Lauren Braton. When she’s not on stage, Ailia loves singing, gymnastics, traveling, and her pets. Ailia sends love to her family, friends, and mentors for their love and support.

Leo James Covits

Reindeer (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Sundays)

Leo James Covits took an acting class when he was seven and immediately fell in love with acting. Leo has previously taken Coterie acting classes, but is excited to make his Coterie stage debut in RUDOLPH! Past credits include THE ADDAMS FAMILY at the Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre and A CHRISTMAS CAROL at Kansas City Repertory Theatre. Leo also performed in THE WIZARD OF OZ with Kansas City Ballet. Leo attends Indian Hills Middle School.

Sophia Bell Payton

Reindeer (Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays)

Sophia Bell Payton began dancing competitively at the age of four and fell in love with the stage. As she has gotten older, she has found that she has a profound love for theatre and the craft of acting through classes and productions. Sophia is thrilled to make her Coterie stage debut in RUDOLPH. She is also currently a student of The Coterie’s acting master class. Recently Sophia has played the role of Bess in THE LAST WIFE at Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre, has been seen as a dancer on Jojo Siwa’s Dance Pop Revolution, was an ensemble member in BIG RIVER at Gladstone Theatre in the Park, and competed as Dancer of the Year at The Dance Awards. In addition to her classes with The Coterie, Sophia is a current dance company member at Artists Revealed, studies acting with the Brian Cutler Actors Studio, studies dance at Priscilla and Dana’s School of Dance and has had been a part of Drama Time’s classes and productions.

Terrace Wyatt, Jr.

Understudy

Terrace Wyatt, Jr. performed in choir beginning in elementary school couldn't focus nor stand because he felt alive on stage, as if he's the only person in the theater! That probably led to him seeing his first Broadway show at Starlight Theatre, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST; the journey became an investment that he wanted to perform and create what he desired to share with the world! Terrace makes his third return to The Coterie stage after appearing in A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS and ALICE'S WONDERLAND. Terrace received his BFA in Theatre at William Jewell College and has been working non-stop. Other credits include THE GRAPES OF WRATH with The Arts Asylum, BOXED with Whim Productions, IS GOD IS with KC Melting Pot Theatre, DREAMGIRLS with New Theater and Restaurant; PETER PAN AND WENDY with Kansas City Repertory Theatre, A RAISIN IN THE SUN with The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City, SMART PEOPLE with Kansas City Actors Theatre, TONI STONE with Unicorn Theatre, and many more. Terrace recently made his professional debut as a playwright, producer, and director with Theatre Community Fund of Kansas City’s 2nd Annual Crescendo Awards Festival of his play Black Man, MO [Missouri] at The Arts Asylum. Terrace sends thanks to his mother, his friends, and God for giving him the path to be creative! Merry Christmas and enjoy the show!!!!

Kelsey Nicholes

Understudy

Heidi Van

Director/Interim Producing Artistic Director

Heidi Van is a creator, director, and producer of contemporary experimental live theatre. “A stalwart of the alternative theatre scene” (THE PITCH), Heidi challenges the way theatre meets its audience; installing performances anywhere but where expected. She has worked at The Coterie as an actor, educator, and director and joined The Coterie as Interim Artistic Director for DON'T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS! THE MUSICAL!. She is the founder and Artistic Director of Fishtank Theatre, a generator of new theatrical work, activism, and entrepreneurship. She is also the founder of The Black Box, an ever-evolving stage that acts as a spotlight in the world of theatre, shining a light on bold and provocative performances. Directing credits include MR. POPPER'S PENGUINS, THE CAT IN THE HAT, PETE THE CAT at The Coterie, DANCE NATION, THE WOLVES and PROJECT DAWN at Unicorn Theatre; SHOWS FOR DAYS, BELFAST GIRLS, DRY LAND, DEATH BY SHAKESPEARE, MOTHERFREAKINGHOOD! THE MUSICAL! at Fishtank Theatre; and MY FAIR LADY at Music Theater Heritage. Heidi is a graduate of Dell ‘Arte International School of Physical Theatre in Blue Lake, CA. She is the recipient of the Charlotte Street Generative Performing Artist Fellowship, The Pitch Mastermind Award, and a proud recipient of the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation SEED Grant. She is a graduate of Artist, Inc. and the Escholars program from The Bloch School of Entrepreneruship and Innovation.

