September 11th - October 3rd, 2015
Comedy

From the story on which the classic Walt Disney movie is based - Pollyanna is a girl with infectious optimism. At first her continual positive outlook irritates adults around her including her imperious Aunt Polly. But eventually her charm and good humor cause positive change in everyone she meets. A gentle comedy with a sunny disposition.

Adapted by Susan Pargman
Based on the novel by Eleanor H. Porter

Ticket Prices:

Adults - $15
Seniors (65+) - $14
Students (HS and College) - $14
Children (12 and under) - $13
Group rates available for ten or more

The Cast

EMMIE VAUGHN
(Pollyanna Whittier)

Emmie Vaughn is extremely proud to join this cast and make her debut in her role as Pollyanna. Emmie is a 5th grader who loves English and History and lives in Granbury. She was a competition dancer for 4 years, during which time she developed a love for being on stage. She has gained valuable experience performing and studying at Kids Who Care, Casa Mañana, Granbury Theatre Company, and Plaza Theatre Company. Emmie loves to sing and has recently taken up the guitar. She would like to thank her mom, dad and brother for supporting her passion; her Gammy, Papa, Nana and Papa for helping chauffeur her back and forth. Emmie also thanks Missy Matheme and Sarah Philpot for helping her find her path in the theatre world. This cast and Taffy Geisel has been so accepting and kind that she wants you all to know that her first experience is one she will never forget!
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KYLIE SCARBOROUGH
(Pollyanna Whittier)

Kylie is excited to be playing the role of Pollyanna. Her previous roles include Molly in ANNIE, Marta in SOUND OF MUSIC, ensemble in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, and ensemble in BYE, BYE BIRDIE. Kylie attends Travis Academy of Fine Arts and Science, Etc. Her hobbies include dancing, reading, and spending time with her family and dogs. She would like to thank Miss Taffy for giving her this opportunity and her dad for taking her to rehearsals. She would also like to thank her Savior, Jesus.
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KATHERINE ANTHONY
(Aunt Polly)

This is Katherine's debut with Plaza Theatre Company and she is thrilled that it's with this show. POLLYANNA has always held a special place in her heart and she is so excited to get to share the story on stage. It is because of POLLYANNA that Katherine has always tried to find the silver lining in every situation and tries to be an eternal optimist. You may have seen Katherine over at the Opera House in Granbury recently as Jean-Louise Finch in TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, part of the dance chorus in SPAMALOT, or as Susy Hendrix in WAIT UNTIL DARK, among several others. Katherine would like to thank the director, Taffy, along with the Plaza producers for allowing her to share this story with them. She would also like to thank her parents, Brenda and Gene Adams and Alan and Cecelia Anthony, for their never ending support. Most importantly, however, thanks need to go to Jaydn, Katherine's daughter. Without her number one fan, Katherine wouldn't enjoy performing nearly as much. "Je T'aime, Petite."
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CHRISTINE ATWELL
(Nancy)

Christine Atwell is ecstatic to be back at Plaza Theatre Company! Favorite roles with PlazaCo include Marguerite in THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL, Betty Blake in WILL ROGERS FOLLIES, Belle in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST and Penelope in SEE HOW THEY RUN. Directing credits include HELLO, DOLLY! and CHEAPER BY THE DOZEN and musical direction for A CHRISTMAS CAROL. When away from the theater, Christine can be found at her day/night job - caring for her four amazing kiddos!
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PRISCILLA NIX
(Mrs. Durgin)

Priscilla Nix is thrilled to be in her 5th production at Plaza Theatre and to be working with the incredible Taffy Geisel. Priscilla was Maude in SMOKE ON THE MOUNTAIN 2013 and in SMOKE ON THE MOUNTAIN HOMECOMING in 2010. She played a nun twice in THE SOUND OF MUSIC, both in 2013 and as Sister Berthe in 2008. Priscilla owes her love of music and theatre to her mother, who instilled the love of many other things as well. Priscilla is the church secretary at Westhill Church of Christ in Cleburne. She is thankful to Jesus for his love and tender mercies, and thanks her husband Richard, and her family and friends for supporting her in everything she does. "I love the story of Pollyanna because it is about hope, encouragement, transformation and looking for the best in others."
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LAUREN MORGAN
(Loretta)

