FAC Program

Director's Note

Broken Hearts, Breaking Through, and the Power of “Yes"

Footloose the movie broke onto the scene in 1984, not only making Kevin Bacon a household name but capturing audience hearts with a story of youth bumping up against southern small-town culture. Tough family circumstances force Ren McCormack and his mother to make the move from Chicago to conservative Bomont, Texas. It’s a town recovering from its own tragic events, where town leaders hope a ban on rock music and dancing will protect the community.

Almost 40 years later, this story of broken hearts and breaking through feels just as fresh. Maybe it’s the theme of survival after tragic loss–or the chance to see what happens when we try to shield ourselves from forces beyond our control. Most of all, Footloose gives us the chance to experience memorable characters saying “yes” to forgiveness and a raucous celebration of life.

Let’s hear it for dancing and the exuberance of youth! And get ready to cut footloose!

–Rick Walters

Choreographer's Note

Footloose proves the value of expressing oneself through dance/movement and demonstrates the consequences of what happens when our innate, human desire for self-expression is suppressed. At its core, dance is a vessel for expression and communication. What we cannot express through words, we express through dance and movement.

For Footloose, the choreography is colloquial, familiar, and at times borders on "social dance." By definition, "social dances are intended for participation rather than performance." That idea of "participation versus performance" was at the forefront of the creative process. For the residents of Bomont, dance is what unites and liberates them. The choreography allows room for freedom, self-expression, individuality, and playfulness to reflect how movement is utilized in Footloose to emphasize the journey/arc the residents of Bomont experience as a result of Ren’s arrival.

In Footloose, we are never dancing just to dance. There is a drive, a desire, and a need to self-express/communicate in a way words cannot for us. Footloose is a reminder of the cultural importance of dance, music, art, and expression.

–Tuan Malinowski

Setting

The City of Chicago
Bomont, Texas

Synopsis of Scenes

ACT I
Scene 1A: The City of Chicago
Footloose: Rusty, Wendy Jo, Urleen, and Company
Scene 1B: The Town of Bomont, in Church
On Any Sunday: Rev. Shaw Moore, Ren, Ethel, and Company
Scene 2: The Churchyard
Scene 3: Behind a Gas Station
*The Girl Gets Around: Chuck, Ariel, Travis, and Lyle
Scene 4: A High School Hallway
*I Can't Stand Still: Ren
Somebody's Eyes: Rusty, Urleen, Wendy Jo, and Company
Scene 5: The Moore Home
Learning To Be Silent: Vi, Ethel, and Ariel
Scene 6: The Burger Blast
Holding Out For A Hero: Ariel, Rusty, Wendy Jo, and Urleen
Scene 7: The Great Plains of Bomont
Somebody's Eyes–Scene Change: Rusty, Wendy Jo, and Urleen
Scene 8: The Moore Home
Somebody's Eyes–Reprise: Rusty, Wendy Jo, Urleen, Chuck, Lyle, and Travis
Heaven Help Me: Shaw
Scene 9: The High School Gym/The Church
I'm Free/ Heaven Help Me: Ren, Shaw, and Company

ACT II
Scene 1: The Bar-B-Que, a Country Western Dance Hall
**Still Rockin': Cowboy Bob and His Band
Let's Hear It For The Boy: Rusty and Company
Scene 2: The Moore Home
Can You Find It In Your Heart?: Vi
Scene 3: The Junk Yard
Dancing Is Not A Crime: Ren
**Mama Says (You Can't Back Down): Willard, Bickle, Garvin, Jeter, and Ren
Mama Says–Encore: Willard and Boys
Scene 4: Under the Train Bridge
Almost Paradise: Ren and Ariel
Scene 5: The Town Hall
Scene 6: The Moore Home
Heaven Help Me–Reprise: Shaw
Scene 6A: The Church
Scene 6B: The Churchyard
Can You Find It In Your Heart?–Reprise: Shaw
Scene 7: The Gym
Footloose–Finale: Company

