Courtney Kaia

Courtney is filled with gratitude to spend her first summer in Chatham with the extraordinary Mac-Haydn team! A graduate of California Polytechnic State University with a degree in Business Administration and a Theatre Arts minor. She served as the Marketing Associate for Cal Poly’s original ensemble Writer’s Block, Marketing Intern at the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, and most recently as a Workshop Teacher and Brand Ambassador at the Museum of Broadway. Courtney has always dreamed of playing a role in theatrical stories being told, helping to promote these stories, and creating life changing experiences within the world of visual and performing arts. She would not be where she is today if not for her family, friends, golden retriever Poppy, and the Mac for supporting her dreams. “No day but today!” @courtkaia

Belle Babcock

Belle is excited to be back at the Mac this summer after growing up at the theatre. Belle graduated in May from Montclair State University with a BFA in Musical Theatre. Last summer she appeared at the Mac in Footloose (Wendy Jo), 42nd street (Ethel), and The Sound of Music (Baroness). She also recently appeared in Sophisticated Ladies (Terri), Spring Awakening (Anna), and Head Over Heels (Gynecia) at Montclair State, Mamma Mia (Sophie), Urinetown (Hope) and Young Frankenstein (Inga) at Venice Theatre, and Hairspray (Amber) at The Players Centrer in Florida. Love to Mom, Jess, Ama, and her best friends for being the coolest people ever. Love you all! Ladybug hugs to Daddy and Papa<3 bellebabcock.com

Roles this Season

Sister Mary Martin-Of-Tours in Sister Act
Ensemble in Rent
Ensemble in All Shook Up
Portia in Something Rotten
Cut Loose with FOOTLOOSE

MAC-HAYDN THEATRE CUTS LOOSE WITH ‘FOOTLOOSE’ THIS MONTH

(June 29, 2023–Chatham, NY) The Mac-Haydn Theatre continues its summer season of hits with “Footloose,” the Tony and Grammy winning musical based on the decade-defining film of the same name, running July 6 – 16.

Coming to the Mac-Haydn stage for only the second time in its history, “Footloose” follows the story of Ren McCormack, who receives anything but a warm welcome in his new hometown when he learns of the local ban on dancing instituted by the controlling preacher. When the reverend’s rebellious daughter sets her sights on Ren, his reputation is on the line as he skirts the law, leading his class down the path to a proper prom night.

Director Erin Spears Ledford and Choreographer Bryan Knowlton, the team that earned rave reviews for their collaboration on last season’s “Kiss Me, Kate,” reunite to helm the production. They are joined by Music Director Eric Shorey and Assistant Music Director Alessandra Alcala.

The production will feature scenic design by Erin Kiernan, along with lighting design by Andrew Gmoser, costume design by Bethany Marx, sound design by Sean McGinley, hair and makeup design by Emily Allen, and props design by Adriana Ayala.

The theatre is delighted to welcome Stephanie Prestage and Matthew Stevenson as they make their Mac-Haydn debuts in the leading roles of Ariel Moore and Ren McCormack.

Broadway veteran George Dvorsky returns to the Mac-Haydn as Reverend Shaw Moore. After his audience-favorite performance as Cladwell in “Urinetown” last season, Dvorsky will debut his solo show “Something Wonderful,” as part of the Limited Performance Series later this summer in addition to his role as the Reverend. Dvorsky is joined by fellow Mac-Haydn alumni Liz Gurland (“Cabaret,” “Pippin,” “Urinetown”) as Vi Moore.

In supporting roles are Jonah Hale as Chuck, Kassi McMillan as Rusty, Jake Koch as Willard, Jeannine Trimboli as Ethel McCormack, Belle Babcock as Wendy Jo, and Amber Mawande-Spytek as Urleen. The full company features Mac-Haydn actors as well as an ensemble of local actors to round out the cast.

The “Footloose” hit score includes iconic numbers “Holding Out for a Hero,” “Let’s Hear it for the Boy,” and the iconic title song “Footloose.” With dazzling dance numbers and an electrifying musical score, Footloose celebrates the exhilaration of youth, the wisdom of listening to one another, and the power of forgiveness – and is sure to have audiences inspired to hit the dance floor.

“Footloose” features music by Tom Snow and lyrics by Dean Pitchford. The stage adaptation is by Dean Pitchford and Walter Bobbie, and is based on the original screenplay by Dean Pitchford.
The production features additional music by Eric Carmen, Sammy Hagar, Kenny Loggins and Jim Steinman.

