Elf

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Song List

"Happy all the Time" .......... Buddy, Santa, Elves
"World’s Greatest Dad" ..........  Buddy, New Yorkers
"Sparklejollytwinklejingley" .......... Buddy, Jovie, Macy’s Employees
"I’ll Believe in You" .......... Emily, Michael
"A Christmas Song" .......... Buddy, Jovie, New Yorkers
"World’s Greatest Dad (Reprise)".......... Buddy, Ensemble
"Never Fall in Love (With An Elf)".......... Jovie
"There is a Santa Claus".......... Emily, Michael, New Yorkers
"The Story of Buddy".......... Buddy, Emily, Walter, Michael, Mr. Greenway, Deb, Matthews, and Chadwick
"A Christmas Song (Reprise)".......... Company
"Sparklejollytwinklejingley (Reprise)".......... Company

Cast

Creative Team

ABOUT THE PRODUCTION

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

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

 + Loren Wendelburg's performance in Elf - The Musical T.Y.A. is generously underwritten by Variety KC.

Elf – The Musical T.Y.A. is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com

SPECIAL THANKS

Kansas City Art Institute for original production designs by the Illustration Department’s student staffed agency, MICRO: Elf - The Musical T.Y.A. design by Cory Williamson.

The Coterie is proud to recognize funding from partners Spencer Fane and Variety KC for this production.

Additional financial assistance for The Coterie's season has been generously provided by Missouri Arts Council, Hallmark Corporate Foundation, The Shubert Foundation, Mark Edelman Theater Fund, Muriel McBrien Kauffman Family Foundation, Richard J. Stern 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. Elf - The Musical T.Y.A. is a professional production employing members of Actors’ Equity Association, founded in 1913, representing more than 51,000 professional actors and stage managers in the U.S.

ABOUT THE COTERIE

The Coterie Theatre provides unique theatre experiences for families and young audiences. A not-for-profit professional theatre company, The Coterie is nationally recognized for its one-of-a-kind programming that features a year-round season of live plays and musicals on the company's mainstage. Since its founding 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 50 world or American premieres for all ages have been produced by The Coterie over the last 45 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 offers acting and theatre classes year-round for PreK-12th grades at multiple locations around Kansas City, including an extensive summer program of classes and performance camps. The Coterie’s community programming redefines traditional notions of work for young audiences with its unique dramatic youth writing programs (In-School Literacy Residencies and Young Playwrights Workshop), as well as two programs offered to students and schools free of charge, focusing on teen LGBTQ work (Project Pride) and preteen and teen mental health workshops (Project Daylight).

All these components serve on average over 75,000 young people and their families per year through over 350 performances. The Coterie's mission is to celebrate young people and engage diverse communities through professional theatre and education programs that foster creativity, confidence, and compassion. Donate at www.thecoterie.org.

2025 COTERIE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Joe Bellinger • President
Amy Graham • Secretary
Kristina Thompson • Secretary
Theresa Stoker • Treasurer
Laura Antolak • Board Engagement Chair
Ali Saucier • Development Chair
Nicole Jacobs-Silvey • Community Engagement Chair

Sara Anthony
Angela Bedell
Richard Browne
Ava Delsemme
LaTanya Franklin
Carlos Gonzalez
Katie Hall
Jennifer Ingraham
Michael Judy
Gabriela Lucas
Greg Oborny
Ashlee Parker-Osborne
Natalie Simms-Patton
Ashley Strohm
Andrew Van Der Laan

COTERIE ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

MANAGING DIRECTOR • Jonathan Thomas
PRODUCING ARTISTIC DIRECTOR • Khalia Davis Philp
MARKETING & PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR • David Golston
DIRECTOR OF THEATRE SCHOOL • Allison Nissley
COMMUNITY PROGRAM MANAGER • Xinyue Zhang
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR • Derek Trautwein
BOX OFFICE MANAGER • Jason Coats
BOOKING COORDINATOR • Stephanie Laaker
BOX OFFICE ASSISTANT/MARKETING SPECIALIST • Tressa Lee
HOUSE MANAGERS & BOX OFFICE ASSISTANTS • Dorian Allen, Kali Coates, Ciera Loran, Ezra Martinez-Haskins, Kelsey McGee, Pam West

PRODUCTION SPONSOR

Meet the Company

Spencer Greenwood

Buddy the Elf

Spencer Greenwood has been performing as long as he can remember. It started when he spent a lot of time backstage after school helping his mom, who was a drama teacher for his middle school and who also helped design and construct costumes for the local community in Lawrence. Eventually, he decided that he wanted to see what all the hullabaloo was about... and he's been acting ever since! Spencer is delighted to make his Coterie debut in ELF - THE MUSICAL T.Y.A., although he has performed as Buddy before. Way back in 2021, it was his first step back into physical theatre after the epidemic. He had lost out on his junior and senior years of high school (even prom!), so to be able to perform the show -- facemask and all -- really rejuvenated and solidified his love for live theatre and the arts. Other recent and favorite credits include Jason in BARE: A POP OPERA with The Arts Asylum, Miss Trunchbull in MATILDA: THE MUSICAL with Lawrence Arts Center, Hanschen in SPRING AWAKENING with Topeka Civic Theatre, and Silvius from AS YOU LIKE IT at Polsky Theatre in the Midwest Trust Center. After finishing high school, Spencer attended Johnson County Community College, studying acting and stage performance and he is now heading into his fourth year there. Spencer sends much love to his family, and also to his cat that thinks sitting on his script is just soooooooo comfortable.

