The School of Performing Arts
Presents
Peter and the starcatcher
DIRECTOR/CHOREOGRAPHER Sheldon Mba | MUSIC DIRECTOR Linda Starkey |
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Melissa Penkava Koza | STAGE MANAGER Jesse Stephenson | ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER Abby Epstein |
SCENIC DESIGNER Robin Vest | ASSISTANT SCENIC DESIGNER Damien Page | COSTUME DESIGNER Jade Almsberger |
HAIR AND MAKEUP DESIGNER Sarah Bussard | ASSISTANT HAIR AND MAKEUP DESIGNER Brittani Richardson | ASSISTANT HAIR AND MAKEUP DESIGNER Renae Richmond |
LIGHTING DESIGNER Nick Roux | CO-SOUND DESIGNER Denise Ussery | CO-SOUND DESIGNER Madi Henderson |
PRODUCTION AIDE/ INTIMACY CHOREOGRAPHER Erin Urick | PROPS ARTISAN Molly Bazar | VOICE AND DIALECTS COACH/FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHER Joseph Urick |
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Ed Baker | PRODUCER Cheyla Clawson | ASSISTANT TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Will Smith |
Trigger Warning Patrons who may suffer from epilepsy & other visual light stimulation should be advised of the flashing/flickering lighting effects used during Act 2 Scene 6 of this performance. |
Faculty/Guest Artists
Sheldon Mba (Director/Choreographer) is an Assistant Professor of Performing Arts- Theatre and Social Justice and the Interim Program Director of Theatre at Wichita State University. He has professionally performed regionally in the Midwest and Southeast as an actor and concert dancer. Mba has performed brilliantly as an actor in a wide range of roles, such as Peter in Jesus Christ Superstar (Summer Lyric at Tulane), Laertes in Hamlet (New Orleans Shakespeare), Little Moe in Five Guys Named Moe (Forum Theatre), Brad in The Rocky Horror Show (Crown Arts Collaborative) and Sheldon Saperstein in The Prom (Oklahoma Lyric). As a dancer, he has shared his skills with the Koffee Dance Company, the African American Dance Ensemble, Harambee Collective, the Regina Klenjoski Dance Company, and Smack Dab Dance. The Region V Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival recognized him for his Choreography of Catch Me If You Can and Little Women. His Direction and Choreography Credits include American Dance Festival, National Black Theatre Festival, Region IV of KCACTF, Crown Arts Collaborative, Forum Theatre, Roxy’s Downtown Theatre, Children’s Performance Theatre, Wichita Collegiate High School, Trinity Academy, Harvester Arts, and in numerous capacities across the Midwest and East coast.
Sarah Bussard (Hair/Makeup Designer) (M.F.A. Theatre Design & Production (Makeup & Wig Design) at the University of Cincinnati, College-Conservatory of Music) is a Costume and Makeup/Wig Designer with work in theatre, opera, film, and video, including collaborations with Music Theatre Wichita, Indiana Repertory Theatre, Notre Dame Shakespeare Festival, Merry-Go-Round Playhouse, Olney Theatre Centre, Sarasota Opera, Virginia Opera, Cincinnati Opera, and Chautauqua Opera. Other work includes The American Experience with Rick Burns, Seven Below, Silk Trees (Evermore Pictures), as well as Evaluating Kaitly, and 177, award-winning short films with Runaway Pen Productions. She is currently a part of the Costume Design faculty at Wichita State University where her research interests include Traditional Asian Dress, Historical Hair Styling, and Inclusion and Diversity in Design.
Cheyla Clawson Chandler, MA, MFA (Producer) is an Associate Professor of Dance and the Director of the School of Performing Arts at Wichita State University. Chandler’s modern dance research is focused on Horton Technique, and she attended the Horton Dance Technique Certificate Program 2013-2020 at The Ailey School in NYC. Her two duets, Anam Chara (2014) and nosuchSymbiosis (2016) were invited to The American College Dance Association National Festival at The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Cheyla presented her latest research focused on community integration curriculum in dance performance degrees at The International Arts in Society conference in June 2022 (Australia), gave a workshop on Dance and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the American College Dance Association online National Workshop series in March of 2021 as well as community-based intergenerational research at The American Dance Symposium in NYC in January of 2023. At WSU, Cheyla is a member of the Student Success and Persistence Coalition, the President’s Diversity Council, and the University Assessment Committee. She coordinates the College of Fine Arts Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Access, and Belonging Committee and is a doctoral candidate in the Educational Leadership Program. Beyond WSU, Cheyla is a Policy Board Member for the National Dance Education Organization.