Anthony T. Edwards+

Resident Music Director

Anthony T. Edwards was a young accomplished pianist who had won many national awards, when a local theatre company in Bells, TN, needed a pianist and conductor for ANNIE GET YOUR GUN. “I said ‘yes’ and conducted and played my first show when I was 14 years old.” Anthony returns to The Coterie after serving as music director for RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL (2014, 2016 and 2018), DOCTOR DOLITTLE, DON'T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS! THE MUSICAL!, PETE THE CAT, THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL, ELEPHANT & PIGGIE'S "WE ARE IN A PLAY!", BEAT BUGS: A MUSICAL ADVENTURE, MR. POPPER'S PENGUINS, GOOSEBUMPS: PHANTOM OF THE AUDITORIUM - THE MUSICAL, GARFIELD: THE MUSICAL WITH CATTITUDE, MADAGASCAR- A MUSICAL ADVENTURE, A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD, CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG, THE WIZ, LYLE THE CROCODILE, SHREK THE MUSICAL, SPRING AWAKENING, ONCE UPON A MATTRESS, and LUCK DUCK. Nationally, Anthony has been the music director for theaters across the country including the Denver Center for the Performing Arts where he performed for four years in ALWAYS... PATSY CLINE. Currently, Anthony is the resident music director for The Coterie, Unicorn Theatre, Starlight Theatre, All Souls Unitarian Universalist Church, and Eventology. He is an adjunct faculty member at UMKC and is proud to be an endorsed Kurzweil artist. He holds a BA of Music degree from Belmont University in Nashville, TN, and graduate studies in piano performance from the UMKC Conservatory of Music. Anthony proudly serves as Secretary on the Board of Directors for the AIDS Service Foundation of Greater Kansas City.

Ryan Dervin

Choreographer

Alex Murphy*

Production Stage Manager

Alex Murphy found his way into theatre through his high school's drama club. Alex returns to The Coterie after serving as production stage manager for JUSTICE AT WAR earlier this season as well as rehearsal stage manager for ELEPHANT & PIGGIE'S "WE ARE IN A PLAY!" back in 2017. Alex's regional credits include A CHRISTMAS CAROL and STILL READY at Actors Theatre of Louisville; TWO SISTERS AND A PIANO, WINE IN THE WILDERNESS, and THE UNWRITTEN LAW at Two River Theater; AMERICAN PROPHET at Arena Stage; and ILIAD and HOW I LEARNED WHAT I LEARNED at Pennyslvania Shakespeare Festival. Off-Broadway, Alex served as assistant stage manager on THE HARDER THEY COME at The Public Theater, ROMEO AND BERNADETTE at Amas Musical Theatre, and TWO'S A CROWD for Ritmar Productions; and as 2nd assistant stage manager on the first national tour of THE PROM. Alex earned his MFA in Stage Management from University of Missouri-Kansas City; Master of Arts in Theatre from Missouri State University; and his Bachelor of Arts, Theatre, English from Truman State University. Alex also served as the resident stage manager for three seasons at Kansas City Actors Theatre.

Derek Trautwein

Technical Director

Scott Hobart

Scenic Designer/Consultant

Scott “Rex” Hobart was introduced to theatre as a child thanks to his mother who took him and his sister to plays. As a kid, Scott enjoyed creating haunted houses and building skateboard ramps. He studied visual art at the Kansas City Art Institute and completed his undergraduate degree in American Cultural Studies at UMKC. Until 2022, Scott had served for years as technical director for The Coterie. He made his theatrical acting and composing debut in The Coterie’s NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD (2007 and 2008), and he composed, designed set, and performed in TELL-TALE ELECTRIC POE multiple times. Living in Kansas City with his wife, Paula, and sons, Sam and Avery, Scott also writes and performs country and rock with his bands “Rex Hobart and the Misery Boys” and “Giant’s Chair”, respectively.