TJ Lancaster*

Walter Hobbs

TJ Lancaster was in fourth grade when his English teacher asked him to be in the play MRS. McTHING... because he was loud and talked a lot. Being on stage was a perfect outlet for all that energy, and he was hooked! TJ is excited to make his Coterie debut in ELF - THE MUSICAL T.Y.A., especially since The Coterie's premiere Theatre for Young Audiences version of SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL was one of the first performances he saw after moving to Kansas City. TJ's recent credits include WHAT THE CONSTITUTION MEANS TO ME with Kansas City Repertory Theatre, CLUE with STAGES St. Louis, THE LIFESPAN OF A FACT with North Carolina Stage Company, ART and LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS with Greenbrier Valley Theatre, INDECENT with Max & Louie Productions, BAREFOOT IN THE PARK with Moonstone Theatre Company, WEST SIDE STORY with Lyric Opera of Kansas City, DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS and THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD with Actors Theatre of Indiana, and HAIRSPRAY with Starlight Theatre. Find out more about TJ at www.tjlancaster.com.

Lauren Taylor

Jovie, Santa's Elf

Lauren Taylor loved movie musicals, singing, and reading when she was young. For fun, her parents enrolled her in summer theatre classes even some at The Coterie!) and she's been hooked on performing ever since! The Coterie's production of ELF - THE MUSICAL T.Y.A. marks Lauren's second time playing the role of Jovie, after also playing the part for Padgett Productions. Lauren returns to The Coterie, where she sparked her love for Theatre for Young Audiences (T.Y.A.) by making her professional theatre debut as Nermal in GARFIELD: THE MUSICAL WITH CATTITUDE, and later appearing as Violet in A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS (2022) and, most recently, as the female swing in A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD this past summer. Lauren's other recent local stage and film credits include serving as understudy for Sister Mary Leo in NUNSENSE, a swing in NEWSIES, and a teen and dance ensemble member in FREAKY FRIDAY at New Theatre & Restaurant; Iris in RENNIE for Barley Moon Productions; Junie B. in JUNIE B. JONES and A LITTLE MONKEY BUSINESS, Chicken Little and music director for CHICKEN LITTLE, and Goldilocks and music director for GOLDILOCKS & THE THREE BEARS at Theatre for Young America; and Betty Rizzo in GREASE and Sonia in GODSPELL for Theatre Atchison. Lauren received her Bachelor of Music with an emphasis in Musical Theatre from Kansas State University in 2020. Find out more about Lauren on Instagram @lauren.n.taylor.

Bradley Thomas*

Santa, Manager, Mr. Greenway

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 theater in Kansas City and loves working with veterans and young professionals alike.

Franci Talamantez-Witte

Emily, Santa’s Elf, Dance Captain

Franci Talamantez-Witte loved watching her sister in theatre productions and she loved watching touring shows when they came to her school. She got her first stage role at five-years old as a China doll in THE GREAT TOY CAPER with Music Theatre for Young People (now Music Theatre Kansas City) and never looked back! Franci is excited to be back for her third holiday season with The Coterie! You may have seen her last season as Dory in FINDING NEMO T.Y.A. or in 2023 as Mrs. Claus & Mrs. Donner in RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL. She was most recently seen as La Bruja in EL ORO OZ with Theatre in the Park’s Blue Curtain Project or as the Cook, Singing Telegram, Cop in CLUE at New Theatre & Restaurant. Franci made her Off-Broadway debut in New York in 2023 as Willamina Cole in PREJUDICE AND PRIDE. Franci is a local performing artist and teaching artist who teaches all over the Kansas City area with Kansas City Young Audiences, Heartbeat Studios, Johnson County Park & Rec, and others. This past summer, she was the student advocate for Starlight’s production of SCHOOL OF ROCK. Her directorial credits include CHILDREN OF EDEN and BEAUTIFUL with Music Theatre Kansas City, TREVOR with The Black Box, as well as multiple camps and classes. Franci attended Kansas State University to study Theatre and Dance and she went on to study both in New York and Kansas City. Currently, Franci is a private acting coach, director, and choreographer, and a huge supporter and advocate for Theatre for Young Audiences. For inquiries, contact her at Francijane81@gmail.com or follow her on Instagram and TikTok @Francijane81 or on Facebook @Franci Talamantez-Witte.

