The Rep Guest Actors

Eva Balistrieri

Eva is honored to be back at The Rep, where her past credits include Betty Parris in THE CRUCIBLE and nine years of “Cratchit-ing” in A CHRISTMAS CAROL. This past summer, Eva was an apprentice at the Great River Shakespeare Festival in Winona, MN, understudying Bianca in THE TAMING OF THE SHREW and playing Diana, Lychorida and Antiochus’ daughter in the apprentice production of PERICLES. A sophomore at the University of Wisconsin – Parkside, she was most recently seen as Perdita and Mamillius in THE WINTER’S TALE. She would like to thank The Rep for this wonderful opportunity and her mother for her constant support.

Lenny Banovez

Lenny is thrilled to be back at The Rep this season! Past Rep credits include: KING LEAR (Burgundy), TARTUFFE (Valere), HULA HOOP SHA-BOOP (Johnny) and THEY CAME FROM WAY OUT THERE (Zeff). New York and regional credits: BRIDGES and SAVANNAH! (NYU’s TISCH School of the Arts); THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST, (PCPA Theaterfest); TWELTH NIGHT(Texas Shakespeare) and ILLYRIA (Virginia Shakespeare). Lenny received his B.A. in Theater Arts from the UW – Parkside and his M.F.A. from Ohio University.

Lee Becker

Lee is grateful to Milwaukee Rep for another chance to mooch his way around Wisconsin (even crossing fearlessly into Lion country). Since Fred and James made him one of the “Guys” in 2000 he hasn’t missed a year, racking up well over 500 performances – second only to the indestructible Doug Mancheski. A regular at Door County’s American Folklore Theatre since 1994, Lee has played a number of memorable roles in addition to Ernie, including Dirty Bob, Mildred the Chicken and DNR Doug. He is co-author of BELGIANS IN HEAVEN, PACKER FANS FROM OUTER SPACE and a still-in-progress musical about deer hunting. Lee was a founding member of Door Shakespeare, serving as performer and occasional music director. A Dairy State native, Lee currently calls Milwaukee home and has been onstage there at Skylight Opera Theatre, Milwaukee Rep, In Tandem Theatre, Bunny Gumbo’s Combat Theatre, Cornerstone Theatre and ComedySportz. Lee has also appeared at Madison Rep, most recently as another classic Wisconsin annoyance, Rick Steadman in THE NERD. His favorite hobby is bragging about his brilliant and dazzling gal, Sara.

Stephanie Berry

Ms. Berry returns to The Rep where she last appeared as Aunt Ester in GEM OF THE OCEAN. She recently appeared in KATRINA: THE BRIDGE at the University of Houston, a new work based on the stories of Hurricane Katrina survivors. Ironically, she returned to Houston where she had volunteered to aid Katrina evacuees from New Orleans a couple of years ago. Last season she was seen in GEE’S BEND at Denver Center Theatre Company. Stephanie plays Nicole Kidman’s assistant, Carly, in the sci-fi movie Invasion and she plays the school principal, Ellen Parker, in the movie No Reservations, starringCatherine Zeta-Jones. Ms. Berry has been seen as a regular principal actress on various Law and Order shows (and other TV programs), for over 15 years. She appeared in the world premiere of DISTRACTED at the Mark Taper Forum. Stephanie Berry is the winner of the OBIE Award for “Best Performance” and the AUDELCO Award for “Solo Performance” in her one-woman show, THE SHANEEQUA CHRONICLES: THE MAKING OF A BLACK WOMAN (currently available for theater and University bookings). Stephanie is a founding member of Blackberry Productions Theater Company, a Harlem-based organization that develops new works and brings theater to underserved populations throughout New York. The company recently produced a New York City tour of a new work entitled, WILD WOMEN, featuring Stephanie. The piece, based on interviews with middle-aged women from diverse backgrounds, takes an intimate look at the lives of mature women in Western culture.

Laurie Birmingham

Laurie is very happy to be back at The Rep after two years of freelancing at other theaters in and out of Milwaukee. Here in town you might have seen her with Milwaukee Chamber Theatre in TALKING HEADS or with Renaissance Theaterworks in STRING OF PEARLS. She also did a one-woman show with In Tandem Theatre called HONOR SONG. She traveled to Virginia Stage Company to sing and play in HANK WILLIAMS: A LOST HIGHWAY and then spent a week in Chicago teaching over 250 Ronald McDonalds for McDonald’s from all over the world how to use their voices properly. After this, catch her in THE HAPPY ELF at First Stage Children’s Theater.

Jason Bradley

Jason Bradley is happy to return to Milwaukee Repertory Theater after having been seen in The Rep’s 2006 production of A MONTH IN THE COUNTRY. In Chicago, his home, Jason has appeared in THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK at Steppenwolf Theatre Company, TO THE GREENFIELDS BEYOND at Writers’ Theatre and STRIPPED at Circle Theatre (Jeff Citation Nomination, Best Actor). Regionally, his credits include: Indiana Repertory Theatre (THE GENTLEMAN FROM INDIANA, PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, A CHRISTMAS CAROL, THE DRAWER BOY and ARCADIA); American Players Theatre (CANDIDA AND MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR and MACBETH); The Cleveland Play House (PRIDE AND PREJUDICE) and Madison Repertory Theatre (THE DRAWER BOY).