For tickets and information, please visit www.machaydntheatre.org or call the box office at (518) 392-9292.

***

About the Mac-Haydn Theatre

Founded in 1969, the Mac-Haydn Theatre strives to present innovative, diverse and professional musical theatre productions to the residents of Columbia County and beyond. We aim to cultivate young talent for careers in theatre and seek to provide a supportive environment for the creation of new musical theatre works.

Paxton Brownell

Paxton is thrilled to be back at the Mac! His last show on this stage was in 2019 when he played Edgar in Ragtime. Other recent roles include Sky in Mamma Mia, Jack in Newsies Jr, and Horton in Seussical Jr. When not onstage he enjoys playing guitar and bass, singing, dancing, and playing baseball with his little brother. He previously studied dance at Columbia Elite All-Stars in Hudson and Faxon School of Dance in Chatham. He would like to give a big thank you to Tanya and Lynne for many years of excellent dance instruction. He would also like to thank his previous directors for helping him along the way. Most of all, thanks to John and Erin for giving him this wonderful opportunity.

Roles this Season

Ensemble in Footloose
Jeannine Trimboli

Mac-Haydn Theatre Debut

Jeannine Trimboli is excited to perform with Mac-Haydn for the first time. Recent credits include Solstice (Mrs Jacobs) with Company of Curiosities, Ruthless! The Musical (Judy/Ginger) with Ghent Playhouse, Ma’ Space (Brenda) with Creative Action Unlimited, Guys and Dolls (Adelaide) with Not So Common Players, Slideshow (Kathy) with Bennington Community Theater, and Sunday in the Park with George (Yvonne) with Home Made Theater. Next up you can find her in End of the Rainbow (Judy Garland) at Curtain Call Theatre in the fall.

Roles this Season

Ethel McCormack in Footloose
Amelia Scheriff

 

Amelia Scheriff is from just outside of Chatham, and is honored to be returning to the Mac-Haydn stage! She made her Mac-Haydn debut last summer as an ensemble member in Footloose. Recent select credits include: Hope (Urinetown), Megan (Puffs), Carolyn (The Bridges of Madison County), and Molly (Peter and the Starcatcher). Huge thank you to her family, John, David, Mr. Bintz, and everybody at the Mac who have been so supportive. Enjoy the show!

Roles this Season

Ensemble in All Shook Up
Matthew Harper Stevenson

Mac-Haydn Theatre Debut

Matthew Harper Stevenson is a Virginia native but now resides in NYC. He could recently be seen as Younger Brother in Ragtime (American Stage), Kenickie in Grease (Palace Theatre) and Eugene in Grease again! (Interlakes Summer Theater). After graduating from Christopher Newport University with a degree in Musical Theater and Dance, he would take part in different workshops in the city such as new musicals Like the Wind, Survival of St. Joan and My Pet Dragon. He would like specifically to thank his parents Bob and Laura for their endless support, his sisters Brittany and Erin for their undoubted love and reassurance and his beautiful girlfriend Sarah for inspiring him to be the best he can be every day. I love all of you! @mattsteves_

Roles this Season

Ren McCormack in Footloose
Von Schrieber/Party Guest in The Sound of Music
Cast in Godspell
Norm Waxman & Others in Jersey Boys
Stephanie Prestage

Mac-Haydn Theatre Debut

Stephanie is an actor, singer, and dancer hailing from Clinton, North Carolina. She is ecstatic to be making her Mac-Haydn debut! Recent select credits include: Sandy Dumbrowski (GREASE), Cecily Cardew (THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST), Jo March (LITTLE WOMEN), Campbell Davis (BRING IT ON!), Theresa (CIRCLE MIRROR TRANSFORMATION), Brooke Wyndham (LEGALLY BLONDE), Young Maid (BERNARDA ALBA), and Suzannah (HAIR). She is a proud alum of the University of Michigan’s BFA Musical Theatre Class of 2023. Go Blue! Stephanie wants to thank her fabulous friends and family for supporting and following every story she tells, and her new Mac-Haydn team for an exciting summer. Enjoy the show and thank you for supporting the arts. Insta: @stephprestage / stephanieprestage.com