Leo J. Covitz

Michael Hobbs

Leo J. Covitz took an acting class when I was seven. I just loved the feeling of putting on a show. Leo is excited to be performing at The Coterie for a third time, after previously appearing as Mike Tevee in CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY and as a reindeer in RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL. Other recent credits include THE BEST HANUKKAH SHOW EVER at The White Theatre at The J and THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK with City Theatre of Independence. Find out more about Leo on Instagram @anxious_schmuck

Samuel Eddy

Michael Hobbs

Samuel Eddy attended The Coterie's holiday show with his mom for his 4th birthday and he immediately knew he wanted to be on the stage with all of the performers! Samuel previously performed with The Coterie as Nemo in the 2025 summer camp production of FINDING NEMO JR. and is currently a Coterie Master Class student. Samuel's first professional theater performance was in a different production of this very same show -- he was an understudy for the same role he's playing now! Other previous credits include playing Berlioz in DISNEY DOUBLE FEATURE, Small Boy in BILLY ELLIOT, and Randolph MacAfee in BYE, BYE, BIRDIE! On screen, he’s appeared as Travis in "Education of a Teacher," Timothy in "Gingerbread Men," and more! Samuel’s training includes The Coterie’s Master Class, Wright-Laird workshops, A Class Act NY, and private voice study with Grace Wallace-Mott. He’s especially grateful for the love and guidance of Ms. Franci, Ms. Cory, and all the incredible teaching artists at Kansas City Young Audiences. Getting to now share the stage with his own teachers and mentors makes this moment feel like both a homecoming and a new beginning for Samuel. Find out more about Samuel at https://tinyurl.com/2vktufta.

Catera Combs

Deb, Shawanda, NYC townsperson, Saleswoman at Macy’s, Charlotte Dennon

Catera Combs got her start on stage playing Ronette in LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS her junior year of high school. Catera remembers sitting in the audience at The Coterie when she was in second grade. Never did she think then that she'd be a performer on The Coterie's stage, but she's now returning for her sixth show after previously appearing in NAKED MOLE RAT GETS DRESSED: THE ROCK EXPERIENCE, A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS, RISE UP, ELEPHANT & PIGGIE'S "WE ARE IN A PLAY!", and BEAT BUGS: A MUSICAL ADVENTURE. Catera is a 2018 graduate of Stephens College and an actress and creative based in Kansas City, passionate about bringing stories to life that inspire connection and joy. She extends gratitude to her family, friends, and mentors for their continuous support. Find out more about Catera on Instagram @CateraCombs, Twitter @CateraLCombs, TikTok @CateraCombs, YouTube @cateracombsirl, and Facebook @CateraCombs.

Loren Wendelburg+

Chadwick, Charlie, Macy's employee, Security, Policeman

Loren Wendelburg always enjoyed playing pretend as a child so, to Loren, being an actor is like playing pretend on stage! Loren returns to The Coterie after last appearing in the world premiere of JUST ASK! last season. Other favorite roles include Major General in THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE, Clown in THE 39 STEPS, Death in EVERYBODY, and Macbeth in THE HOLLOW CROWN at University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), Captain/Reaper in THE TEMPEST at Heart of America Shakespeare Festival, Pirate in PETER PAN at The White Theatre at The J, and the Beast in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST at The Culture House. Loren recently graduated from the Conservatory at UMKC in Theatre. He is proud to represent someone on the autism spectrum and to show you can follow your dreams. He enjoys reading, creative writing, drawing, puppetry and is a really tall person! Loren thanks his supportive family and friends as well as the great cast, crew, and directors for this amazing production! Find Loren on Facebook @loren.wendelburg.

Terrace Wyatt, Jr.

