A Christmas Carol - 2013 - The Toledo Repertoire Theatre

A Christmas Carol - 2013
Cast and Crew Bios
Welcome to the cast and crew bios for A Christmas Carol. It has been my privilege to assemble the list that
follows this introduction. Thanks to all the cast and crew for their patience and understanding during the
process.
We have 23 people participating for their first time in A Christmas Carol. 4 people have been involved with
A Christmas Carol for 20 or more years, and one of those is completing their 28th performance in A Christmas
Carol, the only person who has participated from the beginnings of this show, Eric Hillenbrand.
We have talent coming from many different backgrounds and theatrical experiences. Some have done
Broadway and Off-Broadway, have been seen on television, and appeared in movies. Some have performed all
over the world. Local theater groups represented include:
3B Productions, Bedford Community Players, Black Swamp Players, Collingwood Arts Theater, Croswell,
Grand Rapids Historical Society, Monroe Community Players, Oregon Community Theater, Orphan
Productions, Perrysburg Children’s Theatre, Today Productions, Toledo Ballet, Toledo Opera, The Toledo
Repertoire Theater, Valentine Theater, Village Players, and Waterville Playshop.
Our cast and crew have been involved in nearly 200 different shows, the actors playing many different
characters. Use the bios to network with others who have been in these shows. It is a great way of learning
more about a show that you are interested in.
I hope you enjoy getting to know everybody better. We are one very talented theatrical family.
Merry Christmas,
William J Priest
Alexis Abou-Arraj (Lexi) - Belle/Dancer (Fezziwig & Waltz)/Adult Chorus
Alexis is thrilled to once again be playing the role of Belle and Adult Dancer in this
timeless and endearing tale, A Christmas Carol! This is Lexi's 6th time in A Christmas
Carol, having previously performed the roles of Belle, Fan, Adult Dancer and School's
Out Kid.
Alexis is grateful to have been cast in 20 musicals over the last five years, including
her most recent roles of: Gingy in Notre Dame Academy's Shrek, Eponine in St.
Francis de Sales Les Miserables and Babette in 3B's Beauty and the Beast. Other
shows with The Rep, 3B, Waterville Playshop, and Notre Dame Academy include:
Once on This Island (Te Moune), Alice In Wonderland (Alice), Pirates of Penzance
(Mabel), A Midsummer’s Night Dream (Oberona), Aesop’s Fables (Reporter/Number
Bearer), Willy Wonka, Jr., (Oompaloompa), 1000 Cranes (Crane), and three productions of Seussical (Bird
Girl, Mindy Lu Who)!
Lexi is a sophomore honor student at Notre Dame Academy.
She sends her heartfelt gratitude to the entire cast and crew for this amazing show.
Jeffrey J. Albright (Jeff) - Jacob Marley
This is Jeff's 8th year playing Marley opposite Paul Causman's Scrooge.
Most recently, Jeff was in last season's Toledo Repertoire Theatre
productions of The Drowsy Chaperone, Death of a Salesman and Hamlet.
He directed this season's Lettice and Lovage at The Village Players and will
be directing Tennessee Williams' The Glass Menagerie this spring at The
Toledo Rep.
Bobbi Baranek - Junior Chorus / Select Chorus
This is Bobbi's 11th time in A Christmas Carol.
The acting bug bit her at the young age of 4 with her first show, The Toledo Rep’s A
Christmas Carol, where only the director had faith that a 4 year old would make it on
stage on by herself (Want, a role that she had her reprise 5 times) and she didn’t miss a
beat once! 52 community theater shows (and 1 high school musical) later, Bobbi
proudly takes the Boards for number 54 in this years A Christmas Carol, including 8
plays (5 of which were Shakespearean) and 46 musicals.
She was most recently seen as 'Mama Bear' and 'Tapping Rat' in Notre Dame
Academy's Shrek the Musical. She has also performed for 3B Productions, The
Valentine, Waterville Playshop, OPI, AIE, and Grand Rapids. Bobbi’s Favorite rolls: 3B
Productions – Urinetown (Rebel), Titanic (Stewardess); Toledo Rep - Once on this Island Jr. (Asaka, Mother
of the Earth), Into the Woods, Jr. (Narrator), A Christmas Carol (Want & Dancing Doll); AIE – Wizard of Oz
(Dorothy), Tales of 3 (Goldilocks); The Valentine Theatre – South Pacific (Teora, Emile's youngest child) and
any roll that lets her perform with her best friends.
When not on a theatrical stage Bobbi is busy with dance, piano, and voice. She is also very involved in Girl
Scouts where she has performed at the Ohio State Fair 4 years, winning many medals for singing, dancing, and
acting.
Bobbi is a Freshman at Notre Dame Academy. Not letting any grass grow under her feet, Bobbi has joined
both the choir and speech team at NDA.
Kim Baranek – Laundress / Adult Chorus / Sweatshirt Coordinator
Kim is proud to be performing in A Christmas Carol for the 10th time.
Kim’s favorite roles include: Grand Rapids Historical Society – Annir (Miss
Hannigan); Waterville Playshop – Willy Wonka (Mrs. Gloop); 3B Productions – Titanic
(Adult Chorus) It was the most amazing SOUND ever!); and any role that lets her share
the stage with daughter Bobbi! 24 Shows (1 Play, 23 musicals)
Kim has also worked with: 3B Productions, Orphan Productions, Waterville
Playshop, and Grand Rapid Historical Society. She was drug into the acting world by a
notice on the “Annie Warbuck’s” audition form 9 years ago that said ”parents are not
permitted to stay for rehearsals”. Not wanting to leave her 5 year old with people she
didn’t know she had her first audition (to carry a plate across the stage….which turned
into 2 full dance numbers!)
Kim is a Para-Professional at Autism MODEL School and Chauffer Extraordinaire. When not at rehearsals
she is shuttling Bobbi between: her rehearsals, voice lessons, piano, dance lessons, auditions, Girl Scouts and
speech meets. It ain't always “Easy Street” but it always brings “Joy” to my “World”!
Barbara Barkan – Ghost of Christmas Past
Barbara has been involved with A Christmas Carol for many years.
She is an actress and director, well known in the Toledo area. She just
finished the Village Players production of Lettice and Lovage.
Ben Berschback – Turkey Boy/Parade Kid/Schools Out Kid/Jr Chorus
This is Ben's 4th year in A Christmas Carol. This year Ben is thrilled to have the role
of Turkey Boy! Previously he was a Parade Boy and in the Junior Chorus.
His on stage theatrical credits include: Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat
(Childrens Chorus).
He has appeared in numerous local television commericials.
Ben loves playing all sports and loves singing and playing the piano.
Ben attends Ottawa Hills Elementary School.
Christmas Carol has become such a wonderful tradition in his family!
Savanna Bialecki – Schools Out Kid
This is Savanna's 7th year in A Christmas Carol. Previously she has been: a Ruffian, a
Snowflake, in the Childrens Chorus, and a Schools Out Kid.
Previous on stage credits include: Toledo Rep - Aladdin Jr, Suessical Jr, 1000 Cranes,
Mid-summers Nights Dream, Aesops Updated Fables, Alice in Wonderland Jr,
Suessification of Romeo and Juliet, Its a Wonderful Neverland (Peter Pan), and Guys
and Dolls Jr.; Bedford Community Players - 101 Dalmations; Toledo School For The
Arts - Oliver and Kaleidoscope.
She is also interested in playing volleyball and she is currently on a Junior Roller
Derby team called the Frogtown Fallgirls.
She is an 8th grader at the Toledo School For The Arts and a member of the National
Junior Thespians.