Georgianna Londré

Costume Designer

Georgianna Londré has been in the audience for live theatre for as long as she can remember, and always noticed how costumes collaborated in the production. Her most recent designs at The Coterie were ONLY ONE DAY A YEAR, A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS (2015, 2017, 2019, 2022), ELECTRIC POE (2020, 2021, 2022), AKEELAH AND THE BEE, ALICE'S WONDERLAND, PETE THE CAT, THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL, DRAGONS LOVE TACOS, PUFFS, RISE UP: THE STRUGGLE OF THE FREEDOM RIDERS, BEAT BUGS: A MUSICAL ADVENTURE, MR. POPPER'S PENGUINS, BECOMING MARTIN, TUCK EVERLASTING, WE SHALL NOT BE MOVED: THE STUDENT SIT-INS OF 1960, GARFIELD: THE MUSICAL WITH CATTITUDE, ELEPHANT & PIGGIE'S "WE ARE IN A PLAY!", NO TALKING, RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL, THE NINE WHO DARED: COURAGE IN LITTLE ROCK, and over 50 other designs since 2000. Other recent design credits include COME BLOW YOUR HORN and HANK WILLIAMS: LOST HIGHWAY with New Theater & Restaurant, THE OLD MAN AND THE OLD MOON at Kansas City Repertory Theatre, and eight seasons with Quality Hill Playhouse. She has also designed for Late Night Theatre, The Living Room, Kansas City Actors Theatre, and What If Puppets. She always hopes her son likes the plays she’s working on at The Coterie, and he motivates her to do her best.

Jarrett Bertoncin+

Resident Light Designer

Jarrett Bertoncin worked backstage on his high school’s theatre productions, where his passion for designing sets and lights began. His most recent shows at The Coterie include DOCTOR DOLITTLE, DON'T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS! THE MUSICAL!, ONLY ONE DAY A YEAR, A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS (2017, 2019 and 2022), TELL-TALE ELECTRIC POE, AKEELAH AND THE BEE, ALICE'S WONDERLAND, PETE THE CAT, THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL, DRAGONS LOVE TACOS, ELECTRIC POE, PUFFS, RISE UP: THE STRUGGLE OF THE FREEDOM RIDERS, BEAT BUGS: A MUSICAL ADVENTURE, MR. POPPER'S PENGUINS, BECOMING MARTIN, GOOSEBUMPS: PHANTOM OF THE AUDITORIUM - THE MUSICAL, JACK AND THE BEAN MÁGICO!, TUCK EVERLASTING, RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL (2016 and 2018), and THE NINE WHO DARED: COURAGE IN LITTLE ROCK, as well as LUCKY DUCK, which performed Off-Broadway at The New Victory Theater (NYC). Other recent credits include serving as lighting designer on The Coterie’s co-production of Disney’s NEWSIES at White Theatre at The J, TE ATA for the Smithsonian Institution National Museum of the American Indian, and as scenic designer for IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A LIVE RADIO PLAY for Oklahoma City University’s School of Theatre. To see more of Jarrett's designs visit www.jsbdesigns.org.

David Kiehl+

Resident Sound Designer

David Kiehl thanks his family for piquing his interest in theatre by being raised to value the arts in all forms and for supporting him. David has designed over 130 Coterie productions during the past 25 years including, most recently, DOCTOR DOLITTLE, DON'T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS! THE MUSICAL!, ONLY ONE DAY A YEAR, A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS (2017, 2019 and 2022), TELL-TALE ELECTRIC POE, AKEELAH AND THE BEE, ALICE'S WONDERLAND, PETE THE CAT, THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL, PUFFS, RISE UP: THE STRUGGLE OF THE FREEDOM RIDERS, BEAT BUGS: A MUSICAL ADVENTURE, MR. POPPER'S PENGUINS, and BECOMING MARTIN. Other local productions include THE GRAVE, MILKING CHRISTMAS, and NOCTURNE at The Living Room Theatre, CLYDE'S, THE SOUND INSIDE, and TONI STONE at Unicorn Theatre, and SMART PEOPLE, ‘NIGHT MOTHER, and A DOLL'S HOUSE at Kansas City Actors Theatre.