Matthews, Santa’s Elf, Fake Santa, Security

Terrace Wyatt, Jr. discovered his love of the arts from watching TV in the comfort of his living room as a child; acting out his favorite movies, cartoons, and Michael Jackson. He began applying his ADHD to the world of theatre at Starlight Theatre, and the marathon started there. Terrace returns to The Coterie's stage for his ninth appearance after recently portraying Sheldon, Anchor, and Bloat in Disney and Pixar's FINDING NEMO TYA, Inman Bass in the world premiere of HORSE POWER: TOM BASS' AMERICAN STORY, Luke in THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL, Snoopy in A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS (2022), and as the male cover in ALICE'S WONDERLAND, NAKED MOLE RAT GETS DRESSED: THE ROCK EXPERIENCE, and CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY. Terrace is a local actor, playwright, director, and producer in Kansas City, MO. He graduated with a B.A. in Theatre at William Jewell College and has worked full-time on stage since the pandemic. Recent Kansas City credits include SHREK: THE MUSICAL with Leawood Stage Company, FENCES with KC MeltingPot Theatre, THE ROYALE and PETER PAN & WENDY with Kansas City Repertory Theatre, THE GRAPES OF WRATH with The Arts Asylum, BOXED with Whim Productions, DREAMGIRLS with New Theatre & Restaurant, 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. He also assisted Kansas City Repertory Theatre on BROKE-OLOGY by Nathan Louis Jackson. Terrace recently remounted his play BLACK MAN, MISSOURI for KC Fringe at City Stage in Union Station last summer which received “Best of Venue” and was nominated for “Best Play" (Professional) for BroadwayWorld KC Awards. As he continues acting full-time, he’s developing more original works with his production company Terrace Studios, LLC. Production credits include BLACK MAN, MISSOURI; ONCE APON A TIME IN FRANCE, co-produced with Bratha Abe Films; MEL’N E [MELANIN & EDUCATED] for KC Fringe 2025, and many more on the way! Terrace would like to thank his family, friends, and God for everything they’ve done for him. God is his therapist when he has no one to go to. Find out more about Terrace on Instagram @terracewyatt.jr and @terr.studios or on Facebook @Terrace Wyatt, Jr. or @Terr. Studios.

Emma Price

Female Swing, Wardrobe Supervisor

Emma Price attributes her mom for her reason to get in to theatre. Growing up in a western Kansas farm town, the closest theatre available was in Denver, so her mom made sure to share the magic of live theatre by taking Emma and her sister, Addie, out to see traveling shows. Both Emma and her sister have wanted to share that special magic of theatre and storytelling ever since! Emma marks her Coterie stage debut in ELF - THE MUSICAL T.Y.A. after previously working as the wardrobe and wig supervisor on FINDING NEMO T.YA. and NAKED MOLE RAT GETS DRESSED: THE ROCK EXPERIENCE. Emma is an actor, creative, and baker from Scott City, KS. She graduated with a BA in Theatre from Kansas State University. She is now a Kansas City local but loves to travel! Local credits include GYPSY at Music Theater Heritage and FREAKY FRIDAY at New Theatre & Restaurant. Regional credits include THE ADDAMS FAMILY, THE WIZARD OF OZ, HAIRSPRAY, and MAMMA MIA! with Four Corners Musical Theatre and PUPPET PETER PAN with Brett Crandall Studios. Emma sends thanks to her family, friends, FCMT family, and Mary Catherine (her cat). Emma is grateful to share stories and spark connection through the magic of local theatre! Find out more about Emma on Instagram @emmvp99, Facebook @Emma Price, and TikTok @emvp99.

Shawn Patrick Murphy

Male Swing

Shawn Patrick Murphy owes his love for theatre to his mom and cousin, TJ, who both sparked his passion for storytelling and entertainment from a young age. Shawn and his mom bonded over countless movies, quoting lines back and forth and creating a shared love of great stories. He and his mom particularly loved watching Christmas movies together and ELF was one they especially enjoyed -- “You smell like beef and cheese!” was always one of their favorite quotes! Shawn and TJ eventually began filming their own home movies on VHS, putting on puppet shows, and even muting the TV to give their own voiceovers, just to make each other laugh. His mom and TJ both showed him how fun and creative storytelling could be, and that foundation eventually led him to the stage. His first ever role was as Chewing Gum in a musical about dental hygiene! Shawn returns to The Coterie stage after previously appearing as Bruce and Gil in FINDING NEMO TYA followed by the Storyteller in FINDING WINNIE at The Liberty WWI Memorial last season. He has also worked with The Coterie’s education department as a teaching artist assistant and presenter for Project Daylight. Other recent credits include playing Oberon, Lysander, and Flute in BREAKNECK MIDSUMMER NIGHTS DREAM for KC Fringe; Greg in SYLVIA at The Arts Asylum, Tony in BILLY ELLIOT at MTKC Pro, and puppet shows large and small with Stonelion Puppet Theatre. Shawn graduated Summa Cum Laude from Northwest Missouri State University with a BS in Theatre Performance.