Sydney Breeding – Junior Chorus
This is Sydney's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
This is Sydney's debut with the junior chorus in A Christmas Carol and her 2nd play
with The Toledo Rep. She is thrilled to be part of such a classic production and has
learned a lot from the experienced cast.
This is her sixth performance in a musical production which includes; Once Upon a
Mattress (Rapunzel), Alice In Wonderland (Cheshire Cat), Barnum (Chorus) and two
different performances of Guys and Dolls Jr. (Benny Southstreet and Miss Adelaide).
Her hobbies are volunteering at The Humane Society and studying the performing
arts, she hopes to see a performance on Broadway in New York in the near future.
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Sydney is in the 7 grade at Gateway Middle School in Maumee, Ohio.
Deb J. Brescol - Mrs. Fezziwig / Adult Chorus
Deb has appeared in the last 11 years of A Christmas Carol, and has been seen as the
Charwoman (twice) and Mrs. Fezziwig (7 times).
Deb has appeared in several other Rep productions including The Sound of Music
(Sister Bertha), The Full Monty (Susan), All Shook Up (Ensemble), Victor/Victoria
(Cosmetic President). Deb has been involved in community theatre in this area for
over 30 years and has been blessed with many wonderful memories. A special
production of A Christmas Carol was in 2010 when Deb had her two (2)
granddaughters, Raegan & Ryann, her daughter-in-law Tamara and her grandson Nolan
all in the show with her.
In 1982 Deb became one of the founding members of Bedford Community Players (BCP) and has served
them in many capacities; Board President, Producer, and most duties under that title. Over the 30 years she also
danced her way through BCP productions of Guys & Dolls, Cabaret, Chicago, 42nd Street, Anything Goes and
Sweet Charity, to name her favorites. Other special productions have been Watherville Playshop - Kiss Me
Kate, Monroe Community Players - Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and with the Village Theatre - Cabaret.
By day, Deb is the Executive Director of the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program & the Health Van with
Bedford Public Schools Community Education. She serves on the board for the Child Advocacy Network in
Monroe County and on the board for the Michigan Association of RSVP Directors. Deb is also a board
member for the Toledo Repertoire Theatre.
Deb wishes love, luck and laughter to this cast, crew & patrons of A Christmas Carol this holiday season!
Nolan Brescol – Junior Chorus/Boy around desk/Sheep/Parade Boy
This is Nolan's 5th year in A Christmas Carol. Previous roles: Baby chorus at
18 months, 30 months, 3 ½ years and 4 ½ years..
He enjoys singing soccer, baseball, playing outside, and participating in A
Christmas Carol.
Nolan attends Monroe Road Elementary School in Bedford.
Jenna Butler – Junior Chorus
This is Jenna's 3rd years in A Christmas Carol. Her previous roles were Want and
Childrens Chorus.
She has performed at Springfield High School – Seusical the Musical (Who Chorus)
and in other small productions with her church and community.
Jenna enjoys playing softball for Wizards, plays saxophone, enjoys being with her
friends and making rubber band bracelets.
She attends Springfield Middle School.
Ben Byard – Stage crew
This is Ben's 1st year in helping with A Christmas Carol.
Ben helped with the stage crew for Forbidden Broadway.
Debra Ross Calabrese – Director / Choreographer
Deb has been involved with A Christmas Carol for over 20 years. She has previously
been the Director, Choreographer, Charwomen, Laundress and Millie.
Her previous on stage theater credits include: Chorus Line (Cassie, Sheila), Flea in
Her Ear (Yvonne), Reckless (Pooty), Pippin (Fastrada), Annie (Lily St. Regis), A...My
Name is Alice (Alice 1 of 5), A...My Name is Still Alice (Alice 1 of 5).
Deb has directed and choreographed for The Toledo Rep's since 1986 for the
mainstage, Young Rep and Young Rep Roadshow. She also has directed and
choreographed for: the Toledo School of the Arts, The Croswell Opera House (Adrian,
Michigan) and Central Catholic High School.
Deb enjoys dancing, theater, working out, and power walking.
After chairing the dance department at Toledo School for the Arts since 1999, she retired in 2007 to resume
her theater work full time.
Ida Cardenas - Spirit
This is Ida's 6th year in A Christmas Carol. She has always appeared in the
show as a Spirit
Ida has worked backstage or involved with tech in numerous community
theater shows.
She enjoys running, is an usher at the Stranahan Theater, and is a big, Big, BIG
Ohio State fan!
Ida is a recent graduate of Bowling Green State University (BGSU). She is a
life coach for deaf and hard-of-hearing children. She is employed by Creative
Living Services, a company that provides services for individuals with
developmental or cognitive disabilities.
Ida also volunteers with the Seagate Food Bank.
Paul Causman - Ebenezer Scrooge
This is Paul's 11th year in A Christmas Carol, and is Paul’s eleventh season portraying
Scrooge in the Rep’s annual production.
Paul received his degree in theatre from Bowling Green State University.
Immediately following college he was a long-term resident artist for the Ohio Arts
Council at the Hopkins Theatre of the Southern Ohio Museum and Cultural Center. He
has been the Artistic Director of the NCOAC Studio Theatre and the Toledo Rep Theatre
from 1986 to 1991. Paul has been on staff at the Ohio Arts Council, a state funding
agency for the arts, and he has served on the artistic staff and boards of performing arts
companies and service organizations including the executive board of the Ohio Theatre
Alliance and the National Committee Arts and the Handicapped Task Force. He has
performed in and directed more than one hundred productions. He was the stage director of Jesus Daughter, an
original techno/video opera which played in the Dance in Video Festival at the Walter Reede Gallery at Lincoln
Center and the Modern Museum of Art in New York City. In addition, it was presented as a series of
installations in Italy and Switzerland sponsored by UNESCO and featured on CNN Future Watch.
In Toledo he has worked with the Toledo Rep, the Toledo Ballet, the Toledo Opera, the Toledo Jazz Society,
the Toledo Symphony and the University of Toledo, Department of Theatre and Film, the Village Players and
Ms. Roses Dinner Theatre. Most recently at the Rep he has appeared in: Art (Yvan), Gypsy (Herbie), Our
Town (Stage Manager), Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf (George), and the Rep Edgy Reading of I Am My Own
Wife (Charlotte von Malsdorf).
He is currently Marketing Director and graphic designer for Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo.
It is a highlight of Paul's year to reunite with old friends and to make new ones as part of the family of the A
Christmas Carol cast and crew!
Rowan Creps - Frances Cratchit
This is Rowan's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
Her previous on stage theater credits include: Perrysburg Musical Theater – Annie
(Molly), An Evening with Irving Berlin (Soloist), The Sound of Music (Marta), and
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat (Chorus).
Rowan enjoys dancing (jazz and tap) at Company C Dance Club. She also enjoys
reading.
She is in the 4th grade at Woodland Elementary in Perrysburg.
Heather Dassouki – Adult Chorus
This is Heather's 2nd year in A Christmas Carol. She also appeared in the Adult
Chorus last year.
Heather's previous on stage theatrical credits include: Oregon Community Theater –
Les Miserables; The University of Toledo's Department of Theatre and Film –
Funnyhouse of a Negro (Queen Victoria Regina), Once on this Island (Erzulie),
Fortinbras (Maiden); Toledo Rep – Broadway at the Rep (mulitple numbers), The Best
Little Whorehouse in Texas (Dogette, Thorpe singer, Reporter).