Roles this Season

Ariel Moore in Footloose
Nun/Party Guest/New Postulant in The Sound of Music
Cast in Godspell
Francine Valli & Others in Jersey Boys
Cindy Lou in The Marvelous Wonderettes
Allie Seebode

Allie Seebode is a rising Junior B.F.A Musical Theater Major at Nazareth University & a native of Delmar, NY. She is excited to return to Mac-Haydn after being a part of the amazing 2023 season. She fell in love with theater at the age of nine when she was cast in their 2013 production of LES MISERABLES, and has continued performing ever since. Some of her favorite credits include: THE SOUND OF MUSIC: (Ensemble/Frau Schmidt u/s), FOOTLOOSE (Ensemble/Urleen u/s) Mac-Haydn Theatre; A MIDSUMMER NIGHTS DREAM (Helena), FOX SISTERS (Katie), ASSASSINS (Sara Jane Moore) Nazareth University. Allie would like to thank her parents, family, friends & everyone involved in this season at Mac-Haydn for all of their love & support. Enjoy the show! @allie_seebode

Roles this Season

Nun/Ensemble in Sister Act
Alessandra Alcala

Alessandra Alcala is a Southern California native and very excited to be on this side of the country for the Mac-Haydn’s 2023 Season! Most recently she served as the Music Assistant/Keyboard Sub for Center Theatre Group’s revival of “The Secret Garden” at LA’s Ahmanson Theatre. Other credits: Great American Melodrama (Resident MD/Composer/Arranger), SLO REP (MD: Xanadu, The Marvelous Wonderettes), Pacific Conservatory Theatre (Asst. MD: The Secret Garden, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, MD: Chicago). She is a graduate of the University of Montana School of Music, and studied Choral Music/Conducting through the Delaware Choral Symposium in Provence, France. When not behind the keyboard, you can catch her playing this weird instrument called the fife – select performances include: Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Universal Studios, and Disneyland. Alessandra is a member of Maestra Music and the American Federation of Musicians. @alessandra.alcala

Creative Roles this Season

Asst. Music Director - 42nd Street
Asst. Music Director - Footloose
Asst. Music Director - The Sound of Music
Asst. Music Director - Godspell
Asst. Music Director - Jersey Boys
Bryan Knowlton

Mr. Knowlton’s extensive career has spanned from Broadway to appearing in multiple National Tours, Film and TV. He is an award winning director/choreographer with credits that include: CABARET & CHICAGO (NH Theatre Award “Best Choreographer”, ONSTAGE Theatre Award Nomination “Best Choreography”), MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD (Kennedy Center American College Theatre Award “Outstanding Choreography”) BEEHIVE! (Berkshire Theatre Award nomination “Best Choreographer”) SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER/MAMMA MIA (SALT Award nomination “Best Choreographer”) among many others. At present, he is attached as Director/Choreographer to “In My Own Little Corner” starring Chryssie Whitehead, as well as choreographer for two new musicals, “The Only Way Out” written by David Thatcher Maglione in London, UK as well as Trish LaRose’s one woman show “Come On-A My House. He’s currently on faculty at Broadway Dance Center, STEPS on Broadway in New York City as well as THE HUB and House of Jazz in London. For more information visit bryanknowlton.org.

Creative Roles this Season

Director/Choreographer - West Side Story
Logan Shields

Logan is thrilled to be back at the Mac-Haydn Theatre this season taking on a new administrative role. A Columbia County native, Logan has been attending shows at the Mac for his entire life. Not only did Logan fall in love with theater at the Mac, but made his stage debut in 2011 in “The King and I” as well as “Rodney the Reluctant Dragon.” Currently a senior at Purchase College Logan is majoring in arts management with two minors in sociology and theatre & performance. As a performer, recent credits include: Second Officer (U/S Louis) in “A View from the Bridge,” Performer in “Fornés Fest,” and Blanche DuBois in “A Streetcar Named Desire.” Much thanks to Logan’s family, friends, and everyone at the Mac for the abundance of love & support. @logan_shields_

Taylor Sheppard

Mac-Haydn Theatre Debut

Taylor is beyond excited to be spending her summer here at Mac-Haydn Theatre. Hailing from Newnan, GA, (30 mins outside of Atlanta) she is a recent grad from Shenandoah Conservatory, and is very excited to start her post-grad career performing here. Her favorite past roles include: Heather Duke in HEATHERS: THE MUSICAL, Sally in REEFER MADNESS, Alice in staged reading of a new script for Frank Wildhorn’s WONDERLAND, and getting to Assistant Direct TUCK EVERLASTING, under the direction of original cast member Michael Park, and choreographed by Shannon Lewis. She would like to thank her friends and family for their never wavering and constant love and support. She hopes you all enjoy the shows and has a great time.