Faculty/Guest Artists
Brittani Richardson (Assistant Hair & Makeup Designer) is elated to be working on Wichita State University's theatre production of Peter and the Starcatcher. Previous credits include hair and makeup assistant for Wizard of Oz (Music Theatre of Wichita), and makeup for The Kansas African American Museum's original production of Canaan. Brittani graduated from Wichita State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music Theatre. You can find out more at her website www.empowerbeautybybrynn.squarespace.com
Robin Vest (Scenic Designer) has been designing whimsical scenery since 2002. She spent much of her New York career working on new plays, getting to the root of the environment and trying to minimize moving pieces in favor of a seamless evolution of space. Lately she has been designing more musicals, reimagining shows like Peter Pan and Annie, connecting to young audiences with playful scenery influenced by the books her own children read. Other favorite recent projects include Gloria at Profile Theatre directed by Josh Hect, Miss You Like Hell directed by Esteban Arévalo Ibáñez at Theatre Squared, and Matilda at Cape Fear Regional Theatre, directed by Marc de la Concha and The Magic Flute at Oklahoma City University directed by Cynthia Stokes.
Run of Show
Prologue | Company | |
The Neverland - On Deck | Peter/Boy, Prentiss, Aster, Molly, Bumbrake, BILL SLANK, Alf, Greggors, & Ensemble | |
Molly’s Cabin | MOLLY, Bumbrake, Bill Slank, Alf, & mack | |
Bowels of the ship | Bill Slank, Mack & Pirates | |
Bilge Dungeon | Peter/Boy, Prentiss, Ted, Aster, Molly, Bumbrake, Grempkin, & alf | |
The Wasp- Captain’s Cabin | Aster, Black Stache, Greggors/Smee, Sanchez, & Pirates | |
The Neverland - Passageway | Peter/Boy, Prentiss, Ted, Bumbrake, Captain Scott, Bill, Mack, and Black stache | |
The Wasp - Captain’s Cabin | Aster, Greggors/Smee, Sanchez, & Pirates | |
The Neverland - Bilge Dungeon | Peter/Boy, Prentiss, Ted, Aster, & Molly | |
The Neverland - On Deck | Peter/Boy, Molly, Bill Slank, & Alf | |
The Neverland and the Wasp | Company | |
15 MINUTE INTERMISSION | ||
Prologue - Mollusk Island - Shore | Prentiss, Ted, Molly, Bumbrake, Captain Scott, Alf, Mack, Black Stache, Smee, & Mermaids | |
Mountaintop, Mollusk Island | Peter/Boy, Prentiss, Ted, Bumbrake, & Alf | |
Jungle | Peter/Boy, Prentiss, Ted, Molly, Black Stache, Smee, Fighting Prawn, Hawking Clam, & Mollusks | |
Mollusk Territory | Peter/Boy, Prentiss, Ted, Molly, Fighting Prawn, Hawking Clam, & Mollusks | |
Mister Grin’s Cage | Peter/Boy, Prentiss, Ted, Molly, Fighting Prawn, Hawking Clam, & Aster | |
Beach | Black Stache & Smee | |
Jungle’s edge | Peter/Boy, Prentiss, Ted, & Molly | |
Up the Mountain | Peter/Boy, Prentiss, Ted, Aster, molly, Black Stache, Smee, Fighting Prawn & Hawking Clam | |
Grotto | Peter/Boy, Alf, & Teacher | |
Mountaintop | Peter/Boy, Prentiss, Ted, Grempkin, Alf & Black Stache | |
Beach | Company |
CAST
Peter/Boy | Gavin Tanner | |
Prentiss | Cat Kee | |
Ted | Israel Carreno | |
Aster | Austin Hancock | |
Molly | Hayley Longacre | |
Bumbrake | Jessica Hudson | |
Captain Scott | Morgan Holcomb | |
Grempkin (U/s Alf) | Lynnaya Mcclure | |
Bill slank/ Fighting Prawn | Ashley Grega | |
Alf (U/s Black stache) | Carson Ediger | |
Mack (Fight Captain) | Emily Redfield | |
Black stache | Renae Richmond | |
Smee | Matthew Gwinner | |
Sanchez (u/s Slank) | Seferino ramirez | |
Hawking Clam | Steven Soetjoadi | |
Teacher | Trevor andreasen | |
Ensemble (U/S Peter/Boy) | Jonathan Banks | |
Ensemble (U/S Grempkin) | AubreyJohnson | |
Ensemble (u/S Teacher) | Ella Kemper | |
Ensemble (U/S Aster) | ian moore | |
Ensemble (u/S Mack) | Jo Smith | |
Ensemble (u/s Hawking Clam) | Maëliss Larcher | |
Ensemble (u/s Molly) | Mia Dennett |
U/S - Understudy
production staff
DIRECTOR/CHOREOGRAPHER | Sheldon Mba | |
MUSIC DIRECTOR | LINDA STARKEY | |