Her other theater credits include: The University of Toledo's Department of Theatre
and Film – As You Like It (Set design), Richard III (Set construction/crew), Desdemona (Make up), The
Ferris Wheel (Director). Additionally, she is a play-write, writing False Impression for UT's 24 hour playwriting festival.
She enjoy playing the alto-saxophone and going karaoke singing.
Heather is a substitute teacher for Toledo School for the Arts.
Abigail Davis (Abbie) – Fan / Adult Chorus
This is Abbie's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
Abbie's previous on stage theatrical credits include: Notre Dame Academy –
Shrek (Humpty Dumpty / Dragon Girl), Seussical (Mackle / Who Singer), Annie
(Boylan Sister, Cecil, Star to be); Saint Francis – Les Miserables (Chorus).
She has been involved with Interlochen Academy for the Arts (Intensive?????)
She is involved with PCT Spirituality, Pep Club, Princess Club, ACA-NoFella, all of these at Notre Dame Academy where she is a student.
Giovanni Michael-Basil DeSantis - Parade Kid/Schools Out Kid/Jr Chorus
This is Giovanni's 3rd year in A Christmas Carol. Previous roles: Parade Kid,
Childrens Chorus.
Giovanni's on stage theater credits include: Honk! (Chorus, Duck); St. Joseph
School – Beauty and the Beast Jr (A cupcake).
He has been tumbling for 6 years, 8 years of tap, and ballet for 3 years.
He enjoys football, basketball, soccer, and baseball.
Giovanni is a proud 5th grade student at St. Joseph School, Maumee, Ohio.
Isabella Gianna DeSantis (Bella) - Junior Chorus
This is Bella's 3rd year in A Christmas Carol. Previous roles: Snow Fairy, Under Desk
Girl, Childrens Chorus.
She has being involved with competition chearleading for 5 years, 6 years of
tumbling, 6 years of tap,and 3 years of ballet.
Bella is a 2nd grader at St. Joseph School in Maumee, Ohio.
Scott Dibling - Keeper Joe / Adult Chorus / Solicitor understudy
This is Scott's 6th year in A Christmas Carol, and he hopes it not his last. It is such a
fun and beautiful project.
Two years ago he had the privilege of playing the ghost of Jacob Marley, which
meant that he sat alone in the dressing room a lot of the time while everyone else was
upstairs singing and dancing.
Other Toledo Rep shows include: Mornings at Seven, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Pass
the Butler, Harvey, Light Up the Sky and Auntie Mame.
Hobbies: (He could use a few) working out, rollerblading, TAKING NAPS when he
can get one, and watching movies with Jeff.
Scott is a registered nurse at the University of Toledo Medical Center (UTMC) in the
Cardiovascular Unit.
He looks forward again to working with everyone, both old and new. Scott wishes everyone a Merry
Christmas and Happy Eggnog! (hahaha)
David Driver (Dave) – Adult Chorus
This is Dave's 8th year in A Christmas Carol. His previous roles include: Adult
Dancer, Adult Chorus, Man 2.
Dave has been involved in theater for many years, both on stage and behind the
scenes. His most recent performance was in Les Miserables as Fauchelevant (aka the
man who is run over by a cart) and various other minor roles. Besides A Christmas
Carol, in the past few years he has performed as a singer and dancer in Hello Dolly,
played Jacob in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Mr. Fagin in
Oliver!. He has also been the treasurer of Today Productions, a high school age
community theater group.
Dave would like to thank his wife Bonnie for all the love and support in his theatrical endeavors. When not
at the theater, Dave is a computer consultant, and plays guitar for the contemporary worship service at All Saints
Lutheran Church.
Erin Duffey – Adult Chorus
This is Erin's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
Her previous on stage credits include: Toledo Rep – Fiddler on the Roof (Shandel);
Sylvania Southview – Beauty and Beast (Mob solo, chorus), Anything Goes (Chorus);
Timberstone Junior High School - The Lion King (Zebra).
Her other credits include: Sylvania Soutview – The Crucible (Stage Manager), Couga
Review 2013: Sleuths, Soul and Rock and Roll (Run/Set Crew), and The Greek
Mythology Olympiaganza (Set/Run Crew).
Erin is a Junior at Sylvania Soutview High School and a member of Select Ensemble
and the International Thespian Society.
Alana Eddy – Dancer (Fezziwig & Waltz) / Adult Chorus / Select Chorus
This is Alana's 6th year in A Christmas Carol. Her previous roles include:
Adult Chorus and Select Chorus.
Alana's previous on stage theater credits include: Bedford Community Players
– Hello Dolly! (Minnie Fay), Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
(Ruebens wife, Chorus); Grand Rapids – Bye Bye Birdie (Kim MacAfee).
Alana is a member of the Toledo Opera in the Adult Chorus and has appeared
in Turandot, La Boheme, Aida and opera galas.
Her other interests include sewing, historical hat making, playing the piano
and reading British literature.
Alana plans on attending classes at Bowling Green State University next fall.
Eileen Eddy – Charwoman / Adult Chorus / Dickens Singer Coordinator
This is Eileen's 4d year in A Christmas Carol. She has previously been in the Adult
Chorus.
Eileen has been in productions in Ontario Canada, Bedford Community Players and
Grand Rapids. Her on stage theater credits include: Grand Rapids - Bye Bye Birdie
(Gloria Rasputin).
She has directed for Bedford Community Players - Into the Woods; she was the
costumer for BCP's Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat; and has directed
for the Toledo Rep, and is the Rep Ed Director.
Eileen is a member of the Toledo Opera Chorus and most recently appeared in Aida.
She has served as member of the Board of Directors of Bedford Community Players.
She enjoys antique collecting, vintage cars and British history.
William Francis (Will) - Peter Cratchit
This is Will's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
His previous on stage theater credits include: 3B Productions – Beauty and
the Beast (Doormat/Towns boy); St. Joseph Maumee – The Little Mermaid
(Jetsam); Next Stage Studios – Romeo / Juliet Modern Musical; St. Joan of Arc
– Peter Pan (Michael); Everything’s Groovy (Peter); Pied Piper (Bongo);
Children’s Theatre Workshop – Stone Soup (Peter).
He enjoys singing, acting, magic, science projects and camping.
Will attends St. Joseph Maumee Preparatory School.
JR Fray – Ghost of Christmas Future / Adult Chorus
This is JR's 2nd year in A Christmas Carol. He previous appeared as:
Dancer (Fezziwig & Waltz) / Adult Chorus.
His previous on stage theatrical credits include: Merry Christmas Charlie
Brown (Charlie Brown), Little Mermaid (Sebastian the Crab).
He enjoys woodcraft, painting, artistic welding.
He is employed by Budweiser.
Lucas Frost – Young Ebby
This is Lucas' 2nd year in A Christmas Carol. He was in the Junior Chorus and
a Parade Boy in 2011.
He played Nicely Nicely Johnson in the young Reps production of Guys and
Dolls in Aug 2013 and was a whokid in Seussical the Musical in may of 2012.
His hobbies are all types of art, playing piano, singing and magic .
He is 11 years old and a fifth grader at Beverly Elementary School.
Elizabeth Gozdowski – Junior Chorus
This is Elizabeth's 2nd year in A Christmas Carol.
She loves doing musical theater at the Rep and at her school. She has done
many musicals including: Annie, Guys and Dolls, Once on This Island, and Alice
in Wonderland.
Elizabeth would like to thank her parents for always believing in her, her music
teacher Todd Schreiber, and her vocal teacher Crystal Weiler.
Isabel Haack (Bella) – Junior Chorus
This is Bella's 2nd year in A Christmas Carol. Previous role: Adult Chorus.
