JACESON P. BARRUS
(Harold Hill)
As resident Artistic Director at PlazaCo, JaceSon has been fortunate to appear on the Plaza stage many times. Past roles include Adam Pontipee in SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN BROTHERS, Frank Butler in ANNIE GET YOU GUN and Captain von Trapp in THE SOUND OF MUSIC among others. He loves trivia, classic movies and American history and can often be found watching obscure documentaries just for fun unless he's listening to Showtunes or his beloved U2. He's most grateful to be a husband to the lovely Tina, Dad to 7 - Tabitha (and husband Saul), Parker, Cameron, Eden, Mimi, JJ and Charlie, and Grandpa to the beautiful Gemma Violet. "Good will ever come!"
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JILL BAKER
(Marian Paroo)
Jill is thrilled to have graduated to this dream role for her third MUSIC MAN; the last was as Zaneeta in Plaza's 2009 production. She has most recently appeared at PTC as Denise in SMOKE...HOMECOMING, Kathy in SINGIN' IN THE RAIN, and Sally in YAGM, CHARLIE BROWN, and in TITANIC (Uptown Players) and MAME (Lyric Stage). Other favorites include Rapunzel in INTO THE WOODS, Miss Dorothy in THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE, Mary Jane in BIG RIVER, and Chava in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF. Jill received a B.M. in Musical Theatre from Oklahoma City University and teaches middle school theatre in Mansfield ISD. Love and thanks to JTAM, Soni, & Jodie for this opportunity.
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MEREDITH BROWNING
(Marian Paroo)
is happily returning to one of her favorite roles which she played here at Plaza almost nine years ago. You may remember Meredith from her roles in other recent Plaza productions including ZORRO THE MUSICAL, MARY POPPINS, SECRET GARDEN, SHE LOVES ME, and CAMELOT. She also takes great pride in her recent music-directing achievement for Plaza’s HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME. Meredith’s first love is the opera stage, and she has performed several operatic roles professionally in venues including Fort Worth Opera, Opera East Texas, and Living Opera. Some favorite roles include Mabel in PIRATES OF PENZANCE, Adina in ELIXIR OF LOVE, and Donna Anna in DON GIOVANNI. Meredith performs regularly with the Fort Worth Opera, on both the Bass Hall stage and as part of their “Frontiers” program, a showcase for new operas. "Much love to my white knight, Tyson!"
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MATT VICTORY
(Marcellus Washburn)
Matt's previous Plaza appearances include ZORRO, HAIRSPRAY, SINGIN' IN THE RAIN, THE LITTLE MERMAID, MARY POPPINS, HEAVEN CAN WAIT, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, and SHE LOVES ME. Matt was born and raised in Cleburne but moved away to attend Harvard University where he completed a degree in Computer Science. He performed regularly at several professional and community theatres in the Boston, Seattle, and New York City areas. He spent 9 years as a hedge fund trader outside of New York before moving back to Cleburne in 2015 to join the family business.
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DAVID MIDKIFF
(Tommy Djilas/Assistant Choreographer)
David is ecstatic to be back at Plaza. When Plaza first did The Music Man, David played Winthrop. Now he's fulfilling a huge dream role! A homeschooler, David trains with Phoenix Conservatory, Plaza Academy and Granbury Theatre Academy. Previous credits include Daddy in JUNIE B. JONES, JR., Male Gypsy in ZORRO: THE MUSICAL, Chad in ALL SHOOK UP, Fender in HAIRSPRAY, Teen Gilbert in ANNE OF GREEN GABLES, Huckleberry Finn in BIG RIVER, and Gideon in SEVEN...BROTHERS with Plaza Theatre Company, Benjamin in JOSEPH...DREAMCOAT, John in PETER PAN and Flotsam in THE LITTLE MERMAID at Casa Mañana, Joshua Newstead/Dance Corps in 9 TO 5 and Dance Corps in both MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS and BEAUTY AND THE BEAST with Granbury Theatre Company. He has also been a featured dancer in iTheatrics Choreography DVD's, 42ND, STREET, JR. and CHILDREN OF EDEN, JR. and will return this summer for GETTING TO KNOW....FOOTLOOSE! and SISTER ACT, JR. David dedicates this performance to his late brother, Caleb.
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EDEN BARRUS
(Zaneeta Shinn/Assistant Choreographer)
Is thrilled to be in her 39th production here on the Plaza stage! Past roles include, Mary Lennox in THE SECRET GARDEN at Granbury Theater Company, Amyrillis in THE MUSIC MAN at Lyric Stage, Natalie in ALL SHOOK UP at Plaza Academy, French ancestor in THE ADDAMS FAMILY, Teenage Anne Shirley in ANNE OF GREEN GABLES, Susan in WHITE CHRISTMAS and Alice in SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN BROTHERS all at PlazaCo. Eden would like to thank her family and friends for all their encouragement and support!
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JEFF MEADOR
(Mayor Shinn)
Jeff is thrilled to make his Plaza debut in the amazing new Dudley Hall. He serves on the board of directors for Granbury Theatre Company and performed at the historic Granbury Opera House as Luther Billis in SOUTH PACIFIC, Dick in 9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL, Motorman and Sidney Purvis in MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS, and R.F. Simpson in SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN. Assistant directing credits with GTC include BEAUTY AND THE BEAST and SHREK: THE MUSICAL. Jeff wants to thank his family and friends for their support and encouragement. Also many thanks to Soni, Jodie, and the Plaza producers for this incredible opportunity.