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR | MELISSA PENKAVA KOZA | |
STAGE MANAGER | Jesse Stephenson | |
Assistant Stage Manager | Abby Epstein | |
Production aide/INTIMACY CHOREOGRAPHER | Erin Urick | |
Scenic Designer | Robin Vest | |
Assistant scenic designer | Damien page | |
Costume Designer | Jade almsberger | |
HAIR & MAKEUP DESIGNER | Sarah Bussard | |
ASSISTANT HAIR & MAKEUP DESIGNER | Brittani Richardson | |
Assistant Hair & Makeup Designer | Renae Richmond | |
LIGHTING DESIGNER | Nick Roux | |
Co-SOUND DESIGNER | Denise Ussery | |
Co-Sound Designer | Madi Henderson | |
Assistant Technical Director | Will SMith | |
PROPS ARTISAN | Molly Bazar | |
VOICE/DIALECTS COACH/FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHER | Joseph urick | |
scene shop manager | Jason Flanders | |
SCENE SHOP CREW LEAD | DENISE USSERY | |
SCENE SHOP CREW | Will Smith, Trevor Andreason, Madi Henderson, Jesse Stephenson, Molly Bazar, Lena Castro | |
Costume Shop manager | Melissa Penkava Koza | |
Lead costume shop assistant | Jade almsberger | |
costume shop assistants | mia dennett, blake grimsley, emma lewis, renae richmond, adia tolbert | |
WARDROBE SUPERVISOR | Adia Tolbert | |
WARDROBE RUN CREW | Kate Kelly, Alec Moore | |
Costume maintenance crew | Katie Bauman, karter smith | |
HAIR/MAKEUP RUN CREW | Emily Flowers | |
DECK/SHIFT CREW | Sean Gorman, Zac Richardson, Will Smith | |
PROPS RUN CREW | Molly Bazar, Fio WIllis | |
Prop Shop Lead | August Smaglik |
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production staff
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HEAD ELECTRICIAN | Nick Roux | |
Light Board Operators | Nick Roux, David Neville | |
Follow Spot Operators | M taylor, Lena Castro | |
Audio engineers/SOUND BOARD OPERATORs | Denise Ussery, Madi Henderson | |
audio assistant (a2) | Alexis Driscoll | |
Stage management mentor, Technical Director | ed baker | |
Lighting Design Mentor | David Neville | |
Costume Design Mentor | sarah bussard | |
Performance facilities, Audio Education COnsultant | David Muehl | |
House Manager | Sheldon Mba | |
USHERS | Cobie reeves, alaycea kremeier, Olivia lockwood, leo porcaro, sydney mason, tamara gagne, thomas yambo-rios, Pablo Prado | |
poster design | Jade Almsberger |
BIOGRAPHIES
Jade Almsberger (Costume Designer/Poster Design)is so excited to be presenting her final senior design at Wichita State University. She is graduating in Spring 2024 with a B.F.A. in Design & Technical Theatre, focusing on costuming. Design credits include Ever There (WCDT 2022) Stupid Fucking Bird (2022), A Midsummer Night's Dream (Empty Space Theatre 2023), and now of course, this show! Favorite full and partial costume build credits include The Princess’s Dress (Love’s Labor’s Lost 2021), The Seagull Dress (Stupid Fucking Bird) 2023), Berthe’s Dress (Pippin 2023), and whatever she made for Peter. Jade also discovered her love for wardrobe and has wardrobe supervised several WSU productions. Professionally, she has dressed for IATSE Local 190 for The Lion King (2022), Dear Evan Hansen (2023) and Annie(2023). She also spent the last two summers at The Glimmerglass Festival in NY doing Wardrobe for Opera. Additionally, Jade also designed many of SPA’s posters including Fox Sisters (2022), Happy Wright (2022), and all of the 2023-24 seasons except for the Senior Capstone Festival. She’s had so much fun in school and is ready to take on whatever comes next.
Trevor Andreasen (Teacher) is stoked to be in his first mainstage at Wichita State University. He previously played Bottom in A Midsummer Night's Dream (Empty Space Theatre). Alongside pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre, he is hosting an improv troupe at WSU. Trevor believes that stories are an integral part to sharing and navigating the human condition and is proud to call himself a storyteller. To learn more about Trevor and what he does visit www.trevorandreasen.com.
