Past Companies
 DAN BECKMANN ~ Toad in Frog and Toad and Rapunzel’s Prince in Into the Woods Dan is rejoining the Crane River Family for the second time, after having played Snoopy and a Man-Eating plant last summer. Dan graduated with a BFA in Acting from the University of Minnesota Duluth, and has had the privilege to perform such roles as Emile de Becque in South Pacific and Charles in Blithe Spirit, as well as the opportunity to play Reverend Shaw Moore in Footloose in Istanbul, Turkey. He would like to thank his family for always showing him unwavering support in his artistic endeavors. And, in addition, he would like to thank you for coming out today to support the arts in your community! “Thanks everyone!” |
 JAMIE BENTLEY ~ Lighting Designer for Two Rooms and Into the Woods Jamie is a senior at the University of Nebraska at Kearney set to graduate in December 2012. She is studying theatre with an emphasis in design and technical production, along with studio art. Previous lighting design credits include Bright Ideas, The Shape of Things, An Evening of Concert and Dance, and The Actor’s Nightmare. Jamie is excited to join the Crane River Theatre for the 2012 season. |
 JEFF SCOT CAREY* ~ Walker in Two Rooms Jeff is delighted to return to Nebraska and to the wonderful Crane River Theater, where two years ago he played Jesus in Godspell. National Tours include: 101 Dalmations, South Pacific, Cinderella, Grease, and Rent. World Tour: Rent. Off-Broadway: Tails, Dorian Gray, and Back Home. Favorite Regional/New York: The Last Five Years, John & Jen, Hair and Footloose, and most recently, Hades in Disney’s Villain’s Tonight. TV/Film: One Life to Live, All My Children, The Reformation, Intrinsic, The One You Marry, Magnanimous, The Bathroom Attendant, and The Happy Hour Guys. Thanks to Steve and Brian, Love to Lakisha, and Mom and Dad. And Go-Huskers!!! (in the BIG 10 NOW!!!) |
 COLE DOMAN ~ Ensemble in Frog and Toad and Jack in Into the Woods Cole is overjoyed to be joining the 2012 company of Crane River Theater. He is currently a freshman at the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University training towards a BFA in Musical Theatre. Some of his previous credits include Pippin in Pippin, Mark in Rent, and Oscar in Sweet Charity. Cole would like to thank the entire creative team for giving him this opportunity. Additionally, Cole would love to thank to his entire family and friends for their undying love and constant support. |
 KAMI GRAVES ~ Assistant Director for Two Rooms and Into the Woods Kami is excited to return to her hometown to spend the summer with Crane River Theater Company for the third year. After graduating from the University of Nebraska at Kearney, she spent a season with the Rocky Mountain Repertory Theater in Grand Lake, Colorado before moving to New York City where she now lives. She was recently seen in Who Am I? A Tribute to Petula Clark and often sings with the folk/rock group Kathy Zimmer and the Sugar Bowls. A huge thank you to her family and friends for always being there, every step of the way. |
 ERINN HOLMES* ~ Lainie in Two Rooms and The Witch in Into the Woods Erinn is a graduate of the Acting MFA program at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. After completing her degree, Erinn landed recurring roles on the daytime television dramas All My Children, One Life to Live, and As the World Turns in New York. She also acted in numerous plays, including The Guest at Central Park West, From the Inside Out, The Tempest, Richard III and the New York premieres of Crossroads (Midtown International Theatre Festival) and Sweet Love Adieu (Hudson Shakespeare Company). In 2010, Erinn left New York to pursue screen work in Los Angeles. She soon returned to ABC’s then-relocated All My Children and landed a supporting role in the independent short film, “Mental” (Best Short, Cannes Independent Film Festival), as well as an appearance on The Young & the Restless (CBS). |
 EILEEN JAHN ~ Jack’s Mother in Into the Woods Eileen operates a private voice and piano studio in addition to teaching Music Appreciation as an adjunct lecturer at the University of Nebraska-Kearney and teaching Zumba and BodyPump classes at the Kearney Family YMCA. She is an active adjudicator and performer whose most recent roles include Lady Thiang in The King and I and Marian “The Librarian” Paroo in The Music Man. She graduated from UNK in 1996 with a BA in Music (Mathematics minor) and earned her Masters of Music in Vocal Performance degree from Kansas State University in 1999. She is a life member of Delta Omicron International Music Fraternity and is a member of the National Association of Teachers of Singing. Her most important roles in life are those of wife to Mick and mother to Emma and Heath. |
 RACHEL KERMMOADE ~ Florinda in Into the Woods Rachel is delighted to be a part of Crane River Theater this summer. She is a recent graduate of Kearney High School where she has been a part of several productions. Some of her favorite roles include Sylvia in All Shook Up, Marmee in Little Women, and Sissy in A Piece of My Heart. At the end of the summer Rachel will attend the University of Nebraska at Lincoln and major in International Relations in the hopes of attending law school. Rachel would like to thank her family, Mr. Shoemaker, Mr. Moyer, and Mrs. Rigler for always encouraging her and passing on their love for the stage. |