Cast

Ren McCormack: Zach Sullivan

Ethel McCormack: Kjersten Danzig

Reverend Shaw Moore: Carson Carter

Vi Moore: McKenzie Greenwood

Ariel Moore: Virginia Foshee

Lulu Warnicker: Kassidy Kampmeier

Wes Warnicker: Logan Bailey

Coach Roger Dunbar: Deacon Leer

Elenor Dunbar: Sophia Barbato

Rusty: Kiley Silva

Urleen: Payton Seacrist

Wendy Jo: Katie Wall

Chuck Cranston: Evan James Schmit

Lyle/Chuck Cranston Understudy: Robby Alston

Travis: Josh Terrones

A Cop/Ensemble: Savannah DeShazo

Irene–Lead Dance Hall Singer/Ensemble: Sophie La Fave

Betty Blast/Ensemble: Maddy Ballard

Willard Hewitt: Calum Sullivan

Principal Clark/Ensemble: Josey Terry

Jeter/Willard Hewitt Understudy: Mason Wold

Bickle/Ren McCormack Understudy: Jake Aune

Garvin: Aren Alexander-Battee

Ensemble/Ariel Moore Understudy: Emma Phillips

Ensemble/Rusty Understudy: Lindsey Meath

Ensemble/Wendy Jo Understudy: Mariana Villanueva

Ensemble/Dance Hall Singer: Jillian Kohl

Ensemble/Dance Hall Singer: Ruby Brisco

Ensemble/Dance Hall Singer: Gabby Moten

Ensemble: Yassie Bonner

Ensemble: Halle Utterback

Ensemble/Reverend Shaw Moore Understudy/Coach Roger Dunbar Understudy: Lukas Nederloe

Ensemble/Lyle Understudy/Travis Understudy: Ian Zempel

Ensemble/Wes Warnicker Understudy: P.J. Doherty

Swings: Reagan Kettner, Grace Peña, Megan Wheelock, Brandon Rundquist, CJ Zimmer

Orchestra

Keyboard 1/Conductor: Janette Hanson

Keyboard 2: Matt Salvo

Guitar 1: Joe Gantzer

Guitar 2: Steve Meger

Reeds: Jeff Erickson

Bass: Troy Birdsong

Drums: Tim Henke

*Percussion: Mahlivahn Fleckenstein

Guitar 2 Sub: Colin Stiemke

Rehearsal Pianist Sub: Matt Salvo

*Viterbo student

Production Team

Director/Fight Director: Rick Walters

Music Director: Janette Hanson

Choreographer: Tuan Malinowski

Stage Manager: Mattie Murphy

Fight Choreographer: Mike Speck

Assistant Choreographer: Payton Harper

Assistant Stage Managers: Adelaide Young, Cortney Piepenburg

Lighting Designer: Patrick M. Strain

Sound Engineer/Designer: Brett Huus

Technical Director: Chad Kolbe

Intimacy Director: Mary Trotter

Dance Captain: Halle Utterback

Scenic Designer: Jesse Dreikosen

Costume Designer: Jen Brown

Assistant Costume Designer: Sarah DeMinter

Costume Shop Supervisor: Alex Bell

Hair and Makeup Designer: Will Handrick

Production Manager: Teddy Eck

Production Coordinator: Jason Underferth

Properties Design: Jessica Rigdon

Production Crew

Deck Supervisor: Jaymee Ann Olson

Light Board Operator: Abby Messing

Sound Run/Microphones: Caitlin Callahan

Sound Board Operator: Emmett Lenselink

Follow Spot Operators: Ashlyn Cox, Anna Vande Krol

Scenic Run Crew: Ellie Parish, Emma Griffes, Gabe Karr, Grace Jacobson, Connor Martin

Wardrobe Supervisor: Anna Martinson

Hair/Makeup Supervisor: Elisabeth Meyer

Costume Crew: Isaac Knudsen, Josh Thone, Helen Riddle, Maggie Enriquez

Props Run Crew: McKenzie Russ, Zachary Lichner

Scenic Build Crew: Ainsley Alrutz, Erica Ashley, Lauren Canfield, Iraya Cress, Kjersten Danzig, Virginia Foshee, McKenzie Greenwood, Jillian Kohl, Marie Peterson, Calum Sullivan, Kalyn Schmit, Mason Wold

Costume Build Crew: Aren Alexander-Battee, Colin Cada, Shea Grande , Gabby Moten, Lindsey Meath, Victoria Pardon, Joie Steele, Katie Schafer, Mariana Villanueva

Prop Build Crew: Clay Corley, Reagan Kettner, Bailey Millimaki, Calvin Pierce, Payton Seacrist, Shannon Starkloff, Amber Arevalo Medellin

Special Thanks

Matt Curtis
Cappella Performing Arts Center
Harter's Quick Clean Up Service
Goodyear Tire Service
La Crescent High School Music Department
Dr. Tammy Fisher and the UW–La Crosse Screaming Eagles Marching Band
Tim Henke

Biographies

Cast

GARVIN

Aren Alexander–Battee

is a senior music theatre major and dance minor from Kalispell, Mont. At Viterbo, he has previously been seen as Sam in The Elephant Speaks Jazz, Valentine in Twelfth Night, and ensemble in The Pajama Game. He would like to thank Mattie and his family for their love and support. Enjoy the Show!