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CHERIE ROBINSON
(Eulalie Shinn)
Cherie is thrilled to be at the beautiful Plaza Theatre at Dudley Hall for round two of Music Man having played Mrs. Paroo in 2009. This will be her 12th show here at Plaza. Some of her favorite roles include Mayor Matilda Hyde in ALL SHOOK UP; Mrs. Potts in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST; the cantankerous Sister Berthe in THE SOUND OF MUSIC; Narrator in JOSEPH…DREAMCOAT; Ms. Bellamy in FATHER OF THE BRIDE and, of course, who could forget Maude in SMOKE ON THE MOUNTAIN-HOMECOMING. She has recently retired from the workplace and is finally understanding exactly what retired life means. Cherie has been married to her favorite trombone player and high school sweetheart, Joe, for 36 years and they have two fantastic children Samantha and Daniel, and has been blessed with three of the most precious grandchildren, Hayden, Piper and Sutton. She would like to thank Soni, Jodie, and the Plaza producers for their faith in her and giving her this opportunity to once again become a resident of River City, Iowa.
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SHAUNA LEWIS
(Eulalie Shinn)
Shauna would like to thank the Plaza producers and the elder Barrus Direction Team for taking another chance on her! MUSIC MAN is her 25th Plaza production and one of her favorite musicals and Eulalie is a super character! Shauna was last seen on the Plaza stage as Ouiser in a STEEL MAGNOLIAS and Louise in ALWAYS PATSY CLINE and in her all time favorite role as the Wicked Witch in WIZARD OF OZ. She can often be found behind the curtain as she was recently in HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME. As a column award winner she appreciates the opportunity quality community theater brings to her hometown. She holds a MA in SPEECH RHETORIC from TCU (Go Frogs!!!) and an undergraduate degree from SWAU. During the day she is a teacher at Lowell Smith Middle School in Cleburne. In the evening when not performing or rehearsing, she’s ShaunaMom to her three grandchildren Lorelei, Louie and Livianne. BTW, she just loves anvils!
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KATY WOOD
(Mrs. Paroo)
Is delighted to be back on the PlazaCo stage for her 8th show. She was last seen as MARILLA in Anne of Green Gables. She has also played MRS. SNOW in Pollyanna, MRS. EDITH WILKINS in Dear Ruth, and the crazy AUNT MARTHA in Arsenic and Old Lace. She would like to thank her husband for his love and encouragement and her late Irish mother, Mary Clare, for giving her the inspiration for WIDOW PAROO. “This one’s for you, Momma!”
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SONI BARRUS
(Mrs. Paroo)
Every actor has a wish list of characters they have always wanted to play. The irascible but charming Mrs Paroo has always been one on her bucket list. She has often played numerous roles with crazy characters: Abbey Brewster in ARSENIC AND OLD LACE, Ida, the maid, in SEE HOW THEY RUN, Veda Louise Simmons in HARVEY, Aunt Eller, in OKLAHOMA, and her favorite, the charwoman in A CHRISTMAS CAROL " Theater has been a huge part of my life...and the study of crazy characters has always been one of my favorite things...as the saying goes, 'It takes one to know one". .
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PATRICK BILBOW
(Winthrop Paroo)
Patrick is delighted to be making his Plaza debut, and hopes to perform at Plaza again in the future. Previous credits include Dasher in SANTA CLAUS A NEW MUSICAL, Little Crab in DISNEY'S THE LITTLE MERMAID, and Children's Choir in JOSEPH... DREAMCOAT at Casa Manana Theatre. Patrick would like to give a special thanks to Jodie and Soni Barrus for giving him this amazing opportunity!
"I always think there's a band, kid."
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WILLIAM POWER
(Winthrop Paroo)
William is thrilled to portray Winthrop in this production of MUSIC MAN, and to take the main stage at Plaza for the first time. Most recently he has appeared as Herbert in JUNIE B JONES, JR the inaugural show at Plaza Jr. He lives in Granbury with his parents and two sisters, and is a current Plaza Theatre Academy and Phoeniz Performace Studio student. His most notable role to date was the title role in OLIVER! at Granbury Theatre Co. Other favorite roles include Michael Banks in MARY POPPINS, JoJo in SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL Jr., White Rabbit in ALICE IN WONDERLAND Jr, Jerome in SOUTH PACIFIC, Young Shrek in SHREK, and Scuttle in THE LITTLE MERMAID, Jr. He has also appeared in Hello Dolly and in his school’s performance of SINGIN IN THE RAIN as Cosmo Brown. William would like to thank his family for their support, and Plaza Theatre Company for this opportunity and for believing in him.
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MIRANDA BARRUS
(Amaryllis)
Miranda has all but grown up here on the Plaza stage during her almost 12 years and is very excited to be playing in THE MUSIC MAN. You might have seen her as Young Anne in ANNE OF GREEN GABLES, Mary Lennox on THE SECRET GARDEN or as Gretl in THE SOUND OF MUSIC. She was also thrilled to recently receive the Caleb Midkiff Child Performer Column Award a few weeks ago. She sends love to all her Sibs and thanks to Mom and Dad for letting her live such a crazy, fun-filled life.
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RUTHIE POWER
(Amaryllis)
Ruth is over the moon to take the stage as Amaryllis. This is her second show with Plaza Theatre Company. She played Molly in ANNIE at Plaza in 2018, her favorite role to date. Ruth has also appeared at Granbury Theatre Company as Ngana in SOUTH PACIFIC and in MEET ME IN ST LOUIS in the children’s chorus. Ruth lives in Granbury with her parents and her older brother and sister. She is a current Phoenix Performance Studio and Granbury Theatre Academy student, and enjoys competitive gymnastics and soccer. Ruth would like to thank her family for their support, her sister for always singing with her and her older brother for going on this journey with her.