| ANN KNIPPING ~ Cinderella’s Stepmother Ann is Director of Field Experiences for the College of Education at UNK. She has been in this position 5 years after retiring from teaching English at Horizon Middle School for many years. Ann and her husband DJ have enjoyed performing at Kearney Community Theatre over the years; in fact, they met doing a show together in which Steve Barth was her little brother! One of her favorite roles was playing DJ’s wife in A Christmas Carol, More or Less. Because of that play, they named their miniature schnauzer Marley for the Ghost of Jacob Marley. Ann’s son Michael is a finish carpenter in Omaha. She and DJ enjoy spending time in Estes Park. |
 AMY KNISPEL ~ Rapunzel in Into the Woods Amy is glad to be home in Kearney after checking out the theater scene in Chicago, and thrilled to work with Crane River Theater this summer. She graduated in 2011 from the University of Nebraska at Kearney with a Bachelor in Musical Theater; her past roles include Babe in Pajama Game, Laurey in OKLAHOMA!, Olga in Three Sisters, Aurelia in The Malcontent, among others. Amy is so grateful to be working with her husband, Joe, and wants to thank her families for their never ending supply of love and support. |
 JOE KNISPEL ~ Director of Frog and Toad, Michael in Two Rooms and Baker in Into the Woods Joe is thrilled to be returning to Crane River Theater after appearing as Schroeder in You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown, and as an understudy for Jesus in Godspell in their 2010 season. Since then Joe moved to Chicago with his wife Amy where he played Whitney Galliard in Hunger the Musical as part of the New Musical Theater festival at Theater Building Chicago, which is now Stage 773. Joe and Amy now live in Kearney where he is pursuing a degree in theater education. He is also very excited to work with an amazing company, as well as being reunited with some old friends. Some of Joe’s favorite roles include Jesus in Godspell, Iago/Romeo/Ghost in Goodnight Desdamona, Good Morning Juliet, Vershinin in Three Sisters, Henrik in A Little Night Music, and Schroeder in You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown. |
 ALEX MCCALE ~ Education Director and Little Red in Into the Woods Alex McCale is absolutely thrilled to be working with Crane River Theater this summer! She is a 2012 graduate from the University of Central Missouri, with a BFA degree in Theatre Performance. Some of her favorite roles include Cassie in A Chorus Line, Ensemble in I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, and Meg March in Little Women. Alex is planning a big move to Los Angeles in the Fall. She would like to give a big shout out to her wonderful family and her spectacular fiance who provide a constant flow of love and support. |
 SULLIVAN MOORE ~ The Steward in Into the Woods Sullivan Moore is going to be starting his senior year at Kearney High School this fall. His most recent escapades at Kearney High include Sheriff Earl in All Shook Up, Professor Bhaer in Little Women, and Severus Snape in A Very Potter Musical. Sullivan is looking forward to the opportunity to work with actors of all ages from across the country. He hopes to continue his speech and theater career in college at Southern Oregon University. |
 JESSICA MORGAN ~ Ensemble in Frog and Toad and Baker’s Wife in Into the Woods Jessica is thrilled to be back with Crane River Theater for a second season. She is currently studying long-form improv at The Upright Citizens Brigade and a proud member of The Peopleʼs Improv Theatreʼs musical house team THEM in New York City. Jessica has most recently been seen in The 39 Steps, A Taffeta Wedding, Crazy for You, Godspell, Youʼre a Good Man Charlie Brown and The Miss Firecracker Contest. |
 JIMMY REYNOLDS ~ Assistant Technical Director Jimmy is originally from Omaha, and currently studies theater at Doane College in Crete, Nebraska. Heading into his senior year, his emphasis is scenic and prop design, along with acting. Recent design credits include Spinning Into Butter, Love’s Labour’s Lost and props master for The 39 Steps. He was last seen onstage in the ensemble of Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson at Doane College. Jimmy will be headed to Las Vegas later this summer, after receiving the SILA Award (Stagecraft Institute of Las Vegas) for outstanding potential in scenic design at the regional KC/ACTF Festival. He would like to thank his family who have always supported his dreams of theater. Without their inspiration, he would not be where he is today. |