Kelsey Brennan

Kelsey joyfully returns to The Rep this winter after having spent last season as an Artistic Intern Company Member, performing in CYRANO DE BERGERAC and A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Kelsey was last seen onstage at American Players Theatre as Muriel McComber in AH, WILDERNESS!, as well as Doll Tearsheet and Lady Mortimer in HENRY IV: THE MAKING OF A KING. Kelsey holds a BFA from Ohio University.

Carey Cannon

Carey is delighted to be performing in PRIDE AND PREJUDICE after making her Rep debut in MIRANDOLINA. She has had the pleasure of working with many of The Rep’s actors in her four seasons at American Player’s Theatre. Favorite roles at APT include Hippolyta/Titania in A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, Vivie in MRS. WARREN’S PROFESSION and Varya in THE CHERRY ORCHARD. She is very excited to return to Spring Green next summer in Laura Gordon’s production of Pinter’s OLD TIMES with Tracy Michelle Arnold and Jonathan Smoots in APT’s new indoor space. Carey makes her home in Chicago with her courageous mother, her patient husband and a neurotic poodle. Many thanks to Sandy.

Wayne Carr

Most recently at The Rep, Wayne appeared as A Nasty Interesting Man/Lord of the Underworld in EURYDICE and as Jim in THE GLASS MENAGERIE. He also recently completed LOVE’S LABOUR’S LOST at Milwaukee Shakespeare where he played King Ferdinand of Navarre. Locally, he has also been seen in CYMBELINE and HENRY IV, PART 2 at Milwaukee Shakespeare, FAT PIG and TOP DOG/UNDERDOG at Renaissance Theaterworks and THE WATSON’S GO TO BIRMINGHAM at First Stage Children’s Theater. Other credits include shows with American Players Theatre, The Goodman Theatre, Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Black Theatre Festival and Fulton Theatre, among others. He holds degrees from Penn State and Frostburg State University.

Jeremy Cohen

Theater credits include: GRAFTON CITY BLUES (Milwaukee Rep); WEST BANK, UK (La Mama E.T.C., NY and Malibu Stage Co.); MACCABEAT (NY Music Theatre Festival); THE GOOD WAR (Northlight Theatre); GREASE (Marriott Theatre); SISTERS OF SWING (Pennsylvania Centre Stage) and THE LAST FIVE YEARS (Syndicate Productions). Film credits: 3 Words about New York and Hell’s Gate. Music Director for HULA HOOP SHA-BOOP (Milwaukee Rep). Composer of THE BOWERY BOYS (Marriott Theatre, Chicago). He is a proud Northwestern graduate. Special thanks to Kevin. Love to Mom, Dad, Gabe and Antonette. www.jeremy-cohen.com.

Nora Cole

Nora Cole is making her Milwaukee Rep debut. Outstanding credits include: Caroline or Change (Royal National Theatre); VOICES OF THE SPIRITS IN MY SOUL (solo show – 2007 National Black Theatre Festival); Jelly’s Last Jam (Broadway and national tour opposite Gregory and Maurice Hines, respectively ); ON THE TOWN (Broadway); AND GOD CREATED GREAT WHALES (Obie Award – The Foundry Theatre at The Culture Project, Baltimore Center Stage and the Barbicon Center – London); THE COLORED MUSEUM (Hartford Stage); JOE TURNER’S COME AND GONE (Studio Arena); OLIVIA’S OPUS (debut solo show – Negro Ensemble Company, Primary Stages, 1993 NBTF) and THE GOOD TIMES ARE KILLING ME (Second Stage). She was a company member with the late Vinnette Carroll’s Urban Arts Corp and Repertory Company. Productions included: YOUR ARMS TOO SHORT TO BOX WITH GOD (Broadway, national and European tours), title role in MEDEA and WHEN HELL FREEZES OVER I’LL SKATE (The Kennedy Center). She has numerous soap, commercial and voiceover credits. Ms. Cole is a graduate of The Goodman School of Drama (BFA), is a Hedgebrook writer’s alum, Spencer Cherashore Individual Artist Grant recipient and former adjunct professor at Eastern Connecticut State University.

William Dick

William Dick is delighted to return to The Rep where his credits include: Bob Cratchit in several incarnations of A CHRISTMAS CAROL and in the Quadracci Powerhouse Theater: YES, NO, (MAYBE SO . . . ), THE FRONT PAGE, WOMAN IN MIND, INSPECTING CAROL, SEASON’S GREETINGS, ARCADIA, AH WILDERNESS!, THE TAVERN, THE GREATER GOOD and THE RIVALS. In the Stackner Cabaret: THE ROAD TO THE USO, FLYWHEEL SHYSTER AND FLYWHEEL, A LITTLE TOMFOOLERY, A LITTLE MORE TOMFOOLERY and IT’S BURLESQUE. Chicago credits include: THE COMEDY OF ERRORS, CYMBELINE, TROILUS AND CRESSIDA, THE TWO NOBLE KINSMEN, A FLEA IN HER EAR, MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING, THE MERCHANT OF VENICE, A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, ROMEO AND JULIET and AS YOU LIKE IT (Chicago Shakespeare Theatre); WE ALL WENT DOWN TO AMSTERDAM (Steppenwolf Theatre Company); MOONLIGHT AND MAGNOLIAS, THE GOAT OR WHO IS SYLVIA?, HOUSE and GARDEN, GRILLER, SPINNING INTO BUTTER (The Goodman Theatre); among others. His film credits include: Last Frontier, The Company, Ice Harvest, Stranger Than Fiction, The Break Up, The Promotion, Fred Claus, The Express and Merry Gentlemen. William is also a busy voice-over actor in Chicago where he lives with his family. He is a graduate of the Northwestern University Theatre Department.