Jonathan Banks (Ensemble, u/s Peter/Boy) is pumped to be performing in his first play with Wichita State University! He is a sophomore pursuing a BFA in Music Theatre and is a member of the Black Student Union and Madrigals. Recent credits for Jonathan include WSU: A Chorus Line (2023), Music Theatre Wichita: MTW Holiday Show (2022), Ragtime (2023), The Forum Theatre: Once on This Island (2023), and Crown Arts Collaborative: Dreamgirls (2023). He has really appreciated the challenging process of this show and hopes you enjoy the product!
Molly Bazar (Props Artisan) Is so excited to show off their work on Wichita State University’s theatrical production of Peter and The Star Catcher. Previously working as deck chief in A Chorus Line (WSU), and a part of the crew for the 2023 Compendium anthology film (WSU). Molly is currently a Junior planned to graduate in 2025 with a BFA in Design & Technical Theatre and a BAA in Filmmaking. Molly has worked in Wichita State University’s scene shop helping build shows like Pippin, A Chorus Line, Stupid F##king Bird!, and Peter and The Star Catcher. Molly’s mission is simple, to help in the creation of something fantastic.
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BIOGRAPHIES
Israel Carreno (Ted) is excited to be making his Wichita State University theatre debut.
Previously he appeared in Legally Blonde (Perry-Lecompton High School), An Audition for a Murder (Fort Scott High School) and Ranked the Musical (Fort Scott High School). Israel is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre, and is a member of
the Wichita State Music Theatre Company (WSMTC). Israel’s mission as an artist is “to inspire others to have an open mindset and make a positive impact on the world."
Mia Dennett (u/s Molly) has previously been seen in Pass Go (Empty Space), Sense and Sensibility (Salina South High School), and Radium Girls (Salina South High School). She is a sophomore pursuing a BA in Theatre with emphasis in performance and costuming and a minor in American Sign Language. She also serves as Membership and Outreach for D.R.E.A.M.. Mia's mission is to increase and celebrate diverse stories that allow disabled voices to be heard. You can learn more about Mia at miaquinndennett.weebly.com.
Carson Ediger (Alf, u/s Black Stache) is excited to be performing in Wichita State University’s production of Peter and the Starcatcher. He has previously performed in Compendium: Interface (Wichita State University), Popcorn Movie (Wichita State University), and Clear Water (Independent Film). Carson is a senior working towards a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance with a minor in Graphic Design, as well as certifications in Directing, Voice Acting, and Filmmaking. Carson’s mission as an artist is “to bring all people together through emotional entertainment.”
Abby Epstein (Assistant Stage Manager) ) is excited to be working on her first show at Wichita State University on Peter and The Starcatcher. Previously Abby has worked in stage management for A Midsummer Night's Dream (Grandview High School), was student tech director in Curtains: The Musical (Grandview High School), and worked on carpentry crew on Matilda: The Musical (Jewish Community Center of Denver). Abby is a first year student and is pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design and Technical Theatre.
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BIOGRAPHIES
Ashley Grega (Bill Slank/Fighting Prawn) is returning for her fifth and final show at Wichita State University. Previous Credits include Mama Bushwick is Dead (Wichita State University), Compendium Wichita State University), and Love’s Labour’s Lost (Wichita State University). Ashley is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance with a double minor in Communications and Honors Leadership. She is also a member of the sorority Delta Gamma, holding various leadership positions. She is currently applying for graduate school in hopes of earning her MFA in Theatre Performance. Ashley’s mission as an artist is to “thrive off my imagination and show how important it is for someone to never lose theirs. If the story I tell on stage can ignite someone's emotions, I know I did my job as an actress.”
Matthew Gwinner (Smee) is s bittersweetly honored to be making their last appearance on the Wilner mainstage as a Wichita State University Senior, graduating this semester. As a transfer student from Tulsa, Oklahoma, Matthew’s first show at WSU was in 2022, in Stupid Fucking Bird as Dr. Eugene Sorn. You could’ve also seen Matthew in Empty Space Theatre’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream as Peter Quince. He’s also made appearances in a few shows around town that include: Light Up the Sky (Wichita Community Theatre), Sleuth (ICTRep), and most recently, The Old Man and The Old Moon (ICTRep). As a Senior about to finish his BFA Degree in Theatre Performance, Matthew’s mission right now is to gain as much experience as he can to hone his skills in acting and create new, exciting, and honest characters on stage in order to pursue his fiery passion for theatre as a career.
Austin Hancock (Aster) feels bittersweet to be performing in their last Wichita State University main stage show! Before this show, they had roles as Henry Roth in Go Like Saints (Wichita State University), Happy Wright in Happy Wright (Wichita State University), and Karnak in Ride the Cyclone (Roxy’s Downtown). They plan to pursue a career in voice acting after they graduate. Austin’s mission is “to make people laugh and enjoy their lives, even for just a moment.”