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LILY MCCLENDON
(Gracie Shinn)
Lily is excited to be performing at Dudley Hall. This is her 7th Plaza show. Prior roles include Young Anne in ANNE OF GREEN GABLES, ensemble in THE LITTLE MERMAID, Young Cosmo in SINGIN' IN THE RAIN, Little Fan in CHRISTMAS CAROL, ensemble in MARY POPPINS, and Mary Lennox in SECRET GARDEN. Lily is cast as Tattletale May in JUNIE B. JONES at Plaza's Main Street Theatre. She takes theater and dance classes at Plaza Academy, and will play Timon in LION KING this May. She has played The Cat in SEUSSICAL JR, Gabriella Montez in HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL JR. and ensemble roles in PETER PAN JR and CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY.
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CHRISTOPHER COMBEST
(Charlie Cowell)
Christopher is a lifelong artist who, after some encouragement from his bride, recently decided it was time for him to get back into the theater, a passionate subject since childhood. When he is not at the easel, or writing, or rehearsing lines, he is a Communications and Design professor at Southwestern Adventist University, and a managing principal at TransFiscal Productions, an arthouse film company. He and wife Gerri (his soulmate since 1990) have a gorgeous family, stretching from Cleburne to Seattle, and interests ranging from travel & leisure to dining & entertainment.
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JAY LEWIS
(Charlie Cowell)
Having just completed a fantastic run of Hunchback of Notre Dame, Jay is excited to perform again in the exquisite venue of Plaza’s Dudley Hall. Jay was busy this past year directing SOUTH PACIFIC and BEAUTY & THE BEAST for Granbury Theatre Co. and ALWAYS, PATSY CLINE at Plaza. He has directed 42nd STREET, GUYS & DOLLS, and CRAZY FOR YOU for Plaza and BEAUTY & THE BEAST, CINDERELLA and TITANIC for Carnegie Players. His recent acting endeavors have included Mr. Smith MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS, King BIG RIVER, Maurice DISNEY'S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, Mal Beineke THE ADDAMS FAMILY, Prof. Callahan LEGALLY BLONDE, Mr. Archer in KISS & TELL(Column Award Nomination), and Thenardier in LES MISERABLES. Favorite roles include Tevye, FIDDLER ON THE ROOF; Rev. Moore, FOOTLOOSE; Arthur, CAMELOT; Horace VanderGelder, HELLO DOLLY; Daddy Warbucks, ANNIE; and Ben Franklin, 1776. Jay is a theatre arts educator in the Cleburne school district. Kisses, a dozen roses, a Grecian urn and a standing ovation for his supportin
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BUD GILLETT
(Olin Britt)
Bud is pleased to be making his second appearance with the Plaza Theatre Company, this time as cranky school board member Olin Britt in THE MUSIC MAN. Bud previously played President Franklin Roosevelt in the PlazaCo production of ANNIE last Christmas and tremendously enjoyed his stage debut role. Prior to that, television viewers may recognize Bud from the 37 years he spent as an on-the-scene reporter for Fox 4 News and CBS 11 News. The PlazaCo's musicals have allowed Bud to come full circle, having cut his teeth on Broadway shows playing trumpet in community theater orchestras for WEST SIDE STORY, CAMELOT, THE KING AND I, and GYPSY while he was in high school and college. Bud would like to say, "Thanks to my wife, who encourages me to be part of the community theater scene in Cleburne, and also to the PlazaCo family for letting me find and stretch my artistic wings."
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DARREN CLARK
(Oliver Hix)
This is Darren's first show at Plaza Theatre. Darren previously played Brother Forte in MONKY BUSINESS and MONKY BUSINESS II with the Weatherford Stage Players. Darren also portrayed the role of Perchik in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF. Darren recently played in the feature film GALLOW'S ROAD as a deputy and has been featured in a PSA for CureBrainDisease.org. Darren is happy to be in this show with his children Makenna and Gavin. "Thank you to everyone who is a part of Plaza Theatre Company for making me feel like one of the family!"
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CHRIS BREWER
(Ewart Dunlop)
Chris Brewer is thrilled to be making his first appearance in many years at his favorite theater and performing in his favorite musical - THE MUSIC MAN. He feels very privileged to work with so many talented people. He is a native of Fort Worth and currently lives in Springtown. He studied Music Education at The University of North Texas as a Saxophonist. He also plays keyboard and guitar. Chris' past musical theater productions include SOUTH PACIFIC, LI'L ABNER, SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN BROTHERS, THE MUSIC MAN, and THE WIZARD OF OZ. He toured in the 1980's with platinum recording artist Johnnie Taylor. He has also performed with B.B. King, Leann Rimes, and Monty McClinton. He was the praise team leader at several different churches in the Fort Worth area. Chris also is on the Board of Directors for Stars Theater Company in Bedford where he has also served as a vocal coach and currently takes care of all technical aspects of their shows. "I wish to thank my wife Christy and daugh
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DAVID COOK
(Jacey Squires)
DAVID COOK is excited to be returning to the Plaza stage after a 7 year hiatus. As he basks in the glory that is Dudley Hall, he thinkks to himself “Wow. This is a far cry from the Putt Putt where I performed in Plaza’s inaugural Cleburne show, MAN WITH THE POINTED TOES.” His other Plaza roles included Percy in THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL, Radames in AIDA, and Jeff in [title of show] APROPOS - didn’t see that last one? Don’t worry, no one did... His day job is sitting in judgment from the bench of Tarrant County Criminal Court No. 1. He is thankful for that and also for his beautiful wife Shoshana and daughter Cosette for all the love and support they give him when doing a show all the way out here in Cleburne!