David Duffield

Broadway: CYRANO DE BERGERAC with Kevin Kline and Jennifer Garner. Other regional and Off-Broadway: BECKY SHAW at the Actors Theatre of Louisville’s Humana Festival; GHOSTS at Berkeley Repertory Theatre (with Jon Moscone); ALL’S WELL THAT ENDS WELL at California Shakespeare Theater; CHASING NICOLETTE at The Prince Music Theater; SECRET ORDER at Merrimack Rep; STIRRING at 59E59/Edinburgh Fringe Festival and MIRETTE at the The York/Goodspeed Opera House. Film: Unbreakable, Quality of Life, Freegan Love and Wilderness. Television: As the World Turns, Law & Order and Cyrano de Bergerac as part of the “Great Performances” series on PBS. He is a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association. He holds an MFA from American Conservatory Theater. Find more info at www.davisduffield.com.

Chip Duford

Chip is thrilled to be back in the Stackner, working with old friends and on another Beecham/Hillgartner/Hume creation. He was in their original casts of CHAPS! and THEY CAME FROM WAY OUT THERE. He spent this summer in his 15th season at the Hope Summer Repertory Theatre in Holland, MI, and filmed six new episodes of the children’s TV series, Come On Over, which airs locally in Grand Rapids, MI.

Michael Duncan

Mr. Duncan is delighted to return to The Rep where he was last seen as Kent in KING LEAR. This is his second production of A CHRISTMAS CAROL on the Pabst stage. This past fall he appeared as Justice in THE PERSIANS at Renaissance Theaterworks. Last season he appeared with In Tandem Theatre as Fr. Farley in MASS APPEAL, the old king in THE QUILTMAKER’S GIFT and Ferdinand in FERDINAND THE BULLwith First Stage Children’s Theater. Michael graduated from the Professional Theater Training Program at UW – Milwaukee (now in residence at the University of Delaware) and has performed in over 100 productions with such
companies as the Oregon, Utah and Wisconsin Shakespeare Festivals, Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Madison Repertory Theatre, Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, Riverside Theater Shakespeare Festival, Milwaukee Shakespeare and In Tandem Theatre. Later this season he will appear in THE NEVERENDING STORY at First Stage Children’s Theater. This fall Mr. Duncan was appointed director of the Oconomowoc Arts Center, a new performing arts center serving the lake county area.

Brian Gill

Brian is thrilled to be making his Milwaukee Rep debut with A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Milwaukee credits include: Milwaukee Shakespeare, Renaissance Theaterworks and First Stage Children’s Theater. Chicago credits include: The Goodman Theatre, Chicago Shakespeare, Drury Lane Oakbrook, Victory Gardens, Remy Bumppo Theatre Company, Appletree Theatre and Provision Theatre Company. Regionally Brian has performed with Theatre at the Center (IN), the Illinois and Texas Shakespeare Festivals and the Historic Fords Theatre inWashington, DC. Brian trained at the Globe Theatre in London with the First Artistic International Fellowship. Thanks to Sandy and Judy and love to Sally and “Himself.”

Grant Goodman

Grant is thrilled to be making his debut at The Rep. Off-Broadway credits include ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA (Theatre for a New Audience), KING LEAR and THE ILIAD (Lincoln Center for the Arts) and PERICLES (Red Bull Theater). Grant has performed extensively with such theaters as Yale Repertory Theatre, Shakespeare Theatre Company in Washington, DC, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Utah Shakespearean Festival, Court Theatre, PlayMakers Repertory Company, Red Bull Theater, The Aquila Theatre Company of London, Indiana Repertory Theatre, Syracuse Stage, Victory Gardens Theater/Remy Bumppo Theatre Company, Tennessee Repertory Theatre, Milwaukee Shakespeare Festival, Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, Illinois Shakespeare Festival and Centennial Theatre Festival, among others. Film and television appearances include As the World Turns, Sex and the City and Sleepers. This summer he will appear in CORIOLANUS and CYRANO DE BERGERAC at the Old Globe Theatre in San Diego. Grant is a graduate of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.

Richard Halverson

Mr. Halverson is a graduate of the University of Minnesota with a B.A. and M.A. in Music and Theatre Arts. He acted with The Cleveland Play House for 30 years and also with the Missouri Repertory Theatre and Kansas City Lyric Opera. A member of Milwaukee Repertory Theater’s acting company for seven years, he retired on Christmas 1994. Since then he has worked occasionally with The Skylight, Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, Next Act Theatre and First Stage Children’s Theater. Among his favorite Rep productions are THE MYSTERY OF IRMA VEP, DANCING AT LUGHNASA, THE NORMAN CONQUESTS, GREATER TUNA, THE GENERAL FROM AMERICA, TWELFTH NIGHT, NOISES OFF, THE HOLLOW, THE SUNSHINE BOYS, THE CRUCIBLE, LAUGHING STOCK and TROUBLE IN MIND.