Madi Henderson (Co-Sound Designer) is a senior in his last semester at Wichita State University. In the spring he will be graduating with a BA in Theater, a minor in English Lang & Literature, and certificates in film making and film studies. Henderson has previously worked as a sound designer for Happy Wright (WSU), and assistant sound designer on Pippin (WSU). In addition to sound design Henderson has worked in the scene shop as a carpenter, worked as an audio engineer, and will be stage managing the upcoming Empty Space production of Smokefall. Co-sound designing for this production was particularly enjoyable for Henderson as he was able to work with sound scaping and surround sound in ways that are new to him. Working in a team with Denise has also made this production process better for Henderson, who has enjoyed collaborating on making the sound design for this production the best it could be.
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BIOGRAPHIES
Morgan Holcomb (Captain Scott) is incredibly excited to be performing on Wilner stage again! Previous credits include Go Like Saints (Wichita State University), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Empty Space Theatre), Compendium (WSU). Morgan is a junior pursuing a BFA in Theatre Performance and is a representative of the School of Performing Arts Student Council. She is also currently hired at Music Theatre Wichita as a Hair/Makeup Artist for their summer season. Coming up next, Morgan will be featured in the film premiere of Christmas Dish in April! You can find out more about Morgan on her Instagram, mrholcomb20.
Jessica Hudson (Bumbrake) Jessica is beyond excited to be back onstage after designing for two years! This past summer, she was the Hair & Makeup Intern at Music Theatre Wichita. Other design works include A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Empty Space), Pippin (Wichita State University), and Stupid F##king Bird (WSU). Her most recent acting credit was in WSU’s production of Loves Labour’s Lost as Costard. Jessica is a junior pursuing a BA in Theatre along with a minor in Signed Languages and a directing certificate. Jessica also works on campus within the SPA Office. She would like to thank all her mentors here at WSU and MTW for all the knowledge they have bestowed on her as well as her family for being an integral part of all she strives to accomplish. Instagram: @ohsnapitshudson
Aubrey Johnson (Ensemble, u/s Grempkin) is making her Wilner Stage debut. Previously credits include Joyce in Mama Bushwick is Dead (Wichita State University), Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors (Oak Grove High School), Antigone in Antigone (Oak Grove High School), and Wednesday Addams in The Addams Family (Oak Grove High School). Aubrey is a freshman at Wichita State pursuing a BFA in Performing Arts with an emphasis in Theatre Performance. Aubrey’s mission as an artist is to move to New York and be a professional actress. Previously credits include Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors (Oak Grove High School), Antigone in Antigone (Oak Grove High School), and Wednesday Addams in The Addams Family (Oak Grove High School). Aubrey is a freshman at Wichita State pursuing a BFA in Performing Arts with an emphasis in Theatre Performance. Aubrey’s mission as an artist is to move to New York and be a professional actress.
Cat Kee (Prentiss) is excited to return to Wilner Stage with the cast of Peter and the Starcatcher! Previously they have been seen at Wichita State University in Mama Bushwick is Dead and Love's Labour's Lost. They have also been found behind the scenes, with recent fight choreography credits for Sleuth (ICTRep) and Carrie the Musical (Roxy's Downtown). Cat is a senior pursuing a BFA in Theatre Performance with a minor in Signed Languages and a certificate in Physical Performance. They are an Actor Combatant with both the Society of American Fight Directors and the British Academy of Stage and Screen Combat, holding eight weapons certifications between the two.
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BIOGRAPHIES
Ella Kempker (Ensemble, u/s Teacher) is ready to laugh, cry, and sprinkle starstuff all throughout her last show here at Wichita State University!! Ella is graduating this May with a BFA in Theatre Performance, minor in Graphic Design, and certificate in Stage Management. You have last seen her here Stage Managing Mama Bushwick is Dead in the Welsbacher last semester and you can next see her as Taylor in Christmas Dish premiering in April.
Ella would like to give the biggest shout out to Ed Baker for without him she would never have gone to college let alone gotten through it without him. Thank you for everything Ed. Thank you WSU for the last 5 years, the friends I have made here will be lifelong friends that I am grateful for forever. Her friends have pushed her more creatively and personally than anyone in her life and has made her a better person and artist all in one because of it. I love you guys!! After college Ella isn’t planning on leaving Neverland as she is heading back to Disney World to live out her childhood dreams!!