Derek Trautwein

Director

Derek Trautwein is a Kansas City theatre artist with a wide berth of professional and educational experience. This world premiere production of the Theatre for Young Audiences version of ELF - THE MUSICAL marks Derek's directing debut at The Coterie, however he previously served as technical director on The Coterie's A WRINKLE IN TIME, CINDERELLA: A SALSA FAIRY TALE, JUST ASK!, FINDING NEMO T.Y.A., ELECTRIC POE (2024 & 2025), the world premiere of HORSE POWER: TOM BASS' AMERICAN STORY, Roald Dahl's CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY, NAKED MOLE RAT GETS DRESSED: THE ROCK EXPERIENCE, and RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL (2023). After graduating from Northwest Missouri State University in 2009 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre Performance, Derek received his Master of Arts Degree in Theatre History in 2012 from the University of Central Missouri (UCM). During his time at UCM, Derek began his journey as a carpenter and Technical Director to accompany his endeavors in acting, directing, and playwriting. From 2013 to 2023, Derek served as faculty amongst the Department of Theatre and Dance at Benedictine College in Atchison, KS. Initially hired as the Technical Director, as he oversaw all sound, light, and scenic elements, Derek was promoted to Assistant Professor and Department Chair in 2021. Derek’s final directing spotlight at Benedictine, THE MOUSETRAP by Agatha Christie, received a Meritorious Achievement Award for Play Direction from the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival in 2023. Around Kansas City, Derek has worked with the Kansas City Repertory Theatre, Kansas City Public Theatre, KC MeltingPot Theatre, Relevance Productions, Card Table Theatre, and Stuffed Buffalo Productions. Since 2012, Derek has been an active participant in the Kansas City Fringe Festival, producing over a dozen pieces of original works written by other artists as well as his own, including DECEIT, which earned Derek the inaugural Mark Edelman Best New Play Award in 2019. Derek’s original plays have also been featured multiple times each for Kansas City Public Theatre, Olathe Civic Theatre, and the Kansas City Horror Play Festival. Lately, Derek has been bouncing around multiple spaces in the Kansas City theatre community including performing on stage in THIS RANDOM WORLD: THE MYTH OF SERENDIPITY at Just Off Broadway Theatre and ELF - THE MUSICAL with Padgett Productions as well as serving as technical director of NATASHA, PIERRE & THE GREAT COMET OF 1812 at The Black Box and THE SHOOTER produced by Trish Mitchell at Just Off Broadway Theatre. Moving forward, Derek seeks to create on his own terms while aiding artists of all kind to find their voices and venues.

Ty Tuttle

Music Director

Ty Tuttle was inspired to get into theatre by his passionate and encouraging music teachers. Ty is a Kansas City-based pianist and musical theatre coach. Throughout his growing career, he has established himself as a passionate and diligent collaborator. An Illinois native, Ty received his master’s degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2021. Ty remains active as a pianist and music supervisor. He has music directed and performed at theaters all over Illinois and the Kansas City area. Recent credits include FINDING NEMO T.Y.A. and CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY at The Coterie, THE LITTLE MERMAID at Starlight Theatre, and SWEENEY TODD at Music Theater Heritage, where he serves as a Resident Music Director.

Khalia Davis Philp

Choreographer, Coterie Producing Artistic Director

Khalia Davis was eleven years old when she was cast in her first role in an original play at a theatre summer camp. At the top of the show, when she said her first line, the audience actually laughed and she knew she was hooked! For Khalia, that is the magic and beauty of live theatre: that special exchange you share with the audience, knowing that your art is the reason they are transported for a short time to new worlds, learning, and experiencing new stories. Khalia co-leads The Coterie with the managing director to bring the organization’s innovative performances and programs to the Kansas City region. She previously directed The Coterie's production of FINDING NEMO TYA. Khalia is a multidisciplinary artist and arts leader who most recently served as the Assistant Director for the Broadway-bound world premiere, THE HIPPEST TRIP: THE SOUL TRAIN MUSICAL. As the former Artistic Director of Bay Area Children’s Theatre (BACT), she led the world premieres of A KIDS PLAY ABOUT RACISM, which brought together over 40 theater producing partners, including The Coterie, and was viewed on Broadway on Demand nearly 80,000 times during its limited run then became a free resource for educators and their students; and THE IMAGINARIES: AN IMMERSIVE MUSICAL, an original new work that transformed their theater into an accessible playground created by the newly-formed BACT Writer’s Room, which was created as a direct response to the lack of opportunities for BIPOC playwrights and composers specializing in TYA projects. During the COVID pandemic when theaters were closed in the Bay Area, Khalia worked in partnership with former Executive Director of BACT, Nina Meehan, to conceive and produce various forms of theatrical digital and audio content for young audiences that activated their creativity and imaginative play, showcasing the potential for future digital and theatrical collaborations in TYA programming. Khalia directed and devised other new works like the award-nominated world premiere, SHE PERSISTED, THE MUSICAL, based on the popular children’s book by Chelsea Clinton; the Off-Broadway world premiere of an original adaptation of Maya Angelou’s I KNOW WHY THE CAGED BIRD SINGS with New York City Children’s Theater; and the world premiere ARTHUR AND FRIENDS MAKE A MUSICAL! based on “Arthur,” the longest-running animated series on PBS with First Stage. Other prominent theaters include: A.C.T., Atlantic Theater Company’s Atlantic for Kids, New York City Children’s Theater, Disney Theatrical Group, Spellbound Theatre, and more. As a producer, Khalia has helped organizations reach hundreds of thousands of young people through interactive “edu-tainment” with the nationally known STORY PIRATES, generated new digital pre-school content with Spellbound at Home, and produced children’s media with her personal company, Kids at Heart Productions. Before assuming her role as Artistic Director of Bay Area Children’s Theater in 2020, Khalia served as the Director of Inclusion and Education with Brooklyn Children’s Theatre restructuring their children’s musical theatre programming through an anti-racism lens. Khalia is a proud board member for TYA/USA, Spellbound Theatre, and The Story Pirates. Awards include: 2019 Emerging Leader Fellowship-TYA/USA, 2019 NYCCT Leader Fellowship, and 2021 Corey Medallion Award-Children’s Theatre Foundation of America. Khalia has a BA in Theater Arts from the University of Southern California. To find out more, visit www.khaliadavis.com.