 THERESA ROWLEY ~ Ensemble in Frog and Toad and Cinderella in Into the Woods Theresa will be a Junior Music Theater major at Oklahoma City University where she studies voice under Larry Wade Keller. She has been a part of several OCU productions, such as The Elixir of Love, The Opera Rehearsal, and The Farnsworth Invention. Theresa was born and raised in Amarillo, TX where she portrayed a few of her favorite roles, including Eponine in Les Miserables, Grace in Annie, and Chava in Fiddler on the Roof. She would like to thank Crane River Theater for this opportunity, along with her family, Mr. Keller, Linda Hughes, and most of all, the Lord Jesus for being her Rock. |
 DAVID ROZEMA ~ Narrator and Mysterious Man in Into the Woods David has been involved in many productions at Kearney Community Theatre (where he serves on the Board of Directors) both as an actor and as a director. But his love of theater goes way back, and he is now just happy to be able to continue to live the dream. Some of his favorite stage roles are Fagin in Oliver!, Henry Higgins in My Fair Lady, Ebenezer Scrooge in A Christmas Carol, Felix Ungar in The Odd Couple, Sandor Turai in Rough Crossing, and Sherlock Holmes in The Hound of the Baskervilles. Direction credits include Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Enchanted April, Clue: the Musical and The Importance of Being Earnest. Similar to many other actors, for his day job he waits metaphorical tables where hungry minds seek metaphysical fare for intellectual pleasure—he’s a philosophy professor at UNK. And, you know, the tips aren’t bad! |
 JUDITH ROZEMA ~ Cinderella’s Mother in Into the Woods Judy is no stranger to the stage, having participated in nearly all aspects of theatrical production: actor, director, musical director, accompanist, sound and lighting technician, and set designer. Some of her favorite roles have been Agatha Mortimer in The Hound of the Baskervilles, Margaret Lord in The Philadelphia Story and Lita Encore in Ruthless: the Musical. She has directed The Odd Couple, Once Upon a Mattress, Bye Bye Birdie, My Fair Lady, The Music Man, Musical Chairs, A Christmas Carol and Clue: the Musical. Judy works as a Music Specialist at Windy Hills Elementary School in Kearney and is the Music Director at Trinity Presbyterian Church. |
 ELLE TAUSCH ~ Stage Manager for Frog and Toad and Into the Woods Elle is a passionate individual born and raised in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. She is currently studying Theatre Production: Stage Management at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. Her favorite credits include reasons to be pretty and The Drowsy Chaperone. Elle cannot wait to start sharing dreams and experiences with the Crane River Theater Company. “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt. |
 LIZA THALKEN ~ Education Director and Choreographer for Frog and Toad Liza is so excited to be a part of Crane River Theater for the third year in a row! She just finished up her sophomore year at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln and is looking into a career in Public Health Administration, Psychology, or Education (wherever the wind blows her). Liza has been dancing, singing and performing since the age of three. Her choreography experience includes working with dance teams, soloists, show choirs, and musicals. Her favorite experience was choreographing Little Shop of Horrors last summer for Crane River Theater! She feels especially blessed to be able to work with such incredible talent so close to home, and is looking forward to another amazing summer! |
 LOIS THALKEN ~ Ellen in Two Rooms Lois feels extremely blessed to have the opportunity to be part of Crane River Theater. A graduate of the University of Nebraska at Kearney, she fell in love with the stage while pursuing her degree in Music Education. Lois has been working professionally as vocalist for Thalken & Tesdall during the past few decades. She is especially pleased to get the chance to refresh her theatrical skills with the amazing talents of the CRT cast and crew. Some of her favorite roles from the past include Sally Bowles in Cabaret, Desiree in A Little Night Music, Louise in Gypsy, and Aldonza in Man of La Mancha. She and her husband Todd are owner/operators for Kearney Floral Company. She thanks her beautiful family — Liza, Isabel, Rosamond and Todd — for all their love and support. |
 ROSAMOND THALKEN ~ Lucinda in Into the Woods Rosamond is thrilled to be joining the company of Crane River Theater this summer. She began singing, dancing and acting at a young age, and over the years has appeared in countless dance recitals, community productions, and school performances. Some of her favorite roles include Tina in Ruthless: The Musical, young Cosette in Les Miserables, and Hermione in A Very Potter Musical. Rosamond also recently enjoyed her position as choreographer for Little Women. She will be a senior this fall at Kearney High School, and looks forward to spending this summer with the wonderfully creative minds of the Crane River cast and crew. |