Lauren Morgan is absolutely thrilled to be making a debut in acting at the Plaza Theater! Lauren is an aspiring musician and artist in her free time. Shows Performed: Loretta in POLLYANNA at PTC. "It's been such fun at the Plaza Co. Theater; I'm so grateful for the opportunity!"
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KATY WOOD
(Mrs. Snow)

is delighted to be back for her fifth show on the Plaza Co stage. She counts it a privilege to work with one of her favorite directors, Taffy Geisel. Katy was last seen as Mrs. Edith Wilkins in DEAR RUTH. Before that, she was the quirky Martha Brewster in ARSENIC AND OLD LACE, Cordelia Drexel-Biddle in THE HAPPIEST MILLIONAIRE, and Veta, in HARVEY. “Thank you to Taffy. Being in a show with you is like observing a master directing class. You’re amazing. Thank you to the wonderful cast of POLLYANNA. You’ve created a beautiful atmosphere on and off stage. And thank you to my husband and children. You are my joy.”
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TORI BETH PILCHER
(Millie Snow)

Is proud to be making her Plaza debut in Pollyanna! She is a graduate of Travis Academy of Fine Arts (TAFA) where she studied theater, film, music, and drawing. She went on to attend the YWAM Performing Arts DTS Tampa Bay, and did a 8 week mission trip to Malaysia and Thailand. Previous credits include; Godspell Jr., the Chronicles of Narnia Prince Caspian, Much Ado About Will, Scrooge the Musical, and The Hiding Place. Her favorite roll being Aunt Tori Beth to her niece Annie. She is currently the Voulnteer Coordinator for Heritage Hospice of Texas. She would like to thank her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for His furious love, Taffy Geisel for her amazing direction and always telling me to "take a risk", and her amazing friends and family for their outstanding love and support!
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MEAGAN AVERY SELLERS
(Mrs. McCleary)

Meagan Avery Sellers is proud to be making her Plaza Theatre Company debut! She was last seen in the Greater Cleburne Carnegie Players’ productions of LES MISERABLES, in TITANIC THE MUSICAL as Kate Murphy/Eleanor Widener, in THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER as Mrs. Clark, in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF as Rifka, in BABES IN TOYLAND as Little Bo Peep, and in GODSPELL as the By My Side soloist. Meagan is a senior Education major at Southwestern Assemblies of God University in Waxahachie. She has performed with Waxahachie Community Theatre, Hill College, and EPIC Kids. Meagan loves Jesus, her amazing family and friends, the color purple, makeup, lily flowers, Disney, and is in several fandoms. “Allons-Y!”
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NOELLE MITCHELL
(Mrs. McCleary)

Noelle Mitchell is 'glad' to be back on the Plaza stage. A sophomore at Christian Life Preparatory School, Noelle was bitten by the theatre bug when she first appeared in Carnegie’s OLIVER! at age 7. Past roles include- Pepper in ANNIE at Plaza Theatre Company, Imogene Herdman in THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER at Carnegie, the Chief Elder in THE GIVER, Prissy Andrews in ANNE OF GREEN GABLES and most recently a student woman in LES MISERABLES. Noelle enjoys going on adventures with her friends and family when she isn't curled up reading C.S. Lewis in her Ravenclaw socks. She would like to thank her family for putting up with her theatre obsession, her director Taffy Geisel for giving her this opportunity, and her Savior and Lord for His many blessings.
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RUTH ANN WARWICK
(Mrs. Malden)

Ruth Ann is glad to be back on stage at Plaza. You may have previously seen her on stage in FATHER OF THE BRIDE, DEAR RUTH, THE SOUND OF MUSIC, A CHRISTMAS CAROL in 2012, RAGTIME and FIDDLER ON THE ROOF. Ruth Ann has also been privileged to stage manage SHREK THE MUSICAL, THE WIZARD OF OZ, FATHER OF THE BRIDE, CAMELOT, THE KING & I and WHITE CHRISTMAS here at Plaza Theatre Company. She has recently stage managed THE DROWSY CHAPERONE at Granbury Theatre Company as well as costuming 1776 and IS HE DEAD there with her accomplished daughter Emily. Ruth Ann is grateful to our amazing director Taffy Geisel, and has considered it a true blessing to have another opportunity to work with and learn from this wonderful woman. "All my love and thanks to Jim, Jace and Emily, who bring light and joy to each and every day." Enjoy the show and learn how to play "The Game".
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JULIA EKPO
(Mrs. Benton)