LYLE, CHUCK u/s

Robby Alston

is a sophomore music theatre major from Wausau. They have previously been seen in Viterbo's Platinum Edition show choir. They would like to extend a huge thanks to their family and friends for their constant love, support, and encouragement. @robbyalston1

BICKLE, REN u/s

Jake Aune

is a sophomore music theatre major from Elk River, Minn. Past Viterbo credits include Stokes in CARRIE: The Musical. He would like to thank his friends and family for the continuous love and support. @jakeaune00

WES WARNICKER

Logan Bailey

is a senior acting major from Cleveland. Viterbo performance credits include Twelfth Night, Julius Caesar, Elephant’s Graveyard, and Lysistrata. He has performed professionally with Dorney Park, Valleyfair, Rubber City Theatre, and Cleveland Shakespeare Festival. Bailey thanks his family and friends for their support and love. @logan_bailey_

BETTY BLAST, ENSEMBLE

Maddy Ballard

is a junior acting major from Milwaukee. Past credits include Elephant's Graveyard and Lysistrata. She is a dance captain for Platinum Edition show choir and the managing director of Viterbo's Student Theatre Project. Lots of love to Mom, Dad, and Ben! @madelynoliviab

ELENOR DUNBAR

Sophia Barbato

is a junior music theatre major with a dance minor from Boston. Past Viterbo credits include Somebody in Everybody. She is also a member of Platinum Edition show choir. Barbato would like to send lots of love and appreciation to her family and friends for their constant support. @sophiarbarbato

ENSEMBLE

Yassie Bonner

is a third-year musical theatre major from Austin, Texas with a minor in dance. She's been previously seen in Everybody as a Somebody and in Platinum Edition’s Celebration 2022. She would like to thank her family for their endless support and love. @yassiekiara

DANCE HALL SINGER, ENSEMBLE

Ruby Brisco

is a junior music theatre major with a minor in dance from Maple Grove, Minn. Her most recent Viterbo appearances include Student Theatre Project’s spring production, The Pajama Game, and The Night Children. She has also been seen in Platinum Edition and Diamond Edition show choirs. She wants to thank her family and friends for all of their love and support. @ruby_brisco

REVEREND SHAW MOORE

Carson Carter

is a senior vocal performance major from Bemidji, Minn. His past Viterbo shows are Puffs, Speed Dating Tonight!, and Gilbert and Sullivan opera scenes. He is also a part of the Concert Choir. He would like to thank his friends and family for all their continued support.

ETHEL MCCORMACK

Kjerstan Danzig

is a junior music theatre major with minors in arts management and dance from Salt Lake City. Past Viterbo credits include Lysistrata understudy in Lysistrata and a roustabout puppeteer in The Elephant Speaks Jazz. Danzig would like to thank her family and friends for their endless support and love. @kjerstendanzig

A COP, ENSEMBLE

Savannah DeShazo

is a sophomore music theatre major from Fort Worth, Texas. She is so excited to be making her main stage debut at Viterbo. Her recent credits have been assistant stage manager for The Elephant Speaks Jazz and performing with the Student Theatre Project. She wants to thank Katie, Kenzie, Shannon, Shea, Reagan, Zach, and most of all her family for all of their support. @deshazo4

ENSEMBLE, WES u/s

P.J. Doherty

is a sophomore theatre major with a dance minor from Leominster, Mass. This is his mainstage debut as a Viterbo student and cannot wait to get it underway. Previous credits include ensemble in Student Theatre Project’s spring cabaret and 2022 Platinum Edition show choir. He would like to thank his friends and family for their continued overwhelming support! @pj.doherty.22

ARIEL MOORE

Virginia Foshee

is a music theatre major with a dance minor from Lafayette, La. Past credits include Babe u/s, in The Pajama Game and ensemble in The Night Children. Foshee also participated in Dance Kaleidoscope and Platinum Edition. She would like to thank her friends and family for their love and support, she would not be here without them! @virginia_fosho

VI MOORE

McKenzie Greenwood

is a sophomore music theatre major from Liberty, Mo. She has previously been seen in Student Theatre Project’s cabaret and Diamond Edition show choir. She would like to thank her mom, dad, and brother for their continuous and unconditional love and support, and for being the best family she could ask for. @kenzieg7

LULU WARNICKER

Kassidy Kampmeier

is a senior music theatre major from Bemidji, Minn. She has previously been seen at Viterbo as Freida in CARRIE: The Musical and Dipsas in Lysistrata. She also serves as director of media and media design for Viterbo Student Theatre Project. Lots of love to the Kampmeier and Horst family! Extra love to the roommates and the add-on roommates! @kassidyrosemary