 ALEX VAN HANDEL ~ Frog in Frog and Toad and Cinderella’s Prince in Into the Woods After a year removed, Alex is very excited to be returning for his second season with Crane River Theater. You may have seen him as Charlie Brown in You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown and John the Baptist in Godspell during Crane River’s inaugural season. Since then Alex has graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point with a BFA in Musical Theatre. A native of Wisconsin, he now resides in New York City were he’s working toward his dream of being under the Broadway lights. |
 SARAH WHITE ~ Assistant Technical Director Sarah now resides in Columbus, Indiana after graduating from Anderson University in 2011, where she studied English and Theatre, with a dual concentration in acting/directing and scenic design. She has designed four shows at her Alma Mater (including one post-graduation as a guest artist), two at the Shawnee Summer Theatre of Greene County, and one at the Minnetrista Cultural Center (all in Indiana). This fall she is hoping to attend graduate school to major in Scenic Design, and is thrilled to be back on the horse as a scenic artist working for Crane River this summer. Sarah enjoys writing, and is in the middle of three novel length projects. She is extremely grateful to Ronn Johnstone and Christian Mckinney for teaching her all she knows about art, her family for their support of her crazy lifestyle, and to God, for giving her an artist/seeker’s heart. http://sarahewhite.carbonmade.com |
* Appears Courtesy of Actor’s Equity Association
— PRODUCTION STAFF —
| STEVE BARTH ~ Artistic Director Steve was born and raised in Kearney. He discovered his passion for music and theater performing on stages across the community, until he eventually took his love for arts to the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, where he received his BA and MFA in Acting. During that time, Steve had the opportunity to perform with many theaters throughout the Midwest, including the Nebraska Repertory Theater, Minnesota Repertory Theater and Illinois Music Theater. He served as artistic director of Theatrix for two years overseeing many productions in multiple capacities: producer, director and designer. He taught many classes at the University (Acting, Introduction to Theater, Arts Today) and served on numerous administrational committees (Academic Distinction and Awards, Curriculum, Grading Appeals, and Season Selection). Once the years of studying came to an end, Steve set his sights on New York City, where he has resided for the last 6 years acting and directing. |
| BRIAN BOTSFORD ~ Music Director Brian is a 1995 graduate of Kearney High School and a 2000 graduate of University of Nebraska at Kearney with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education. He now lives in Wahoo, Nebraska where he has served as the vocal music instructor, assistant instrumental instructor and drama director at Bishop Neumann High School for over ten years. Brian is an active performer in the Lincoln and Omaha area participating in groups such as the Omaha Symphonic Chorus, Lincoln Community Concert Band, Lincoln Civic Orchestra, First Presbyterian Church of Wahoo as well as solo music performances. Currently he is pursuing a Master of Music degree at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. |
| BOB HEIDEN ~ Scenic Designer/Technical Director A Kearney native, Bob Heiden graduated from Kearney High School in 2002. With a passion for the Fine Arts, Bob started out performing in musicals at the high school and community theatre level where he discovered his niche: designing, building and painting scenery. He earned a BFA in Graphic Design and a minor in Technical Theater from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. During that time, he had the opportunity to work at Kearney High as the Drama Assistant for three years. Following college, Bob has designed and painted sets for many local organizations including Kearney High School Theatre and Choral departments, Zion Lutheran Church, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Kearney School of Dance and Gymnastics, Kearney Elementary Music departments, Kearney Children’s Museum, and Kearney Community Theatre. When he’s not painting, Bob channels his creativity as the Art Director for Buckle Inc. where he designs and manages the creative team for the online marketing channels. |
 Joe Allen ~ Audrey II (Puppeteer) Little Shop Joe will be a sophomore at the University of Nebraska at Kearney in the fall where he is pursuing a degree in Technical Theatre. He has served as a carpenter for The Malcontent and My Sister in This House, and most recently as props master for The Pajama Game. Last year he was seen on stage in Crane River Theater’s production of Godspell, as well as assisting the technical crew as a carpenter. He is glad to be back for another summer and thankful for the opportunity Crane River has given him! |
 Dan Beckmann ~ Snoopy in Snoopy and Audrey II (Voice) in Little Shop Dan just graduated with a BFA in Acting from the University of Minnesota Duluth, and couldn’t be more thrilled to be working with this fine group of people in Kearney this summer. Some of his favorite past credits include Emile de Becque in South Pacific and Charles in Blithe Spirit, as well as the opportunity to play Reverend Shaw Moore in Footloose in Istanbul, Turkey. He would like to thank his family for their constant, unrelenting support in all of his endeavors. Mom, Dad and Laura — I love you more than anything! |