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KATHY LEMONS
(Alma Hix)
Kathy’s love of performing on the Plaza stage continues…especially in this new and beautiful performance hall. She was most recently part of the cast for HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME. Other Plaza roles include: Marilla in ANNE OF GREEN GABLES, Miss Andrew (the evil Nanny) in MARY POPPINS, Marmee in LITTLE WOMEN, Glinda in WIZARD OF OZ, Wicked Witch, et al in SHREK, Nimue in CAMELOT, Esther Simowitz in BREAKING UP, Mrs. Peacock in CLUE THE MUSICAL, Mother Abbess in SOUND OF MUSIC. She has also worked with GPAC and Granbury Theatre Company. She studied vocal performance at Howard Payne University, holds a Master’s degree from SWBTS, has sung with the Dallas Symphony Chorus, and has recorded one album. Kathy is thrilled to join this wonderful cast of “Iowa stubborn” people who would gladly “give you a shirt and a back to go with it!” As always, “My love to Jim who keeps a song in my heart!”
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MARY SULLIVAN
(Maud Dunlop)
Mary is a happy mother of 7 who has recently rediscovered her love of theatre. This is her second show for Plaza Theatre Company. When not on stage, Mary homeschools 5 of her children, works as a doula and a hairstylist, and enjoys gardening. Mary wants to thank her amazing husband of 17 years for encouraging her to follow her heart and holding down the fort at home. She also wants to thank her oldest son Caleb for the sacrifices he has made that made her rehearsing possible.
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STEFANIE GLENN
(Maud Dunlop)
Stefanie is over the moon to be back on the Plaza stage. Favorite roles include Prudy Pingleton in HAIRSPRAY, Patsy in CRAZY FOR YOU, and Mrs. Pierce in MY FAIR LADY. Stefanie is a two time Column Award winner for Stage Management and Costume Design. Love to Dad, Mom, Monica, Nathan, Lily, Fiona, and Prinkles.
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EMILY BENNETT
(Mrs. Squires)
Emily Bennett is very excited to return to the Plaza stage in her third production at Plaza Theatre Company. She loves to sing and dance more than anything on and off the stage. Her favorite previous roles include Audrey in LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, Shelly in HAIRSPRAY and Zelda Zanders in SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN here at the Plaza. Emily is a sophomore at Tarrant County College and is majoring in early childhood education. She would like to thank her friends and family for their constant support and encouragement and a special shoutout to her sister Christina for being her #1 fan!
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CASEY COVINGTON
(Ethel Toffelmier)
Casey is thrilled to finally make her debut on the Plaza stage after previously working backstage, stage managing Singin’ in the Rain and Zorro: The Musical and running the lights for multiple productions. She is currently an undergraduate at UTA working on a degree in Theatre. She is very grateful for this opportunity to share the stage with so many talented people.
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MONICA GLENN
(Ethel Toffelmier)
Monica is thrilled to be back on stage at Plaza. This is her seventeenth show here at Plaza. He favorite roles include Phyllis in 42nd STREET, Rhoda in WHITE CHRISTMAS, an Ancestor is ADAMS FAMILY, and CRAZY FOR YOU at both Plaza and Stolen Shakespeare Company for which she also choreographed for SSG. When not on stage Monica is a Pre-k special needs teacher in Fort Worth, she also started teaching one of the special need initiative classes at Plaza Academy where she gets to combine her passion for dancing and teaching children with special needs. A special thank to her parents for helping with the "children" while she gets to play. Mitzi, Winston and Mia, mommy will be home soon.
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ETHAN LEAKE
(Conductor, Principal Dancer)
Ethan is thrilled to be a a part of this wonderful cast at the new Dudley Hall! He has recently appeared as IQ in HAIRSPRAY and Ignacio in ZORRO THE MUSICAL both at plaza. "Crickets are lucky, she's a lucky bug."
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AL MAYO
(Rock Island, Ensemble)
Al is excited to be making his eighth appearance with Plaza Theater Company. Some of his favorite roles include Lazar Wolf, Fiddler On The Roof, Gravedigger/Sexton, Hamlet, Wes Warnicker, Footloose, (PTC), Uncle Louie, Lost in Yonkers (Ennis Public Theatre), and Wizard/Professor Marvel, The Wizard of Oz (Waxahachie Community Theatre). Al is a member of the Lone Star Santas Organization and has appeared as Santa throughout the metroplex area. With a Ph.D. in School Psychology, he serves students in the Dallas ISD. He wishes to thank his family for their support.
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QUENTIN SCOTT
(Rock Island, Ensemble)
Quentin Scott is a human, who is delighted to be in yet another Plaza Theatre Company production, this time as a member of this show's enormous Ensemble! Quentin has been in numerous Plaza shows in the past(Such as MARY POPPINS, ANNE OF... GABLES, and TREASURE ISLAND to name a few), however this is his first time to be given the opportunity to perform in a production of THE MUSIC MAN. He would like to thank his friends and family that make practicing his favorite hobby at his favorite theater a reality.
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JAY A CORNILS
(Rock Island, Constable Locke, Ensemble)
The Music Man marks Jay’s fortieth acting appearance in a Plaza production. Thirty-seven of those performances were on PTC’s Main Stage, where he performed in over 660 of Plaza’s 2000 or so performances, nearly a third of all their shows there. Jay also worked for Plaza as the stage manager for their 2011 production of SMOKE ON THE MOUNTAIN and as the assistant director for their 2014 production of ENCHANTED APRIL. He last appeared on the Plaza stage as don Alejandro de la Vega in ZORRO THE MUSICAL and as Blind Pew and Calico Jack in TREASURE ISLAND. He also appeared last year as Commander Stone in A FEW GOOD MEN at the Granbury Opera House, as the Pedant in Cleburne’s Shakespeare in the Park production of TAMING OF THE SHREW, and as Fenris Ulf in the Carnegie Players production of THE LION, WITCH, AND WARDROBE. Jay lives here in Cleburne with his greatest blessing, his beautiful and talented wife Corlis.