Maëliss Larcher (Ensemble, u/s Hawking Clam) is making their Wichita State University theatre debut. Previous credits include Clue (Shawnee Mission North High School), Freaky Friday (Shawnee Mission North High School), and Game Show (Shawnee Mission North High School). Maëliss is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance with a minor in French. Maëliss's mission an an artist is to "Treat everyone I meet with respect and compassion."
Hayley Longacre (Molly) is starstruck to be a part of Wichita State University Theatre Department’s production of Peter and the Starcatcher. This is her fifth year in college and plans to graduate in Fall 2024 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance. She is a transfer student from Tulsa Community College in Oklahoma and has been going to WSU since 2022. Previously, she has appeared in Mama Bushwick is Dead (Wichita State University), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Empty Space Theatre), and Stupid F****** Bird (Wichita State University). TTFN!!!
Lynnaya McClure (Grempkin, u/s Alf) is excited to be returning to the Wilner stage! Previous acting credits include The Shocker Studios Christmas Spectacular, Sister Act (Gladstone Theatre in the Park) and A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Empty Space Theatre). She is pursuing a BFA in Theatre Performance, minors in Business Administration and Musical Theatre, and a certificate in Directing. Lynnaya made her lead directorial debut last semester with Mama Bushwick is Dead. Outside of involvement in theatre, she is a member of the Cohen Honors College and Mortar Board. She will portray Edith in the upcoming audio show, The Adventures of Sunday Novak.
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BIOGRAPHIES
Ian Moore (Ensemble, u/s Aster) is so YAR HAR to be making their on-stage debut here at Wichita State University! Ian is a BA Theatre major in his second year here at WSU. You can see him in the screening of Christmas Dish at the Welsbacher Theater premiering in April! FIDDLE-DEE-DEE!!!
Damien Page (Assistant Scenic Designer) is a senior from Hutchinson, KS. He currently works for the Historic Fox Theatre in Hutchinson as the projectionist for movies, and as a lighting designer and production crew member for live/touring shows. After graduation, he hopes to continue on this path in hopes of becoming a TD/Production Manager. He is excited to bring this show to life and is excited to share the results of the team's creative process!
Seferino Ramirez Jr. (Sanchez, u/s Bill Slank) is making his Wichita State Theatre debut. Previous credits include Cinderella (Garden City High School), Once on This Island Jr. (Garden City High School) In the Heights (Garden City High School). Seferino is a junior pursuing a BA in Theatre.
Emily Redfield (Mack/Fight Captain) is excited to be a part of this productionl! Emily is a BFA Theatre Performance major with a directing certificate and an Honors College minor track. Previous WSU acting credits include Compendium (Lucy), Popcorn Movie (Aubrey), and Loves Labours Lost (Princess). She also assistant directed Stupid F***ing Bird. Emily is a member of the Society of American Fight Directors, holding four certifications in unarmed, single sword, broadsword, and rapier/dagger combat. Emily plans to continue work in acting, directing, and stage combat after graduation.
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BIOGRAPHIES
Renae Richmond (Black Stache, Assistant Hair & Makeup Designer) is so YARRRG to close out their senior year at Wichita State University. You may have seen them onstage at WSU as Happy in Happy Wright, Nell in Go Like Saints, and Jaquenetta in Loves Labours Lost. They have also recently gotten in the film acting scene with several student films including Clinically in Love (Dir. Piper Prichard), After Hours (Dir. Ashlynn Farney), the film in WSU’s Season: Defriend (Dir. Bret Jones). You can catch them this summer at Music Theatre Wichita as a Hair & Makeup Artisan. Their tech and design credits include Stage Manager of A Chorus Line (WSU) and A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Empty Space), Costume Build/ Hair & Makeup Crew for Pippin and Stupid F##king Bird (WSU). They also worked as a Hair & Makeup Artisan at MTW last summer (Rock of Ages, Beauty & the Beast, Ragtime, Cats). They are a senior BFA Theatre Performance Major with a Minor in Music Theatre. They are also the Production Manager of Empty Space Theatre. Renae's mission is to help create a safe space for other artists’ voices to be heard. You can find out more about them on instagram @renaerichmond.official
Jo Smith (Ensemble, u/s Mack) is excited to help bring the story of Peter and the Starcatcher to WSU. Prior to this performance he has performed in: The Old Man and the Old Moon (ICT REP), Sleuth (ICT REP),The Rocky Horror Picture Show (Crown Arts Collaborative), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Empty Space Productions), and Stupid F**king Bird (Wichita State University). Jo is a senior at Wichita State University studying for a BFA in Theatre Performance. Outside of performance, he has spent his time working in the costume department, designing for student shows at his community college and being a recipient of the KCACTF Meritorious Achievement for Costume Design.