Erik Hellman

Erik is very happy to be appearing at Milwaukee Repertory Theater for the first time. Chicago credits include: MACBETH and EDWARD II at Chicago Shakespeare Theater; TITUS ANDRONICUS and ARCADIA at Court Theatre; ELEPHANT MAN and HUCK FINN with Steppenwolf Theatre Company; THE FROG PRINCE at Writers’ Theatre; THE BUSY WORLD IS HUSHED at Next Theatre; TARTUFFE with Remy Bumppo Theatre Company; HATFIELD AND MCCOY at The House Theatre of Chicago; FEAST with Chicago Dramatists; THE COMEDY OF ERRORS at Oak Park Festival Theatre and NEW ORLEANS with The Side Project Theatre Company. Erik is an ensemble member of Strawdog Theatre, where he has appeared in THREE SISTERS, IMPOSSIBLE MARRIAGE (Jeff Nominee for Best Supporting Actor) and PUNTILA AND HIS MAN MATTI. Erik has also performed Off-Broadway in MACBETH with Mirror Repertory Company and has made regional appearances in ROMEO AND JULIET and ALL’S WELL THAT ENDS WELL at Shakespeare Santa Cruz, and in MR. MARMALADE at Houston’s Stages Repertory Theatre. Film work includes The Dark Knight. Erik is a graduate of Northwestern University and is a devotee of rural music.

Paul Helm

Paul is thrilled to work again with The Rep! Past Rep credits include LIFE COULD BE A DREAM, WHY DO FOOLS FALL IN LOVE?, THE POLISH DIVA FROM MILWAUKEE, and BLUE ROSE: THE ROSEMARY CLOONEY STORY. Paul has also performed, directed, and music directed with Skylight Opera Theatre, First Stage Children’s Theater, Florentine Opera Company, American Folklore Theatre, Greenbrier Valley Theatre, Circa ’21 Dinner Playhouse and the UW – Platteville Heartland Festival. Recent performances include THE HAPPY ELF, A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD and THE QUILTMAKER’S GIFT (First Stage Children’s Theater); SOMETIMES A SONG: THE MUSIC OF DAN FOGELBERG (American Folklore Theatre); JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT, I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE and SEUSSICAL (UW – Platteville Heartland Festival). www.paulhelm.net

Michael Herold

Michael has had the pleasure of performing on all of The Rep’s stages in plays ranging from Shakespeare to Burns and Wilson, and each production has brought with it some form of artistic fulfillment. A CHRISTMAS CAROL is a perfect example of what he loves about theater – a good story that is exciting to see and beautiful to the eye and ear. Michael dedicates this performance to a few special people: Joe Bu, a lovely person and a stunning example of living life to its fullest, to Judy Berdan, a talented artist and a great friend and to Mama Loretta for sacrificing so much to help me to be who I am.

Jonathan Hicks

Jonathan, a native of Arizona, is thrilled to return to Milwaukee and The Rep where he spent much of last year as an Artistic Intern Company Member. He first appeared here as a Meddler in CYRANO DE BERGERAC. He also understudied many shows during The Rep’s 07/08 season. Most recently, Jonathan worked at the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, where he performed in THE THREE MUSKETEERS and HENRY VIII. Other credits include Policeman in SHERLOCK HOLMES: THE FINAL ADVENTURE at the Arizona Theater Company, Robert in BETRAYAL and the title role in TARTUFFE, both at the University of Arizona. Jonathan loves his family.

Eric Hissom

Since receiving his MFA from Florida State University, Eric has worked steadily in regional theater as an actor, director and playwright. Regional acting credits include productions at Actors Theatre of Louisville, Meadow Brook Theatre in Detroit, Arden Theatre Company in Philadelphia, Asolo Repertory Theatre Company in Sarasota, Cape Playhouse on Cape Cod, Syracuse Stage and many others. He was a resident artist at Orlando Shakespeare Theater for seven years, where in addition to acting in over 25 productions, he taught and directed, and was the founding director of Playfest: the Harriet Lake Festival of New Plays. Television credits include: Mortal Kombat, Sheena: Queen of the Jungle and One Tree Hill. Feature film credit: Out of Time.

Jurgen Hooper

Jürgen Hooper is making his Milwaukee Repertory Theater debut in THE CHERRY ORCHARD. Recent Chicago credits include: AMADEUS (Chicago Shakespeare Theater); RABBIT HOLE (The Goodman Theatre); HUCK FINN (Steppenwolf Theatre Company); THE CHOSEN (Writers’ Theatre); PARADISE LOST (TimeLine Theatre); THE DARK AT THE TOP OF THE STAIRS (American Theatre Company) and WHAT’S WRONG WITH ANGRY? (Circle Theatre – Joseph Jefferson Citation – Best Principle Actor – Play). He is married to fellow Chicago actor, Blair Robertson, and is a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association.

Paul Hurley

Paul is thrilled to be returning to The Rep, where he last appeared on stage as an intern seven years ago in ANNA CHRISTIE, THE FRONT PAGE and A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Wisconsin credits include: THE BELLE’S STRATAGEM, THE MERCHANT OF VENICE, TIMON OF ATHENS, THE CHERRY ORCHARD and HAMLET (American Players Theatre – four seasons); THE LARAMIE PROJECT (Madison Repertory Theatre); THE TEMPEST (Milwaukee Shakespeare) and ROUGH CROSSING (Next Act). Favorite regional credits include: OTHELLO (Chicago Shakespeare Theater); HENRY V (Delaware Theatre Company) and ROMEO AND JULIET (Utah Shakespearean Festival). This winter Paul will appear in THE DIG at Renaissance Theaterworks. Paul received his MFA from the University of Delaware’s Professional Theatre Training Program (PTTP).