SWING

Reagan Kettner

is a sophomore music theatre major with minors in dance and psychology from Wausau. At Viterbo, she was a former member of Diamond Edition and a current member of Platinum Edition show choir. She would love to thank her parents, her sister Sophia, and her best friends for all their love and support. @reagankettner

DANCE HALL SINGER, ENSEMBLE

Jillian Kohl

is a junior music theatre major with a dance minor from Appleton. You may have seen her perform in CARRIE: The Musical as Carrie u/s and ensemble, as well as ensemble in The Pajama Game. She would like to extend a huge thank you to her friends and family (especially her mom) for their constant support! She can't wait for you all to see Footloose! @jillian.kohl

IRENE–LEAD DANCE HALL SINGER, ENSEMBLE

Sophie La Fave

is a sophomore music theatre major with a music minor from the Twin Cities. She has been seen at Viterbo as a swing in CARRIE: The Musical. She is also in the Platinum Edition show choir and loves creating art in many other facets. They are thankful for the community and artistry in the conservatory. @sophlafave

COACH ROGER DUNBAR

Deacon Leer

is a senior music theatre/piano performance double major from Milwaukee. Previous credits include Decius Brutus in Julius Caesar, ensemble in Lysistrata, and ensemble in Twelfth Night. He is grateful for the support of his family, mom, dad, Maverick, and all those who have helped along the way.

ENSEMBLE, RUSTY u/s

Lindsey Meath

is a junior music theatre major who has most recently been seen in Everybody and The Elephant Speaks Jazz at Viterbo! She will travel abroad to London this winter and can't wait to experience more theatre. She wants to thank her supportive family, friends, directors, and cast for all the kindness and love she has received in and out of the theatre world. She hopes that you will laugh and cry at this beautiful show about forgiveness and healing with a whole lot of dancing! @linzerdeanna

DANCE HALL SINGER, ENSEMBLE

Gabby Moten

is a junior music theatre major with a music minor from Aurora, Colo. She has previously been a swing in The Pajama Game and a member of 9th Street Singers, Rose Chorale, and Concert Choir. She would like to give a special thanks to her mom, Mary, and her family for making the trek to La Crosse to see this performance!

ENSEMBLE, REV. MOORE/COACH u/s

Lukas Nederloe

is a sophomore music theatre major from Minneapolis. He is a member of improv club and Honors Program, and his previous Viterbo accolades include Clown from The Elephant Speaks Jazz and understudy in Footloose. He is thankful for everyone that keeps him going today. @lukas_nederloe

SWING

Grace Peña

is a senior music theatre major from Rancho Cucamonga, Calif. At Viterbo, she has understudied Vi and Ethel in Footloose, performed in the opera Speed Dating Tonight!, and Student Theatre Project’s cabaret. She would like to thank her friends and family for their love and support! @g.oodness.gracious

ENSEMBLE, ARIEL u/s

Emma Phillips

is a junior music theatre major with a minor in dance from Las Vegas. Her previous Viterbo credits include stage manager and soloist in the cabaret Light at the End of the Tunnel, Belphragia in Lysistrata, and Megan in Student Theatre Project's production of Puffs. On campus, she is a part of Platinum Edition show choir, the vice president of the improv club, treasurer for the Viterbo film club, and on the Viterbo dance team! She would like to thank her family for their constant love and support, John 14:6. Enjoy the show! @_emma.phillips

SWING

Brandon Rundquist

is a junior music theatre major from Prescott. Past Viterbo credits include: CARRIE: The Musical (Mr. Stephans), Lysistrata (ensemble), Why Love? (cabaret), and the Never Have I Ever cabaret put on by the Student Theatre Project. He is so excited for his third year in the program and sends endless thanks to his family and educators for their constant support. @brandonrundquist

CHUCK CRANSTON

Evan James Schmit

is a senior music theatre major from Sauk City. He has been seen previously at Viterbo as Prez in The Pajama Game and George in CARRIE: The Musical. He would like to thank his family for their constant support in all of his endeavors. @evanjamesschmit

URLEEN

Payton Seacrist

is a junior music theatre major with a dance minor from Apple Valley, Minn. She is extremely excited to be back on Viterbo's mainstage as she has been seen in past productions such as ensemble and u/s Sue in CARRIE: The Musical, ensemble in The Pajama Game, and Platinum Edition show choir. She would like to specifically thank her parents, Kris and Scott for their never-ending love and support. @paytonseac

RUSTY

Kiley Silva

is a senior music theatre major from Houston, Texas. Previous Viterbo credits include Platinum Edition show choir and Lysistrata. She is currently the Student Government Association president. She would like to thank her family, wonderful friends, and Abby for all their love and support. @bkiley.silva