Bella’s on-stage theater credits include: Toledo Opera – La Boheme (Youth Chorus);
Toledo School for the Arts – 13 The Musical (Charlotte), Once Upon a Mattress (Lady
Rowena), Oliver (Chorus); 3B Productions – Urinetown (Rebel), Beauty and the Beast
(Chorus); Waterville Playshop – Seussical the Musical (Chorus); The Toledo Rep – It’s
a Wonderful Neverland (Earl), Alice in Wonderland (Chorus); Center Stage Studios –
The Sound of Music (Brigitta); Downriver Acting Guild: Beauty and the Beast
(Wolf/Feature Dancer/Chorus); Show Biz Kidz - 101 Dalmatians (Narrator); Downriver
Youth Performing Arts Center – A Christmas Carol (Fan), Wizard of Oz (Lullaby
League Munchkin), Sleeping Beauty (Red Bird) and several other variety shows in the
downriver Michigan area.
Bella is a member of the Junior Thespian Society.
When not on stage, Bella’s hobbies are singing, playing piano, reading, and anything pertaining to Dr. Who
or Harry Potter. She is a Toledo ZooTeen and also enjoys volunteering as an Ambassador for the Toledo School
for the Arts.
Bella is a freshman at Toledo School for the Arts.
Shane Hackett - Parade Kid / Junior Chorus
This is Shane's 4th year in A Christmas Carol. His previous roles were: Young Ebby,
Schools Out Kid, Toy Soldier, Parade Kid, Ignorance, Joseph, and Junior Chorus.
Some of his many hobbies include photography, building tree forts and rockets, &
playing the guitar. Shanes other interests would be going to his grandmothers cottage to
do water sports as well as playing Mine Craft.
This is his first year at The Toledo School for the Arts & so far is really enjoying the
change.
Emily Hayman - Dancer (Fezziwig & Waltz) / Adult Chorus
This is Emily's 7th year in A Christmas Carol. Previous Roles: Adult Dancer, Fiddler,
Snowflake, Adult & Children's chorus.
Emily's on stage theater credits include: Toledo School for the Arts- Legally Blonde
(Sorority girl, Dancer), Thoroughly Modern Millie (Chorus, understudy for Gloria);
Toledo Rep- 1000 Cranes (spirit dancer, chorus), Pirates of Penzance (pirate, police),
Alice in Wonderland (chorus).
Other theater credits include: Toledo School for the Arts – Oliver (Prop Master).
When not on stage, Emily's hobby is dance. She had danced for 6 yearqs focusing in
jazz, contemporary and tap. She also plays guitar.
Emily is a sophomore at Toledo School for the Arts. She is president of the TSA
Ambassadors and a member of Students in Action.
Kenneth Charles Herrmann (Charlie) – Want / Junior Chorus / Parade boy
This is Charlie's 1st year in a A Christmas Carol.
He has previously appeared in Guys and Dolls Jr. (Police officer) and was a
student in a WGTE “Anti-Bullying” commercial.
Charlies hobbies and interests include: soccer, Cub Scouts, and computer
gaming.
He is in the 4th grade at Beverly Elementary School in Toledo.
Scott A. Heuerman – Assistant Director / Producer / Solicitor / Adult Chorus
This is Scott's 7th year in A Christmas Carol. Previous roles: Man 2, Solicitor, Dancer,
Chorus.
Scott's on stage theater credits include: Bedford Community Players – Annie (Chorus),
Fiddler on the Roof (Chorus), Toledo Repertoire Theater – Full Monty (Teddy Slaughter), To
Kill a Mockingbird (Bobb Ewell), Crucible (Thomas Putman), Victor/Victoria (Juke,
Policeman), The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas (Edsel Mckay), The Laramie Project and
The Laramie Project 10 Years Later.
His other theater credits include: Bedford Community Players – Hello Dolly! (Set dressing);
Valentine Theater – Evil Dead the Musical (Properties), Forever Plaid (Properties); Toledo
Repertoire Theater – The Drowsy Chaperone (Stage Manager), Cabaret (Spotlight), Seussical,
Jr (Assistant Stage Manager), Spitfire Grill (Stage Crew), All Shook Up (Properties), Willy
Wonka, Jr (Stage Manager), Hats! The Musical (Stage Manager), Victor/Victoria (Properties), Pirates of Penzance, Jr
(Stage Manager), The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas (Properties); Toledo Opera – La Boheme, Don Giovanai and
Aida (Properties).
Scott is employed as a supervisor for the Health Van through Bedford Public Schools.
Eric Hillenbrand – Ghost of Christmas Present
This is Eric's 28th year in A Christmas Carol. He is proud to have been a part of the show
since its inception in 1985—playing Fred, Scrooge’s Nephew, a role he originated in their first
production—and most recently as The Ghost of Christmas Present.
Eric comes from an extensive performance background in the Greater Toledo community.
Credits from his stage career include performances with the Toledo Opera, Oregon Community
Theater and The Toledo Repertoire Theatre, as well as performances in Toronto, New Orleans,
Disney World Orlando and at the World’s Fair in Knoxville, Tennessee.
His many leading roles include: Beauty and the Beast (Beast), Pirates of Penzance (Pirate
King), West Side Story (Tony), Passion of Dracula (Dracula), 1776 (Edward Rutledge), Evita
(Peron), Guys and Dolls (Sky Masterson), and in last season’s The Drowsy Chaperone
(Aldolpho).
In 2007 he joined Toledo Ballet’s The Nutcracker, performing the lead character role, Herr Drosselmeyer, in the
longest-running annual production of this Holiday classic in North America, now in its 73 rd year.
Off-stage, Mr. Hillenbrand is a noted Downtown developer and renovator of historic properties. He also serves as the
Artistic Director of The Toledo Repertoire Theatre—Toledo’s Community Theatre.
J. Heath Huber - Bob Cratchit / Understudy for Ebenezer Scrooge
5th year in A Christmas Carol. Previous Roles: Jake, Adult dancer, Adult chorus.
Heath just finished up quite a busy year on the stage which culminated in his latest roles as
Javert in Oregon Community Theater's Northwest Ohio premier of the full version of Les
Miserables! Earlier in the year, he was also featured in the Rep's comic hits Forbidden
Broadway and The Drowsey Chaperone (Man in Chair). Additionally, Heath was honored to
have had the opportunity to play many characters including Dennis Shepard and Father Roger in
the Rep's special events, The Laramie Project and The Laramie Project, Ten Years Later. He
started the year off playing that womanizing, no-fashion-sense bore, Dickie Bell, in the hilarious
face, The Fox on the Fairway.
Other past productions include: Rep - Hamlet (Horatio), The Cruccible (John Proctor), Neal
Simon's Chapter Two (George), The Foreigner (Froggy), Who’s afraid of Virginia Woolf?
(Nick), The Exonerated (Kerry), The Complete History of America (Abridged) (Austin), Disney’s High School Musical
(Coach Bolton), Noel Coward’s Fallen Angels (Maurice Duclous), Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (Gooper), I Am My Own Wife
(The Narrator), I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change (Danny), and one of his most favorite roles To Kill a
Mockingbird (Atticus); Village Players - [Title of Show] (Hunter), True West (Austin).
Heath has also performed with the Valentine Theatre's local productions, (the former) Ms. Rose’s Dinner Theatre and
the Toledo Opera. Heath was recently in the feature short film, The Closing Broadcast with Lamplight Films.
Heath is a competitive fencer (foil and epee), an avid comic book geek, and is a violence prevention educator, working
with several local organizations to combat sexual and domestic violence.