Roles this Season

Phyllis in 42nd Street
Eleanor Dunbar in Footloose
Nun/Party Guest in The Sound of Music
Kassi McMillan

Mac-Haydn Theatre Debut

Kassi McMillan is overjoyed to be making her Mac-Haydn Theatre debut this summer! Originally from Fort Lauderdale, FL she currently attends the University of Cincinnati (CCM) and will be a Senior Musical Theatre major this fall. Her favorite CCM credits include Anna in Spring Awakening, Melpomene in Xanadu, and Honoria in Rocket Science. She is the 2019 Papermill Playhouse Rising Star Award Winner for Best Actress as Alice Murphy in Bright Star. In addition to appearing onstage, you can catch her as Gina in Henry Danger on Nickelodeon. Besides theatre, Kassi loves to bake and decorate cakes and play with her three dogs. She would like to thank her parents and sister for their constant love and support!

Roles this Season

Lorraine in 42nd Street
Rusty in Footloose
Frau Schmidt/Nun in The Sound of Music
Cast in Godspell
Jerome Byrne

Mac-Haydn Theatre Debut

This is Jerome’s first time performing with Mac-Haydn. He is extremely excited for this new and challenging endeavor and can’t wait to get started. This will be his third time performing out of high school. He previously played Mr. Wormwood in Upstage Productions’ “Matilda” and more recently he played Aaron Jablonski in Ghent Playhouse’s presentation of “Invitation to a March.” Jerry lives in a small town in Greene County where he works as a landscaper and asbestos inspector. However, he is actively pursuing a full time career in acting and performing and is determined to continue working his way further and further up the ladder in this industry. He looks forward to learning everything he can this summer.

Roles this Season

Mac in 42nd Street
Cop in Footloose
Zeller in The Sound of Music
Mark Tran Russ

Mac-Haydn Theatre Debut

Mark Tran Russ (he/him) just received his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre from Shenandoah Conservatory in May and is so excited to make his post-college debut at the Mac-Haydn Theatre. Originally from Long Island, he is looking forward to performing so close to home and the city that made him fall in love with theatre. Some of his favorite credits include Godspell (Lamar), Cinderella (Lord Pinkleton), and A Chorus Line (Don Kerr). Besides performing, he also loves skating (both ice and roller), cooking, and coding! He wants to thank everyone at the theatre for giving him this opportunity as well as his friends and family for always supporting him. Enjoy the show everybody!

Roles this Season

Ensemble in 42nd Street
Lyle in Footloose
Ofer Gordon

Mac-Haydn Theatre Debut

Ofer Gordon is an Israeli-born actor and is a recent graduate from The Hartt School’s BFA Music Theatre training program. Previous credits include: William Bates- “Double Helix” (Goodspeed Opera House), Steven Kodaly- “She Loves Me”, Lewis- “Pippin”, George Wickham- “Pride & Prejudice”, Don Pedro- “Much Ado About Nothing”, Ensemble- “Legally Blonde”, Mr. McQueen- “Urinetown” (The Hartt School), Victor- “Cabaret”, Garvin- “Footloose”, Lumiere U.S- “Beauty and the Beast”. (The Woodstock Playhouse). Ofer is very exited to join the Mac-Haydn Theatre family and take part in its summer season. When he is not working, however, Ofer can be found cooking and planning his next trip to the beach.
Special thanks to Kristin Huffman, my family, and Asaf.