 Lily Cohen ~ Sally in Snoopy and Audrey in Little Shop Currently in her sophomore year pursuing a BFA in Theater Performance at the University of Evansville, Lily is so excited to be joining the company of Crane River Theater. Previous credits include Mary Phagan in Parade, Grizabella in Cats, and Annie Oakley in Annie Get Your Gun. Love to M & D back home in Seattle! |
 Michael Fariss ~ Charlie Brown in Snoopy and Orin in Little Shop Michael is so excited to be returning to Kearney for his second summer with Crane River Theater. You may remember him from last summer as Snoopy in You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown and Judas in Godspell. Michael is currently pursuing a BFA in Acting from Webster Conservatory in St. Louis, Missouri. He would like to thank his parents for absolutely everything they have done in order for him to pursue his dreams (I love you guys!) and his two guardian angels, Aubrey and Devyn for making him the person he is today. “Don’t let someone put you in a box.” |
 Shelby Floyd ~ Lucy in Snoopy and Chiffon in Little Shop Shelby is a nineteen year old actress and singer/songwriter from Kansas City. She is currently attending Johnson County Community College. Her favorite roles include Mrs. Goldberg in In Trousers, Natalie/Ed in All Shook Up, The Witch in Into the Woods, Julia Guglia in The Wedding Singer, Magenta in The Rocky Horror Show, and Hope in Urinetown. Check out her singing anytime by searching for her on YouTube and/or Facebook! |
 Hope Grandon ~ Ronnette in Little Shop of Horrors Hope is thrilled to be back in the Cornhusker state. Last year she appeared as a part of CRTC’s inaugural company in You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown (Sally) and Godspell (Ensemble). Hope graduated in May from Bradley University in Peoria, IL with a double major in Theatre Performance and Public Relations. Favorite roles include Little Red (Into The Woods), Crystal (Little Shop), and Rusty (Footloose). Hugs to family and friends for constant supplies of support and caffeine. “Know what? With the state of the world being what it is- 2 ½ hours of music and joy is maybe the best we can do.”- Norbert Leo Butz |
 Kurt Hellerich ~ Linus in Snoopy and Seymore in Little Shop Kurt is extremely fortunate to be working with Crane River, and he’s very grateful for it. Raised in St. Joseph, Missouri, and currently pursuing a BFA in Acting from Webster Conservatory in St. Louis, Missouri. Kurt has previously been seen in South Pacific (Lt. Cable), Fiddler on the Roof (Perchik), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Puck), Crazy for You (Bobby Child), and many others. He would like to thank Steve Barth and Brian Botsford for having enough faith in him to give him this opportunity, and Adam Padric Williams, Caleb Hazelwood, and Mollee Westlake for being such inspiring, faithful friends over the years. |
 Kylie Jo Jennings ~ Patty in Snoopy and Crystal in Little Shop Kylie is ecstatic to be joining Crane River Theater for the first time! She is a candidate for the BFA in Musical Theatre from Wichita State University this May. Credits with the University include Eve/Mama Noah in Children of Eden, Sheila Franklin in Hair, Medea in Medea, Woman 1 in Putting It Together! Credits outside the University include Aldonza in Man of La Mancha, Ronette in Little Shop of Horrors and Aida. Kylie has also enjoyed performing for Music Theatre of Wichita, Opera Kansas, Summer Song, Building the Circle, The Big Read, Contemporary Music Festival and Festival of Broadway. |
 Chris Lyons ~ Ensemble Little Shop of Horrors Chris is a returning member to Crane River Theater and is excited towork with CRT again! Last year he shadowed the music director for You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown and appeared in Godspell (riot-police). Chris is a recent graduate from Kearney High School. His favorite roles in past shows include Javert (Les Miserables) and The Tinman (The Wizard of Oz). Chris is a relative newcomer to the stage, but hopes to continue in the arts throughout his college career. |
 Codie Milford ~ Ensemble for Little Shop of Horrors Codie is excited to perform with Crane River Theater for the first time this summer. He will be a junior this fall at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, majoring in Musical Theatre with a minor in Dance. Past credits include Bob in The Pajama Game (also a featured dancer for Steam Heat and Hernando’s Hideaway), Narrator in Into The Woods, Dr. Frank Gibbs in Our Town, and Lyle Rogers in Exit The Body. |