Heath's primary job is at Owens Community College directing the Upward Bound Program.
David Jex – Muisic Director / Conductor
David Jex is in his 4th year as musical director of A Christmas Carol, and is thrilled to
be back in the historic Valentine Theater. His involvement with the show goes back to
the 1980’s, when he started to provide original music and arrangements for the shows.
He thanks the Rep and Deb for their support and encouragement of our new musical
score.
Other theater music by Jex includes his chamber opera The Purple Gang premiered
at UT in 1991, and performed by the Rep at the 10th street theater in 1993. Along with
Librettist Christine Child, they were awarded an Ohio Arts Council Individual Artist
award for this work.
Jex also wrote incidental music for several UT theater productions including Mother
Courage and Romeo and Juliet, as well as music for productions by the North Coast Theater and The Glacity
Theater Collective.
Holding degrees from the University of Toledo, Bowling Green State University, and the Cleveland
Institute of Music, Dr. Jex has taught at Lycoming College in Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Governor’s
School for the Arts, and since 1983, the University of Toledo.
When not teaching, composing, or performing, Dave likes to get away from it all with camping and outdoor
fun.
Kari Kapszukiewicz (Kaps) – Adult Chorus/Mrs Cratchit understudy
Although Kari has designed costumes for A Christmas Carol ages ago, this is
Kari's first time performing in the production.
She was most recently seen in The Rep's production of The Fox on the Fairway
(Muriel). In addition, she has done several costume designs in the last year for local
theatres including Death of a Salesman, Born Yesterday, Hamlet and Macbeth. She
is proud to be a part of this holiday production and thanks her family and friends for
all that they do!
Her hobbies and interests include: Costuming, jewelry making and being vegan!
She is employed as a Toledo Municipal Court Clerk.
Camille Karavas - Belinda
Camille is very thrilled and excited to be a part of A Christmas Carol. This is her 3rd
year.
She has enjoyed being in the Toledo Repertoire Theater young Rep productions of
Pirates of Penzance, Jr. (Daughter), Alice in Wonderland (Cheshire Cat), The
Seussification of Romeo and Juliet (Benvolio), and Once on this Island, Jr. (Andrea).
Camille has been in many productions with Rossford Summer Theater as well.
She would like to thank her Toledo Repertoire Theater family and wish everyone a
Merry Christmas!
Richard Ketterman (Rick) – Adult Chorus
This is Rick's 3rd year in A Christmas Carol. His previous role in 2010 was playing
the priest.
Rick's other on stage theater credits include: Alliance Ohio Community Theater – A
Christmas Carol (Bob Cratchit); Wizard of Oz (Wizard).
He enjoys golf, snorkeling, reading and gardening.
Rick is the Pastor of Trinity Church of the Nazarene.
Grace Kotnik - Junior Chorus
This is Grace's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
Grace's on stage theater credits include: Riverside Children's Theater, Vero Beach
Florida - Aristocats Jr. (Roquefort), Rapunzel (Children of the court), Winnie the
Pooh (Roo), Pinocchio (Toy), Nutcracker in Swingtime (Toy); Vero Beach High
School - Willy Wonka (Squirrel, Cook, Townsperson).
Grace attended the Junior Theater Festival in Atlanta in 2012 with the cast of
Aristocats from Riverside Children's Theater. The cast received an Award for Best
Singing, ages 7-9. She, along with representatives from each age group was chosen to
sing the song Tomorrow to the creators of Annie.
When not on stage, she enjoys doing gymnastics, playing basketball and making Rainbow Loom bracelets.
Grace is a 4th grader at Sylvan Elementary school.
Karis Isabella Kramp - Junior Choir
This is Karis' 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
She has been a cast member of the last two school plays: Wicked Twister (Munchkin)
and Hair Gel (Poodle Skirt Girl). Karis has taken two years of vocal lessons and
performed at several recitals.
Karis is also involved in Girl Scouts, volleyball and the St. Pius X Children's Choir.
Her hobbies include swimming, reading, drawing, making jewelry on her loom and
riding her bike. Karis loves animals and hopes to become a veterinarian one day. She
has a sister, Ellie and a brother Caden and two cats.
Karis is nine years old and is currently a fourth grader at St. Pius X Elementary School.
Alex Kunzler – Tech
This is Alex's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
Her previous on stage theater credits include: In Once Upon A Mattress.
She did tech when the Rep did The Drowsy Chaperone.
She loves to dance and listen to music.
She attends school at the Toledo School for the Arts.
Jacquelyn Kunzler (Jackie) – Calling Stage Manager (aka - Door)
This is Jackie's 2nd year being involved with A Christmas Carol. She was the
Assistant Stage Manager for last year's show.
Her on stage theatrical credits include: Central Catholic High School – Wizard of Oz
(Chorus).
Jackie was: Stage Manager for Central Catholic High Schools production of Pajama
Game; Assistant Stage Manager for the Rep's The Drowsy Chaperone; Assistant Stage
Manager, spotlight and sound for the Rep's Forbidden Broadway; Deck Electrician for
the Hello Dolly tour at the Lima Civic Center.
She enjoys playing the guitar and playing basketball.
Jackie will be attending Bowling Green State University.
Zachary M. Lahey – Fred / Adult Chorus
This is Zach's 6th year in A Christmas Carol. Previous roles: Fred, dedicated nephew
to Scrooge.
Zach's on stage theater credits include: West Side Story (Tony), Jesus Christ
Superstar (Jesus), Forever Plaid (Frankie), All Shook Up (Chad), The Full Monty
(Jerry), Cabaret (Cliff), The Who's Tommy (Tommy), Godspell (Jesus), Evil Dead the
Musical (Ed), Quadrophenia (Narrator), Pump Boys and Dinettes (Jim), Lend Me a
Tenor (Max), Guys n' Dolls (Nathan Detroit); Waterville Playshop - Kiss Me Kate (Bill).
Zach enjoys water-skiing and backpacking.
He is the owner of Manhattan's Restaurant, on Adams Street, Downtown Toledo.
Zach has a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Musical Theater from Ohio Northern University.
Christine Lanning (Christy) – Millie
This is Christy's 5th year in A Christmas Carol. Previous roles include Martha
and a dancer.
Her previous on stage theater credits include: Legally Blonde the Musical
(Elle Woods), Hairspray (Amber), Rumors (Chris Gorman), The Laramie
Project, and The Laramie Project 10 years Later.
She enjoys reading.
Christy is a student at the University of Toledo. She is studying nursing.
Lydia Gayle Lanzinger - Snow Queen / Parade Princess / Dancer
(Fezziwig & Waltz) / Adult Chorus
This is Lydia's 11th year in A Christmas Carol. Previous Roles: Flower Girl, Fiddler,
Dancing Doll, Snow Flake, Ignorance, Ding Dong Dancer, Sheppard, China Doll, &
Children’s Chorus.
Lydia’s Off Broadway theatre credits include: Beginnings (Directed by Peter Skylar,
performed at Orpheum Theater, NYC)
Lydia’s on stage theatre credits include: Toledo School for the Arts - Legally Blonde
(Sorority Girl, Dancer), Kaleidoscope (Time Keepers, Invisible, Sing Sing Sing,
Roxanne, Hiding Under Water, Bulgarian Medley), Limitless (KODO, Creep Show,
Miss Invisible, Be Italian, Omigod You Guys, Anything Goes, Breathe), We Are (Buried, Falling); Toledo
Repertoire Theatre - Romeo & Juliet (Emilia Capulet); Perrysburg Children’s Theatre - Romeo & Juliet
(Jester).