Jannie Jones

Ms. Jones recently received critical acclaim in the Broadway Tour of ALL SHOOK UP in the role of Sylvia. Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include: THE FULL MONTY; FAITH JOURNEY and MAMA, I WANT TO SING. Other credits include: STEPPIN’ OUT (Irving Berlin) at FST; MAHALIA JACKSON; ETHEL WATERS; HIS EYE ON THE SPARROW (one-woman show); MY CASTLE’S ROCKIN’ (one-woman show); CROWNS (Cincinatti Playhouse and Repertory Theatre of St. Louis); IT AIN’T NOTHING BUT THE BLUES; AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’; BLUES IN THE NIGHT and BEEHIVE. She has toured nationally and internationally and has been seen in numerous soap operas. For this amazing career, she gives all thanks and glory to God and her supportive family and friends.

Steven M. Koehler

Steve is pleased to be back on ‘da hard water. He has been playing “Lloyd” in various venues since 2002. Recent on-stage credits include: Caleb Thorpe in Skylight Opera Theatre’s THE SPITFIRE GRILL and Howie Corbett in Milwaukee Chamber Theatre’s RABBIT HOLE. Steve teaches physics and acting at Milwaukee High School of the Arts. He and his wife Julie-Honey have been blessed with two sons – Alexander Steven (13) and Austin Max (11).

Elizabeth Ledo

Elizabeth is thrilled to be back with A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Previous Rep credits include: TARTUFFE, THE CLEAN HOUSE, THE CRUCIBLE, THE CRIPPLE OF INISHMAAN, ESCAPE FROM HAPPINESS, SUBURBAN MOTEL, THE LONESOME WEST, WIT and ANNA KARENINA. Regional credits include: ARCADIA (Indiana Repertory Theatre) and ROMEO AND JULIET and COMEDY OF ERRORS (Summer Shakespeare at Notre Dame). Chicago credits include: TITUS ANDRONICUS, UNCLE VANYA and THE REAL THING (Court Theatre); MORNINGSTAR and HOMEBODY/ KABUL (Steppenwolf Theatre); A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, FUNK IT UP ABOUT NOTHIN’ and AMADEUS (Chicago Shakespeare Theater); THE CHALK GARDEN (Northlight Theatre); ARMS AND THE MAN (Writers’ Theatre); THE OLD CURIOSITY SHOP (Lookingglass Theatre); SAY YOU LOVE SATAN (About Face Theatre) and THE ODD COUPLE and BAREFOOT IN THE PARK (Drury Lane Theatre). Elizabeth is a voiceover talent with Stewart Talent Agency in Chicago and has done numerous television and radio commercials as well as is a regular with The Twilight Zone Radio Dramas produced by Falcon Picture Group. She is a proud graduate of Loyola University of Chicago and has been a proud member of Equity since 1999.

Rachel Leslie

This is Rachel’s first production at Milwaukee Repertory Theater. She is very excited to be working on this play and with Timothy again. Some of Rachel’s credits include THE CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTOR with The Keen Company, THE OVERWHELMING, GEM OF THE OCEAN, INTIMATE APPAREL, BLUES FOR AN ALABAMA SKY, THE CRUCIBLE, A LESSON BEFORE DYING and THE TROJAN WOMEN. She received her MFA at Temple University. She gives thanks daily for the loved ones who support her and help her grow.

Jimi Ray Malary

Jimi is very pleased and honored to be working again at the Stackner Cabaret. His previous engagements include: KING OF COOL: NAT KING COLE – THE LIFE, THE MAN, JAZZ ROYALTY and ELLINGTON: THE LIFE AND MUSIC OF THE DUKE. His wide repertoire takes him from the opera and concert stage, from the Broadway musical to the intimate setting of the cabaret theater. He has performed in theaters throughout the US and has performed in some of the leading opera houses of the world. Jimi hopes that at least one of the songs in ISN’T IT ROMANTIC . . . will touch your heart and make your step a little lighter in today’s complex world.

Doug Mancheski

Doug has performed the role of Marvin in GUYS ON ICE since 1998, for well over 600 performances. He has acted with American Folklore Theatre in Door County for the last 12 years. At the theater located in Peninsula State Park, he has been seen as Dirty Bob in LUMBERJACKS IN LOVE, CABIN WITH A VIEW, FISHING FOR THE MOON, MUSKIE LOVE, PACKER FANS FROM OUTER SPACE and many more. He has acted in Wisconsin at Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Madison Repertory Theatre, Milwaukee Chamber Theatre and others. Recently, he was seen in IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE and THE GOOD DOCTOR at Third Avenue Playhouse and LOVE LETTERS with Fun and Fortune Productions. Before moving back to his home state of Wisconsin, Doug performed for many years in New York City. He graduated from New York University’s MFA Program for professional actors. He has trained extensively with the founder of Second City, Paul Sills and famed theater/film director, Mike Nichols. Go Pack!