WILLARD HEWITT

Calum Sullivan

is a senior music theatre major from Oshkosh. Previously he has been seen on Viterbo's stage in Lysistrata, Twelfth Night, and in the Student Theatre Project's production of Puffs. When he's not onstage he can be found leading Viterbo's improv club, playing tunes on his guitar, or daydreaming about whales. He would like to thank his family and friends for their continuing support. @Calum.Sullivan

REN MCCORMACK

Zach Sullivan

is a sophomore music theatre major with a dance minor from Excelsior, Minn. He has previously been seen in CARRIE: The Musical as a swing. He would like to thank his friends and family for their unconditional support. Love you Mom and Dad! @zachthsullivan

TRAVIS

Joshua Terrones

is a junior music theatre major with minors in dance and arts administration from Tulsa, Okla. Past credits include Forever Plaid (Sparky), Lysistrata, CARRIE: The Musical (Billy), and Next to Normal (Henry). He'd like to thank the McDonald’s on Losey Blvd for their emotional support. @joshuaterrones

PRINCIPAL CLARK, ENSEMBLE

Josey Terry

is a senior theatre major with a dance minor from Hershey, Penn. She has previously been seen at Viterbo as a Somebody in Everybody, Ballet Girl in Elephant's Graveyard, and performing in the Platinum Edition show choir. This past summer she enjoyed working as an actor at a murder mystery dinner theatre in Pennsylvania. She would like to thank her parents for their constant love and support. Enjoy the show!@joselynkateterry

DANCE CAPTAIN, ENSEMBLE

Halle Utterback

is a sophomore music theatre major with a dance minor from Austin, Texas. Previously at Viterbo, she was a female swing in CARRIE: The Musical and a member of Diamond Edition show choir. This year, she is a member of Platinum Edition show choir, is an SGA sophomore senator, and is on the honors leadership board. She is thrilled to be assistant choreographer/dance captain of Footloose. She would like to thank Rick and Tuan for giving her this amazing opportunity and her family and friends for traveling from Texas (and all over) to support her. Besos, y’all! @halle.cate

ENSEMBLE, WENDY JO u/s

Mariana Villanueva

is a junior music theatre major with minors in dance and arts administration from San Antonio. Some past Viterbo credits include soloist in the cabaret Why Love?, Myrhinne u/s in Lysistrata, and Helen in CARRIE: The Musical. Most recently, over the summer she played Camila in Summer Stock Austin’s production of In the Heights. She is also a member of the Platinum Edition show choir, on the board for the Student Theatre Project, and secretary of Viterbo Film Studios. She would like to thank her friends and family for their endless support. Enjoy the show! @mari.sauc

WENDY JO

Katie Wall

is a senior music theatre major with a dance minor from Charlottesville, Va. She is so excited to be making her mainstage debut at Viterbo. Previous credits include usher/understanding in Everybody and The Rocky Horror Show (Paul Bunyan Playhouse). She is also excited to be a part of Platinum Edition show choir for the third year in a row. She is co-artistic director of the Student Theatre Project on campus. She is grateful to her friends and family for the constant support and love they've shown. @ktjwall

JETER, WILLARD u/s

Mason Wold

is a senior music theatre major with a dance minor from Oakdale, Minn. Viterbo credits include The Pajama Game (Hines) and CARRIE: The Musical (Freddy). Professional highlights include The SpongeBob Musical (SpongeBob) and All Shook Up (Dennis). Wold is co-artistic director of the Student Theatre Project, SGA conservatory senator, and dance captain of Platinum Edition show choir. Much love to family and friends for the constant love and support! @masonallenwold

SWING

Megan Wheelock

is a sophomore music theatre major with a dance minor from Waterloo, Iowa. She has been involved in Student Theatre Project's cabaret and is currently in Viterbo's Platinum Edition show choir. She is looking forward to strengthening her skills and enjoying all of the future opportunities the Conservatory for the Performing Arts has to offer. @meganelisewheelock

ENSEMBLE, LYLE/TRAVIS u/s

Ian Zempel

is a junior music theatre major from Sheboygan. He has been seen (heard) in the department designing sound for CARRIE: The Musical, Lysistrata, and Student Theatre Project’s In Limbo and Spring Awakening. Zempel looks forward to new opportunities and experiences in the coming year and thanks everyone that has helped make that happen! @b_r_i_b_e

SWING

CJ Zimmer

is a sophomore music theatre major from Taylor Mill, Ken. Previously, he has been in CARRIE: The Musical (ensemble) at Viterbo as well as Godspell (Swing/Telly) at Stage Right Theatre Company. He is also a proud member of Platinum Edition show choir. He thanks his family for all their love and support. @cj.zimmer1