 Curtis Proctor-Artz ~ Mr. Mushnik in Little Shop Curtis is a senior in theatre performance at Wichita State University (WSU), via Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, via the University of Iowa, via the University of Oklahoma! Recent WSU roles include Sir Toby Belch in Twelfth Night and B.F. Schlegal in Carnival. Other favorite roles include Dennis Shepherd in The Laramie Project, Ferris Layman in The Diviners, Guiteau in Assassins, Freddie in Noises Off, Crumpet the Elf in Santaland Diaries, Stephano in The Tempest, and Doc Gibbs in Our Town. Curtis also appeared last September in a documentary for MSNBC’s The Rachel Maddow Show. He would like to thank his family for supporting his pipe dreams. |
 Liza Thalken ~ Woodstock in Snoopy Liza will be a sophomore at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln in the fall, with a major in Psychology. She has been dancing and singing since she was very young, and is extremely excited to perform in her second season with Crane River Theater! Most recent roles include the ensemble of Crane River’s Godspell and Annabelle in Dylan at UNL. She would like to thank her parents for introducing her to the world of musical theater at a very young age! |
| Steve Barth ~ Director for Snoopy and Little Shop of Horrors Steve was born and raised in Kearney. He discovered his passion for music and theater performing on stages across the community, until he eventually took his love for arts to the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, where he received his BA and MFA in Acting. During that time, Steve had the opportunity to perform with many theaters throughout the Midwest, including the Nebraska Repertory Theater, Minnesota Repertory Theater and Illinois Music Theater. Once the years of studying came to an end, Steve set his sights on New York City, where he has resided for the last 7 years acting and directing. Steve is thrilled to produce theater with his longtime friends Brian and Brooke with Crane River Theater. |
| Brian Botsford ~ Musical Director for Snoopy and Little Shop of Horrors Brian is a 1995 graduate of Kearney High School and a 2000 graduate of University of Nebraska at Kearney with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education. He now lives in Wahoo, Nebraska where he has served as the vocal music instructor, assistant instrumental instructor and drama director at Bishop Neumann High School for ten years. Brian is an active performer in the Lincoln and Omaha area participating in groups such as the Omaha Symphonic Chorus, Lincoln Community Concert Band, Lincoln Civic Orchestra, First Presbyterian Church of Wahoo as well as solo music performances. Currently he is pursuing a Master of Music degree at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. |
| Brooke Bradford ~ Educational Director for Explore Theater Brooke grew up in Kearney and graduated from Kearney High School in 1995. She attended Brigham Young University-Idaho, where she received her degree in Theater Performance. She met her husband, Steve Bradford, while doing repertory-theater at the Playmill Theater in West Yellowstone, Idaho, just outside Yellowstone National Park. She has appeared in a variety of local and regional productions as well as commercial, industrial and short films. Brooke and her husband own and operate Blue Media, a video production company based in Kearney since 2003. They reside in Kearney with their five children. Brooke has directed the Explore Theater classes with Crane River Theater for the last two years. |
| Steve Bradford ~ Technical Director and Lighting Designer Steve received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Film Production from the University of Wisconsin. As a California native, Steve has enjoyed working in film and video production for more than fifteen years. Steve received extensive experience in digital video filming, editing, DVD authoring, and motion graphic creation while working on several projects and independent films in Studio City, California. In 2006, Steve won the prestigious Individual Artist Fellowship Award from the Nebraska Arts Council for his documentary, Damage. Steve has served as director and CEO of Blue Media since its inception in 2003. Clients have included National Geographic, The Audubon Society and Planet Eclipse, spanning more than 30 states and 3 countries. |
| Bob Heiden ~ Technical Director and Scenic Artist Bob is excited to be part of the Crane River Theater’s production team again this summer. A Kearney native, Bob graduated from Kearney High School in 2002. He earned a BFA in Graphic Design and a minor in Technical Theater from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Bob has designed and painted sets for many local organizations including Kearney High School, University Nebraska at Kearney and Kearney Community Theatre. When he’s not painting, Bob channels his creativity as Art Director for Buckle’s Marketing team. |
| Hope Grandon ~ Assistant Director for Snoopy Hope is thrilled to be back in the Cornhusker state. Last year she appeared as a part of CRTC’s inaugural company in You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown (Sally) and Godspell (Ensemble). Hope graduated in May from Bradley University in Peoria, IL with a double major in Theatre Performance and Public Relations. Favorite roles include Little Red (Into The Woods), Crystal (Little Shop), & Rusty (Footloose). Hugs to family and friends for constant upplies of support and caffeine. “Know what? With the state of the world being what it is- 2 ½ hours of music and joy is maybe the best we can do.”- Norbert Leo Butz |