Erikray Minturn

Erikray Minturn has appeared in three previous productions of A CHRISTMAS CAROL. A senior at Arrowhead High School, he performs with their nationally recognized Broadway Company, winners of the 2008 USA Today Showstopper Award for Best High School Musical in the country, where Erikray was featured as Rum Tug Tugger in CATS and the Pirate King in PIRATES OF PENZANCE. Favorite roles include: Don in A CHORUS LINE (Sharon Lynne Wilson); Tom in THIS PROPERTY IS CONDEMNED (Cornerstone Theatre); featured soloist in A FIRESIDE CHRISTMAS (The Fireside); many community theater and industrial film roles and his barbershop quartet. Erikray will be pursuing degrees in Musical Theater and Business.

Scott Napoli

Scott Napoli is originally from Milwaukee, where he started his professional career at the age of 14. Scott is an imaginative drummer and composer who has been active performing and teaching both here and abroad. He has performed in a variety of musical settings including jazz clubs, concerts, festivals, TV, orchestras and theater, including the Stackner Cabaret’s productions of ELLINGTON: THE LIFE AND MUSIC OF THE DUKE and ISN’T IT ROMANTIC . . . .

Erin Neal

Erin is delighted to be making her debut at The Rep. Last year she spent a season with the Stratford Shakespeare Festival performing in THE CHANGELING, LOVE’S LABOR’S LOST, TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, THE COMEDY OF ERRORS and THE ODYSSEY. She is a Chicago-based actor and has worked with a variety of theaters including: About Face, Remy Bumppo, The House, Griffin Theatre, Victory Gardens and Defiant Theatre. Erin has also worked regionally with Dallas Theater Center, Kitchen Dog Theatre, Creede Repertory Theatre, Sage Theatre Group and Fusion Theatre. She holds a BFA in Theatre from Southern Methodist University. Erin would like to dedicate her performance to her sister, Virginia, because of her tremendous care, support and ability to love.

Milton Craig Nealy

Milton is happy to join the cast of FIRE ON THE BAYOU and to be making his Stackner Cabaret debut. He has appeared on Broadway in DREAMGIRLS, ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, MISS SAIGON, 5 GUYS NAMED MOE and CAROLINE OR CHANGE. Milton has toured nationally and abroad as well. He has also performed in many regional theaters around the country.

Eric Noden

Direct from Chicago, this multi-instrumentalist, singer and songwriter is best known for his ability to capture the spirit of 1920s and ’30s blues and roots music. Mr. Noden has released several critically-acclaimed CDs for Diving Duck Records including 55 Highway, Midwest Blues and Live. Eric appeared in GRAFTON CITY BLUES last season and is pleased to work with Kevin Ramsey again. www.ericnoden.com.

Elizabeth Norment

Elizabeth previously appeared at The Rep in WIT, AN IDEAL HUSBAND, A DELICATE BALANCE, THE MAI and THE HOLLOW. Recent highlights include: THE CLEAN HOUSE (world premiere at Yale Repertory Theatre); DEAD CITY (world premiere in NY) and HOMEBODY/ KABUL (Ace Morgan Theatre, Ohio). She has performed on Broadway and at the Manhattan Theatre Club, the Roundabout Theatre Company, the Public Theater, New York Stage & Film, Gotham Stage Company and the Lucille Lortel Theatre. National credits include the Guthrie Theater, Philadelphia Theatre Company, American Repertory Theatre (three seasons), Oregon Shakespeare Festival (four seasons), Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Ahmanson Theatre, Mark Taper Forum and South Coast Repertory (world premiere of SIGHT UNSEEN). Television credits include Law & Order, Law & Order: SVU, ER, The Marshal, All My Children and Mad About You. Elizabeth is a proud survivor of the Yale School of Drama.

Cristina Panfilio

Cristina Panfilio holds a BFA from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Last season she appeared in Milwaukee Rep’s production of Edward Albee’s SEASCAPE. Cristina also spent the 05/06 season as a member of The Rep’s Artistic Intern Company. Other Milwaukee Rep credits include: LAUGHING STOCK, A FLEA IN HER EAR, SUEÑO and SHERLOCK HOLMES: THE FINAL ADVENTURE. Regional credits include: MEMORY HOUSE and MR. PIM PASSES BY (Renaissance Theaterworks), THE COMEDY OF ERRORS, THE WINTER’S TALE, THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR, KING LEAR, TWELFTH NIGHT and THE TEMPEST (Riverside Theater), and touring productions of ROMEO AND JULIET and A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM with the Utah Shakespearean Festival.

Ernest Perry, Jr.