Lydia’s other theatre credits include: Toledo School for the Arts - Legally Blonde (Dance Captain)
When not dancing, Lydia enjoys spending time with her friends, singing, and listening to music.
Lydia is a sophomore at Toledo School for the Arts.
Drew Longmore - Martha Cratchit
This is Drew's 4th year in A Christmas Carol. Her previous roles: Belinda Cratchit and
Frances Cratchit.
Drew's on stage theater credits include: Secret Garden (Mary), 13! ((Patrice),
Chocolate Soup (Emmi); Toledo School of the Arts - Legally Blonde (Serena); Wizard of
Oz – National Tour (Munchkin); Toledo Opera – La Boheme (Cafe owner's daughter).
She has appeared in local television commercials.
Drew enjoys rollerblading, family and friends, singing and dancing.
She attends the Toledo School for the Arts.
John Longmore - Topper / Dancer (Fezziwig & Waltz) / Man 2 / Adult
Chorus
This is John's 3rd year in A Christmas Carol. His previous roles: Topper,
Dancer, Adult Chorus.
His previous on stage theater credits include: Simon Zealot many years
ago.
He enjoys any and all activities of family fun.
Dana Martin-Hayden – Adult Chorus
James Martin-Hayden – Adult Chorus
Reanna Martin-Hayden - Junior Chorus
Roan Martin-Hayden - Young Scrooge / Dancer / Adult Chorus
Alice Momany - Junior Chorus
This is Alice's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
Alice made her theater debut in The Toledo Rep's Guys and Dolls Junior (Gambler).
She has performed in school musicals: Go, Go Jonah (soloist), and Kings, Dreams and
Schemes - The Adventures of Daniel (Captive and Wise Guy).
Alice enjoys reading, playing volleyball and softball, crafts and spending time with
her friends.
Alice is a sixth grade student at Trinity Lutheran School.
Gail Mowry - Mrs. Cratchit / Ghost of Christmas Past understudy
This is Gail's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
Her previous on-stage theater credits include: The Drowsy Chaperone (Mrs.
Tottendale / Ensemble); The King and I (Lady Thiang); Two by Two ( Rachel).
Her other theater credits include: (Director): Bye, Bye Birdie; Sound of Music;
My Fair Lady; Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat; Peter Pan;
Anything Goes; How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying; Guys and
Dolls (Pit Musician): Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat; Anything
Goes; Big!; Suessical; Sweet Charity; Sound of Music; Wizard of Oz; and The Full
Monty.
Hobbies and Interests: Volunteering, Travel
Gail is the director of music and dramatics for Hillsdale Academy.
Lydia Shannon Napier (Lyddie Lou) - Junior Chorus
This is Lydia's 6th year in A Christmas Carol. Previously she was a Schools
Out Kid and Snowflake.
Lydia's on stage theatrical credits include: 101 Dalmations (Anita), Moses
and the Freedom Fanatics (Miriam), Sound of Music, Once on this Island,
1000 Cranes, Alice in Wonderland, Aladdin, Guys and Dolls and many others.
She enjoys playing the cello, dancing, and singing.
She is a 7th grader at the Toledo School for the Arts.
Melissa Napier – Adult Chorus
This is Melissa's 6th year in A Christmas Carol, in the Adult Chorus.
Her previous on stage theater credits include: Sound of Music, and
various madrigal and classical choral productions.
She and her husband worked as a pro whitewater raft guides and love
taking their kids down the river. She also is an avid scrapbooker.
She works for Principle Business Enterprises as a Clinical Consultant.
Jamie Naragon – Stage Manager
This is Jamie's 5th year in A Christmas Carol, all spent backstage in various technical
capacities.
Though Jamie has only appeared onstage in one junior high production, The Friends
of Julia Dark, she has done tech for over 100 different shows between Edwardsville
Junior High School (Illinois), Maumee High School, Toledo School for the Arts, and
Toledo Central Catholic High School. She has done everything from building sets to
light design, running crew, properties manager, and, most of the time, stage manager.
Some of her favorite productions she has stage managed (aside from A Christmas
Carol) include: Hairspray, Rent, Annie, Little Shop of Horrors, Zombie Prom, A
Chorus Line, 42nd Street, M*A*S*H, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Sound of Music.
When not teching a show, Jamie's primary hobby is cycling journalism. She is a freelance writer and editor
with US Cycling Report and Bike World News. Additionally, she is active with Race Across America, most
recently serving as the Mid-West Regional Official. She is employed as a history teacher and the theatre
manager for the Performing Arts Center at Maumee High School and holds her master's degree in Criminal
Justice.
James M. Norman - Costumes
Jim has been involved with A Christmas Carol for many years.
Gabriel Omlor (Gabe) – Tiny Tim
This is Gabe's 2nd year in A Christmas Carol. His previous roles were a Parade Boy
and Childrens Chorus.
His previous on stage theater credits include: 3B Productions – Ragtime (Edgar),
Titanic (Jack Thayer), Beauty and the Beast (Chip); Joseph and the Amazing
Technicolor Dream Coat (Chorus), Seussical (Chorus), Midsummer’s Night Dream
(Changling Boy) and Stone Soup (Chorus).
Gabe loves to play electric guitar. He has been playing for over a year. He also loves
to draw cartoons.
He is a fourth grader at Beverly Elementary School, but can't wait to attend Toledo School for the Arts.
Holly Omlor – Spirit
This is Holly's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
She is a photographer and artist. She owns and runs Holly Omlor Photography.
Mark Owen - Jake / Adult Chorus
This is Mark's 5th year in A Christmas Carol. Previous roles: Jake, Fezziwig,
Solicitor, Adult chorus, Adult dancer.
Some of Mark's favorire roles are: Oregon Community Theater – Les
Miserables (Jean Valjean), Jesus Christ Superstar (Judas); Croswell Opera
House - Jesus Christ Superstar (Annas).
Mark is a long time Toledo area musician. He is currently with the Christian
Rock band, Refuge.
He also enjoys kayaking, biking, yoga and spending quality time with his
family. One of Mark's special accomplishments was cutting a CD with his three
brothers in honor of their mom - “coz there's a special place in heaven for the mother of four boys!”
Mark is a manager for the Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
Adam David Parker - Parade Boy / Schools Out Kid / Junior Chorus
Adam is incredibly excited to be involved in A Christmas Carol for the second
consecutive year.
Adams was recently in Guys and Dolls Jr. (Nathan Detroit). He was in the
Sylvania Community Arts Commission’s production of The Selfish Giant (Jesse).
He enjoys taking family vacations, hip hop dance classes, participating in theater
camps, reading, drawing, making videos, and playing video games.
Adam is a 7th grader at Timberstone Junior High School in Sylvania, Ohio.
Wesley Parker – Puppet Coordinator / Stage Crew
Wesley is in his 4th year of A Christmas Carol. He played the role of Peter
Crachit in 2010 and 2011.
He has done many productions with the Toledo Rep including: A Secret
Garden (Colin), The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet (Romeo) and Aesop's
Fables (Fox and The Lounge Singer), and Fiddler on the Roof.
He is an 9th grader at Toledo School for the Arts and enjoys being on stage,
behind stage, in the theater, outside of the theater and watching almost any type of
movies and TV.
Rebecca R. Perry (Becky) – Lucy / Dancer
This is Becky's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
Her on stage theater credits include: Greek Mythology Olympiyaza
(Greek Dancer); Beauty and the Beast (Soloist); Fiddler on the Roof
(Beggar); The Crucible (Elizabeth understudy / townsperson).