| Bill Sinnard ~ Assistant Director for Little Shop of Horrors Bill graduated from Kearney High School in 1996 and went on to study at Chadron State College and the University of Nebraska at Kearney. He currently owns Hability Solution Services, which provides therapy services for nursing homes and hospitals across the state. Bill is the co – owner of Remember When Films and has directed two full-length movies. In 2005 he made his directing debut with the Indie film, Virgina and followed it up in 2008 with a documentary, Haunted Nebraska. He is currently serving on the World Theatre Board of Directors. Bill enjoys spending time with his wife, Jennifer, and their on, Drew. |
| Curtis Proctor-Artz ~ Assistant Director for Explore Theater Curtis is a senior in theatre performance at Wichita State University (WSU), via Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, via the University of Iowa, via the University of Oklahoma! Recent WSU roles include Sir Toby Belch in Twelfth Night and B.F. Schlegal in Carnival. Other favorite roles include Dennis Shepherd in The Laramie Project, Ferris Layman in The Diviners, Guiteau in Assassins, Freddie in Noises Off, Crumpet the Elf in Santaland Diaries, Stephano in The Tempest, and Doc Gibbs in Our Town. Curtis also appeared last September in a documentary for MSNBC’s The Rachel Maddow Show. He would like to thank his family for supporting his pipe dreams. |
| Lauren Filip ~ Stage Manager for Snoopy and Little Shop of Horrors Lauren is ecstatic to be a part of the Crane River Theatre Company this season. She is entering her senior year at Ball State University where she is pursuing a degree in stage management, in the department of theatre and dance. Her assistant stage management credits include Death Trap, New Faces 2009, and Picnic. She has also worked as a stage manager on Two Rooms, The Lover, and Kid Purple. Lauren feels blessed to have a wonderful support system comprised of her educators, friends, family and God. |
| Kamara Graves ~ Choreographer for Snoopy and Explore Theater Kami is excited to return to her hometown to spend the summer with Crane River Theater Company for the second year. After graduating from UNK, she spent a season with the Rocky Mountain Repertory Theater in Grand Lake, Colorado before moving to New York City where she now lives. She was recently seen in Who Am I? A Tribute to Petula Clark and often sings with the folk/rock group Kathy Zimmer and the Sugar Bowls. A huge thank you to her family and friends for always being there, every step of the way. |
| Liza Thalken ~ Choreographer for Little Shop of Horrors Liza will be a sophomore at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln in the fall, with a major in Psychology. She has been dancing and singing since she was veryyoung, and is extremely excited to perform in her second season with Crane River Theater! Most recent roles include the ensemble of Crane River Theater’s Godspell and Annabelle in Dylan at UNL. She would like to thank her parents for introducing her to the world of musical theater at a very young age! |
| Gay Longfellow ~ Costume Designer for Little Shop of Horrors Take a girl from the farm, teach her how to sew, encourage her artistic side and you’ve got a costumer. After doing many, many shows, Gay still loves to put her creative touch on productions. She is thrilled to be a part of Crane River Theater once again this summer, after designing Godspell last year. |
Lakisha Anne Bowen* ~ Ensemble in Godspell
Jeff Scot Carey* ~ Jesus in Godspell
Nebraska Debut! Just off the 1st National Tour of the new musical 101 Dalmatians directed by Jerry Zaks, Jeff is excited to join this brilliant cast and finally explore the famed Cornhusker State. Other National Tours: South Pacific, Cinderella, Grease, and Rent. World Tour: Rent. Off-Broadway: Tails, Dorian Gray, and Back Home. Favorite Regional/New York: The Last Five Years, John & Jen, Hair, Footloose, The Order Of Things, Two Rooms, and The Complete Wrks Of Wllm Shkspr (Abridged.) TV/Film: One Life to Live, All My Children, The Reformation, Big Brothers, Intrinsic, Biff: An Introduction, and The Happy Hour Guys. Thanks to Steve, Love to Lakisha, and Go-Huskers!!! www.jeffscotcarey.com
Michael Fariss ~ Snoopy in Charlie Brown and Judas in Godspell
Michael is currently a candidate for a BFA in Acting from Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri. He was born and raised in Austin, Texas and has been acting ever since he can remember. Some of his favorite credits include The Cat in the Hat in Seussical, Lumiere in Beauty and the Beast, Orin Scivello in Little Shop of Horrors and Ron in Bat Boy. Michael would like to thank his parents for everything they have done to make his dreams come true and he would like to dedicate his performance to his two guardian angels Devyn Kimbell and Aubrey Fariss.