Roles this Season

Ensemble in 42nd Street
Garvin in Footloose
Rolf in The Sound of Music
Neal Bechman

Mac-Haydn Theatre Debut

Neal Bechman is incredibly proud and excited to be joining the Mac-Haydn Theatre cast in this incredible season. Making his Mac-Haydn Theatre debut! Neal couldn’t think of a better way to spend his summer, especially in the ensemble of such stellar shows. Neal is a NYC based performer, but a Pittsburgh native, and a graduate of Point Park University Conservatory of Performing Arts. His favorite credits include 42nd Street, The Who’s Tommy, Glory Days, and every cat in Cats in front of his Gramma’s TV. Neal would like to thank everyone at Mac-Haydn Theatre, the cast, and crew; this season is a blast! Shout out to his friends and family whose constant support and love keep him going, love you lots. Socials: @nealbechman

Roles this Season

Ensemble in 42nd Street
Travis in Footloose
Soldier/Party Guest in The Sound of Music
Arthur Beutel

Mac-Haydn Theatre Debut

Arthur Beutel is a classically trained singer based in New York City. His dynamic, high-energy approach to performing in both musical theater and classical styles brings his unique brand of humor to the stage for all to enjoy. He received his Bachelor of Music in Opera from Colorado State University and a Graduate Certificate in Vocal Performance from the University of Connecticut. Arthur is studying classical voice with baritone, Brian Montgomery and musical theater with Chris Citera of the Mike Ruckles Voice Studio. Arthur recently made his off-broadway debut playing Mr.Pinkerton in PINKALICIOUS: THE MUSICAL with Vital Theatre Company at the Soho Playhouse. He spent last summer in Lincoln, NH with NCCA Jean’s Playhouse performing The Sound of Music (Max Detweiler), Cabaret (Ernst Ludwig) and Mamma Mia! (Bill Anderson). Arthur joined The Metropolitan Opera for their final production of Verdi’s AIDA (2022-2023) and in Poulenc’s Dialogue of the Carmelites (2023).

Roles this Season

Pat Denning in 42nd Street
Principal Clark in Footloose
Max in The Sound of Music
Hank Majewski & Others in Jersey Boys
Jake Koch

 

Hailing from Wisconsin, Jake Koch is absolutely overjoyed to be returning to Chatham this summer. Last summer, you may have seen Jake in the Mac’s 42nd Street (Bert), Footloose (Willard), The Sound of Music (Franz), and Godspell (“We Beseech Thee”). Jake is rising Senior at Manhattan School of Music and is a proud student of Sam McKelton’s voice studio. He was most recently seen in MSM’s Bye Bye Birdie (Mrs. Peterson), Paperboy (Willie, u/s Paperboy) and Valentino’s Tango (Ensemble, u/s Jesse Lasky). Some of his other credits include The Addams Family (Uncle Fester), Hairspray (I.Q.), Les Misérables (Thénardier) and the world premiere production of Goosebumps the Musical (Zeke). Jake would love to thank John, Eric, Tori, and the entire Mac-Haydn family for another incredible summer at his favorite place! IG: @jakeolantern

Roles this Season

Joey in Sister Act
Ensemble in Rent
Dean Hyde in All Shook Up

Thomas Nostradamus (Week 1) in Something Rotten
Shylock in Something Rotten
Rachel Revellese

Mac-Haydn Theatre Debut

Rachel is so excited to be spending the summer at Mac-Haydn Theatre! She is a New Hampshire born singer, actor, and (tap)dancer who studies musical theater at Syracuse University. She fell in love with theater through tap dance and has won numerous regional and national titles in the style. She is currently an ambassador for the global dance brand SoDanca and can be found dancing on their social media. Rachel has previously been seen in Syracuse Stage’s The Little Mermaid (Swing, Scuttle u/s) and Matilda (Swing) and Interlakes Theatre’s Cats (Jennyanydots) and Grease (Patty, Sandy u/s). She cannot thank her family enough for believing in her endlessly. There’s always a rainbow on the other side of everything, if you reach for it. ig/tk @rachel.rev

Roles this Season

Peggy Sawyer in 42nd Street
Lulu Warnicker in Footloose
Liesl in The Sound of Music
Trevor Squiers

Trevor is excited to be back for this second summer at Mac-Haydn! Originally from Crystal Lake, Illinois, Trevor graduated with his Degree in Musical Theatre and Dance from The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. He is currently based in New York City. Current roles include Young Scrooge in A Christmas Carol (Arizona Broadway Theatre), Mike/Mark US in A Chorus Line, Tiny Tim in Urinetown, and Ralph in Kiss Me, Kate! here at the mac. Trevor would like to thank his amazing friends, family, directors, and everyone else backstage who works day and night to make the mac run as smoothly as it does, and hopes you enjoy the show. You can follow him on instagram @trevorsquiers.