Julia Ekpo is GLAD to be a part of her 5th Plaza show as Mrs. Benton in POLLYANNA. Previous roles include Ensemble Members in A CHRISTMAS CAROL, HELLO DOLLY, FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, and THE DROWSY CHAPERON. She is very blessed to be apart of a show that means so much to her and her family. Choosing joy and taking care of "the least of these" is near and dear to Julia's family as they travel through the process of adoption themselves. Julia is also very happy to be sharing the stage with her daughter, Esther. Thank you Esther for being such a good stage companion and an AMAZING daughter. She'd also like to thank her husband, Lloyd for being incredibly supportive during this time and her son Micah. A huge shout out to Taffy, JaceSon, and Nathan for all of the hard work put into this production. And to the cast and crew for working so hard and being kind to each other. This show is truly special.
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GWENDOLYN SWINEHART
(Mrs. Jack Payson)

Gwendolyn is so grateful to be a part of this lovely cast and production as her debut with Plaza Theatre Company. She is a proud graduate and former faculty member of the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York. A few of her favorite roles have included: Adelaide in GUYS AND DOLLS, Featured Chorus Member in LES MISERABLES, and originating the role of Cookie in LBS. "There is always something to be glad about, let's play the game together".
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ESTHER EKPO
(Emily Payson)

Esther is happy to return to the Plaza stage as Emily Payson in POLLYANNA. She has been in two previous roles at Plaza including being a member of the Ensemble in A CHRISTMAS CAROL and FIDDLER ON THE ROOF. She is excited to be in the show with her mother and wants to thank her family for letting her stay up past bedtime to attend rehearsals. Esther loves knitting, reading, drawing, is a skilled Volleyball player and enjoys golf. Esther is also a member of the Crowley Honor Choir and plays the piano. Her favorite subject in school is science. Esther is thankful to Taffy, JaceSon, Nathan and the cast for all being so nice and supportive of each other during this show.
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HELENE COTTONGAME
(Mrs. Winkle)

This is Helene's stage debut right here at Plaza Theatre Company. Helene Cottongame is a married mother of two. She enjoys time with her four grandchildren, and likes writing poetry and reading.

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HENRY CAWOOD
(Jimmy Bean)

Henry is 'glad' to be back on the Plaza stage telling the story of Pollyanna. He was most recently seen here as Young Shrek and the littlest pig in SHREK THE MUSICAL, Mayor of Munchkinland in WIZARD OF OZ, Linus in A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS, Jojo in SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL, Louis Leonowens in THE KING AND I, Randolph in BYE, BYE BIRDIE, and the little boy in RAGTIME. His other acting credits include: Charlie Bradley BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER, Billy and Yeshua THE PROMISE, River City Boy THE MUSIC MAN, Oliver OLIVER, Chip BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, and Roo WINNIE THE POOH. Last winter he performed the lead role of Amahl in the opera AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS. Henry is in 6th grade at Travis Academy of Fine Arts where he studies music, art, violin, and musical theater. He also studies tap with Gracey Tune and is part of the Tapeli Squad along with his big brothers at Arts 5th Avenue. He wishes to thank his amazing Mom and Dad and big brothers for everything! Enjoy the show!
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JAY A. CORNILS
(Mr. John Pendleton)

With his appearance in this Plaza Theatre Company (PTC) production of POLLYANNA, Jay is performing in his 53rd show here in Johnson and Hood Counties since 2005 when he made his Texas debut as Buzz Adams in the Greater Cleburne Carnegie Players production of SOUTH PACIFIC. Jay’s last performance with PTC was as Mr Maraczek in SHE LOVES ME. Some of his other favorite rolls include Capt EJ Smith in TITANIC (2014), Bob Ewell in TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD (2011), Charlie in THE FOREIGNER (2006), Captain Keller in THE MIRACLE WORKER (2005), and Al Lewis in THE SUNSHINE BOYS (2007). Jay is the author of two published novels, The Cross of Lorraine and A Litany of Angels. In all things, Jay is supported by his greatest blessing, his lovely and multi-talented wife Corlis.
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JASON PHILLIP COLE
(Dr. Thomas Chilton)

is excited to be performing another show with Plaza Theatre Company. Some of Jason's previous roles at Plaza include the Barber in MAN OF LA MANCHA, Mordred in CAMELOT, and most recently, the Scarecrow in THE WIZARD OF OZ as well as Krupke and Glad Hand in Plaza Academy's production of WEST SIDE STORY. You may also remember Jason from his work with the Greater Cleburne Carnegie Plays as Etches in TITANIC THE MUSICAL, Jackson in PUMP BOYS AND DINETTES, and Prouvaire in LES MISERABLES. “For my wife Holly and daughter Aurora. Love.”
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GARY PAYNE
(Pastor Malden)