Biographies

Production Team

DIRECTOR/FIGHT DIRECTOR

Rick Walters

is the interim director of Viterbo’s Conservatory for the Performing Arts. He is an actor (AEA), director, and teacher. He has been a member of the acting companies at the Guthrie Theatre, Indiana Repertory Theatre, The Empty Space Theatre in Seattle, and a core member of Picture This–a professional improv group specializing in theatre for social and corporate programs, and health and wellness education. His directing credits include over 40 plays and musicals. Walters is a recipient of the Kennedy Center–American College Theatre Festival Actors Center Fellowship. He is a certified associate teacher of Fitzmaurice Voicework® and holds a level-one certification in Margolis Method (a physical approach to acting). He has taught acting, voice, and movement at the University of Minnesota and Indiana University at Indianapolis and has been influential in developing educational theatre programs at the Guthrie Theatre, Steppingstone Theatre, Park Square Theatre, Young Audiences of Indiana, and others. Walters is a past Region III chair of the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF). He holds an MFA in acting from the University of Minnesota and a BS in theatre from the University of Evansville.

MUSIC DIRECTOR

Janette Hanson

has served as collaborative accompanist, vocal coach, music director, rehearsal pianist, and pit musician for the music theatre department at Viterbo since 2016. She directed the 2020 Wisconsin All-State Vocal Jazz Honor Choir and serves as judge and clinician for regional festivals. Hanson accompanies several vocal, instrumental, and music theatre recitals each year, including the National NATS competition in 2019. She received her Bachelor of Music Education from Central Missouri State University, and her master’s degree in education from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse. She and her husband Mark have four adult children and two granddaughters.

CHOREOGRAPHER

Tuan Malinowski

is an actor and creative, redefining and reclaiming the landscape of American musical theatre. As a creative, Malinowski was the choreographer for New York Theatre Barn’s Choreography Lab, where they were mentored by Emmy-winning, Tony-nominated choreographer Joshua Bergasse (NBC’s Smash, On The Town). Most recently, they choreographed The Spongebob Musical at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. They also choreographed a re-imagined Pippin at Weathervane Theatre. As an actor, Malinowski was in the most recent developmental reading of Luna and the Gold River Docs, directed by Chase Brock (Be More Chill, Disney’s Hercules), with music supervision by Rob Berman (City Center Encores!, Bright Star). In addition to their passion for new work, they have performed at regional theatres across the country, notably: Peter Pan (Pittsburgh CLO), Disney’s Newsies (Casa Manana), The Wizard of Oz (Kansas City Starlight Theatre) and Mamma Mia! (Flat Rock Playhouse). Other creative credits: Game On (assistant director/choreographer; Pittsburgh CLO), Last Stop On Market Street (assistant director; Atlantic Theater Company), Dog Man: The Musical (assistant director/choreographer; TheaterWorks USA). Other actor credits (select): Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Disney's The Little Mermaid (Flat Rock Playhouse), Peter Pan (Artpark), Ragtime (Utah Festival Opera and Musical Theatre), and Thoroughly Modern Millie (Cider Mill Playhouse). BFA, Ithaca College. Represented by DGRW, Inc. tuanmalinowski.com @tuanmalinowski

FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHER

Mike Speck

is a certified teacher with the Society of American Fight Directors, currently teaching stage combat styles at Viterbo as an adjunct. In his day job he serves as the operations director of the Chatfield Center for the Arts, training volunteers, solidifying processes, and building organizational capacity. Previous fight direction projects include a six-man sword fight choreographed as a theme-and-variations; a musical brawl incorporating Latin dance, thrown drinks, and set changes; a 6'2" Tybalt vs a 4'10" Mercutio; and a case of rapiers fight where phrase IV's choreography was "phrase II, but backwards." Acting credits include work at the Guthrie Theatre, Theatre at Monmouth, Tent Theatre, and the Lost Colony.

STAGE MANAGER

Mattie Murphy

is a senior music theatre major from Madison. At Viterbo, they have recently been seen onstage in CARRIE: The Musical (Sue Snell), and The Pajama Game (Brenda). Elsewhere she has been seen in LIZZIE (Alice Russel), and Mamma Mia! (Lisa/ensemble). They would like to thank their brother Liam who is one of her biggest inspirations to keep growing as an artist, their friends, and their parents for their support. Enjoy the show! @mtemurphy

ASSISTANT CHOREOGRAPHER

Payton Harper

is a senior music theatre major with an arts administration minor from Atlanta. She has previously been seen at Viterbo as Viola in Twelfth Night, and the ensemble in The Pajama Game and CARRIE: The Musical. On campus, she is a dance captain of Platinum Edition show choir and the executive vice president of SGA. Shout out to the Harper Fam! @paytonrharper

ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER

Adelaide Young

is a sophomore music theatre major with minors in dance and arts administration from Kankakee, Ill. Last year she was a member of Diamond Edition show choir and is currently a member of Platinum Edition show choir. She also performed in Student Theatre Project’s miscast cabaret last winter. Young is thrilled to be working behind the scenes and onstage and is so honored to get to learn and do what she loves here every day. She would also like to thank Mom and Dad for entirely everything they have ever done for her. @adelaiderhyss

ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER

Cortney Piepenburg

is a sophomore theatre major with a minor in arts administration from Chilton, Wis. Past Viterbo credits include Diamond Edition show choir, Concert Choir, and The Elephant Speaks Jazz. She is incredibly excited for another year in the theatre and doing all that she loves at Viterbo. She would also like to thank her family and friends for their never-ending love and support! @cortspian

LIGHTING DESIGNER

Patrick M. Strain

has been one of La Crosse’s friendly neighborhood lighting designers since moving to the area in 2015 and he has lit most of Viterbo’s musicals since then, including Oklahoma!, Cats!, Into the Woods and The Pajama Game, as well as scenery for shows such as How the Other Half Loves. He has designed scenery and lighting (and on rare occasion, costuming) for numerous theatres (professional, educational and community) around the Midwest, a few on the East Coast, and in Germany. He served as the resident designer for the Zona Gale Young People’s Theatre from 2002-2015 and trivia includes that he was one of the scenic artists to paint the “town hall” at ETC world headquarters in Middleton.

SOUND ENGINEER/DESIGNER

Brett Huus

grew up on the shores of Lake Winnebago, in Neenah. After a couple years in Indiana after high school, he arrived in La Crosse and attended and graduated from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse. Huus has done sound design for productions at Viterbo, including: CARRIE: The Musical, The Elephant Speaks Jazz, and several at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, including, Putnam County Spelling Bee, Guys and Dolls, and Working. In addition, he has done audio work for various Pumphouse Regional Arts Center productions in La Crosse. In 2005 he mastered Bill Miller's Grammy award-winning CD, Cedar Dream Songs, as well as recording and mixing, in part Michael Martin Murphey’s Grammy–nominated Buckaroo Bluegrass in 2009. Huus is the recording engineer for the La Crosse Symphony Orchestra, and he teaches as an adjunct professor of music technology at Viterbo and Saint Mary’s. Huus owns Sound Strations Audio Productions, which is a full-service digital media studio, featuring video and audio recording and postproduction. Sound Strations is based in Brownsville, Minn., with the main studio in La Crosse. www.soundstrations.com

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

Chad Kolbe

is an associate professor of theatre at Viterbo focusing on design and technology. He teaches courses such as stage craft, principles of design, theatre practicum and stage lighting. He also serves as technical director, and on occasion lighting designer for the theatre and music theatre department. Before Viterbo, Kolbe taught for two years at The University of Northern Iowa, and before that served as head rigger at Des Moines Metro Opera and technical director at The Texas Shakespeare Festival. He enjoys time with family, cooking good food, and being outside exploring all that La Crosse and the surrounding areas have to offer.

INTIMACY DIRECTOR

Mary Trotter

is an actor, director, and intimacy choreographer. She joined Viterbo as an adjunct faculty this fall and has taught acting, directing, voice and movement at Washington State University and the University of Central Missouri. Professional credits span the pacific northwest, Chicago, and New York City. In addition to receiving her BA from Bradley University and MFA from the University of Idaho, she has extensive training with Patsy Rodenburg and Theatrical Intimacy Education. Trotter is a certified NIA instructor and an active participant in the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival, she has served as the Irene Ryan Coordinator for Region VII for five years and Associate Coordinator with Region V for 4 years. Additionally, Trotter has produced and directed theatre outreach programs such as Las Memorias and The Performance Project, focused on defining and sharing individual stories of participants. She is a founding member of Connections Theatre Company.

SCENIC DESIGNER

Jesse Dreikosen

currently serves as the associate chair and director of graduate studies at the University of Idaho department of theatre arts in Moscow, Idaho. Before moving to Idaho, he was an associate professor and head of design and production at Florida International University. He earned an MFA in scene design from Purdue University and a BFA in theatre design from Viterbo. He has designed around the country at such theatres as The Alabama Shakespeare Festival, The Contemporary American Theater Festival, Montana Repertory Theatre, Montana Shakespeare in the Parks, Company of Fools, The Texas Shakespeare Festival, Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, The Mint Theater, Texas Repertory Theatre Company, The Red Fern Theatre, The Ohio Theatre, The Renaissance Theatre, and The 6th Street Playhouse in Santa Rosa, Calif., just to name a few. His work has been exhibited at the Prague Quadrennial in the Czech Republic. He has also held the position of vice commissioner of education in the scene design and technologies commission for The United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) and currently serves as the immediate past national chair of design, technology, and management for the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF). He has received numerous regional and national awards for his designs.