Roles this Season

Andy Lee in 42nd Street
Jeter/Cowboy Bob in Footloose
Eberfeld/Soldier in The Sound of Music
Ricky Dobbs

Ricky Dobbs is so ecstatic to be back at the Mac-Haydn for another summer. He was seen last summer at the Mac as Mike Costa in “A Chorus Line”, Thalia in “Xanadu”, most famously your intermission 50/50 host, and in other shows across the summer. Some of his other favorite roles include Musidorus in “Head Over Heels” and Buddy the Elf in “Elf the Musical”. Ricky cannot be more excited to be spending another summer in Chatham, NY and is stoked to see so many friendly faces and so many new ones this season. He wants to thank his parents for supporting every journey he goes on and all his friends who constantly push him to be the best he can be. Insta: @Ricky.Hugh

Roles this Season

Ensemble in 42nd Street
Bickle in Footloose
Soldier/Party Guest in The Sound of Music

Creative Roles this Season

Dance Captain for The Sound of Music
Bella DePaola

Bella DePaola is so excited to return to The Mac Haydn Theatre! Past credits include Val (A Chorus Line), Anytime Annie/Dance Captain (42nd Street), Turn Back O’Man/Dance Captain (Godspell), Becky Two Shoes/u/s Penelope Pennywise (Urinetown), Lorriane/Lead Angel/Dance Captain (Jersey Boys), Betty Blast/u/s Ariel/Dance Captain (Footloose), Susan Hershy/u/s Georgie Bukatinski (The Full Monty), and Ensemble (Kiss Me Kate). She is a recent graduate of Pace University’s Musical Theatre and Commercial Dance Programs and was seen in productions like Into the Woods as Jack’s Mom u/s Baker’s Wife, and Pippin as Player u/s Fastrada. Bella would love to thank her family and friends, especially her two parents, for supporting her along her journey. Keep up with her instagram for future adventures: @belladepaola

Roles this Season

Graziella in West Side Story
Dance Captain for West Side Story
Ensemble in Something Rotten

Creative Roles this Season

Choreographer The Fantasticks
Eric Shorey

Eric is thrilled to return to MHT for his 3rd season. He is delighted for audiences to experience the incredible talents of the entire company. His music direction at MHT include Urinetown, Next To Normal, Footloose, Godspell, and last season’s smash hit Jersey Boys. He also proudly music directed the Berkshire Theatre Award Winning A Call To Places starring Gabe Belyeu. Elsewhere, Eric has music directed productions of My Way, Scrooge, A Man of No Importance, and numerous concerts and cabarets. As an actor, Eric has been seen across the country and internationally in productions of Cats, West Side Story, Guys and Dolls, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and Disney On Classic in Japan, to name a few. Eric would like to thank John, James, and the entire MHT family for their constant support. For Eric and Henry.

Creative Roles this Season

Music Supervisor
Music Director - West Side Story
Music Supervisor - Sister Act
Music Director - Rent
Music Supervisor - All Shook Up
Music Director - Something Rotten
Music Director - The Fantasticks
Amber Mawande-Spytek

Amber is a New York Based Performer and is always stoked to be back at the Mac! Her passion is to create waves of art in musical theatre and in the performance industry as a whole, expanding the hearts and minds of theatre lovers everywhere. Her recent credits include Godspell (Uzo), Next to Normal (Natalie), Xanadu (Erato), and Pippin (Leading Player). She has received multiple Berkie Nominations throughout her time here at the Mac-Haydn as well as a recent Nomination for best Actress in a Musical at the New York Theatre Festival. Lots of thanks to her friends and family who are always supporting her endeavors and cheering her on. You can follow Amber on Instagram or Tiktok at @amber.mawande

Roles this Season

Sister Mary Theresa in Sister Act
Joanne Jefferson in Rent
Ensemble in All Shook Up
Minstrel in Something Rotten
Jonah Hale

Jonah is an NYC-based performer and is thrilled to be returning to Chatham and the Mac-Haydn stage this summer. Originally from Minnesota, Jonah moved to New York City in the fall of 2015 to attend Wagner College where he later graduated with a B.A. in Theatre Performance and a Minor in Dance. Jonah was last seen on the Mac-Haydn stage in 2022 as a gangster brushing up his Shakespeare in Kiss Me Kate. Other favorite Mac-Haydn credits include Kenickie in Grease, Sammy in The Wedding Singer, Smokey in Damn Yankees, and Santa Clause in Annie. Jonah would like to thank his friends and his family for all of their love and support. Special shout out to fellow Mac-Haydn alumni Jayke Workman.