Ernest Perry, Jr., Sheldon Forrester returns to The Rep having appeared in Timothy Douglas’ GEM OF THE OCEAN. Perry most recently appeared as James in Silks Road’s production of YOHEN. At The Goodman Theatre he has appeared in several productions, including: DEATH AND THE KING’S HORSEMEN, ART, ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE, PLAYMAS, THE ROAD, EDMOND, A RAISIN IN THE SUN, GALILEO, A CHRISTMAS CAROL, BLACK STAR LINE (Puddin n’ Pete, Jeff Nominated), THE TIES THAT BIND, LET ME LIVE, TIS PITY SHE’S A WHORE, MISS EVERS’ BOYS and MA RAINEY’S BLACK BOTTOM, among others. Chicago credits: ALL’S WELL THAT ENDS WELL, PLAYBOY OF THE WEST INDIES, PANTOMINE and MARY STUART (Court Theatre); CEREMONIES IN DARK OLD MEN, DADDY’S SEASHORE BLUES, PECONG and SPLIT SECOND (Victory Gardens Theater); HENRY V, MEASURE FOR MEASURE, AS YOU LIKE IT and CYMBELINE (Chicago Shakespeare Theatre); MEETINGS and RHINO’S POLICEMAN (Northlight Theatre); THE PETRIFIED FOREST, MERCHANT OF VENICE and KING LEAR (Body Politic Theatre); SUSPENDERS! (Jeff Nominated) (Chicago Theatre Company); DRIVING MISS DAISY (Briar Street); and 5 ROOMS OF FURNITURE (BTTA – Best Actor) (Organic Theatre). Broadway credits include: DEATH AND THE KING’S HORSEMEN (Lincoln Center for the Arts). Other theaters include: American Shakespeare, Indiana Repertory Theatre, Arden Theatre, Alliance Theatre, Virginia Stage Company, Actors Theatre of Louisville, Geva Theatre, City Theatre, The Cleveland Play House, Hartford Stage Company, La Jolla Playhouse and Center Stage. Internationally he has performed at the Abbey Theatre, Vienna’s English Theatre and RSC London, Thalia Theatre, Hamburg and MC93 Bobigny, Paris. Television credits: ER, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Lady Blue, The Howard Beach Story, Early Edition, The Watcher, Unnatural Causes and The Untouchables. Film credits: Quebec, Barbershop 2, Roll Bounce, Liar Liar, Rage in Harlem, Color of Money, Running Scared, The Prince of Motor City and The Fifteen Minute Hamlet.

Steve Pickering

MIRANDOLINA is Steve’s seventh production at The Rep, following A CHRISTMAS CAROL, STATE OF THE UNION, ARMADALE, BORN YESTERDAY, MOBY DICK and THE UNDERPANTS. In Chicago, he last appeared as: Fatboy at A Red Orchid Theatre; Col. Littlefield in DEFIANCE at Next Theatre; and Kent, opposite Stacy Keach, in KING LEAR – directed by Robert Falls for The Goodman Theatre – to be remounted for the Shakespeare Theatre Company in DC, May 2009. He is onto his 29th show at The Goodman, credits there include 654 performances of Falls’ Tony Award-winning production of DEATH OF A SALESMAN with Brian Dennehy – on Broadway, for the national tour, on Showtime and most recently in London’s West End. Regional credits include The Old Globe in San Diego, Arena Stage in DC, the New York Shakespeare Festival in Central Park and the Illinois and Alabama Shakespeare Festivals.

Kathleen Romond

Kathleen is thrilled to be making her Milwaukee Repertory Theater debut in THE CHERRY ORCHARD. Past Chicago credits include TALKING PICTURES and BLIND DATE at The Goodman Theatre. Kathleen is a 2007 graduate from The Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Glasgow, Scotland. Some of her favorite college roles include Phoebe/Caroline in TALKING TO TERRORISTS, Fairy Firefly in JACK AND THE BEANSTALK and Helena in ALL’S WELL THAT ENDS WELL as a part of The Royal Shakespeare Company’s Complete Works Festival.

Sarah Rutan

Sarah is thrilled to be working at The Rep on this beautiful production of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE. She spent the last six years performing with the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, OR. Some of her favorite roles include Desdemona in OTHELLO, Bianca in THE TAMING OF THE SHREW, Phebe in AS YOU LIKE IT, Silvia in THE TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA and Margot in THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK, among others. This is Sarah’s first time in the Midwest; and she would love to thank everyone for making it feel like home.

Jose Luis Sanchez III

Jose Sanchez is originally from El Paso, TX. This is his first show at The Rep since his acting internship in 2004. He is a graduate from the Professional Theatre Training Program (PTTP) at the University of Delaware and has appeared on stage at such theaters as American Players Theatre, Oregon Shakespeare Festival, The Goodman Theatre and the Chicago Theatre (downstairs). He just celebrated his first anniversary with his beautiful bride, Georgina, and would like to thank his extended family for their endless love and support of this dream experience.

Jonathan Smoots

Jonathan Smoots returns with delight to participate in the telling of this remarkable story. Other Rep credits include: A MONTH IN THE COUNTRY (Herr Schaaf); THE VOYSEY INHERITANCE (Major Booth); YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU (Kolenkhov); A DOLL’S HOUSE (Torvald); ARSENIC AND OLD LACE (Jonathan Brewster); THE BEAUTY QUEEN OF LEENANE (Pato) and AN IDEAL HUSBAND (Sir Robert Chiltern). As a resident actor at American Players Theatre he has played dozens of roles over 19 seasons. Also a director, productions include: AS YOU LIKE IT and COMEDY OF ERRORS (American Players Theatre); THE CAPTAIN’S TIGER
(Renaissance Theaterworks); SMASH, PRESENT LAUGHTER and DEAR MASTER (Chamber Theatre); BILLY BISHOP GOES TO WAR and INCOMMUNICADO (Next Act Theatre). Jonathan lives in Shorewood with three lovely ladies: Laura, Toby and Eve.