Mark A. Exline

Properties

Mark A. Exline knew he always loved to draw, but when he found that a career in theatre allowed him to draw, paint, build things, and work with a lot of other artists, he jumped at the opportunity! Mark returns to The Coterie where he previously served as scenic designer on DOCTOR DOLITTLE and HANA’S SUITCASE. Other stage credits include serving as production designer of EVERY BRILLIANT THING for Arkansas Repertory Theatre, scenic designer of TITANIC THE MUSICAL and COMPANY for Music Theater Heritage, and COLLECTIVE RAGE for Fishtank Theatre. Mark’s work has also been seen in multiple recent art installations including Party Arty at The Nelson-Atkins Museum, BARE Evolution at The Joslyn Museum, and Terra Luna for Quixotic. Mark holds degrees in Theatre Design and Technology from Florida School of the Arts (AS), Greensboro College (BA), and The University of Missouri - Kansas City (MFA).

Daniel Doss

Associate Music Director

Kelsey McGee*

Assistant Stage Manager

Kelsey Megee was cast in DEAR SANTA as an elf and it inspired her love for theatre. She fell in love with the community and collaboration that theatre inspires and that theatre always welcomes everyone, no matter who you are. Kelsey has a BA in Theater from University of Missouri-Kansas City, though she did the majority of her training at University of Texas-El Paso. She now chooses to focus on theater for young audiences and stage management. She grew up in a military house which allowed her to travel and experience theater in other areas around the country. She has most recently worked with the Kansas City Ballet on their production of GISELLE and THE NUTCRACKER. Kelsey is ecstatic to be working with the Coterie and bringing a love of theater to all ages!

Jonathan Thomas

Managing Director

Jonathan Thomas stepped into his role managing operations at The Coterie in November 2022 after the tragic loss of executive director Joette Pelster. He co-leads the organization with the interim artistic director, working to bring The Coterie’s innovative performances and programs to the Kansas City region. Jonathan began his path as a professional opera and musical theatre performer out of college, working locally with many area performing arts organizations including the Kansas City Symphony, Kansas City Chorale, Simon Carrington Chamber Singers, Lyric Opera of Kansas City, and New Theatre & Restaurant. After seven years building a successful insurance and financial advising agency, he moved to San Francisco to follow his passion in arts administration. Before returning to Kansas City in 2018, he served as the development manager for The Walden School for three years, where he oversaw organizational fundraising strategies and expanded alumni relations. At ArtsKC, he served as Senior Development Manager, which greatly expanded his knowledge of the Kansas City arts sector. Prior to joining The Coterie, Jonathan served as the Senior Manager for Individual Giving and Partnerships at Lyric Opera of Kansas City, combining his love for the performing arts with his passion for leadership and fund development. Jonathan received a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from the University of Kansas. He continues his commitment to educating and advocating for the arts by serving on the Orpheus KC board, the Johnson County Park and Recreation Artist Selection Committee, and by chairing the Theatre in the Park advisory council. He is a frequent guest speaker about the economic impact of the arts in Kansas City, appearing at the NAAAP Leadership Conference, Arts Day for Centurions, and at the Northeast Kansas City Chamber of Commerce. Jonathan is married to Gail Nakano and is a father to Sofia, a junior at Cornell University, Tristan, a junior in high school, and Cassia, a three-year-old who is undecided about her college plans.

Donors

The Coterie wishes to express its deepest appreciation to the many corporations, foundations, government agencies, and individuals that so generously support The Coterie.

The following list celebrates gifts received by February 3, 2023.

Sponsors