This is Gary's first show with Plaza Theatre Company, although he has worked extensively with Taffy before, most recently on productions of SMOKE ON THE MOUNTAIN and THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK. Favorite roles include Uncle Stanley in SMOKE ON THE MOUNTAIN and also in SANDERS FAMILY CHRISTMAS at Artisan Center Theater (ACT). Other favorites: 42ND STREET at Casa Mañana (Mac), HAIRSPRAY at Greater Lewisville Community Theatre (Wilbur), MA RAINEY'S BLACK BOTTOM at Jubilee Theatre (Mel) and DRIVING MISS DAISY at ONSTAGE in Bedford and also at ACT (Boolie). Gary has also appeared in the movies TRUE TALES and JUST MY LUCK. He works full-time as Marketing Manager for Theatre Arilington and part-time at Bass Performance Hall and at Stage West. He is represented by Core Talent - http://www.coretalent.biz/Talent/Gary-Payne/.
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KYLE SCARBOROUGH
(Pastor Malden)

Kyle is returning for his fourth show at Plaza and is excited to again be working with his youngest daughter. He was last seen as the Mayor in BYE BYE BIRDIE. Kyle works as an engineer and teaches Adult Bible Study at his church. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his wife of 32 years, reading and trying to keep up with his eight children who are currently scattered all around the world.
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JACESON P. BARRUS
(Old Tom)

As Pollyanna is one of JaceSon's favorite books and movies, he is ecstatic to be joining this lovely cast of people under the able direction of Taffy Geisel in this production. Past favorite roles at PlazaCo include Harold Hill in THE MUSIC MAN, Will Rogers in WILL ROGERS FOLLIES and Ebenezer Scrooge in A CHRISTMAS CAROL. He is the proud father of seven (yes, seven) incredible children and any time he's not working you'll find him enjoying their company. He send his love to Tina, Tabi, Park, Cam, Eden, Mimi, JJ and Charlie.
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CODY VERNON
(Mr. Gilbert)

is excited to be back on stage at Plaza after performing in CRAZY FOR YOU in 2011. You may also remember him from TREASURE ISLAND as a goodie goodie as well as THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL and SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN BROTHERS. "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Colossians 3:17
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JULIA WOOD
(Miranda Malden)

This is Julia Wood's third time to set foot on the stage of a PlazaCo production. She played a Duloc Dancer and one of the Three Blind Mice in SHREK! THE MUSICAL, and she was in the Teen Musical Camp production of WEST SIDE STORY. Other roles around Fort Worth have been Ancestor Lin in MULAN, JR. and Alice in THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER. She has also loved playing in ONCE UPON A MATTRESS, CHARLOTTE'S WEB, and THE BIRTHDAY OF A KING. Julia is a student at Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts. Julia would like to thank her mother, who taught her everything she knows (and who wrote this bio for her).
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NATHAN GLENN
(Stage Manager)

Nathan is excited to once again be a part of the production staff for one of Plaza's fantastic shows. He is no stranger to the stage however, having recently been a part of the successful run of Shakespeare in the Park's production of HAMLET. He has also played roles in CASH ON DELIVERY as Mr. Forebright, Sir Bliant in CAMELOT and one of the solicitor's in Charles Dickens' timeless classic, A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Nathan also stage managed for 42ND STREET earlier this year. Nathan is grateful to his director and the producers for their trust in him to handle this role in making this production successful. He would like to thank his wonderful cast for all their hard work and he looks forward to watching them perform spectacularly each night of their run.
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TAMMIE PHILLIPS
(Properties Designer)

Tammie is blessed to be back serving as "Prop Momma" for Pollyanna. This is her 27th show with Plaza. She considers it a true joy to work and serve next to her friend and the amazing director, Taffy Geisel. Tammie is very grateful for the opportunities that God gives her to use her creative and artistic side in the midst of our community theatre world! - Psalm 19:14 "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer."
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TAFFY GEISEL
(Director)

Other shows directed at PlazaCo include STEEL MAGNOLIAS, DEAR RUTH, THE HAPPIEST MILLIONAIRE, ANNIE, and SINGIN' IN THE RAIN. You may have seen her in KISS AND TELL, or as Miss Myrtle, one of the cranky church ladies in several versions of SMOKE ON THE MOUNTAIN. Other directing gigs include THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK, ANNE OF GREEN GABLES, A WRINKLE IN TIME, SOUTH PACIFIC, THE LION THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE, PRINCE CASPIAN, YANKEE DOODLE DANDIES, and many others. "Thanks to Aaron, Milette, JaceSon and Tina for creating such a happy, healthy theater, to this fabulous hard working funny cast for making this such a joyful gig, to husband Howard, and kids Joey, Caroline and Matt - who make getting up each day a joy - and to the Lord, the giver of every good and perfect gift."
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