YOUNG ACTORS THEATRE
PRESENTS
SEASON TITLE SPONSOR
SHOW SPONSORs
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / 2024 I 1
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2 I YOUNG ACTORS THEATRE
YOUNG ACTORS THEATRE
PRESENTS
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST DIRECTOR & MANAGING DIRECTOR Natalie Futrell
ASSISTANT CHOREOGRAPHER
COSTUME DESIGNER
Piper Greisl
WIG DESIGNER
Colleen Towey
Madison Weber
SET DESIGNERS SOUND DESIGNER
PRODUCTION STAGE MANAGER
CARPENTER
LIGHTING DESIGNER
LIGHTING PROGRAMMER
Jack Jammer
Mason Schmidt
Christiana Gager
PROPS
LIGHTING ASSISTANT
SOUND OPERATOR
Katie Carson
Sarah Roy J. Scott Handley
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
MUSIC DIRECTOR
CHOREOGRAPHER
Kassidy Canova
Alison Grimes
Isabel Rina
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR
Elaine Hendriks Smith Alexander Whitttenberg & Gavin Mosier
Grey Thiem Paul Allison Photography
Pete Knowlton
Ty Stone
Zoe Steelman
SOCIAL MEDIA
Jordan Hiltz Fran Lagos, Evan Marty, Isaiah Ramsey
PHOTOGRAPHY
FRONT OF HOUSE
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / 2024
I 3
4 I YOUNG ACTORS THEATRE
CEO’s Message
As we gather to celebrate the enchanting production of Beauty and the Beast, it fills my heart with joy to reflect on a significant milestone in our journey—our 50TH ANNIVERSARY.
Today, as you witness the transformation of our talented youth into
beloved characters, we celebrate not just the tale of Belle and the
Beast, but the countless stories of growth, friendship, and creativity that have unfolded on our stage over the years. Each performance has been a testament to the hard work and dedication of our young performers, directors, and volunteers who have poured their hearts into bringing these stories to life.
We are profoundly grateful for your support throughout our history. You have been more than just an audience; you have been our partners in fostering a longstanding, wildly unique Tallahassee treasure where the next generation of talent develops into future leaders who think creatively and critically.
As we look to Young Actors Tomorrow, we remain committed to the belief that every young person deserves a safe space to tell their story. To imagine and explore. To grow confidence and friendships. To discover how it feels when taking risks becomes making magic.
Thank you for joining us on this inspiring journey, and for being a part of our 50-year legacy of artistic excellence.
Sincerely,
Sarah Doolin Roy
YAT Chief Executive Officer
Special thanks to
50th Anniversary Season Title Sponsor
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / 2024 I 5
All the world isyourst ge.
At Moore, we believe in the transformative power
of the arts. We proudly support Young Actors Theatre as it molds today’s performers into tomorrow’s leaders.
Together,sh pingthest gefor50moreye rs ofst ndingov tions.
Advertising. Branding. Digital Marketing. Public Affairs.
6 I
YOUNG ACTORS THEATRE
themooreagency.com
DIRECTOR’S NOTES
Welcome to our production of Beauty and the Beast, a story that has
captivated hearts for generations. As we celebrate the 50th anniversa-
ry of Young Actors Theatre, I am thrilled to embark on this journey with
our talented young performers. This production is not just a retelling of
a beloved fairy tale; it’s a vibrant exploration of community—how we
come together, support one another, and grow through our shared experiences.
At its core, Beauty and the Beast reminds us that true beauty lies within. The characters in this story, from Belle’s unyielding kindness to the Beast’s transformative journey, illustrate how community fosters understanding and acceptance. As Belle sings “Something There,” she begins to see the good in the Beast, highlighting the importance of looking beyond the surface. This resonates deeply with our theatre community, where each individual brings their unique talents and perspectives to create something beautiful together.
Throughout this production, we’ve seen our cast of young actors grow not only as performers, but also as collaborators. The rehearsal process has mirrored the themes of “Be Our Guest,” where the joy of working together shines through. This spirit of camaraderie is what makes our theatre family so special. Each rehearsal has been a celebration of creativity and teamwork, reminding us all that our combined efforts can produce something truly magical.
As you watch this performance, I encourage you to reflect on the importance of community in your own lives. Just as the enchanted objects find purpose and belonging in their connections with one another, we too find strength in our relationships. Let this story inspire you to cherish the bonds you have and to recognize the beauty that emerges when we come together. Thank you for being a part of this incredible milestone for Young Actors Theatre.