Katee Belle Imlay*

Production Stage Manager

Katee Belle Imlay first fell in love with theatre when she inherited her grandfather's collection of movie musical DVDs. FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, GUYS AND DOLLS, and the 10th anniversary concert recording of LES MISÉRABLES captured her heart and catapulted her into the wonderful world of theatre. Katee Belle is a stage manager, playwright, and teaching artist from Kansas City. As a stage manager, she has worked with The Coterie, Kansas City Public Theatre, The Arts Asylum, The Black Box, Heart of America Shakespeare Festival, Theatre Atchison, and the Messene International Youth Festival of Ancient Drama. She has also been a teaching artist with The Coterie since 2024. Katee Belle holds degrees in English Literature and Theatre from Benedictine College. She would like to thank her cat, Fiesta, for keeping her humble.

Mark A. Exline

Scenic Designer

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 CINDERELLA: A SALSA FAIRY TALE, THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL, DOCTOR DOLITTLE, and HANA’S SUITCASE, as well as properties designer on RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL. 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 University of Missouri - Kansas City (MFA).

Taylor Adams

Costume Designer

Taylor Adams was very young when they were cast as The Boy with Sled in A CHRISTMAS CAROL. When they put on their costume and played pretend for a couple hours, Taylor knew that they wanted to do it forever! Taylor graduated from Creighton University in 2020 with a BFA in Theatre Performance and Direction. They have been a professional theater designer for eight years. Taylor returns to The Coterie after previously designing costumes for the world premiere of JUST ASK! last season. Their previous hair crew experience includes designer for HAIRSPRAY at Burke High School, as well as EUGENE ONEGIN, I CAPULETI E I MONTECCHI, THE ABDUCTION FROM SERAGILO, and SWEENY TODD at Opera Omaha. Scenic design credits include LIZZIE for Shelterbelt Theatre; LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS for OPS All School Musical; 39 STEPS for Chanticleer; RIOT, REPEAT for KCACTF Region V Achievement in Design; BENT for SNAP!. Previous properties experience includes HEATHERS and RUTHLESS! for Creighton University, and THE STINKY CHEESE MAN for Rose Summer Camps. Find out more about Taylor at www.MakeArtWithTaylor.com.

Lacey Pacheco

Properties Designer

Lacey Pacheco's love of trivia lead her to the world of theatre. One of her first middle school classes ended each day with a team trivia game about theatre history. Lacey is incredibly competitive so she learned all she could to win and, in the meantime, fell in love with the stories of theatre's origins dating back to early Greek theatre. She loved the drama of the old plays and was quickly inspired by new works. Shortly after that, RENT hit Broadway and it made her want to be a part of that artistic community forever! Lacey is a Kansas City native and jill-of-all-trades who returns to The Coterie after previously serving as props designer on A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD and the world premiere of HORSE POWER: TOM BASS' AMERICAN STORY. She graduated from Missouri State University with a BFA in Technical Theatre and worked as a production stage manager in the Kansas City area but shifted gears to props design post-pandemic. She has since designed props for SMART PEOPLE and SKELETON CREW with Kansas City Actors Theatre; the indoor productions of LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS and SHOUT as well as the outdoor production of BYE BYE BIRDIE with Theatre in the Park; THE LITTLE MERMAID and MUSIC MAN with The White Theatre at The J, REEFER MADNESS and EXIT 16 at The Arts Asylum, and DOUBT: A PARABLE with Kansas City Actors Theatre at Kansas City United Church of Christ. Lacey was also the production manager for the KC Fringe Festival.

Zoe M. Spangler

Lighting and Projections Designer

Zoe M. Spangler's introduction to theatre was during first year orientation of high school from her mom, who urged her to try something new. Zoe and her best friend (whose mom also made her start a new activity) started out afraid of performing. However, over time, they supported each other and came out of their shells. Now, 14 years later, they still work in theatre and are still best friends. These days, Zoe is a lighting designer based in Kansas City, MO. She returns to The Coterie after previously serving as lighting designer on A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD and the world premiere of HORSE POWER: TOM BASS' AMERICAN STORY. Her previous design work has been seen all over the KC metro area, including Unicorn Theatre, Music Theater Heritage, Whim Productions, Kansas City Burlesque Festival, Heart of America Shakespeare Festival, Charlotte Street Foundation, Kansas City Aerial Arts, Midwest Trust Center at Johnson County Community College, Jewell Theatre Company, and UMKC Conservatory. She earned a Master of Fine Arts in Theatre Lighting Design and Technology at University of Missouri-Kansas City in May 2022, and is now adjunct faculty at Johnson County Community College and William Jewell College. Zoe's full lighting design portfolio can be found at zmspangler.com. Enjoy the show!