She helped with the set of Greek Mythology Olympiyaza.0
Becky enjoys dancing and singing.
She is a Senior at Sylvania Southview High School.
William J Priest – Cast Bios Editor /Adult Chorus /Understudy Dancer
This is Bill's 4th year in A Christmas Carol. His previous roles: Man 2 & 3,
Adult Dancer, Adult Chorus.
Bill's on stage theater credits include: Bedford Community Players – Joseph and
the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Guard, Chorus), Fiddler on the Roof
(Rabbi), Wizard of Oz (Winkie, Ozonian), Honk! (Cameraman, Goose squadron,
Father Swan), Sound of Music (Franz the butler), Annie (Bundles the laundryman);
Oregon Community Theater – Les Miserables (Convict #5, Claquesous, Chorus),
White Christmas (Conductor, Adult dancer/chorus), Wait Until Dark (Policeman 2),
Over the River and Through the Woods (Nunzio Christano); Waterville Playshop Kiss Me Kate (Ralph the stage manager), 70 Girls 70 (adult chorus); Croswell –
1776 (James Wilson), Arsenic and Old Lace (Rev. Doctor Harper); 3B Productions
- Children of Eden (chorus).
Bill's set design credits include: Odd Couple (female version) and Kiss Me Kate. He received OCTA Merit
Awards for set design for: Don’t Hug Me, Little Women, and Dixie Swim Club. Bill has served as Production
Trustee for Waterville Playshop; the lighting and sound technician for both AACT and OCTA competitions;
Technical Director for BCP's production of Into the Woods.
When not on stage, Bill’s hobby is genealogy. He often can be found giving presentations at local, regional,
& national genealogy societies or teaching genealogy classes at Owens Community College.
Bill is a school bus driver for Bedford Public Schools and drives for Bedford Health Van where Scott
Heuerman is his supervisor and Deb Brescol is his boss. It was their encouragement that got Bill involved with
A Christmas Carol in the first place.
Frederick L. Robinson - Dancer (Fezziwig & Waltz)/Adult Chorus / Ghost
of Christmas Present understudy / Ghost of Christmas Future understudy
This is Fred's 21st year being involved with A Christmas Carol. His previous roles:
Marley, Joe the Keeper, Jake, understudy for Scrooge, Dancer, Chorus, Man 1,2,3.
Fred's on stage theater credits include: Toledo Repertoire Theater – Inventing Van
Gogh (Dr. Gachet), Mame (Beau Burnside, Brian O' Bannion), Harvey (E. J. Lofgren)
and many performances as a Toledo Opera chorus member.
Fred's other theater credits include: Toledo Repertoire Theater - City of Angels
(Assistant Stage Manager), Joseph, West Side Story, Victor/Victoria, Secret Garden
(Tech Crew).
He enjoys writing, chess and drawing.
He is a: sheet metal worker, Local Union #33; part-time stage hand, Local #24; current Toledo Rep board
member.
Maya Ruswinkle - Junior Chorus / Christmas pageant Mary
This is Maya's 3rd year in A Christmas Carol. Her previous roles were
in the Adult and Junior Chorus.
She has been in various productions with Children's Theater Workshop,
Waterville Playshop, 3B Productions, Grand Rapids Historical Society and
Toledo School for the Arts.
In her free time, she enjoys reading and creating costuming designs.
Maya is a 8th grader at Toledo School for the Arts.
Carter Rybarczyk (Car) – Junior Chorus / Parade Boy
This is Carter's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
Carter has performed in the Collingwood Theater's production of Willy
Wonka and The Chocolate Factory (Mike Teavee), and Toledo Opera's La
Boheme.
He plays cello, piano, and clarinet. He enjoys Nerf guns and playing video
games.
Carter is a 5th grader at Ottawa Hills Elementary School.
Julia Rybarczyk – Junior Chorus
This is Julia's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
Her other on stage credits include: Toledo Rep - Guys and Dolls Jr. (Hot Box
Girl), and Oliver!; Toledo School for the Arts - Once Upon a Mattress.
In her free time, she likes to write stories and sing.
Julia is a 7th grader at Toledo School for the Arts.
Maria Rybarczyk – Junior Chorus
This is Maria's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
She has performed with Young Rep in their production of Guys and Dolls Jr.,
and Toledo Opera's production of La Boheme.
She plays violin and piano. She also loves singing, dancing, and playing with
her friends.
Maria is a 3rd grader at Ottawa Hills Elementary.
Molly Rybarczyk – Junior Chorus
This is Molly's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
She has performed with Toledo Opera's LaBoheme, and a summer production at
CTW.
Molly enjoys playing violin, piano, and hockey. She loves playing with her
family and friends.
Molly is a 1st grader at Ottawa Hills Elementary School.
Sankovich, Linda – Vocal Director / Pianist
This is Linda's 4th year in A Christmas Carol. She previously was also the Vocal Director and
Pianist.
Linda has been a rehearsal accompanist, pit pianist, or music director for over 40 productions
in the Northwest Ohio region for area high schools and community theaters. Some examples
include: Toledo Rep – Hats; PMT – Sound of Music, Annie; 3B Productions – Gypsy, Les
Miserables; PHS – Peter Pan, Secret Gardens, Grease; Maumee High School – Seussical, Kiss
Me Kate, Wizard of Oz; and many others.
When not performing for musicals, she plays for First Alliance Church, accompanies various
school choirs and performs with Night Session Big Band.
Linda received a Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance from the University of
Toledo, having studied with Frances Renzi. She has been married for 32 years to Don, has three
grown children, three granddaughters. Linda enjoys playing piano, golf, and listening to music.
Lydia D. Schafer - Nell / Adult Chorus
Lydia is thrilled to be returning for her 3rd year as Nell in A Christmas Carol.
She began performing at the age of 5, with stage experience beginning at Ottawa Hills
High School where she was a thespian and Chorale singer. Through-out her tenure at the
University of Toledo, where she received a BA/honors degree in Biology, she kept
performing as a Varsity Singer. Taking 20 years off to earn her PhD in Medical Sciences
and raise her family, she became interested in revisiting the stage after she assisted with
productions featuring her own children. After 13 years as an Assistant Professor of
Pathology at MCO (now UTMC), she retired and began performing as the lead female
vocalist for the Plat Three Band. In order to cope with her empty nest, Lydia returned to
the stage appearing in Findlay Light Opera's production of Mame (Vera Charles) in 2011
and hopes to continue in community theater in the area. Recently, she has been seen doing
commercials for TV 13 and is thrilled to be cast as Belinda/Flavia in the Rep's next production, Noises Off. She enjoys
being a Toledo Museum of Art Ambassador and will be the Editor of their newsletter, Musings next year.
When not on stage, Lydia can most likely be found on a tennis court or out shopping or blaring music! Her secret vice
is watching the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills , Sons of Anarchy, Game of Thrones, True Blood, or Downton Abbey.
She adores playing girls against the boys Euchre or Sequence tournaments with her husband, Dr. Patrick Schafer and
children, Joseph and Elizabeth.
Emily Ann Scott - Ignorance / Junior Chorus
This is Emily's 2nd year in A Christmas Carol. She is very excited to be performing
the part of Ignorance and well as being a member of the Junior Chorus.
Her previous roles include: The Toledo Rep – Guys and Dolls, Jr. (Hot Box Dancer /
Havana Dancer) in the summer of 2013; Whiteford – Annie (Molly) in 2012, and The
King and I (Youngest Princess) in 2010.
When Emily is not singing and dancing, she is singing and dancing.
Emily is a 6th grader at Whiteford Agricultural Middle School.