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DAVID ARENDSE
(Rock Island, Ensemble)
David is excited to be making his Plaza debut in this amazing production of THE MUSIC MAN. He recently discovered his love for singing, acting and dancing after years of his sisters forcing Broadway Cast Recordings down his ears. His other hobbies include sword fighting, wrestling with his friends, hunting, fishing, trapping, hiking, swimming and camping. He is looking forward to appearing as a Cheshire Cat in ALICE IN WONDERLAND at Plaza Maine Street Theatre. It is his sincere hope that he will bring glory to God through all of his activities. God alone deserves all the praise for the gifts that He has given him. He strives to use those gifts to bless and bring joy to others.
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JOSHUA MONK
(Rock Island, Ensemble)
Joshua is very pleased to make his Plaza debut in THE MUSIC MAN. He would like to thank the directors and the production staff for giving him this incredible opportunity. For the past three years Joshua has been involved in THE PROMISE in Glen Rose, Texas playing various roles including being a member of the ensemble, a disciple and a member of the Promise Dancers. Joshua is excited to join Plaza Theatre Company and hopes to do more shows in the future. When not doing theatre Joshua is a full time student at Hill College with hopes to attend UT Dallas in the fall to study biology pre-med. Joshua would like to dedicate his performance to his grandma who has always put a smile on his face and encouraged him to go for it. "I love you grandma!"
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LEVI KING
(Rock Island, Ensemble)
Levi is absolutely beyond thrilled for the opportunity join the stage once again for his 11th production with Plaza Theatre Company. Some previous roles include Lt. Lenny Archer in KISS AND TELL, Peter Pan in PETER PAN JR, Teen Scrooge in A CHRISTMAS CAROL, a newsboy in RAGTIME, and as a dancer and ensemble member for shows such as DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS, BYE BYE BIRDIE, WHITE CHRISTMAS, KISS ME KATE, and 42ND STREET. He also treaures the experiences of playing Sasha in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF with Granbury Theatre Company and as part of the ensemble in LES MISERABLES with the Cleburne Carnegie Players. He would like to thank Plaza Theatre Company and all that contribute to it's spirit for maintaining their unique environment of love and positivity, the cast of MUSIC MAN for exemplifying that environment, and of course his mother for encouraging him to pursue art.
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NOLAN MORALEZ
(Rock Island, Principal Dancer)
Nolan is ecstatic to be performing in his 19th plaza production. He is 18 years old and enjoys dancing, singing, and acting more than anything. His favorite roles on the Plaza stage have been Jehan in THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME, Andy in 42nd STREET, and Ephriam in SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN BROTHERS. His other favorite roles have been Bernardo Nunez in WEST SIDE STORY: HIGH SCHOOL EDITION with iTheatrics, Romeo in ROMEO & JULIET with Texas Theatre for Young People, and Mr. Darcy in PRIDE AND PREJIDUCE: THE MUSICAL at TAFA. He would like to thank Soni and Jodie Barrus for this incredible opportunity and to his friends and family for all of their love and support. “Crickets are lucky bugs. She’s a lucky bug.”
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TOBY Q.
(Rock Island, Ensemble)
Toby Q. is happy to be apart of Plaza's production of 'THE MUSIC MAN'. You may have seen him in other Plaza productions such as 'THE ADAMS FAMILY' as Ancestor and 'TREASOR ISLAND' as Israel Hands.
Toby Q. Is very excited to be working with the cast of 'THE MUSIC MAN', some he has worked with before some he has not but all amazing people and performers!
Toby Q. hopes you all enjoy the production! Or at least stay awake most of the time. Either or.
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ALEX OWENS
(Principal Dancer)
Alexandria is very excited to be in her third show at plaza! Alexandria has been singing and dancing since she was 4 years old. She recently started dancing at Plaza Academy and had been dancing competitively since she was 7 years old. You may have seen Alexandria in HAIRSPRAY and ZORRO: THE MUSICAL at Plaza. Alexandria is a sophmore at Centennial High School and is very committed to their theatre and dance team. Alexandria would like to thank Plaza Co. for giving her the chance to be in this amazing show, her family for all the gas and food money they gave her, and God for being with her through this journey.
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ALINA JENNINGS
(Principal Dancer)
Alina is so excited to perform on the new stage and is extremely proud to work along side such an amazing cast. She is a Junior at Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts and has been studying musical theater for 5 years. She was most recently in HAIRSPRAY and ZORRO here at Plaza. Previous shows that she has done are: STARLIGHT EXPRESS Buffy ANNIE Ms. Hannigan, WIZARD OF OZ Cowardly Lion ALL SHOOK UP Sylvia BYE BYE BIRDIE Ensemble LITTLE MERMAID Jetsome SHREK Dance Ensemble and so many more. She loves to do theater and wouldn't want to do anything else with her life. Alina would also like to thank her wonderful mother for always supporting her. And her fabulous sisters, Keshia and Saskia.
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ANNA RAGON
(Principal Dancer)
Anna is very excited to be making her Plaza Theatre debut in Music Man. She started her musical theatre journey at the age of 10 by playing a lead role in the production of THE PROMISE IN GLEN ROSE. She has had the opportunity to choreograph two musicals and has taught dance for two years. She is now a freshman in high school and enjoys performing, playing music, serving at her church, and anything that has to do with theatre. She is thankful for the atmosphere of love and acceptance Plaza provides and is excited for you to see the show!