Daisy Melton

Sound Designer

Daisy Melton started as an actor in children's theatre, and after being asked to sound design a play as an undergrad in college, she was hooked! Daisy is a sound designer and engineer living in Kansas City, MO. She recently completed an MFA in Sound Design with the University of Missouri-Kansas City. She returns to The Coterie after designing sound for A WRINKLE IN TIME earlier this season. Other local design credits include DEATHTRAP at Kansas City Actors Theatre; system design and engineering for Variety KC's production of ANNIE at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts; University of Missouri-Kansas City MFA program's productions of TOPDOG/UNDERDOG and THINNER THAN WATER; Clemson Players’ productions of THE REVOLUTIONISTS, THE TEMPEST, and BRIGHT STAR; and The Warehouse Theatre’s production of THE THANKSGIVING PLAY. Daisy's upcoming work includes MILKING CHIRSTMAS with The Living Room Theatre on Music Theater Heritage's main stage; THE FANTASTICKS with Music Theater Heritage; and EVERYBODY with Kansas City Actors Theatre.

Dorian Allen

Technical Director

Dorian Allen got started in live music before eventually migrating to working in theatre. Dorian has served on The Coterie's technical team for over a year now after time spent in stage management and performance work across town. Recent credits include playing guitar in FUN HOME, with Olathe Civic Theatre Association and in BEAUTIFUL with The Barn Players; assistant stage manager for NATASHA, PIERRE, AND THE GREAT COMET OF 1812 with Fishtank Theatre, and stage manager for The Living Room Theatre's No Sleep November festival. When not on a ladder or covered in paint you can find Dorian serving drinks at The Black Box or seeing shows at local dives. He would like to thank his family, his dog, and Heidi Van for their continued support.

Hew McKoy

Associate Choreographer

Hew McKoy got started in theatre in middle school as a way to spend more time with their best friend - little did they know theatre would soon become their passion! Hew returns to The Coterie after previously appearing as Toad (and dance captain) in A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD, FINDING NEMO T.Y.A., as Venti Mole Rat in NAKED MOLE RAT GETS DRESSED: THE ROCK EXPERIENCE, as Boss Elf in RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL (2023), and as The Pigeon in DON'T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS! THE MUSICAL! Elsewhere, Hew appeared in [TITLE OF SHOW] with Summit Theatre Group, SEUSSICAL with The Theatre in the Park, and The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City’s production of MEMPHIS at The White Theatre at The J. Hew is a graduate of Olathe South High School and Emporia State University, and is a member of the alumni associations of Alpha Kappa Lambda and Alpha Psi Omega.

Betsy Wendorff

Assistant Stage Manager

Thomas Meehan

Book Co-Writer

Thomas Meehan received the Tony® Award for co-writing the book for THE PRODUCERS in 2001 and in 2003 for co-writing the book for HAIRSPRAY. He received his first Tony® Award in 1977 for writing the book of ANNIE, which was his first Broadway show, and has written the books for the musicals ROCKY, ELF - THE MUSICAL, CRY-BABY, YOUNG FRANKESTEIN, CHAPLIN, BOMBAY DREAMS, I REMEMBER MAMA, AIN’T BROADWAY GRAND, and ANNIE WARBUCKS. In addition, he was a long-time contributor of humor to "The New Yorker," an Emmy® Award-winning writer of television comedy, and a collaborator on a number of screenplays, including Mel Brooks' SPACEBALLS and TO BE OR NOT TO BE. Thomas was also a member of the Council of the Dramatists Guild. He and his wife, Carolyn, divided their time between a home in Nantucket and an apartment in Greenwich Village, near which, on Hudson Street, she owned and presided over the long-running and near-legendary children's store, Peanut Butter & Jane.

Bob Martin

Book Co-Writer

Bob Martin has been working as an actor and writer in Canadian theatre, film, and television for over three decades. He has had a long association with the Toronto Second City, where he co-wrote and performed in four Second City revues, directed three, and had a stint as Artistic Director. He is a co-creator of THE DROWSY CHAPERONE, and has performed in many of its incarnations including Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles, Marquis Theatre on Broadway, and Novello in London. Bob has won a number of awards for his work including a L.A. Drama Critics Circle Award, a L.A. Stage Alliance Ovation Award, a Drama Desk Award, a Theatre World Award, and a Tony Award. He is also co-creator of the critically acclaimed dramatic series "Slings & Arrows." Recent TV projects include "Michael: Tuesdays and Thursdays I & II" for CBC, "Sensitive Skin I & II" for HBO, and "Elf: Buddy's Musical Christmas" for NBC. Recent theatre projects include ELF - THE MUSICAL on Broadway, MINSKY'S for Ahmanson LA, and currently in developement: GOTTA DANCE, THE STING, and MILLIONS. Bob reunited with ELF collaborators Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin to create the new musical, THE PROM, which ran on Broadway at the Longacre Theatre and was nominated for seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