Paul Sepeda – Adult Chorus / Understudy for Man 2
This is Paul's 13th year in A Christmas Carol.
Paul's past theatrical experiences includes many shows with the Toledo Rep since 1999
such as: Guys & Dolls (Liver Lips Louie), Rebecca (William Tabb), Tony & Tina's
Wedding (Tony Geordano), The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas (C.J. Scruggs), The
Full Monty (Tony Giordano), Victor/Victoria (Clam, Piano Player). He has also
performed with: Waterville Playshop - Kiss Me, Kate (Gangster #2) and at the Valentine
Theatre's shows - The Night Before Christmas (Coal Merchant) and Once Upon a
Mattress (Sir Studly).
Thanks go out to his family and friends for their support and as always dedicates this show to his daughter
Selina Marie Davis-Sepeda.
Brien R. Sewell – Charles Dickens
This is Brien's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
His previous on stage theater credits include: Godspell (Disciple), Assassins
(Czdgosz), The Rocky Horror Show (Dr. Scott), Urinetown (Mr. Cladwell), and The
Drowsy Chaperone (Gangster #1).
Brien directed The Whole Shebang at Wittenberg University and Hospital Hijinks
and Once Upon a Mattress at Xenia High School.
He loves to watch movies, discover new music and ski in the winter months.
Brien teaches music at Horizon Scienc Academy in Toledo.
Rodney C. Shipp (Sparkle) - Dancer (Fezziwig & Waltz) / Adult Chorus
This is Rodney's 2nd year in A Christmas Carol. Previous roles were also a
Dancer (Fezziwig & Waltz) and member of the Adult Chorus.
Previous on stage theater credits include: King and I (Prince
Chululongkorn), Magic in Our World Today (Mr. Ziegfried) and at the
Stranahan Theater - Fame (Teacher).
Rodney did his own show at the Maumee Indoor Theater in October 2012
called Sparkle Live (Solitare).
He loves singing, dancing and acting.
He loves animals and would love to be involved in any volunteer rescue
programs.
Stella Soeder – Girl Under Desk / Junior Chorus
This is Stella's 1st time in A Christmas Carol.
Previous performances include: Waterville Playshop - Suessical the Musical,
Wizard of Oz and Anything Goes; Grand Rapids Historical Society - Annie.
She enjoys swimming, bike riding and skiing.
She is a second grader who loves school. Her favorite subjects are music and
art.
J. Bart Soeder - Dancer (Fezziwig & Waltz) / Adult Chorus / Bob
Cratchit Understudy / Man #3
This is Bart's 1st time in A Christmas Carol.
Previous performances include: Grand Rapids Historical Society – Annie;
Waterville Playshop - Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and
Anything Goes.
He enjoys bird watching, playing football and softball, and downhill skiing
with his lovely wife, Laura and beautiful daughters Sophie and Stella.
He is the owner of a two doctor small animal veterinary practice in south
Toledo.
Jack Streicher – Door security/check in
Jack plays an important role, as he is usually the first person you see each time
you attend rehearsals or performances. Don't forget to thank him for a job well
done!
Paul Sullivan – Adult Chorus
This is Paul's 4th year in A Christmas Carol.
In his youth he was in: Oliver (Mr. Bumble), Jesus Christ Superstar (Judas),
Carousel (Billy Bigelow) and numerous chorus parts, and several Shakespeare
productions at St. John Jesuit.
Paul did set and costume design and construction at the University of Detroit
Theatre Company and the University of Toledo's Summer Stage.
He enjoys art and golf.
By day is in an architect.
Dr. Rick Szczygielski – Mr. Fezziwig / Adult Chorus
This is Dr. Rick's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
Previous on stage theater credits include: Central Catholic High School - Carousel
(Adult Dancer/chorus), Fiddler on the Roof (Chorus/townsperson). Echoes of Poland
(Dancer for 8 years)
Other theater credits include: My Fair Lady (stage hand).
Dr. Rick promotes and is an advocate for foster care and adoption, and is a Lake Erie
clean water advocate.
Dr. Rick is a doctor of chiropractic in Temperance, Michigan.
Allyson Szymanski – Dancer (Fezziwig & Waltz) / Adult Chorus
This is Allyson's 3rd year in A Christmas Carol. Her previous roles include: Junior
Chorus, Adult Chorus, Dancing Doll.
Her previous onstage credits include: Toledo Ballet - The Nutcracker (4 years - roles
include angel, mouse, soldier, party girl), Museum of Dreams (Awkward Girl lead
actress), If These Walls Could Dance ('12, core member); Toledo Ballet musical theatre
summer intensive 2013 CATS (Role, Demeter); Notre Dame Academy - Shrek the
Musical (Ensemble).
Her interests include: ballet (8 years, Toledo Ballet), tap (1 year, Toledo Ballet) vocal
training (8 years), a Notre dame Junior Academy Power of The Pen Team Leader,
Volunteer work with veterans at the American Legion Post 110 (Ladies Auxiliary member)
Allyson is a sophomore at Notre Dame Academy in Toledo.
Timothy J. Teague (Tim) - Man #1 / Adult Chorus
Tim has been involved with A Christmas Carol for 13 years. His previous roles:
Fezziwig, Solicitor #1 & 2, Man #1, 2 & 3.
His previous on stage theater credits include: Toledo Rep – The Full Monty
(Marty/Repo-man/Minister); Waterville Playshop – Kiss Me Kate (General Harrison
Howell); Bedford Community Theater – Annie (Ickies); All Shook Up (Prison Chef/bus
driver), Guys and Dolls (Lt. Brannegon), Auntie Mame (Lindsey Woolsie), plus many,
many more.
He is a music recording professional, a music D.J. and does mechanical design and
construction.
Tim is the owner of the Country Hearth-Fireplace and Barbeque in Toledo.
Lexus Alexandria Tidwell (Lexie) – Schools Out Kid
This is Lexie's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
Previous on stage theater credits include: Starbound Entertainment Group – A
Princess King.
She enjoys singing, acting, dancing with Starbound Entertainment Group.
She attends Notre Dame Academy.
Jack Weber – Door security/check in
Jack plays an important role, as he is usually the first person you see each time
you attend rehearsals or performances. Don't forget to thank him for a job well
done!
Kerrigan Whearty – Junior Chorus
This is Kerrigan's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
Her previous on stage theater credits include: Waterville Playshop – The
Wizard of Oz (Munchkin, an Osian and a poppy).
Kerrigan absolutely loves to read! She also is always singing, dancing and
just plain being silly!
Kerrigan is a 1st grader at Beverly Elementary School in Toledo.
Theron Wineinger - Dancer (Fezziwig & Waltz) / Adult Chorus
This is Theron's 1st year in A Christmas Carol.
His previous onstage theater credits: Fiddler on the Roof (Yussel, 1st Man,
chorus).
Theron's other theater credits: The Crucible (Set/Run Crew Member, Run
Crew Head, Construction), Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (Set / Run /
Construction Crew Member, Run Crew Head), CougaReview 2013: Sleuths,
Soul and Rock and Roll (Set/Run Crew Member, Run Crew Head), The Greek
Mythology Olympiaganza (Set/Run/Construction Crew Member, Run Crew
Head), Anything Goes (Set/Run/Construction Crew Member, Prop Head),
CougaReview 2012: The Grimm Adventures of Boy and Girl (Set/Run Crew Member), And They
Dance Real Slow in Jackson (Set/Run Crew)
Theron is a member of NHS, Science Olympiad, and the Drumline at Southview High School.
He is a Senior at Sylvania Southview High School.