HAIR AND MAKEUP DESIGNER

Will Handrick

is a sophomore theatre major with an emphasis in stage management from Woodruff. Credits at Viterbo include props build for The Pajama Game and stage manager for Speed Dating Tonight! He is super excited to work on upcoming projects on design/production crew this semester and he would like to extend an extra special thank you to Jen Brown for her endless support and guidance.

ASSISTANT COSTUME DESIGNER

Sarah DeMinter

is a sophomore Theatre BA with minors in dance, and arts administration from Madison. Sarah was previously the costume coordinator for Speed Dating Tonight, and she is extremely excited to work on upcoming design and production opportunities! DeMinter would like to thank her friends and family for all their endless love and support! @sarahdeminter

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Teddy Eck

is a professional actor, director, and administrator who has worked in a variety of mediums within the performance arts. He has a wide range of performance credits including work at various LORT and off-Broadway theatres, TV and feature film appearances, commercial and industrial work, and even the odd cruise ship gig. He has also served as director for a wide variety of performing arts shows and events including opera, musical theatre, classic and contemporary plays, and multimedia work. In addition, he has worked extensively on the administration/non-profit side of the performing arts including work as, a grant writer, various marketing and development associate positions, and most recently VP of donor relations for the San Diego Repertory Theatre. He is currently working on the collaboration of social justice through the performing arts and a focus on immersive and new storytelling technics. Education includes: BFA in musical theatre performance (integrated studies) AMDA/The New School University in NYC, and MFA in theatre directing, University of Memphis, Tenn. Additional Accreditations and Certificates include film production and screenwriting–The New School University, certified non-profit professional from National Leadership Alliance, actor combatant from Society of Fight Directors, and an AEA and SAG/AFTRA member.

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Jason Underferth

has been a lighting designer in the Midwest region for more than 20 years. Most recently, he has spent the last 10 years as the production manager and lighting design lecturer at Saint Mary’s University in Winona, Minn., where he has designed more than 40 shows. Favorite designs include Man of La Mancha and Enchanted April, both at The Commonweal Theatre Company. He is excited to join Viterbo this year as the Conservatory for the Performing Arts’ production coordinator.

Information For Our Patrons

Viterbo Fine Arts Center
900 Viterbo Drive
La Crosse, WI 54601
608-796-3737 | finearts@viterbo.edu
www.viterbo.edu/fac

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Special Thanks

Cast

GARVIN

Aren Alexander–Battee

LYLE, CHUCK u/s

Robby Alston

BICKLE, REN u/s

Jake Aune

WES WARNICKER

Logan Bailey

BETTY BLAST, ENSEMBLE

Maddy Ballard

ELENOR DUNBAR

Sophia Barbato

ENSEMBLE

Yassie Bonner

DANCE HALL SINGER, ENSEMBLE

Ruby Brisco

REVEREND SHAW MOORE

Carson Carter

ETHEL MCCORMACK

Kjerstan Danzig

A COP, ENSEMBLE

Savannah DeShazo

ENSEMBLE, WES u/s

P.J. Doherty

ARIEL MOORE

Virginia Foshee

VI MOORE

McKenzie Greenwood

LULU WARNICKER

Kassidy Kampmeier

SWING

Reagan Kettner

DANCE HALL SINGER, ENSEMBLE

Jillian Kohl

IRENE–LEAD DANCE HALL SINGER, ENSEMBLE

Sophie La Fave

COACH ROGER DUNBAR

Deacon Leer

ENSEMBLE, RUSTY u/s

Lindsey Meath

DANCE HALL SINGER, ENSEMBLE

Gabby Moten

ENSEMBLE, REV. MOORE/COACH u/s

Lukas Nederloe

SWING

Grace Peña

ENSEMBLE, ARIEL u/s

Emma Phillips

SWING

Brandon Rundquist

CHUCK CRANSTON

Evan James Schmit

URLEEN

Payton Seacrist

RUSTY

Kiley Silva

WILLARD HEWITT

Calum Sullivan

REN MCCORMACK

Zach Sullivan

TRAVIS

Joshua Terrones

PRINCIPAL CLARK, ENSEMBLE

Josey Terry

DANCE CAPTAIN, ENSEMBLE

Halle Utterback

ENSEMBLE, WENDY JO u/s

Mariana Villanueva

WENDY JO

Katie Wall

JETER, WILLARD u/s

Mason Wold

SWING

Megan Wheelock

ENSEMBLE, LYLE/TRAVIS u/s

Ian Zempel

SWING