Enjoy the show!
Natalie Futrell
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / 2024 I 7
In Tallahassee, Young Actors Theatre has been educating students in the performing arts since 1975. To celebrate our milestone year, we are bringing back beloved YAT classics and premiering Broadway smash hits below.
We invite you to join us as a Season Subscriber, with perks like early access to the best seats in the house.
FOR RESERVATIONS, CONTACT SARAH ROY AT
[email protected]
8 I YOUNG ACTORS THEATRE
FOUNDER’s Message
50 YEARS—Wow!
It is hard to comprehend the number of years, experiences, and oh so many memories.
It all started in 1975 at a social occasion when a friend suggested I teach after school theatre classes. She promised a class full of 5th graders and another friend jumped on the idea and promised her 3rd grade Scout troop. And so it began!
Before there was the theatre on Glenview, there were classes in my living room, downstairs in my grandmother’s basement, and a small yellow and green building that use to be a nursery school, which was purchased by my parents and renovated.
The tradition of pink began! The excitement and enthusiasm grew as we grew our surroundings. When my father passed away, my mother and I wanted to create something special in his name! So in 1986, a Theatre was built. A foundation for the success of many years to come.
As the years went on, and YAT continued to grow, it truly took a village or a big pink building, with a dedicated staff, parents, volunteers, and students. The students were always the heart of the organization, they were a part of a special unique family.
A tradition today that continues through our many dedicated alumni.
I would like to dedicate this 50TH ANNIVER- SARY year to my parents whose support for me, and the thousands of people young and old who have walked these doors was truly a gift.
And TOGETHER we have created a tradition of excellence.
As Tevye says, “Without our traditions, our lives would be as shaky as a fiddler on the roof.”
Cristina F. Williams
YAT Founder
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / 2024
I 9
10 I YOUNG ACTORS THEATRE
Musical synopsis
Act ONE
Prologue .........................................................Enchantress, Beast, Lumiere, Cogsworth, Babette, Madame de la Grande Bouche, Mrs. Potts, Chip, & Party Attendees
Belle .....................................................................Belle, Gaston, Lefou, Silly Girls, & Townspeople No Matter What ....................................................................................................Belle & Maurice No Matter What (Reprise) / Wolf Chase #1 .........................................................Maurice & Wolves Me ........................................................................................................................ Belle & Gaston Belle(Reprise) .....................................................................................................................Belle Home ................................................................................................................................... Belle Home (Tag) ........................................................................................Belle, Mrs. Potts, Wardrobe Gaston ............................................................................ Gaston, Lefou, Silly Girls & Townspeople Gaston (Reprise) .................................................................................................. Gaston & Lefou How Long Must This Go On? ................................................................................................Beast
Be Our Guest ........................................................................Belle, Lumiere, Cogsworth, Babette, Madame de la Grande Bouche, Mrs. Potts, Chip, & Dinnerware
If I Can’t Love Her ...............................................................................................................Beast Act TWO
Wolf Chase #2 ............................................................................................Belle, Beast, & Wolves
Something There...........................................Belle, Beast, Lumiere, Cogsworth, Mrs. Potts, & Chip
Human Again ..........................................................Lumiere, Mrs. Potts, Chip, Wardrobe, Babette, Cogsworth, & Dinnerware
Beauty and the Beast....................................................................... Mrs. Potts, Chip, Belle, Beast If I Can’t Love Her (Reprise)..................................................................................................Beast A Change in Me ..................................................................................................................... Belle The Mob Song.................................... Gaston, Lefou, Silly Girls, Monsieur D’Arque, & Townspeople Home (Reprise) ..................................................................................................................... Belle Transformation / Finale ............................................................................................ Full Company
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / 2024 I 11
Proudly Supports
Young Actors Theatre
12 I YOUNG ACTORS THEATRE
cast
STUDENT DIRECTOR
Gabriella Rieder
Brooke Baum, Karsyn Simmons & John Marty
Narrator ...................................................................................................................................... Alison Grimes Belle...............................................................................................................Regina Garcia Soto / Ashley Faris Beast.......................................................................................................................... Yanni Xifaras / Eli Carson Gaston....................................................................................................................................... Nolan Johnson Lefou..................................................................................................................Parker Johnson / Knight Sissle Maurice ....................................................................................................................................... Frank Bradley Monsieur D’Arque ..................................................................................................Dylan Gunderson / Eli Picker Lumiere ...............................................................................................................Emmett Elliott / Owen Darden Cogsworth ......................................................................................................... Carson Broome / Aidenn Hafez Babette ............................................................................................................. Mckenna Noel / Leilani DeVeas Mrs. Potts..........................................................................................................................................Isla Welge Chip............................................................................................................................Fred Black / Theo Carson Madame de la Grande Bouche ..................................................................................................... Paige Bradley Enchantress .............................................................................................................................Gabriella Rieder Silly Girl 1 ..................................................................................................Isabella Hanselman / Megan Stokley Silly Girl 2 ............................................................................................................ Brooke Baum / Carson Whitis Silly Girl 3 .....................................................................................................Macey Mirowitz / Karsyn Simmons
DANCE CAPTAINS
ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER
Claire Camp
COVERS
Madame de la Grande Bouche .............................................................................. Gabriella Rieder Mrs. Potts...................................................................................................................Aleah Pratts Maurice ........................................................................................................................John Marty Gaston....................................................................................................................Evan Bugayong Enchantress ................................................................................... Julia Bonfanti / Jenna Sokolow
*Covers will go on during Children’s Show on 11/2 and Sensory-Friendly Show on 11/9 at 10:00am.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / 2024 I 13
14 I YOUNG ACTORS THEATRE
cast
HIGH SCHOOL ENSEMBLE:
• Eli Carson / Yanni Xifaras
• Knight Sissle / Parker Johnson
• Owen Darden / Emmett Elliott
• Aidenn Hafez / Carson Broome
• Leilani DeVeas / Mckenna Noel
• Megan Stokley / Isabella Hanselman
• Carson Whitis / Brooke Baum
• Karsyn Simmons / Macey Mirowitz
• Emma Cheatham / Charlene Watts
• John Marty
• Taylor Kagy / Helen Piris
• Aubrey Craig / Ava Kate Estep
• Julia Bonfanti / Jenna Sokolow
• Addison Roberts / Spencer Thomas
• Ansley Blay / Aleah Pratts
• Brooke Taiste
• Laney Grace Blay / Reagan Block
• Eliza Mirowitz / Hailey Cleary
• Eli Picker / Dylan Gunderson
• Emily Dunson / Julia Cline
• Kayla Chambers / Aria Copas
• Emilie Hart / Isabella Miller
• Penelope Pasqualone / Hadlee Smith
• Baia Terracciano / Annabelle Watson
• Evan Bugayong
• Adeline Smith / Leighton McFarland
• Kinley Grulich / Rowan Kent
• Ainsley Cate / Anastasia Varantsova
• Jill Schrader / Jace Campana
ELEMENTARY &
MIDDLE SCHOOL ENSEMBLE:
• Jude Carson
• Niko Heffernan / James Killian
• Lorelei Bryan / Clara Larson
• Harper Janasiewicz / Skyler Picker
• Charlotte Click / Audrey Flores
• Leila Doolin Paredes / Lorraine Fletcher
• Elijah Johnson / Rhett Dollinger
• Carter Nelson / Cash Andrews
• Madelyn Bernier / Georgiana Couch
• Penelope Settle / Francesca Torrado
• Jacob Weideman, Finnegan Greisl
• Liam Hatfield / Graham Reece
• Naomi Moore / Lenox Huston
• Julia Cade / Nelia Nunnery
• Chloe Cotton / Megan McConnaughhay
• Aubri Chaney / Anna Shaw Van Leuven
• Aiyanna Rawls / Faith Marsh
• Edison Cate / Jonah Carson
• Cole Howard / Bryan Mealor
• Apollonia Acevedo / Emelyn Huston
• Chloe Smithe / Ella Tucker
• Hannah Ross / Rose Kaufman
• Cullen Ashton / Hayden Shaw
• Suzanna Breeding / Ayva Rice
• Josephine Macchio / Kelly Claire Costa
• Harley Edwards / Morgyn Fliger-Deese
• Liam Freeman / Elliot Reece
• Lily Stewart / Shelby Graham
SPECIAL THANKS: Kevin Grab and the FSU School of Theatre, Tallahassee State College, Quincy Music Theatre, Tabitha Peck and Leon High School, Machelle Thompson, Lisa Peacock, Denise Fackender, Boo Hartsell, Mandy Sorenson, Alisa Hauser
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / 2024
I 15
Now some may say all fathers just exaggerate
That ev’ry daughter’s great?! YOU ARE!
Love you, Paige “Madame de la Grande Bouche” So proud of you!
Dad, Mom, Grace, & Joy
PS - Break a leg to the coolest PAPA in town!!
you, Paige, Grace, Joy, & Susan
❤
16 I YOUNG ACTORS THEATRE
Guest Artist
Frank Bradley
Growing up in Plantation, Florida, Frank got his stage career started at age nine in Singing Sons of Fort Lauderdale. After a six-month stint (voice dropped!), he retired to focus on his swimming career which earned him a college scholarship to FSU from 1993-1997.
In 1997, Frank began his collegiate coaching career which
spanned 19 years in the southeast at University of South Caro-
lina, Indian River State College, Auburn University, and culminated
back at his alma mater, Florida State University. These years produced 10
team national championships, 2 SEC championships, hundreds of individual and relay NJCAA, NCAA, SEC, ACC, USA, and international champions, and over 40 Olympians that have competed in 8 Olympic Games from over 15 different countries.
Since 2017, the focus of Frank’s professional life has been on drowning prevention, water safety and stroke development as the owner and director of The Bradley Swim School that runs through The Club at Killearn Lakes. Frank has taught thousands of new swimmers from 12 months of age through adults to be safe in and around water. You will find him singing, whistling and reciting lines and tunes from musicals and movies daily on deck and in his truck and has a self-proclaimed angelic voice.
His most important job and the one he is most proud of is being the best dad to Grace and Paige.
This is his first performance with Young Actors Theatre, and he is thrilled to share this experience with Paige (Madame), and the rest of the incredibly talented and hard-work- ing cast, crew, directors, and staff of Beauty and The Beast.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / 2024
I 17
18 I YOUNG ACTORS THEATRE
50 for 50 donors
• Bobbie Chappell
• The Gillum Family
• Bethany Hartsell Crews
• Dan & Becky Miller
• Jared & Heather Ross
Life Members
• Barbara & Phil Brown
• Therese Cherniga
• Larry Cobb
• Tom and Linda Collins
• Sheesley Crilow
• Margie Fletcher
• Tisha Fletcher
• Beverly Frick
• Donna Frinks
• Maureen Huckabee
• Megan Keating
• Diane LaMaster Walker • Lisa Peacock
• Ben Poitevent
• Tony Poitevent
• Lea Reeves
• Saundra Roper
• Kamala Snow
• Dr. Robert Snyder • Alvin Stauber
• Tina Wiliams
24-25 YAT Super Stars
Thank you to YAT students who subscribe
to the season!
• Olivia Armetta
• Josephine Barker
• Harper Boyer
• Aileen Crilley
• Leo Doolin Paredes
• Estella Driscoll-Knight
• Zöe Faircloth
• Isabel Fiorito
• Olivia Graper
• Violet Guy
• Kennedy Janasiewicz
• Wren Janis
• Ellasyn Jones
• Marcella Liko
• Emerson Lowery
• George Miller
• Isaac Miller
• Mattie Morris
• Jovie Moser
• Ricki Grace Neel
• Emily Ogle
• Morgan Ogle
• Doreen Rao
• Aubrey Reeves • Doris Roy
• Sloane Roy
• Gianna Walker • Henry Wilcox • Zoe Williams
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / 2024
I 19
Megan
Stokley
Class of 2025
Being your parents has been our greatest joy. We look forward to the brilliant plans God has for our capable, compassionate,
steadfast, beautiful girl! Mom & Dad
20 I YOUNG ACTORS THEATRE
24-25 Season Supporters
ANGELS
• Jessica Blaszczyk
• Allen & Kristin Blay
• The Click Family
• Kathy & Chris Doolin
• Juan & Lissette Flores
• Margie Fletcher
• Bill & Jennifer Gwaltney • The Hafez Family
• The Kazmer/Marty Family • Tom & Farra Noel
• Angie & Marty Sipple
• Dena Sokolow
• Thomas Walden
• The Welge Family
• Jim Williams
• Bruce & Wendy Wiener
PRODUCERS
• Animal Angels
• Lee Black
• Shellie & Parks Camp
• Katy E. Cashin & Alec Sullivan
• Kevin & Ashley Cate
• Diane Davidson
• Erika & Jimmy Goodman
• Portia & Michael Huston
•
• •
Allen & Jennifer McConnaughhay
Karen Smith
Christine Speer
Derek & Courtney Whitis
• Trent & Jessica
Janasiewicz •
• Darcie & Ryan Johnson
DIRECTORS
• Josh & Jes Andrews
• Kim Atkinson
• Frank & Susan Bradley
• James and Anjie Cheatham
• Pam & Jim Flanagan
• Mark & Marian Futrell
• Casey Grigsby
• The Larson Family
• Raymond & Janice Marsh • Alyssa Matthews
• Elaine McConnaughhay
• Lori Mills Creber
• Lori Mizell
• Russell & Renee Rieder • Kristin & Terry Roberts • Joshua & Kati Settle
• Evan & Jennifer Stokley • Angelina Sutin
• Kelli & Jonathan Williams • Caroline Yelding
ACTORS
• The Baum Family
• Virginia Bell
• The Broome Family
• Sondra Brown
• John Campana & Juliann Cortese
• Matthew Carson
• Jeff & Janine Couch
• Mike & Janet Couch • The Dollinger Family • Patty & Allen Durham • Katherine Hartsell
• The Hartsell Family
• Danielle Howard
• Louise Jones
• Betty Jordan
• Kaitlin Lansford
• Carlos Lourmiet
• Elaine Mohr
• Richard Sanborn
• Leewood Shaw
• Philip & Vicki Twogood
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / 2024 I 21
22 I YOUNG ACTORS THEATRE
Seniors
Claire Camp has been
studying at YAT for 12 years.
During that time, her favorite
roles were Blinky/Squirrel/Ac-
tor in Magic Tree House, and
serving as the Stage Manager
for Finding Nemo Jr, Carrie,
and Mean Girls. Her favorite
YAT experiences were
working on Magic Tree House and Finding Nemo Jr. Claire has been a member of Lincoln Chorus for three years and she’s also a member of the Faith Presbyterian choir. Next year, she hopes to attend Tallahassee State College (TSC) and then transfer
to Florida State University (FSU), pursuing her degree in Stage Management. She is thankful to YAT for “teaching me that there is a whole side not on stage, which has helped me discover the magic of stage managing.” Special thanks to her Mom, Dad, Draco, Mr. Leaman, Naomi Rose-Mock, Kathryn, and Mrs. Long.
Eli Carson has been studying at YAT for eleven years, and his favorite roles have been Jack in Magic Tree House
and Billy Nolan in Carrie.
He was also seen as Nikko
in The Wizard of Oz, and his
favorite show to be a part of
at YAT overall was Sweeney Todd. Eli is a member of All-State Chorus, and after graduation, he plans to attend TSC followed by University of Florida (UF). When not at YAT, he can probably be found playing guitar or watching Gilmore Girls. He’d like to thank his parents and the YAT staff.
Owen Darden has been
studying at YAT for 11 years,
and his favorite roles in that
time have been Damian
Hubbard in Mean Girls and
Lady Catherine de Burgh in
Pride and Prejudice. He also
appeared as Theo in Pippin.
His favorite show experiences during his time at
YAT have been Sweeney Todd and Mean Girls. Owen is a Legacy Robe recipient and a member of Leon Thespians, and he plans to pursue cosmetology after graduation. “Thank you to my parents for always encouraging me. Thanks to Isabel for my dance training and the whole YAT staff for helping me blossom into the performer I am today.”
Leilani (Elio) DeVeas has
been studying at YAT for 11
years and her favorite role
to date has been Coral in
Finding Nemo. It was her
favorite show experience, as
she took on roles as student
director and dance captain.
Other notable appearances
include Lucy in 13, Norma in Carrie, and the Mrs. Mullins understudy in Carousel, and Babette in Beauty and the Beast. After graduation, she plans to study Music Education. Leilani would like to thank “Natalie Futrell for helping me discover my passion for teaching kids, as well as Vicky Swezey and Alison Grimes for being the type of teacher I want to be.” She also would like to thank her dog, Bella, for being her best friend.
Ashley Faris has been study-
ing at YAT for nine years. Her
favorite role has been Amy in
Little Women, and that show
was her favorite overall YAT
experience. Other notable ap-
pearances include Gretchen
Wieners in Mean Girls, Lady
Capulet in Romeo and Juliet,
Deb in Elf, Annie in Magic Tree House and Veruca Salt in Willy Wonka. Ashley currently serves as Co-Pres- ident and Social Media & Outreach Coordinator
for Together Tallahassee, and she’s also the Chiles ambassador, a member of Timberwolves United, and Morale Chair on the Dance Marathon Exec Board. She has also LOVED getting to document others’ YAT memories through YATSNAPS! After graduating, she plans to attend college to study Marketing and Event Planning. Special thanks to her family and Mckenna.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / 2024 I 23
Seniors
Regina Garcia Soto has been
studying at YAT for six years.
Her favorite role to date has
been Johanna in Sweeney
Todd, and her favorite show
to be a part of at YAT was
Mean Girls. Other notable
appearances include Julie
Jordan in Carousel and Mary
Bennet in Pride and Prejudice. She plans to attend college after graduation and pursue a career in theatre. Regina would like to thank her parents, her sister, and her gugs.
Dylan Gunderson joined
our YAT family this year! His
favorite role at YAT has been
Coach Carr in Mean Girls.
Other notable roles include
Old Man in Tracks, Zeke
Matthews in Goosebumps
the Musical: Phantom of the
Auditorium, Professor Plum
in Clue on Stage (all at Lincoln High School). He is in his fifth year of taking theatre classes, and he was the recipient of an acting award for his junior year One-Act Play. This year, he serves as President of ITS at Lincoln High School, and after graduation, he plans to major in theatre or film at either TSC or FSU. Dylan would like to thank “my parents, grandpar- ents, and all of my friends for continuing to support me in my desire to perform.”
Aidenn Hafez has been
studying at YAT for 15 years.
His favorite roles in that time
have been Damian Hubbard
in Mean Girls, Cogsworth in
Beauty and the Beast, and
Michael Banks in Mary
Poppins. Other notable roles
include Bruce Bogtrotter
in Matilda and Malcolm in 13. His favorite show experience at YAT was Shrek because that’s the one that made him want to stay. Aidenn is a member
of Studio Singers (former member of Act One) and
has been serving as a YAT teaching assistant for four years. He was the Ambassador Leadership Council Chair of Middle School and he has received the Summa Cum Laude award (top 10% of class). He’s a member of the National Honor Society,
Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, AP Scholar with Distinction Award, Spectrum Club Leadership Council Chair, President of the Things that Matter Club (’21-’22), Better Together Board and Council Member, Maclay Dance Marathon Captain (2022) and now Leon Dance Mar- athon Community Morale member. After graduation, Aidenn plans to attend university and law school, and eventually become a lawyer. He would like to thank his mom, dad, Layla, Elio, and Dory for their endless support and infinite love. He’d like to note that he would not be where he is today without them and he is eternally grateful!
Macey Mirowitz has been studying at YAT for two years, and her favorite roles and show experiences during
that time have been being a
member of the ensembles for
both Mean Girls and Carrie.
She has also appeared in
leading roles for two FSU
films, and she’s a member of her school’s rock band. After graduation, she hopes to keep acting while pursuing a degree in nursing. Macey would like to thank her parents, her grandparents, her sister, and her friends.
Mckenna Noel has been
studying at YAT for eight
years, and her favorite
role in that time was Chris
Hargensen in Carrie. Other
notable roles include Cady
Heron in Mean Girls, Jovie
in Elf, Kitty Bennet in Pride
and Prejudice, and Meg March in Little Women, and her favorite show experience at YAT was Grease. Mckenna currently serves as President of Capital
24 I YOUNG ACTORS THEATRE
Seniors
Singers, a Melodears Choir section leader, a Tri-M member, an SGA committee member, and a Pierian National Honors Society member. Summa Cum Laude graduate. Capstone recipient. Mckenna plans to attend college after graduation, and she would like to thank her parents and
Ashley.
Gabriella Rieder has been
studying at YAT for six years,
and her favorite roles in
that time have been Beggar
Woman in Sweeney Todd (her
favorite experience at YAT)
and Janis Sarkisian in Mean
Girls. She also appeared as Hannah in Little Women. Gabby loves working on the production side, as well, serving as Dramaturg both for Sweeney Todd at YAT and for Guys and Dolls at FSUS, and serving as Student Director of Guys and Dolls, Romeo and Juliet, and Carrie. She also serves as President of Thespians at FSUS, and she was the recipient of the Legacy Robe for Carrie. Next year, she plans to attend the UF to pursue a degree in Psychology. “I would like to thank my parents and brothers for al- ways coming to see my shows, my sweet pups Maci and Milo, Jessica for giving me a chance, and all the rest of the YAT staff for instilling confidence in my abilities. And thank you, Colleen, for always making me look fierce! Lots of special love for my gugs and other friends.”
Megan Stokley has been
studying at YAT for six years,
and her favorite roles during
that time have been Benvolio
Montague in Romeo and
Juliet and Chris Hargensen in
Carrie, and her favorite YAT
show experiences overall
have been Romeo and Juliet and Sweeney Todd (other notable roles include Jovie in Elf and Caroline Bingley in Pride and Prejudice.) Megan is a member of the Northwoods Church Worship Band and City Church Student Worship Band. She is a lifelong homeschool student with Abeka Academy and will
be receiving the Academic Achievement Award and the President’s Education Award. She was also the recipient of the Legacy Robe for Romeo and Juliet. After graduation, she plans to attend FSU to study criminal psychology. Megan would like to thank
her “family, friends, vocal coach, and the YAT staff for helping and supporting me, and growing my self-confidence and ambition.”
Brooke Taiste has spent six years studying at YAT, during which she has had the plea- sure of playing the waitress from Elf the Musical, a role that remains particularly dear to her. Her involvement in the Wizard of Oz stands out as
a highlight of her time at YAT, as well. Notably, she has achieved recognition through awards and ac- colades, including those from Lincoln High School, Capital Outlooks Newspaper 2022 Youth of The Year, and serving as an assistant theatre coach for the Magnolia School Thespian Program. Brooke extends her sincerest gratitude to her parents and family for their unwavering support, embodying the principle that success is determined by one’s finish, not start.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / 2024
I 25
Brooke Baum
Paige Bradley
Ansley Blay
Carson Broome
Laney Grace Blay
Evan Bugayong
Reagan Block
Jace Campana
Julia Bonfanti
Ainsley Cate
High School company
Kayla Chambers
Aubrey Craig
Emma Cheatham
Emily Dunson
Hailey Cleary
Emmett Elliott
Julia Cline
Ava Kate Estep
Aria Copas
Jack Goodman
Kinley Grulich
Isabella Hanselman
Emilie Hart
Nolan Johnson
Parker Johnson
26 I YOUNG ACTORS THEATRE
Taylor Kagy
Eliza Mirowitz
Rowan Kent
Penelope Pasqualone
Jill Schrader
Jenna Sokolow
John Marty
Eli Picker
Leighton McFarland
Helen Piris
Isabella Miller
Aleah Pratts
High School company
Addison Roberts
Hadlee Smith
Karsyn Simmons
Baia Terracciano
Knight Sissle
Spencer Thomas
Adeline Smith
Annabelle Watson
Charlene Watts
Isla Welge
Carson Whitis
Anastasia Varantsova
Yanni Xifaras
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / 2024 I 27
Apollonia Acevedo
Julia Cade
Charlotte Click
Lorraine Fletcher
Niko Heffernan
Cash Andrews
Jonah Carson
Chloe Cotton
Cullen Ashton
Jude Carson
Georgiana Couch
Madelyn Bernier
Edison Cate
Rhett Dollinger
Lorelei Bryan
Aubri Chaney
Leila Doolin Paredes
Liam Hatfield
middle School company
Audrey Flores
Shelby Graham
Finnegan Greisl
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Cole Howard
Emelyn Huston
Lenox Huston
Harper Janasiewicz
Elijah Johnson
Rose Kaufman
James Killian
Naomi Moore
Graham Reece
Francesca Torrado
Clara Larson
Faith Marsh
middle School company
Megan McConnaughhay
Skylar Picker
Bryan Mealor
Aiyanna Rawls
Carter Nelson
Hannah Ross
Nelia Nunnery
Penelope Settle
Hayden Shaw
Chloe Smithe
Ella Tucker
Anna Shaw Van Leuven
Jacob Weideman
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / 2024 I 29
kids company
Fred Black Suzanna Breeding Theo Carson
Morgyn Liam Freeman Josephine Macchio Fliger-Deese
Lily Stewart
Kelly Claire Costa
Elliot Reece
Harley Edwards
Ayva Rice
Special thanks to Kira Derryberry for helping our students and staff shine through her lens.
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32 I YOUNG ACTORS THEATRE
Leadership
Board of Directors
Wendy Wiener, PRESIDENT Gayle Sklar, PRESIDENT ELECT Jessica Janaseiwicz, SECRETARY Jan Hayward, TREASURER
Rachel Fackender Boone, Kristen Costa, Margie Fletcher, Gretchen Jones, Lori Danello Roberts, Angie Sipple
LORI MIZELL, CHAIR STACEY KOLKA, SECRETARY
BACKSTAGE COMMITTEE
Chairs: Kristin Blay, Heather Cleary, Erika Goodman, Niki Welge
Members: Lani Bedsole, Lisa Black, Jessica Blaszczyk, Courtney Brewer, Jennifer Bryan, Juliann Cortese, Ashley Copas, Kristen Craig, Stephanie Hart, Portia Huston, Adrianne Johnson, Jessica Love, Sabrina
& Andrew Miller, Jeff Picker, Renee Rieder, Kristin Roberts, Stephen Smith, Kendal Smithe, Kathryn Stewart, Liz Thomas, Rachel Xifaras
WARDROBE COMMITTEE
Chair: Kim Atkinson
Members: Katie Carson, Casi Chaney, Jessica Clark, Chelsea Finch, Kelly Greisl, Michelle Kazmer, Lauren Pasqualone, Joanna Piris, Jen Simmons, Stephen Smith, Liz Thomas
BOX OFFICE COMMITTEE
Chairs: Darcie Johnson, Angel Henry, Jes Andrews, Nancy Click
Members: Melissa Ashton, Heather Bernier, Susan Bradley, Ashley Cate, Anjie Cheatham, Kristen Costa, Michelle DeVeas, Christian Doolin, Fernando Garcia, Kaitlin Lansford, Camille Larson, Allen McConnaughhay, Leslie Moore, Heather Ross, Kerry Watson,
Jim Williams
ENTERTAINMENT COMMITTEE
Chairs: Courtney Whitis, Farra Noel
Members: Becky Bandy, Jeff & Monica Broome, Katherine Cline, Cara Dollinger, Alison Faris, Lissette Flores, Kiera Hanselman, Karin Marsh, E. Marie Sissle, Brandi Van Leuven, Alena Varantsova
GREETING COMMITTEE
Chairs: Paul Marty, Tommy Bull
Members: Trevor Bryan, Amy Cade, Andrew Callsen, Talethia Edwards, Kailee Grulich, Laura Howard, Rebecca Kaufman, Leslie Moore, David Nelson, Jeni Pratts, Meko Rice, Lisa Shaw
SET COMMITTEE
Chairs: Tim Evans, Billy Welge
Members: Allen Blay, Trevor Bryan, Tommy Bull, Jesse Callsen, Parks Camp, Katie Carson, Matt Carson, Heather Cleary, Blaine Click, Katherine Cline, Jeff Couch, Kelly Elliott, Austin Fletcher, Laura and
TJ Graham, Angela & Todd Gunderson, Dusty Hart, Julie Hatfield, Portia Huston, Trent Janasiewicz,
Ryan Johnson, Kyle Killian, Anthony Macchio, Renee Mirowitz, Jeff Picker, Chris Reece, Russell Rieder, Nick Schrader, Jennifer and Evan Stokley, Angelina Sutin, Guy Weideman, Jim Williams
CONCESSIONS COMMITTEE
Chairs: Jen Reece, Kristy Davis
Members: Alicia Acevedo, Ashley Baum, Tom Block, Julia Breeding, Miriam Coles, Sarah Cotton, Sonja Darden, Amy Dunson, Kelly Elliott, Josie Fliger, Gelsey Freeman, Monica Hurdal, Mark Kagy, Katherine Mealor, Carrie Nunnery, Shiffany Rawls, Kati Settle, Chris Smith, Dena Sokolow, Jennifer and Evan Stokley, Anna Tucker, Rachel Xifaras
Young Actors Theatre was founded in 1975 by Tina Williams
ACT Board Leadership
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / 2024 I 33
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36 I
YOUNG ACTORS THEATRE
Remember to always believe in yourself as much as we believe in you. The future is bright, and we are excited to see all that you will achieve.
Love Mom, Dad, Brennan, Hunter,
M
a
i i
& &
o o
M
a
c
M
i
l
c
M
i
l
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BEAUTY AND THE BEAST / 2024 I 39
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Isla, you’ve always been our cup of tea!
Love,
Mom, Dad, Grandma, Grandqua, Yaya, & Pap
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Isabella,
We are so proud of your courage and creativity in everything you do. Keep
reaching for the stars-your
story is only just beginning.
With all our love,
Mom, Dad & Maximus
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