Jonathan Spivey

Jonathan Spivey lives in NYC and is pleased to make his Rep debut. Recent credits include GYPSY (w/ Lorna Luft), THE TEMPEST (Trinculo), FOREVER PLAID (Smudge), THE FOREIGNER (Owen), KISS ME KATE (Gangster #1) and THE ALTRUISTS (Ronald) in NYC, Indianapolis, Tampa, Michigan and Virginia. Jonathan is a Second City trained improv artist and a jazz pianist.

Lee Stark

Lee Stark recently made her debut at The Rep as Elizabeth Bennet in PRIDE AND PREJUDICE. A native of Houston, TX, Lee now lives in Chicago, where she last played Eurydice in Sarah Ruhl’s EURYDICE at Victory Gardens Theatre. Chicago credits include TALKING PICTURES at The Goodman Theatre, THE CRUCIBLE at Steppenwolf Theatre Company, SCENES FROM THE BIG PICTURE with Seanachaí Theatre Company and Juliet in the Short Shakespeare tour of ROMEO AND JULIET with Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Film work includes the independent films The Kari Files and A Man’s Image. Lee graduated from Northwestern University in 2007.

Katherine Strohmaier

Katherine is howling with glee to frolic in the DOG PARK, reuniting with the pack from the 2007 production of THEY CAME FROM WAY OUT THERE. Also at The Rep: BLUE ROSE: THE ROSEMARY CLOONEY STORY; THE BACHELORS and two seasons as Belle and Lucy in A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Also at The Rep: BLUE ROSE: THE ROSEMARY CLOONEY STORY; THEY CAME FROM WAY OUT THERE; THE BACHELORS and the upcoming premiere of DOGPARK: THE MUSICAL. Katherine spent the summer as music director and pianist for Hope Summer Rep’s production of FOREVER PLAID. She is a new resident of Minneapolis.

Jacque Troy

Jacque Troy is delighted to be back with old friends at The Rep for her fourth show, having last appeared as Honor Voysey in THE VOYSEY INHERITANCE. Other recent credits include Becca in RABBIT HOLE for Milwaukee Chamber Theatre and Viola in WITNESS at First Stage Children’s Theater. She would like to offer her continued thanks to Sandy and Brent for keeping her always in mind and a special thanks to J.R., Martha and the Costume Shop for the chance to share in something so beautiful.

Emily Vitrano

Emily is so excited to make her Milwaukee Repertory Theater debut in PRIDE AND PREJUDICE. She was most recently seen in Next Act Theatre’s LOMBARDI: THE ONLY THING and worked with Milwaukee Chamber Theatre’s Young Playwrights Festival. Regional credits include A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM with Allentown Shakespeare in the Park, HOW BABIES ARE MADE at the Michael Weller Theatre and THE BLUE MARTINI with the Fringe Festival and Fringe Encore in New York City. Emily has also appeared on CW’s Gossip Girl. Emily graduated from University of North Carolina Greensboro with a BFA in Acting.

Jenny Wanasek

Jenny is delighted to return to A CHRISTMASCAROL. Previous Rep credits include YES. NO. (MAYBE SO . . .) and three runs of SHEAR MADNESS (scheduled to return in Spring 09!). Jenny has acted or directed for Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, Next Act Theatre, Renaissance Theaterworks, In Tandem, First Stage and Skylight Opera Theatre, among others. Favorite acting credits include Bella in LOST IN YONKERS, Esther in THE PRICE, Friedl in HANA’S SUITCASE and Charlotte in CHARLOTTE’S WEB. She is a co-founder of The Center for Applied Theatre which uses theater to address social problems. She teaches at UW – Milwaukee. Undying love and gratitude to Ari, Geneva and Mark. We will survive. I love you, Gabe. wewillmissyougabe.blogspot.com.

Matthew Webb

Matthew is thrilled to be working on GUYS ON ICE again after Music Directing it in the 2007 season at American Folklore Theatre. He is a graduate of the Baldwin-Wallace College Conservatory of Music where he studied Music Theatre Music Direction. Matthew most recently was the Music Director for THE WIZ at Cain Park. Other credits include: the regional premiere of THE BREAKUP NOTEBOOK: THE LESBIAN MUSICAL (The Beck Center); the non-union premiere of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA (Baldwin-Wallace College); the world premiere of A CABIN WITH A VIEW (AFT); PASSION (The Beck Center); HAIR (Cain Park and Kent State University) and THE FANTASTICKS (FAA). Many thanks to my family and VBNMM3N.

Cedric Young

Cedric is proud to mark his debut at The Rep with I JUST STOPPED BY TO SEE THE MAN. A theater veteran of over 20 years, Cedric has worked primarily in Chicago and has done regional work as well. Cedric has worked with some of Chicago’s best theaters, including The Goodman Theatre (VIVISECTIONS OF THE BLOWN MIND), Congo Square Theatre (ELMINA’S KITCHEN) and Lookingglass Theatre Company (RACE). Regional credits include FENCES at Portland Stage Company, JOE TURNER’S COME AND GONE at Centerstage, JITNEY at The Alley, PIANO LESSON at Madison Repertory Theatre and PYGMALION and THE WINTER’S TALE at Milwaukee Chamber Theatre. Broadway credits include THE SONG OF JACOB ZULU (1993) and RADIO GOLF (2007). Cedric has also appeared in several film and television shows. As always, he would like to thank his wife, Mary, for her love and support.