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JACOB RENFROE
(Principal Dancer)
Jacob is excited to be playing in Plaza’s production of Music Man Jacob enjoys art and playing Guitar outside of theatre, he’s a black belt in TaeKwonDo and was a Chief Master Sergeant in the Civil Air Patrol. You may remember him from other roles he’s played, like Joel in SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN BROTHERS, Ensemble in BIG RIVER, Dick Wilkins in CHRISTMAS CAROL, Ensemble in LITTLE MERMAID, Benji Sloan in ANNE OF GREEN GABLES, Brad in HAIRSPRAY, and Jorge in ZORRO THE MUSICAL. He also played Edmond in Cleburne Carnegie Player’s production THE LION THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE. Jacob would like to give a shout out to his parents for supporting him and he pursues theatre
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JULIA WOOD
(Principal Dancer)
Julia Wood is thrilled to be back in her 6th Plaza production after performing as Anne in ANNE OF GREEN GABLES. Some of her other favorite roles have been Sandra in ALL SHOOK UP, Ensemble in THE LITTLE MERMAID, and a duloc dancer in SHREK! THE MUSICAL. She's also had the pleasure of playing a Silly Girl in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, Ancestor Lin in MULAN, JR. and Alice in THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER. She attends Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts, and takes classes at Plaza Academy. Julia also enjoys singing, writing, and hanging out with friends in her spare time. She would like to thank PlazaCo for giving her the chance to be in another exciting performance. As Julia's best friend, Maddie Almond once said, "My pip is hipping."
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KAITLYN HOWARD
(Principal Dancer)
Kaitlyn is thrilled to be performing again here at Plaza after previously being in The Little Mermaid. She has also performed in multiple productions at the Granbury Opera House, such as: JOSEPH & THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT, OLIVER! THE MUSICAL, SEUSSICAL THE MUSIAL JR., HELLO DOLLY, MARY POPPINS, IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE, and A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Kaitlyn stays busy taking acting, dance, and voice lessons with Phoenix Performance Conservatory and Granbury Theatre Academy. She is also training in classical piano from Piano Arts Studio. Kaitlyn would like to thank Jodie & Soni Barrus for this amazing opportunity to perform!
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LANDON DENMAN
(Principal Dancer)
Landon Denman has been doing theatre with Plaza since he was eight years old but this is his first Main Stage show. He has also starred as Lesgles in LES MISERABLES at Artisan Center Theatre, as well as starring as Benjamin in JOSEPH...DREAMCOAT JR. here at Plaza. Through this show he has strengthened the relationships between his fellow cast members and has made some friends for life. The entire cast has been so supportive through this entire journey and the kindness they have shown has been overwhelming. He is so glad to be getting the opportunity to perform with such an amazing cast and he would like to thank his parents for their unrelenting support of his passions.
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MADDIE ALMOND
(Principal Dancer)
Mostly known by her nickname, Cricket around Plaza. This is her 14th main-stage production here at Plaza, not including numerous shows with the Plaza Academy. Some of her favorites have been 42ND STREET, BIG RIVER, CAMELOT, and JOSEPH...DREAMCOAT, all here with PlazaCo! Cricket enjoys dancing, teaching, reading, and hanging out with friends in her free time. She's a Senior and teacher at SALT Educational Co-op in DeSoto and a student at Plaza Academy. She would like to thank Jodie and Soni for putting their faith in her and casting her in MUSIC MAN; and for the chance to perform beside her mother, Maralena Almond. "Crickets are lucky bugs. I'm a lucky bug."
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MADISON HEAPS
(Principal Dancer)
Madison is so thrilled to be working on this production! She is currently a sophomore at Texas Christian University where she is majoring in Communication Studies with a minor in Arts Administration. Madison's favorite past roles include Annelle and Shelby in STEEL MAGNOLIAS, Narrator in JOSEPH...DREAMCOAT, and Diana Berry in ANNE OF GREEN GABLES. She has found a new interest in stage managing and has had the pleasure of being the stage manager for multiple Plaza Academy productions. Madison loves baking, thrift shopping, and lifeguarding. She gives a huge thank you to everyone who worked on this show, her parents, and her sweetheart, Cameron.
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NATE FREDRICKSON
(Principal Dancer)
Nate is euphoric to be dabbling in the arts of theater, a photographer, He enjoys capturing beautiful moments and is overjoyed to be apart of your happy moment at tonight’s show. As this is his first show he has no previous credits. Nate dedicates this performance to Alina Jennings, and the rest of the principal dancers.
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RYLEE MULLEN
(Principal Dancer)
Rylee is so excited to be cast in another show at Plaza Theatre! Some of her favorite roles have been Lorraine in ALL SHOOK UP, Shelley in HAIRSPRAY, Teen Anne in ANNE OF GREEN GABLES, Jane in MARY POPPINS, Ensemble in ANNIE and Narrator in JOSEPH....DREAMCOAT. She enjoys singing, tapping and running. She would like to thank her family for supporting her and driving her to every rehearsal and show.
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SAM TARRON
(Principal Dancer)
Sam is a homeschooled Senior who attends Plaza Academy and Travis Academy of Fine Arts. He enjoys acting, art, and singing. He is excited to be onstage for his 9th Plaza show. He was most recently seen as a Congregant in the Hunchback of Notre Dame, one of his favorite roles. Other favorites include Joseph in JOSEPH...DREAMCOAT and Dennis in ALL SHOOK UP with Plaza Academy and Ensemble in BIG RIVER with Plaza Theatre Co. He also enjoyed attending the Junior Theatre Festival this year, where he played the role of Scar in THE LION KING, JR. He would like to thank his family for all their support. "Enjoy the show!"
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AMANDA FOSTER
(Ensemble)
Amanda Foster is excited to be performing in THE MUSIC MAN. Amanda’s previous performances with Plaza Theatre Company include performing in the Ensemble of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, Carol Cratchit in A CHRISTMAS CAROL, Young Louisa in ZORRO THE MUSICAL, and Frieda in A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS. Amanda is currently performing with Plaza Academy’s production of JUNIE B. JONES. Her upcoming roles include the Door Knob and Tweedle Dee in ALICE IN WONDERLAND JR. She will be playing Young Simba in the kids production of THE LION KING JR. in the Spring 2018. Her favorite pastimes are singing and playing soccer. Thank you Lucie for being such an amazing sister!!! Amanda is a 5th grade student at Plum Creek in Joshua.