Roles this Season

Billy Lawlor in 42nd Street
Chuck Cranston in Footloose
Emma O’Kane

Emma O’Kane (Ensemble) is overjoyed to return to the Mac-Haydn Theater this season for their production of Footloose. Previously, Emma has been seen in the Mac-Haydn’s productions of Annie and the Pinocchio Show. Her recent shows include, A Little Night Music (Schenectady Light Opera House), The Wedding Singer (Playhouse Stage Co.) and Freaky Friday (Columbia High School). When not on the theatrical stage, she is often seen performing vocally or supporting her sister Riley’s theatrical and vocal performances. Emma would like to thank her music and dance mentors, friends and family for their endless support. Last but certainly not least, thank you to the production team here at the Mac for this incredible opportunity and helping her grow.

Roles this Season

Ensemble in Footloose
Fiona Phelps

Fiona is thrilled to be back performing on the Mac-Haydn stage, now as full company! Some of her recent productions include Something Rotten! (Ensemble, Assist. Dance Captain), Oklahoma! (Young Laurey), Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (Belle), Urinetown (Little Sally), and The Addams Family (Alice). As a dancer, Fiona has trained and competed in numerous different styles, her favorite always being tap. She trained with the Joffrey Ballet, doing their tap summer intensive and most recently performed in Manhattanville College’s Fall Dance Concert. Fiona is working to receive her BFA in Musical Theater from Manhattanville College where she will be performing in A Chorus Line as Sheila this upcoming fall! She would like to thank all of her family, friends and teachers for their support always!

 

Roles this Season

On-Stage Swing in West Side Story
Ensemble in Something Rotten
George Phelps

George is so excited to have another opportunity to perform at the Mac! Past roles at the Mac include General Harrison Howell in Kiss Me Kate, and Daryl Grady in Curtains! Other acting credits include Officer Lockstock in Urinetown, J Finch/Zach Smith in Puffs, Thomas Nostradamus in Something Rotten, Plankton in the SpongeBob Squarepants, and George Bailey in It’s a Wonderful Life. When not on stage, George can be found at Crisafulli Brothers Home Services, where he works as a Residential HVAC installation manager. George is excited to be working in another production with his daughter Fiona, and is always forever grateful to his wife Tanya for her constant support and encouragement, and for convincing him to set out on this crazy theater journey in the first place!

Roles this Season

Shrank in West Side Story
Emily Allen

Emily Grace Allen is so happy to be returning to the Mac-Haydn Theatre once again! Emily just graduated from Marymount Manhattan College and is so excited to take the next step in her artistic journey. During the year, she kept busy working and training. She had the opportunity to train at the 30 Rock Wig Shop working on things for SNL and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. She also performed as a featured dancer in the ensemble of Rodger and Hammerstein’s Cinderella at Marymount. Coming off of graduation, Emily is so thankful for all the opportunities and the support from her family and peers that have helped her to get to where she is. Sending all the love and gratitude to Mom and Dad, John, Caitlin, and the entire family at the Mac! emilygraceallen.com

Roles this Season

Ensemble in Rent
Swing in The Fantasticks

Creative Roles this Season

Hair/Wig & Makeup Designer - West Side Story
George Dvorsky

George Dvorsky is thrilled to be back at the Mac-Haydn after playing Cladwell in last year’s URINETOWN, 2019’s LITTLE SHOP, 2018’s ANNIE (Berkshire Theatre Critic Award for Best Actor in a Musical) and 2014’s FULL MONTY. Broadway credits include the title role in THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL, GENTLEMEN PREFER BLONDES, PASSION, MARILYN: AN AMERICAN FABLE and THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE… National Tour: CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG. Off-Broadway: THE FANTASTICKS, CLOSER THAN EVER, PETE N KEELY, DAMES AT SEA and ‘AND THE WORLD GOES ROUND. George starred in the NYC Premiere of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA as Prince Charming at Lincoln Center. On PBS he was featured in the Emmy Award winning PASSION: LIVE AT LINCOLN CENTER starring Patti LuPone and starred with Bea Arthur and the Boston Pops in BERNSTEIN’S BROADWAY. His solo CDs are available on the JAY Records label. Feature Films: BROS and I’M NOT GAY Georgedvorsky.net Instagram: @gdvorsky