Will Smith (Assistant Technical Director) is a 23-year-old transfer student from Katy Texas, currently finishing out a BFA in Design and Technical Theatre with a minor in Business. Will is an active member of the community both working in the scene shop his whole time at WSU and being a current member of The Local 190. This is Wills 9th show here at WSU and he can't wait for whatever else is to come. Will wants to thank the cast and crew of Peter for all the hard work we have poured into this show couldn't do it without y'all. (shoutout to my family love all y'all) Enjoy the show!!
Steven Soetjoadi (Hawking Clam) is back for his second show at Wichita State University (WSU). Previous credits include the film Compendium (WSU), and an audio show titled Master of Stone (WSU). Steven is a senior pursuing a BAA for Media Arts in Acting for Digital Arts. Being an actor with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, Steven’s mission is “to represent the disabled community in the industry, and to promote awareness and diversity of such actors.” You can join in with his journey as an actor on Instagram @stevensoetjoadi.
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BIOGRAPHIES
Jesse Stephenson (Stage Manager) is beyond honored to be working on WSU's production of Peter and the Starcatcher. He has also been a part of Wichita State University’s productions of Pippin and A Chorus Line, serving as Assistant Stage Manager on both shows. Jesse is a sophomore studying for his BFA in Design and Technical Theatre and a Stage Manager Certificate. You can see more of Jesse's work on his website https://jjsteph13.wixsite.com/jstephensontechnical.
Gavin Tanner (Peter/Boy) is over the roof to be a part of this production of Peter and the Starcatcher. His previous credits include Ride the Cyclone (ROXY’S), A Chorus Line (Wichita State University), and Pippin (WSU). Gavin is a senior pursuing his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music Theatre, and he is the president of the Wichita State Music Theatre Company (WSMTC). Gavin would like to thank his family, friends, God, and Peyton for supporting him through this process. His mission as an artist is to educate, challenge, and inspire.
Denise Ussery (Co-Sound Designer) is thrilled to be working on Wichita State University’s production of Peter and the Starcatcher. Previous credits include Carpentry Apprentice for the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, sound designer for WSU’s Mama Bushwick is Dead, sound/lighting designer for A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Empty Space Theatre), and sound designer for Pippin (WSU). Denise is a senior pursuing a BFA in Design and Technical Theatre and the Co-Technical Director of Empty Space Theatre.
2023-24 Scholarships
Alfred S. & Esther U Perry Endowed Memorial Scholarship in Fine Arts
Bailey Buchanan
Leopold Porcaro
Renae Richmond
Gracie Solas
Alyssa Watson
Audrey Needles Scholarship Fund
Ella Kempker
Charlie Whitworth Theater Scholarship
Jade Almsberger
Delores and Charles Crum Mainstage Theatre Scholarship
Jade Almsberger
Trevor Andreasen
Dylan Bray
Scott Cockrill
Ashley Grega
Matthew Gwinner
Morgan Holcomb
Leopold Porcaro
Seferino Ramirez
Joel Smith
Adia Tolbert
Denise Ussery
Pamela J. Postier Performing Arts Scholarship
Hannah Chandler
Randal M. Jones Endowed Scholarship
Piper Patterson
Dr. Forrest E. Richert Memorial Endowed Scholarship
Alexandria Thanschiedt
Eleanor Doty Clair Scholarship
Matthew Gwinner
Mary Jane Teall Theatre Scholarship
Morgan Holcomb
George D. Wilner Achievement Award (Scholarship)
Lynnaya McClure
Janice Chambers Ramsey Scholarship in Musical Theatre
Zoe Phillips
Sophia Pickett
Wyman Wheeler
Jon and Kelly Callen Musical Theatre Endowed Scholarship
Zoe Phillips
Joyce Cavarozzi Endowed Scholarship in Theatre
August Smaglik
Julia Weaver Masters Theatre Scholarship
Adia Tolbert
Veryle Heriford Endowed Scholarship in Fine Arts
Sophia Hillman
June M. Lair Endowment For The Arts
August Smaglik
Stev Overstreet Dean’s Fund in Fine Arts
Dalton Devoe
Turtle Scholarship For Dance
Kaete Mokrynski
Cobie Reeves
Van & Virginia Lee Fiser End Mem/Opera/Music Theatre