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ANTHONY SULLIVAN
(Ensemble)
Anthony is excited to be in his 6th show at Plaza! He recently played Ensemble/Apple Seller in ANNIE and Young Ramon in ZORRO THE MUSICAL. Anthony enjoys singing, writing, playing his guitar, and animating small movies. Anthony is 14 years old and loves to be onstage. Thanks to Eli, Mimi, Lily, Hunter, Gavin, Kaitlyn, for helping me get into the theatre. "Thanks mom for doing another show with me!"
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GAVIN CLARK
(Ensemble)
Gavin is excited to be in his second show on Plaza’s main stage! His prior roles have included Young Diego in ZORRO THE MUSICAL and Shermy in A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS as part of Plaza’s Junior Theatre. He would like to thank his friends in the cast, his parents for driving him to Cleburne on a daily basis, and, of course, his amazing directors, Soni and Jodie Barrus. There has been one quote that has stuck with Gavin for his entire life, “Where are the turtles?”
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HOPE ARENDSE
(Ensemble)
Hope is so excited to be in her first show! She enjoys sewing, reading, painting, playing with her Collies, and spending time with her family. Hope would like to thank her Mama, for all of her love and support, her siblings for their patience, and Soni and Jodie for giving her this opportunity! “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Romans 8:38-39
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HUNTER PATRICK
(Ensemble)
Hunter is very excited to be on the Plaza stage at Dudley Hall. She is no stranger to the Plaza stage. You may have seen her in past productions including BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, MARY POPPINS, LITTLE MERMAID and ANNE OF GREEN GABLES. Hunter is currently playing Grace in JUNIE B. JONES JR. at Plaza Theatre Main Street. She would like to thank Soni and Jodie for this wonderful opportunity, being a part of a wonderful cast such as this is truly a gift. Hunter would also like to thank her friends and family for all of their love and support.
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JENTREY SULLIVAN
(Ensemble)
Jentrey Sullivan is a 12 year old, 7th grade, homeschooler. She is very exited to participate in the musical Music Man.This will be her 6th main stage Plaza production. She enjoyed the roles Dianna in ANNE OF GREEN GABLES, young Luisa in ZORRO,Tessie in ANNIE, and Carol in A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Jentrey loves to sing,dance,and really loves to run. She sends a shout out to peanut butter, because it's so thick and creamy!
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JJ BARRUS
(Ensemble)
Jonah Jaxon is overwhelmed with joy to be in his second Plaza show as he is appearing as one of the boys in the band in The Music Man. He comes from a long line of an acting family and is happy to get his chance to try his hand. When not on stage JJ loves practicing his tumbling and playing every sport imaginable - especially baseball.
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KAITYN COGGIN
(Ensemble)
Kaitlyn is thrilled to work on this incredible production! Kaitlyn is 12 years old and looks forward to many more years doing theater. You might recognize her as Bird Girl #2 from SUESSICAL THE MUSICAL JR, ALL SHOOK UP JR and CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS all at PlazaCo. She is constantly dancing, singing and acting and her parents and teachers have to repeatedly tell her to focus. She absolutely admires and adores her teachers Ms Tabitha and Ms Tina and can not express how much she is thankful for all the opportunities they have given her at PlazaCo
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KATHRYN ARENDSE
(Ensemble)
Kathryn is super excited to be in THE MUSIC MAN! She loves reading and riding horses. She also loves going to her classes at Plaza Academy. Kathryn would like to thank her family for bringing her to rehearsals, and for the love they have for her. She would also like to give thanks to God for this opportunity.
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KELLIE BLANKENSHIP
(Ensemble)
Kellie is thrilled to be performing in her third Plaza Co. show, and to be performing for the first time at the beautiful Dudley Hall! She feels especially honored to be included amongst such a talented cast. The Music Man holds a special place in Kellie's heart as this was one of the shows that shaped her love for musical theater as a child. You may also have seen Kellie last year in Arsenic and Old Lace with Cleburne Carnegie Players, as well as Anne of Green Gables at Plaza Co. Kellie would also like to thank her family for their un-ending show of support for her long hours spent at the theater. She hopes you will enjoy this unique show in this new spectacular space!
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KENDALL SPRAGGINS
(Ensemble)
Kendall is delighted to be in her first production at Plaza Theatre Company. She also performs at Granbury Theatre Company, where she appeared as Lucille Ballard in MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS and ensemble in SWEENEY TODD. Her first role was in ensemble in ONCE UPON A MATTRESS at Weatherford College. She has been performing on stage since she was four, from dancing to school band to singing. She studied at Tarleton State University and works as a substitute teacher for Granbury and Stephenville schools. She would like to thank her husband, Larry, and her mother, Donna, and family and friends for their constant love and support.
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KENDRICK BOOTH
(Ensemble)
Kendrick is very excited to be making his Plaza debut in THE MUSIC MAN! He has been in love with theatre ever since making his first ever appearance at the age of 4 at Lake Whitney Arts (LWA) riding out onto the stage on a toy motorcycle. He attends Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts (FWAFA) were he studies theatre and musical theatre. Some of his favorite credits are Mr. Greenway in ELF JR. at FWAFA, Sheriff Earl in ALL SHOOK UP at Plaza Academy, and Yertle The Turtle in SEUSSICAL JR. at TeSA. He would like to thank his friends and family for always supporting him. He'd like to give a special thanks to his mom for driving him to and from practice (and everywhere else). He thanks God and Plaza for this awesome opportunity! Enjoy the show!