Roles this Season

Rev. Shaw in Footloose
Creator and Performer in Something Wonderful
Bethany Marx

Bethany Marx is an Associate Professor of Theatre specializing in Costume Design at SUNY Oneonta in Upstate New York. She has been designing costumes for select Mac-Haydn productions since 2017, including Hello, Dolly!, Oklahoma, Mamma Mia, The Wedding Singer, She Loves Me, Urinetown, Next to Normal, 42nd Street and Footloose. Bethany has also designed for Capital Repertory Theatre in Albany, the Virginia Shakespeare Festival, the Fairbanks Shakespeare Theatre, and others. She also owns and performs with a children’s party entertainment company serving central New York. She enjoys spending time with her husband and step-daughter, and their four cats. She holds a BFA from the University of Evansville in Evansville, IN and an MFA from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Creative Roles this Season

Costume Designer - Rent
Costume Designer - Something Rotten
Liz Gurland

Liz Gurland is thrilled to be back at The Mac-Haydn Theatre for the 2023 season! Past roles at Mac-Haydn include: Josephine Strong in Urinetown, Woman 3 in And the World Goes ‘Round, Grandma in Pippin, Fräulein Schneider in Cabaret, Angie in The Wedding Singer and Miss Lynch in Grease. Liz appeared as Helen in Fun Home at Hubbard Hall earlier this year. She has performed with such diverse organizations as The MacHaydn Theatre, Hubbard Hall, Theatre Now New York, Gallery Players, The Phoenix Theatre (PA), La MaMa E.T.C. and New Jersey Verismo Opera. She created a one woman show in collaboration with the Emily Dickinson Museum. While earning her MFA at UC Irvine, she performed with Starlight Musical Theater in San Diego, Los Angeles Opera, Long Beach Opera and Aspen Opera Theater. MFA UC Irvine. www.lizgurland.com

Roles this Season

Vi Moore in Footloose
Elsa in The Sound of Music
Erin Kiernan

Erin is returning to the Mac for her 8th summer. Past favorite designs, Oliver, La Cage, The Music Man, Rent, South Pacific. When not here with her MHT family she is the resident paint charge, scenic painting instructor and a designer at Adelphi University. This summer and everything after is dedicated to Aaron.

Creative Roles this Season

Set Designer - Footloose
Brian D. Wagner

Brian D. Wagner is happy to be back for his 7th season at the Mac! He was most recently seen in 42ND STREET (Abner Dillon) and FOOTLOOSE (Uncle Wes.) Other select Mac credits include HELLO DOLLY (Horace Vandergelder), URINETOWN (Senator Fipp), RAGTIME (JP Morgan), FUNNY GIRL (Flo Ziegfeld), ANNIE (Drake), ANYTHING GOES (Eli Whitney), MAN OF LA MANCHA (Governor) and SUNSET BOULEVARD (Cecil B. de Mille.) Other favorite roles include Man in Chair (THE DROWSY CHAPERONE), Doctor Berensteiner (A NEW BRAIN) and Dick Deadeye (HMS PINAFORE).When not treading the boards, Brian can be seen selling real estate around Columbia County as well as directing a team of data engineers at an advertising agency based in NYC! As always, my love to Tim for his support in all I do onstage and off.

Roles this Season

Monsignor O'Hara in Sister Act
Erin Spears Ledford

Erin Spears Ledford is honored to return to The Mac- Haydn Theatre for her 10th Season where she has worked in both performance and creative roles. Erin’s past Mac- Haydn directing credits include: Footloose, Kiss Me Kate, Little Shop of Horrors, The Wedding Singer and Asst. Director on Man Of La Mancha. In 2021 Erin received a Berkshire Theatre Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Ilona in Mac- Haydn’s production of She Loves Me. Other memorable Mac roles include: The World Goes Round, Rosie in Mamma Mia, Sister Mary Patrick in Sister Act and Alice in Addams Family. Favorite regional credits include: Mrs. Sowerberry/ Nancy US in Oliver! (National Tour) and Anita in West Side Story (Circa 21.) When she is not treading the boards at The Mac, Erin works as a Teaching Artist with Inside Broadway in NYC. Thanks to JL, MDKR, JS.

Creative Roles this Season

Program Coordinator - After School Program for Actors