Matthew Sklar

Composer

Matthew Sklar is a two-time Tony®, Emmy®, Drama Desk, and Outer Critics Circle Award-nominated composer. He wrote the music for the Broadway musicals, THE PROM, nominated for seven Tony® Awards including Best Musical and Best Original Score, winner of the 2019 Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Musical; ELF - THE MUSICAL, a favorite perennial show in theaters across the globe; and THE WEDDING SINGER, nominated for five Tony® Awards including Best Musical and Best Original Score. Matthew received a Primetime Emmy® Award nomination for Outstanding Music Direction for the critically acclaimed NBC/Warner Bros stop-motion animated TV special, "Elf: Buddy's Musical Christmas," starring Jim Parsons. The feature film adaptation of "The Prom," starring Meryl Streep, received a Golden Globe® Award nomination for Best Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy. Matthew adapted and arranged the music of Marvin Hamlisch for the Emmy Award-winning documentary film "Marvin Hamlisch: What He Did For Love," seen on PBS/American Masters. He has contributed original songs to "Sesame Street," "Wonder Pets!," and the NBC broadcast of The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. His songs have been performed by such luminaries as Julie Andrews, Ed Asner, Cookie Monster, James Corden, Ariana DeBose, Andre DeShields, Elmo, Georgia Engel, Michael Feinstein, Josh Groban, Mark Hamill, Jennifer Hudson, Keegan Michael Key, Nicole Kidman, Donna McKechnie, Jim Parsons, Mandy Patinkin, Andrew Rannells, Meryl Streep, and Kerry Washington. At 18 years old, Matthew began playing keyboards for the Broadway production of LES MISÉRABLES, eventually conducting the show at 21-years old. He has also worked as a keyboardist, conductor, and/or arranger for many Broadway productions including SHREK THE MUSICAL; CAROLINE, OR CHANGE; NINE; OKLAHOMA!, PUTTING IT TOGETHER, ANNIE GET YOUR GUN, ON THE TOWN, TITANIC, GUYS AND DOLLS, SUNSET BOULEVARD, and MISS SAIGON. Matthew also appeared onstage as “Oscar” in the Broadway revival of 42ND STREET. Matthew is the recipient of some of the highest honors in the industry, including the Dramatists Guild Frederick Loewe Award for Dramatic Composition, the ASCAP Richard Rodgers New Horizons Award, the Jonathan Larson Performing Arts Foundation Award, and the Gilman/Gonzalez-Falla Theatre Award. Matthew is a proud member of the Dramatists Guild and ASCAP. His music is published by Warner/Chappell Music. He was educated at The Juilliard School of Music (Pre-College Division), the Boston University Tanglewood Institute, and New York University.

Chad Beguelin

Lyricist

Chad Beguelin is a four-time Tony® Nominee whose works include Disney's ALADDIN, which received a Tony® Award Nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award Nomination for Outstanding Lyrics and Best Book, and THE WEDDING, which received a Tony® Award Nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score and a Drama Desk Award Nomination for Outstanding Lyrics. He also wrote the lyrics for the Broadway musical, ELF - THE MUSICAL, which broke several box office records at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre. His play, HARBOR, premiered off-Broadway at Primary Stages. Chad also wrote the book and lyrics for JUDAS & ME, receiving a NYMF Award for Excellence in Lyric Writing; THE RHYTHM Club at Signature Theater; and WICKED CITY at American Stage Company. Chad reunited with ELF collaborators, Matthew Sklar and Bob Martin, to create the new musical, THE PROM, which ran on Broadway at the Longacre Theatre and was nominated for seven Tony® Awards, including Best Musical. He is the recipient of the Edward Kleban Award for Outstanding Lyric Writing, the Jonathan Larson Performing Arts Foundation Award, the Gilman & Gonzalez-Falla Musical Theater Award, and the ASCAP Foundation Richard Rodgers New Horizons Award. Chad is a graduate of New York University's Tisch School of the Arts Graduate Dramatic Writing Program.

Jonathan Thomas

Coterie Managing Director

Jonathan Thomas serves as Managing Director of The Coterie Theatre, having stepped into his role managing operations after the tragic loss of Executive Director Joette Pelster. He co-leads the organization with the Producing Artistic Director Khalia Davis, 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 Kansas City Chorale 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 senior at Cornell University, Tristan, a senior in high school, and Cassia and Koda, two littles who haven’t decided on college plans to date.

Donors

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

The following list celebrates gifts received September 1, 2024, and September 15, 2025.

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