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LUKE SULLIVAN
(Ensemble)
Luke is 10 years old and is excited to join his mom, sister and brother in performing for Plaza Theater Company. This is Luke's first performance! In his free time he enjoys Everything LEGOS!!
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MAKENNA CLARK
(Ensemble)
Makenna is thrilled to be in her second show at Plaza Theatre Company! And, she is ecstatic to be in her first show with her Dad (Darren Clark) and brother (Gavin Clark)! Other roles include Pepper in ANNIE here at Plaza and KiKi in LEGALLY BLONDE JR. “Thank you to the entire cast, Soni and Jodie Barrus, my family, Shannah Rae, Lauren Shirk and Debbi Jo Thibeau for helping me perfect my skills to get onstage. A special shout out to Dwight Schrute!”
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MARALENA ALMOND
(Ensemble)
Maralena is super excited to be in her first show, alongside her daughter Maddie "Cricket" Almond no less, making it all the sweeter! She is a full-time mom of Maddie and Walker, lucky wife to Kirby, grateful daughter of the most generous mother (Indy) ever, and also currently working at SALT Educational Co-op. Before moving to Cleburne she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts from C.C.S.U., then wanting to see some of the world was hired on as a flight attendant at Northwest Airlines for 18 years. Maralena enjoys art, books, movies, and vacations with her family. She would like to give a big thanks to Soni and Jodie for this generous opportunity and her family that is always up for something new!
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MATTHEW LEAKE
(Ensemble)
Matthew is agog to be a part of Music Man. He enjoys musical theatre and dance classes at Plaza Academy. His favorite roles include, Charlie Brown in A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS, Charlie Sloane in ANNE OF GREEN GABLES, and the Warden in ALL SHOOK UP (Plaza Teen Camp).
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MICHAEL SUAREZ
(Ensemble)
Michael is proud to be in his first main stage production at the new Dudley Hall. He has previously been ensemble, ALL SHOOK UP, Plaza Teen Camp 2017. Outside of theater Michael is a Staff Sergeant in the Civil Air Patrol. He would like to thank his family for driving him to all of his rehearsals. And shout out to his sister Moriah because she made him.
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NASH READING
(Ensemble)
This is Nash’s first Plaza show. He has made appearances in Meet me in St. Louis,Beauty and the Beast,and Alice in ,all at the Granbury Opera House. He currently takes acting and voice classes with Pheniox Studios. He takes a musical theater class and a tap class at GTA as well. Nash wants to personally thank Mrs. Soni and Mr. Jodi for casting him in the amazing show. Mr. Jaceson Barrus (aka Harold Hill) for being such a positive role model.
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NATHAN SALTER
(Swing)
Nathan Salter is thrilled to be back on stage in a very different capacity this show with Plaza as a swing! He is so grateful and excited to get to be part of one of his favorite shows! Other credits include: Prentiss in PETER AND THE STARCATCHER (Onstage in Bedford), Lon Smith in MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS, (Granbury Theatre Company) Link Larkin in HAIRSPRAY, Tom Sawyer in BIG RIVER, Joseph in JOSEPH...DREAMCOAT, Congregant in THE HUNCHBACK... DAME, Ancestor in THE ADDAMS FAMILY, A-Rab in WEST SIDE STORY, Gilbert Blythe in ANNE OF GREEN GABLES, Horton in SEUSSICAL (Plaza Theatre Co.),
Allen/Ralph in WORKING (Casa Mañana),
Zacky Price in BIG FISH (Artisan Center Theatre),
Student in LES MIS (Carnegie Players),
Scarecrow in THE WIZARD OF OZ Chris Keller in ALL MY SONS, and Motel the Tailor in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF (Covenant Classical School). In his free time, Nathan enjoys drawing, and daydreaming about being Spider-Man. He thanks his Mom for everything she does in encouraging him to p
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JODIE BARRUS & SONI BARRUS
(Directors)
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TABITHA IBARRA
(Choreographer)
Tabitha is so happy for the opportunity to work on this show. She has a special place in her heart for The Music Man, because it was her first show to choreograph 9 years ago. Her favorite choreography credits include ALL SHOOK UP, WEST SIDE STORY, THE ADDAMS FAMILY and 42nd STREET all with PlazaCo and Plaza Academy. When not choreographing, Tabitha enjoys teaching Musical Theatre and dance at Plaza Academy and sends love to her awesome students. Tabitha has choreographed for Plaza Academy students the last two years as they have attended the Junior Theater Festival in Atlanta. Both years they have been honored to win awards for excellence in dance. She was honored to receive an award for Best Director of a Play Non-Equity at the Column Awards this year for her work on Anne of Green Gables at PTC last spring. As much as she adores the stage, Tabi's all time favorite roles are mommy to Baby Gemma and wifey to her dashing husband Saúl.
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RUTH ANN WARWICK
(Stage Manager)
Ruth Ann is more than thrilled to be working on her 21st production with Plaza Co. You may have seen her on stage in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, RAGTIME, A CHRISTMAS CAROL 2012,
THE SOUND OF MUSIC, DEAR RUTH, FATHER OF THE BRIDE, POLLYANNA, HEAVEN CAN WAIT or MARY POPPINS. Ruth Ann has also been privileged to stage manage WHITE CHRISTMAS, THE KING AND I,
CAMELOT, FATHER OF THE BRIDE, THE WIZARD OF OZ, SHREK THE MUSICAL, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, HEAVEN CAN WAIT, THE SECRET GARDEN, MARY POPPINS, LITTLE MERMAID, SMOKE ON THE MOUNTAIN; HOMECOMING and ANNIE. She will be forever grateful for the experiences and friendships gained with this amazing theatre and thanks the entire team for giving her a home where passion and purpose collide to become destiny. " All my love and thanks to JIm, Jace and Emily, who bring light and joy to each and every day." Enjoy the show and "...make today worth remembering."
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