Dalton Devoe
Kim Stephens Memorial Endowment for Excellence in Dance
Hannah Chandler
Martha M Fleming Dance Scholarship
Lille Nightingale
2023-24 Scholarships
Linda Starkey Musical Theatre Scholarship
Gavin Tanner
Lulu Bonavia Dance Scholarship
Liberty Warner
Kimberly Aguilar
Olivia Lockwood
Mickey & Pete Armstrong Performing Arts Scholarship
Jonathan Banks
Denver Fankhouser
Kexye Collins
Patrons of Music Theatre
Frances Robu
Christian Watkins
Performing Arts Angels (PAA)
Lena Castro
Lexye Collins
Nicholas Macias
Fio Willis
PAA Marketing Scholarships
Dylan Bray
Blake Grimsely
Trevor Andreasen
Gavin Tanner
Schaefer , Johnson, Cox, Frey & Associates P.A Endowed Scholarship
Gracie Solas
Marcus Family Endowed Scholarship for Excellence in the Arts
Olivia Lockwood
Marjorie Lois Graham Scholarship
Bailey Buchanan
Dalton Devoe
Gavin Tanner
Emily Redfield
Miller Trust
Bailey Buchanan
Hannah Chandler
Alaycea Kremeier
Alexandria Nickel
Lillie Nightingale
Piper Patterson
Cobie Reeves
Ella Kempker
Lynnaya McClure
Emily Redfield
Renae Richmond
Reuben Scheck
August Smaglik
Zoe Phillips
Gavin Tanner
Christian Watkins
Fred J Valentine Fine Arts Scholarship
Zoe Phillips
Sopiha Pickett
Gracie Solas
Wyman Wheeler
The Performing Arts Angels exists to provide educational and training opportunities for talented dance, musical theatre, and theatre (performance and design/tech) students in the School of Performing Arts - opportunities not funded through the state or university.
The School of Performing Arts faculty, staff, and students recognize and deeply appreciate all your financial support. It allows us to fulfill our mission to educate and train students for a career in the arts and entertainment industry. To find out how you can become a Performing Arts Angel and support the School of Performing Arts students, please contact our office at 316-978-3078 or give online at www.wichita.edu/give.
We apologize in advance for any omission or errors in this list. Please bring corrections to the attention of Matt Fisher at matthew.fisher@wichita.edu or 316-978-3078. Listings may shift from one program to another depending on the timing and receipt of gifts.
Giving for September 2022 - October 2023
*Deceased
Producer ($1,000 +)
Marty and Donna Perline
Stev Overstreet
Sally Ottaway
Gary Wood
Anita Jones
Julie and Stan Longhofer
Mike & Susan Pompeo
Margaret Fulton-McKay
Richard & Cynthia Carl
Marlene Hayes
Emily Bonavia
Paul & Michelle Witte
Christine Kubik
Director ($500-$999)
Pam Postier
Raymond & Diane Gans
Jerry Martin
Dennis & Genell Arnold
Director ($500-$999)
Jane McHugh
Dee & Linda Starkey
Louise Brinegar & Gene Carr
Pete & Renea Goforth
Keith & Georgia Stevens
Thom & Adrienne Rosenberg
Shoko Sevart
Marie Bukowski
Choreographer ($200-$499)
Wes Henderson
Harriet Hickman
David Stone & Marni Vliet Stone
Lance & Della Lickteig
Walter & Kaye Myers
Richard Muma & Rick Case
Steven & Kitchel Woods
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Performing Arts Angels
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choreographer ($200-$499)
Cheyla Clawson
Deborah Gafvery & Kenneth Gibbs
Nancy Anderson
Rodney Miller & Pina Mozzani
Groves Retail Liquor
Performer ($25-$99)
Ted & Debra Kimble
Dean Cleverdon & Nancy Nyberg
Anne Welsbacher
Johanne Pachankis
Brian & Sarah Walden
Patrick & Sandy Hannon
Elizabeth Wine
Rob, Denise & Arri Simon Charitable Fund
Nadia Karim
Designer ($100-$199)
Eric Engstrom
Stephen Sowards & Jane Wilcox
Daniel & Martha Housholder
Harold & Evelyn Gregg
Alan & Sharon Fearey
Hew & Judy Goodpasture
Stephen Sowards & Jane Wilcox
Deb Bringegar & John Diel
John & Mary Shellito
Jeffry Koch & Lesley Riddell-Koch
Ann Marie Siegwarth
Marlene Markley
Matt Fisher
Kathleen Moore
Thank you Angels!
Performing Arts Angels
Everyone Can Be An Angel
Visit wichita.edu/give to become a member online with a credit card, or complete the form below, enclose a check (payable to the WSU Foundation/Performing Arts Angels) and send by mail to:
1845 Fairmount, Campus Box 2, Wichita, KS 67260.
Producer
Director
Choreographer
Designer
Performer
$1,000+
$500-499
$200-499
$100-199
$25-99
Contact Name:
Phone #:
Email:
Address:
City/State:
Zip Code: