Meet The Company

The 2024 Season Company

Performers:

Dereck Atwater (Angel, Quartet/Ensemble) is a Maryland native and graduate of Nazareth University (‘22) in Rochester, NY. He is excited to be making his RMRT debut and thanks Michael and Jeff for the opportunity! Since graduating, Dereck has performed at regional theatres around the East Coast and toured the West Coast and Canada. Some favorite credits include How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical (West Coast Tour), A Chorus Line (Toby’s Dinner Theatre), and Kiss Me, Kate (Cortland Repertory Theatre). He wants to thank everyone involved in making this season possible, especially his family and friends for their unwavering support!  www.dereckatwater.com IG: @dereck.atwater

Todd Aulwurm (Angel, Quartet/Ensemble, Nick & others) is so happy to be home again for another summer in Grand Lake. Since his last summer here in 2016, he performed on the national tour of Once, went back to school, adopted two cats, and started street-performing with his cello in Chicago, to name just a few things. Todd is profoundly grateful for his friends and family for their constant support throughout all stages of his life.

Sophia Campagna (Ensemble) is so excited to be performing with RMRT for the first time. She is originally from Northern CA and just graduated from the University of Utah with her BFA in musical theatre. Some of her recent credits include Ensemble in Christmas in Connecticut (Pioneer Theatre Company), Annabeth in the Univ. of Utah’s The Lightning Thief, Laura/Janis Joplin in Beehive (Priscilla Beach Theatre), and ensemble in Singin’ in the Rain (Hale Centre Theatre). Some of her other favorite roles include Katherine (Newsies), Peggy (42nd Street), and Belle (Beauty and the Beast). Sophia thanks her family, friends, and teachers for everything! Instagram: @sophia.campagna

John Harmon Cooper (Lola/Simon, Quartet/Ensemble, Bob & others, I Left My Heart) is a graduate of Yale University, where he performed as Anthony in Sweeney Todd and Benny in In the Heights. While there, he also produced and performed in Call Me From the Grave, an original musical based on the life of blues singer Robert Johnson. Other roles: Laurie in Little Women, Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors, and proud ensemble member in Hairspray, The Color Purple, and Ragtime. In addition to being an actor, John has served as an associate producer for CBS News. Instagram: @iamjohncooper

Margot Frank (Pat, Ethel Toffelmier, Janice & others) is a Chicago-based actress and is overjoyed to return for her second season at Rocky Mountain Rep! RMRT credits: Something Rotten!, The Pirates of Penzance, and Beautiful. Regional credits: Cinderella (Drury Lane), The Sound of Music (Paramount Theater), The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,  Legally Blonde, and Jesus Christ Superstar (Timber Lake Playhouse). BFA in musical theatre – Millikin University. She is so grateful to spend the summer surrounded by beautiful mountains and a wonderfully supportive community! Many thanks to her amazing friends, family, and the RMRT team! @margotfrank10

Ben Friesen (Ensemble, Quartet/Ensemble, Violin) is thrilled to be joining RMRT for the first time! Born and raised in Chicago, Ben graduated from Trinity Christian College before attending the National Theater Institute in 2021. Highlights since then: Christopher in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (Nashville Rep), Father in Trail to Oregon (Street Theatre Co), Pinocchio in Shrek (Crane River), and Otto in The Hiding Place (Rabbit Room/Matt Logan, streaming now), among many others. Check out benjaminfriesen.com for more! A huge thanks to Ben’s family, Dr. John, Dr. Bailey, and the late, great Matt Mantell—glory to God!

Matt Frye (Don, Charlie Cowell, Oz & others) is so honored to be back for his second season at Rocky Mountain Rep. Regional: Something Rotten!, The Pirates of Penzance, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (RMRT); A Christmas Carol, Narnia The Musical (WVPT); Big Fish, Dogfight (BoHo Theater Chicago); The Full Monty, Bridges of Madison County (Theo Ubique Chicago); Man of La Mancha, A Christmas Carol (Milwaukee Repertory Theater); Red, Candide (Third Avenue Playhouse); Zombies From the Beyond (Skylight Music Theater Milwaukee); [title of show], NOW. HERE. THIS. (Brown Paper Box Chicago); Henry V (Chicago Shakespeare Theater). BFA Roosevelt University. MFA West Virginia University. Love to Mom, Dad, and Luiza!

Hannah Katz (Nicola, Zaneeta) is thrilled to be returning to Grand Lake for her second season as part of the RMRT company! She was seen last season in the ensemble of Beautiful, The Pirates of Penzance, and Something Rotten!. Some favorite credits include Mary Poppins (Mary Poppins), Rent (Maureen), and Sweet Charity (Ursula). A recent graduate of Boston Conservatory at Berklee, Hannah is so grateful to come home to the mountains for the summer before moving to New York. Huge thanks to Michael, Jeff, and everyone at RMRT for the opportunity to be a part of this season! @han.katz

Josh Kellman (George, Mayor Shinn, Claude & others) is so excited to be a part of bringing RMRT’s postponed 2020 season roaring back to life. Season 11 at RMRT!  Most recently here, Josh performed his one-man A Christmas Carol. He thanks Michael and Jeff, his family, and his lady love, Tyler – the ultimate in both beautiful librarians and shipoopis. Josh dedicates his season to his father. For Josh, growing up meant car rides listening to one of about a half-dozen original Broadway cast recordings on cassette: My Fair Lady, Man of La Mancha, Fiddler, and of course, The Music Man. This helped lead little Joshie down the wayward path of the wicked stage he still treads today.

Kiana Ledin (Ensemble, Gracie) was raised in these beautiful mountains and is thrilled to be back for her second season at RMRT!  She was last seen in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella! She just graduated with her BA in theater and an emphasis in musical theater from Loyola University Chicago. Some of her other credits include Inspiration in Cafecito (Julia) and Jealousy in Twelve Olympians (Hera). She currently lives in Chicago with hopes of acting and playwriting in the near future. She thanks her parents, sister, close family and friends, and Michael, Jeff, and the entire RMRT staff for giving her the opportunity to do what she loves!

Mitchell Lewis (Charlie, Marcellus, Kevin T. & others) is super excited to be back for his third season at RMRT! He is a 2022 graduate of Wright State University’s BFA program. His previous RMRT credits include Beautiful (Barry Mann), The Pirates of Penzance (Frederic), and Jersey Boys (Frankie Valli). Other recent credits include Sweeney Todd (Tobias) and Footloose (Ren) at Derby Dinner Playhouse. He is a Colorado Theatre Guild 2022 Henry Award recipient for Outstanding Actor in a Musical Tier 1 for his performance as Frankie Valli at RMRT. As always, he would like to thank his family, friends, and mentors for their constant support!

Kelly Maur (Ensemble, Bonnie) is excited to be spending the summer in Grand Lake with RMRT! After growing up in northern California, Kelly moved to Colorado to attend UNC and graduated with a BA in music theatre and a minor in dance. Favorite roles include Katherine (Newsies – THAC), Fiona (Shrek – Candlelight), Ursula (The Little Mermaid – Candlelight), Charlotte (Cinderella – Candlelight), Euterpe (Xanadu – THAC and LTR), Texas (Cabaret – UNC), and Sheila (A Chorus Line – UNC). Kelly is also a proud member of the Denver Honey Taps. Thank you for supporting live theatre! Web: kellymaur.com. Insta: @kellymaur

Megan Opalinski (Trish, Mrs. Paroo, Beulah) is ecstatic to be part of this dream season! Favorites: national/international tours of Sister Act (Mother Superior & Mary Lazarus cover); The Drowsy Chaperone (Chaperone); Mamma Mia! (Rosie); R+H’s Cinderella (Marie); White Christmas (Martha Watson); Menopause The Musical (Earth Mother); Disney’s Beauty & the Beast (Wardrobe); Sister Act (Sisters Mary Lazarus & Mary Patrick); The Full Monty (Vicki); The Sound of Music (Mother Abbess); Urinetown (Penelope Pennywise); A Man of No Importance (Oona Crowe/Kitty Farelly); Beautiful (Genie Klein); Smoke on the Mountain/SOTM: Homecoming (Vera); Les Miserables (lead vocalist). Thanks to her friends & family. Namaste.

Esteban Ortiz-Villacorta (Angel, Tommy Djilas, Kevin J. & others) is thrilled to be part of the 2024 RMRT company. Originally from Seattle, he is elated to be surrounded by lakes and mountains for the summer. Favorite credits: The Groom (Blood Wedding – Virginia Wadsworth Wirtz Center for the Performing Arts), Bernardo (West Side Story – The 5th Avenue Theatre: RSP), and Michael in the newly developed show How to Know the Wildflowers: A Map (Wirtz Center). Other credits: Chicago Shakespeare Theatre and Seattle Children’s Theatre. Thank you to Michael, Jeff, and the entire RMRT company! Education: BA in theatre and certificate in musical theatre, Northwestern University (2025).

Stanislav (Stan) Przedlacki (I Left My Heart) is excited to be joining the RMRT team! As a lover of mountains and nature, he finds Grand Lake the perfect place to be (especially singing the beautiful music of Tony Bennett). Raised in Toronto, Stan finds joy in both performing and visual arts. CCM credits include Vittorio Vidal (Sweet Charity), Professor Bhaer in (Little Women), Jean-Michel (Cinderella). Other credits: student films Crescendo (Truman – dir. Debra Najor) and Mr. Raymond Cory (Raymond Cory – dir. Logan Stryker). Stan is also a professional photographer, with eight photos currently featured on PhotoVogue. His directorial debut short film Echoes of Yesterday is currently being produced.

Sabrina Reed (Ensemble) is excited to make her Rocky Mountain Rep debut! She just finished Legally Blonde as Pilar in her last year at Belmont University. Some of her favorite credits include The Color Purple, 42nd Street, Memphis, Once on This Island, and The World Goes ‘Round.

Jennifer Smith (Eulalie Shinn, Diane & others) is excited to join Rocky Mountain Rep! She has enjoyed roles such as Bank Manager (Once – Casa Mañana), Mrs. White (Clue: On Stage – New Stage Theatre), Mrs. Potts (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast – NETworks International Tour), and Nancy Baxter (’Twas the Night Before Christmas – Dollywood). Other favorites: Randa (The Savannah Sipping Society – Cumberland County Playhouse); Ring of Fire (Ensemble), Annie (Grace Farrell), The Robber Bridegroom (Raven/Ensemble), Bright Star (Florence/Ensemble), and a staged reading of Leslie Jordan’s Glory! Glory! (Creda) – all at New Stage Theatre. Special thanks to Chris for his continued love and support!

Albert Sterner (I Left My Heart) is incredibly excited to be making his RMRT debut! He recently graduated with a BFA in musical theatre from Illinois Wesleyan University, and he is grateful to everyone at RMRT for bringing him onto this project. Other credits include Maine State Music Theatre (Titanic, 9 to 5); Music Theatre Wichita (Kinky Boots, 42nd Street, Wizard of Oz); Fulton Theatre (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory). He’d like to thank his parents for everything they’ve done in helping him get here.

Tyler Symone (Marian Paroo, Hannah & others) is an NYC-based artist who is thrilled to return to RMRT after appearing in the 2018, 2022, and 2023 summer seasons, as well as the 2020 artist colony and Home for the Holidays. Select credits: Beehive (RMRT, Florida Repertory Theatre) Cinderella (RMRT), Caroline, Or Change (Actors Playhouse, Firebrand Theatre), Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 (Pioneer Theatre Company), Sister Act (Post Playhouse), Xanadu, (The Getz Theater). You can find out more about Tyler at tylersymone.com. Many thanks to her wonderful friends, family, and partner for their support. Repped by MTA. IG: @TheTylerSymone

Isaiah Tucker (Angel, Ensemble) is a rising senior musical theater major at Syracuse University. They are from Philadelphia, PA, and are so excited for the opportunity and privilege to be working with Rocky Mountain Rep this summer. Some show credits include Kinky Boots (Bucks County Playhouse), The Little Mermaid (Syracuse Stage), Steel Pier (Surflight Theater), Something Rotten! (Surflight Theater), and Disaster! The Musical (Surflight Theater). They would like to thank the friends and family who’ve supported them up to this point.

Luiza Vitucci (Lauren, Alma, Beverley & others) is jazzed to be returning to RMRT for a third summer! You may remember her as Bea in Something Rotten!, Bella Rose in Desperate Measures, or Madame in Cinderella. When not in Grand Lake, Luiza lives and performs in Chicago. Recent credits: The Threepenny Opera (Theo), New Faces Sing Broadway 1984 (Porchlight MT). This year, Luiza stepped off the stage and onto the screen to play a principal role in her first feature film, The Haunting of Pine Lake. Thanks to Michael and Jeff for bringing her back to the mountains! All her love to Mama, Melina, her precious niblings, and her partner Matt – she is so lucky to share the stage with him again! @luiza.vitucci

Nik Vlachos (Harry, Harold Hill) was born and raised in CO and is now based in NYC. He is thrilled to be making his Rocky Mountain Rep Debut. Other credits: Motones and Jerseys (National Tour); Gaston in Beauty and The Beast (American Stage); Rocky in Damn Yankees and Ensemble in Cinderella and Beauty and The Beast (Arvada Center); Dave in Dreamgirls (Lone Tree Arts Center); Julian in Futurity and Freaky Friday (Aurora Fox); Chuck Cranston in Footloose (PACE Center); Training: BA – University of Northern Colorado. Thank you to Michael and Jeff for this opportunity. Much love to Mom, Dad, Eleni, and Mac. Enjoy! @nikevangelos

Guest Artists:

Kit Michalowski (Ensemble) is a rising 4th grader at Granby Elementary in Granby, CO. She is excited to be part of The Music Man this summer! She sings with the Granby Minisingers choir and has taken dance classes through the local rec program. When she’s not performing, she has competed in climbing and gymnastics competitions as well as Nordic ski races throughout Colorado. She loves visiting NYC to watch Broadway shows in person. Thanks to her family and friends for always supporting her!

Daisy O’Brien (Amaryllis) is thrilled to return to RMRT this summer after appearing as Molly in Annie in 2018. Previous credits: Bielke in Fiddler on the Roof, Grover Dill in A Christmas Story (BDT Stage); James in James and the Giant Peach (Silver Creek High School); various characters in A Very Merry Unauthorized Children’s Scientology Pageant (Aurora Fox Arts Center); Martha Cratchit in A Christmas Carol (Arvada Center). Daisy also writes and plays their own music, dances, writes books, and loves crafting. They are so excited to be in this wonderful cast under the direction of Michael and Jeff. All the thanks to their mother, who makes everything possible.

Kieran O’Brien (Young Charlie, Winthrop) is excited to make his RMRT debut. Previous credits: Chip in Beauty and the Beast, Young Charlie in Kinky Boots and Tiny Tim in A Christmas Carol (Arvada Center); Donald in A Very Merry Unauthorized Children’s Scientology Pageant (Aurora Fox Arts Center), Nipper in Oliver and Tiny Tim in Scrooge (Candlelight Dinner Playhouse), Bagel Boy in Fiddler on the Roof (BDT Stage). Kieran also sings with his school choir, plays piano, runs with his school cross country and track teams and loves to ski through the trees and down the black diamonds. Thanks to RMRT for this opportunity and to his mom for driving him everywhere.

Henry Piller (Ensemble) is a rising 8th grader at East Grand Middle School in Granby.  He has participated in the youth theatre program at RMRT for years and has also worked as a front-of-house volunteer during the summer. Recently he was part of the ensemble of Footloose at Middle Park High School. When he’s not on stage, he loves to stand-up paddleboard and backpack in the summers. Thanks to Michael for the opportunity to be part of The Music Man, and thanks to his family for their help with everything.

Reagan Richardson (Ensemble) is a rising 6th grader at East Grand Middle School in Granby, CO.  She is super excited to be part of The Music Man this summer! She is a longtime participant in the RMRT youth theatre program and has also performed in concerts and shows at Granby Elementary School. In addition to performing, she loves to swim, play sports, and work on her 4-H projects. Reagan thanks her family, teachers, and friends for always supporting her!

Eleanor Sanders (Ensemble) is a rising 8th grader at East Grand Middle School in Granby and is excited to be part of the RMRT season!  Previous performing experience includes Ensemble for Mean Girls and Footloose (Middle Park High School); Robin Hood (The Adventures of Robin Hood – Granby Elementary); and the Wicked Countess in RMRT’s youth theatre production. In addition to performing and attending theatre productions, Eleanor’s other passions are horseback riding and skiing. Eleanor has been a member of 4-H for seven years and has raised chickens, ducks, goats, and pigs on the hobby ranch where she lives.

Blake Channing Taylor (Young Simon/Lola) is a rising 6th grader at Denver School of the Arts. This is his debut with RMRT. Recent credits: Colorado premiere of Raisin (Travis), Matilda (Town Hall Center for the Arts). Other credits: Chip in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, and Young Simon/Lola in Kinky Boots (Arvada Center); Carlos in Disney’s Descendants (Neighborhood Music and Theatre); Olaf in Disney’s Frozen, Jr., Disney’s The Lion King, and Willy Wonka (Performing Arts Academy). Commercial credits: Burger King, Deloitte, Junior Achievement, UC Health, Clarios, and Fitness Together. Training: DCPA, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance/Cherry Creek Dance, and Children’s Music Academy. www.blake-taylor.com

Isaac Walker (Young Simon/Lola Cover) is a rising 7th grader majoring in theatre at the Denver School of the Arts (DSA). He recently performed as Edward Cratchit in A Christmas Carol at the Denver Center for Performing Arts. Other productions: Kinky Boots (DSA); Jack and Annie: The Knight at Dawn (Perry Mansfield Performing Arts School); The Lion King Jr. (Center Stage Theatre); Once Upon a Mattress and James and the Giant Peach (Roaming Gnome Theatre). Isaac loves his four sisters, singing, dancing, performing, flipping on the trampoline, videography, and structural engineering.

Quinlynn Witucki (Ensemble) is a student from Denver and a devoted actor. From discovering her passion at age five to joining the ensemble for The Music Man, she has found acting to be her driving force. Balancing her love for the stage with adventures in nature, she finds inspiration in the beauty of her surroundings. Between rehearsals, she enjoys ice cream and outdoor adventures, especially in Grand Lake with her dog, Scout. Grateful for her family’s support, Quinlynn invites you to share in the genuine joy of live performance.

Musicians:

Michael Jordan (Associate Music Director, First Keyboard) has worked as a music director, conductor, and programmer. He also had the pleasure of serving as the music director for Ohio Northern University’s BFA musical theatre program. After leaving ONU, he is pursuing his post-graduate studies at the University of York in England.  This is Michael’s sixth season at RMRT, and he’d like to give his heartfelt gratitude to Michael, Jeff, and all of RMRT for their support and collaboration.

Robert Brandon (Drums & Percussion) is overjoyed to return to Grand Lake for his third season! RMRT: Something Rotten!, Pirates of Penzance, Beautiful, Beehive. Other credits: Buddy! The Buddy Holly Story! (Jerry), Million Dollar Quartet (Fluke), Kinky Boots, Rock of Ages, Legally Blonde, We Will Rock You. Brandon started playing drums at the age of 8; he earned his BA in music education from Fresno State (2019), where he was a member of the Bulldog Marching Band and the Master Chorale plus numerous other bands and ensembles. Thanks to his family and friends who have supported this journey. Special recognition to the RMRT production team for having him back. Follow the adventure  @rb_percussion.

Cameron Edmiston (Second Keyboard) is making his RMRT debut. Regional: Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre. Composition: Changes, A New Musical. Education: bachelor of music in music theatre accompaniment, Shenandoah University.

Deano Gray (Woodwinds) is a Colorado native and is excited to be joining RMRT for his first season. Deano has experience playing music for various cruise lines, theatres, and theme parks, and is happy to be spending some time performing in his home state this summer.

Todd Hale (Bass) is thrilled to be back at RMRT! Much gratitude to Michael and Jeff for having him back.

Jan Hora (Trumpet – I Left My Heart) serves in the 132nd Army Band, owns an entertainment company, teaches trumpet, has played on cruise ships, and does studio recording. His journey started in Eau Claire, WI, and has taken him around the world. He’s happy to be back at RMRT! janhoramusic.com

Matt Welsh (Assistant Music Director/Pianist – I Left My Heart) has performed in concert halls, theatres, schools, and churches regionally and internationally. Originally from Smyrna, GA, he has supported many brilliant directors, including Michael Arden, James Sampliner, Baayork Lee, Hannah Ryan, Karen Olivo, Linda Goodrich, Jason Debord, Luis Salgado, Sue Draus, and more. Matt earned a B.M. in vocal performance from KSU and M.M. in orchestral conducting from the College-Conservatory of Music in Cincinnati. Matt is grateful for any opportunity to effect positive change through music. Matt likes to splash in puddles, observe bugs, forage, and climb trees. Follow along @mattnastunes MWMaestro.com

Production Staff:

Amy Radebaugh (Stage Manager/Company Manager) is delighted to be returning to RMRT for her eleventh season. Favorite RMRT shows include Beehive, Joseph, Pump Boys and Dinettes, Titanic, Million Dollar Quartet, Rock of Ages, Hands on a Hardbody, and A Chorus Line. Amy has been extremely lucky to have spent the last four years living in the beautiful town of Grand Lake. Amy would like to thank her parents for all their continued love and support. She would also like to thank Michael and Jeff for allowing her to continue filling her life with a company and town she holds close to her heart. 

Joshua J. Allen (Production Manager) started with RMRT in 2012 as the assistant lighting designer and returned over the years as a carpenter, lighting designer, and associate production manager. He has also enjoyed working on the annual Home for the Holidays show. Some of his favorite productions are The Drowsy Chaperone, A Chorus Line, 42nd Street, and Little Shop of Horrors. While he is not in Colorado, Joshua lives in NYC and works as production manager of Off Broadway’s Irish Repertory Theatre, where he has been since 2013. He is thankful to Michael,  Jeff,  the RMRT family, and the Grand Lake community for the always-wonderful experience RMRT brings.

Kyle M. Dill (Stage Manager) is thrilled to be returning to Grand Lake and RMRT for a fourth consecutive season! Favorite RMRT credits include Desperate Measures, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, and Little Shop of Horrors. TOURS (selected): A Christmas Carol, Annie, Nassim the Play, and A Bronx Tale. REGIONAL (selected): The Laguna Playhouse, Olney Theatre Center, Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company. This past season Kyle served on the theatre faculty at Ohio Northern University as the stage management mentor. BFA Shenandoah University. @kylemdill

Kim Rollins Dometrovich (Costume Shop Manager) is excited to be starting her first summer with RMRT. She has been working professionally in the costume industry since 2003 in nearly every aspect of costuming, including design, construction, and maintenance for local, regional and professional theatre, dance, concert tours, and touring Broadway productions. Since 2012 she has worked as a costumer for film and television productions in the Southeast.  Kim has also performed on stage as an actor in many local musical theatre productions. Her home is Leeds, Alabama, where she lives with her husband Ron and rescue dog Lucy. She would like to thank Michael and RMRT for this wonderful opportunity.

Kacie Bailey (Stitcher)  is a costume designer and stitcher based in Orlando, Florida. She has previously worked as a designer for the University of Central Florida’s productions of The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui and Peter and the Starcatcher and the Orlando Shakespeare Theater’s productions of Measure for Measure and Twelfth Night. She has also worked as a first hand on UCF’s productions of A Cherry Orchard and Sweeney Todd. She is excited about the experience of working in a place other than her home state.

Alexis Flaten (Costume Shop Assistant) is thrilled to be joining Rocky Mountain Rep for her first season! She is a recent graduate from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point with a degree in theatre design & technology.

Elisa Glavin (Follow-Spot Operator) is excited to return to RMRT for her eleventh season! She graduated from Colorado Mesa University with a BA in acting/directing. Favorite credits include A Chorus Line, The Addams Family, Rock of Ages, Mamma Mia! and Legally Blonde. She wants to thank Michael and Jeff for continuing to invite her back, Dave and Ana for being so accommodating, and her parents for their continued support!

Liv Nortnik (Scenic Charge Artist) is a scenic artist from Denver who recently received her BFA in theatre design and technology with an emphasis in scenic design from the University of Northern Colorado. Credits at UNCO include scenic design for Murder on the Orient Express, The Government Inspector, and The Book Club Play; charge artistry for Bernhardt/Hamlet and The Flick. For the past four years, she has also worked as a carpenter and a scenic and properties artist for all UNCO mainstage shows. Additionally, she served as props master for Little Theatre of the Rockies’ The Revolutionists. See more of her work at www.livnortnikdesign.com.

Alex Preston (Head Sound/A1/Mixer) is thrilled to be returning to RMRT for their second season, having mixed for last season’s Something Rotten! and Beautiful. They have also previously been the assistant audio on the national tour of My Fair Lady as well as having mixed The Addams Family.

Maria Vargas (Carpenter) is going to be a junior at the University of Houston studying for a BFA in theatre production! Although she came into college with an initial interest in carpentry, she also has had opportunities in lighting design and stage management. This is her second season at RMRT as a carpenter! Additional credits include Fish’s Belly (Asst. Stage Manager and Scenic Coordinator), Shakespeare in Love (Lead Carpenter and Programmer), The Circadian Project (Lighting Designer), Urinetown (Asst. Stage Manager and Lead Carpenter), and deck crew at Houston Shakespeare Festival.

Ethan West (Assistant Stage Manager / Production Intern) is originally from Danvers, Massachusetts, and is currently pursuing a BFA in stage and production management at Emerson College. Past credits include Emerson Stage: Bonnets… (1st ASM), The Loyals (2nd ASM). Emerson College: Dogfight (Stage Manager), Death of a Salesman (Stage Manager), A Chorus Line (Producer), EVVY43 (Stage Manager), Seussical (Stage Manager). Regional: North Shore Music Theater’s Matilda Jr., Little Mermaid Jr., Aladdin Jr. (Stage Manager). Thanks and love to Mom, Dad, and Tim for their love and support; to his friends at Emerson for the encouragement; and to RMRT for this amazing opportunity! @ethanwest721

Directors and Designers:

Michael Querio (Executive Artistic Director) (Music Director) has enjoyed calling RMRT his artistic home for nearly 30 years. He started in 1995 as the pianist and music director for Nunsense in the old Community House. Over the years, Michael has helped produce over 100 productions on the RMRT stage, and in that time he has seen the stage from many angles – from the orchestra pit as Music Director and pianist, under the spotlight as an actor (Forever Plaid [2000], West Side Story [1998], Titanic, West Side Story [2017] ), and in front of the stage as Artistic Director.  This year, Michael returns to the stage, as he does nowadays whenever RMRT needs an old guy for a small role. Favorite productions include Hands On A Hardbody, Urinetown, Desperate Measures, … Spelling Bee, Chess, How To Succeed…, and Titanic. Over the years, Michael has worked as a conductor, teacher, arranger, pianist, and enjoyed teaching kids in schools for over 25 years.  Michael is proud to hold degrees from the University of Illinois and Illinois Wesleyan University.

Jeff Duke (Associate Artistic Director) (Director – Kinky Boots, Come From Away, I Left Heart) feels fortunate to be a part of this wonderful company and this very special season!  He has directed and choreographed over 30 shows for RMRT; favorites include Beautiful, Jersey Boys, Les Miserables, A Chorus Line, Titanic, West Side Story, Almost Heaven: Songs of John Denver, among others. Jeff is honored for being recognized with a Denver Post Ovation Award for his work along with Jennifer Lupp on All Shook Up. He is also the recipient of 3 Henry Award nominations.  Jeff has also enjoyed success as an actor in numerous professional musical theatre productions in Chicago.  Jeff has been a featured vocal soloist with members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and was a member of the Chicago Symphony Chorus, which won two 2010 Grammy Awards for their Verdi Requiem recording. He is also a singer on the Grammy-nominated score of Steven Spielberg’s movie Lincoln. Jeff conceived, produced and directed the critically acclaimed live concerts and recordings Second City Divas in Chicago.  Jeff has also recorded and toured with the vocal ensemble Table for 5.   He is a member of Actors’ Equity Association and American Guild of Musical Artists.  Jeff would like to thank the RMRT Board of Trustees, the town of Grand Lake, and all of our patrons for their support of live musical theatre.  We are so happy to be back with all of you!  Enjoy the shows!

Mary Nye Bennett (Costume Designer – Kinky Boots, The Music Man) hails from Atlanta, GA, and is no stranger to RMRT. Mary’s first magical CO summer was in 2001, right after graduating from the University of Mississippi with a BFA in musical theatre performance. Mary spent 7 summers in Grand Lake working in several capacities, including actor, choreographer, and as director of the Youth Theatre Workshop. Favorite roles with RMRT: Patsy (Always…Patsy Cline), Marty (Grease), and Dorothy Brock (42nd Street). Mary joined the Atlanta Lyric Theatre administrative staff in 2012 as director of education and development. In 2016, Mary took over as artistic director of the Lyric where she led until the company’s closure in 2023. She continues her passion for all things theatre as a freelance actor, director, costume designer, and teacher. Mary is blessed with a gorgeous family, including her husband Luke and her 7-year-old, Davey.

Megan Bliss (Choreographer – The Music Man) is absolutely thrilled to be returning to RMRT this season after having a swashbuckling grand time last year choreographing The Pirates of Penzance. A few previous choreography/director favorites: 42nd Street, Anything Goes, Disney’s Newsies, The Spongebob Musical, Matilda, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Boeing Boeing, Joseph….Dreamcoat, Shakespeare in Love, and Legally Blonde.  When Megan is not working in theatre, she is the elementary math curriculum chair for New Albany/Floyd County schools, math coach at Slate Run Elementary School, mom to two theatre-loving kids (Marina and Kahler), and her husband Tyler’s very own shipoopi.  She would like to thank the people of Grand Lake and the company of RMRT for making her feel so welcome, and a special thank you to Sally Scott for being the coolest girl in the whole world.

Stephanie Hansen (Choreographer – Kinky Boots) is happy to be back in the mountains yet again! You may have seen Stephanie performing in the last three Home for the Holidays shows, and she’s thrilled to throw on her heels for Kinky Boots! RMRT choreography credits include The Little Mermaid (Henry Nomination), Double Trouble, Forever Plaid, Sister Act, Beehive, and, in 2023, Something Rotten!. Stephanie co-founded the youth company Bright Lights Theatre outside of Chicago where she currently vocal coaches/music directs and choreographs. She also teaches musical theatre dance, jazz, tap, and hip hop at Sunshine Dance Studio (competition team and recreational classes). Stephanie loves spreading her love of the arts to her students and finds inspiration from them every day! Between performing and choreographing, this is Stephanie’s 10th season with RMRT! Thanks to Jeff and Michael for continuing to have her back over the years! Much love to the community of Grand Lake, her students, family, and husband, Caleb.

Jennifer Lupp (Choreographer – Come From Away) could not be more grateful to return to Grand Lake and work alongside these creative and passionate artists at RMRT! Jen has choreographed several shows for the RMRT stage. Among those are just a few personal favorites: Beautiful, Jersey Boys, Little Shop of Horrors, The Drowsy Chaperone, Shrek, and Chess! Jen also teaches and runs a dance and performing arts studio in Bristow, Oklahoma. Many thanks Jeff, Michael and Grand Lake for another great season at RMRT!

Ethan Newman (Lighting Designer) is excited to be returning for yet another production with RMRT. Having completed his M.F.A. in lighting design at the University of Missouri – Kansas City, Ethan moved to New York City to pursue his dream of working in the art of professional theater. Recent lighting design credits: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Rocky Mountain Repertory Theater), Jesus Christ Superstar (Centenary Stage), and Altar Boyz (Forestburgh Playhouse). More of Ethan’s designs can be found at www.eanewmandesigns.com.

DJ Pike (Projections Designer) is the newest faculty member at the University of Northern Colorado, where he teaches scenic and projection design. RMRT credits include all four shows in the 2023 season. Some of his other recent works are Seussical, Cendrillon the Opera, and Fugitive Songs. You can see these and a few other upcoming projects at djpike.com.

Cody Tellis Rutledge (Scenic Designer) is originally from McMinnville, TN and is a current MFA lighting/scenic candidate at UCONN. He graduated from the University of Memphis with a BFA in theatre with a double emphasis in musical theatre and technical production. Cody is back in Grand Lake for his 6th season. He thanks the whole team as well as his ride-or-die lighting partner, Ethan Newman, for all the work everyone has put into this season. Shout out to Jeff and Michael for continuing to ask him back. Feel free to follow him on insta @rutledgescenicdesign to see more of his work across the country or visit his website rutledgescenicdesign.com for more.

Sally Scott (Director – The Music Man) is so proud to be directing one of her favorite shows in her favorite place with some of her favorite people!  Last summer, Sally had the rollicking pleasure of directing The Pirates of Penzance and is thrilled to switch out swords for instruments for this season’s classic. Sally joined the RMRT family in 1998 and proceeded to spend 12 of the best summers of her life performing here, 10 of which were with her husband of 20 years, Chad Scott, (RMRT’s Managing Director 2004-2010). Of all her credits and roles, she is most proud to have been part of the 2004-2010 RMRT “dream team.”  Sally and Chad now reside in southern Indiana and have 3 wonderful kids, Oliver (14), Simon (12) and Lucy (10).  Sally owns her own business of 9 years, PA for Today.  Love and thanks to her family, Chad, MQ, Jeff and MJB.

Sarah D. Speck (Sound Designer) is a sound engineer and designer from Palmyra, PA. She holds a bachelor’s of music in music production and recording technology and clarinet from Shenandoah Conservatory. Sarah is delighted to return for her fourth season with Rocky Mountain Rep! Recent designs include Something Rotten!, Beautiful: the Carole King Musical, and The Pirates of Penzance at Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre;  9 to 5 at Ohio Northern University; and Waitress the “Lulu” Tour. Recent national touring credits include Mrs. Doubtfire (1st national), Tina (1st national), Annie, Waitress, A Bronx Tale, and John Leguizamo’s Latin History for Morons.

Youth Theatre:

Anna Lange (Education Director) is tickled pink to be returning to RMRT for her second year as education director after beginning both her professional theatre and education careers in these mountains. Favorite RMRT roles include Meg in Brigadoon, Mrs. Potts in Beauty and the Beast, and The Chaperone in The Drowsy Chaperone. Anna returned in the summers of 2014-2017 to direct several youth theatre programs. Anna is currently an 8th grade English and language arts teacher at South Middle School in Arlington Heights, IL, where she also served for four years as the drama teacher and director. Anna is a proud and doting mama to Henry and Bennett, whom you might see scurrying about the town this July along with their endlessly supportive dad, Barrett. Big thanks to Michael, Jeff, and the incredible team and board at RMRT for supporting theatre education!

Christopher Lengerich’s (Youth Theatre) choreographic work was just presented at the 2024 ITF Nationals with Fossil Ridge’s Alice by Heart.  His work with All Shook Upat Littleton THAC was recognized with an Onstage Colorado Award for Best Choreography. Teaching: PAA Colorado, Rocky Mountain Repertory Youth Theatre. Vocal director for Royal Caribbean. Follow his wall-catching world travels: @calengerich #tophythewallcatcher Other selected credits: Choreography: Crazy for You (Tent Theatre) Performance: Big Band Beat at Tokyo DisneySea, Natl Tour: The Will Rogers Follies. NYC: [title of show], Regional: Crazy for You (Bobby), Showboat (IRNE Award). Artistic director of Songful Artists, Gsus Band.

In the Box Office:

Kristi Neilson (Box Office Staff) is happy to work with RMRT for a third year. She’s excited about the upcoming shows, and is looking forward to working with wonderful coworkers, cast, and crew again.

Kodi Campbell (Box Office Staff) is excited to return for her third year at RMRT as one of the box office representatives!  As a Grand Lake native, she has been involved with the theatre since she was 7 years old and began volunteering here in 2016. She’s excited about this season and wishes everyone a fantastic run.