Hope Grandon ~ Sally in Charlie Brown and Ensemble in Godspell
Hope is a senior Theater Performance-Public Relations double major at Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois. Favorite roles include Little Red in Into The Woods, Rusty in Footloose!, Natalie/Ed in All Shook Up and Miss Dorothy in Thoroughly Modern Millie. “Know what? With the state of the world being what it is- 2 ½ hours of music and joy is maybe the best we can do.”- Norbert Leo Butz
Kami Graves ~ Violet in Charlie Brown and Ensemble in Godspell
Kami Graves is excited to return to her hometown to spend the summer with the new Crane River Theater Company. After graduating from UNK, she spent season with the Rocky Mountain Repertory Theater in Grand Lake, Colorado before moving to New York City where she now lives. She was recently seen in Who Am I? A Tribute to Petula Clark and often sings with the folk/rock group Kathy Zimmer and the Sugar Bowls. A huge thank you to her family and friends for always being there, every step of the way.
Shade Ingraham ~ Ensemble in Godspell
Shade is ecstatic to have the chance to work with the Crane River Theater Company. He has previously been seen on the stages of both Kearney High and Kearney Community Theater. Shade has played a wide array of characters, from the Cat in the Hat in Seussical the Musical to escaped convict Jean Valjean in Les Miserables, and is excited to play yet another fun role. After this crazy summer Shade plans to attend the Johnny Carson School of Theater and Film at UNL and major in Theater Performance.
Joe Knispel ~ Schroeder in Charlie Brown
Joe is a recent graduate from the University of Nebraska at Kearney with a Bachelors Degree in Musical Theatre. He was most recently seen last summer in a workshop of a new musical titled Hunger at the Theatre Building Chicago in Chicago where he played the role of Whitney Galliard. Kearney community might remember Joe from UNK in such roles as Vershinin in Three Sisters, Curly in Oklahoma!, Jesus in Godspell, Henrik in A Little Night Music, and the roles of Romeo/ Iago/ Ghost/Chorus in Goodnight Desdamona (Good Morning Juliet). Joe is excited to be working with so many new faces and thrilled to be creating great theatre with such a talented cast for the community of Kearney.
Jessica Morgan ~ Lucy in Charlie Brown & Ensemble in Godspell
Jessica is thrilled to be joining Crane River Theater for it’s inaugural season! She is a Spring 2010 graduate of Missouri State University where she received her BFA in Musical Theatre. There she was seen in roles such as Tricia in the new work Evangeline Drowning, Diana in I Love You Because, and Alice in A…My Name is Alice. She has also spent her last two summers working for Tent Theatre in Springfield, Missouri as Lucy in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown and Carnelle in The Miss Firecracker Contest.
Nate Rocke ~ Linus in Charlie Brown and Ensemble in Godspell
Nate just finished his Freshmen year as a Musical Theater major at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Some recent roles include Billy in Dear Edwina, Calidorus in Pseudolus, and The Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. He was an Irene Ryan Nominee and Semifinalist for the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival Region V Competition. Nate is extremely excited to be a part of Crane River Theater’s first season!
Laura Rozema ~ Ensemble in Godspell
Laura has been acting on the stage since fourth grade. Since then, she has participated on the stages at Kearney Community Theatre and Kearney High School, and a few shots behind the camera. After graduating high school, Laura plans on attending college in North Carolina, Illinois, or Colorado with a major in theatre with an emphasis on musical theatre. She hopes to eventually move to New York after college.
Liza Thalken ~ Ensemble in Godspell
Liza will be a freshman at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln in the fall, with a double major in Theater and Psychology. She has been dancing and singing since she was very young, and is extremely excited to perform in Crane River Theater’s first season. Favorite roles include the Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Eponine in Les Miserables. She would like to thank her parents for introducing her to the world of musical theater at a very young age.
Micah Urbanek ~ Ensemble in Godspell
Micah is extremely excited to be involved with Crane River Theatre this summer! She will be a senior this fall and has enjoyed performing at Kearney Community Theatre and Kearney High School. She played Fantine in last fall’s production of Les Miserables. She intends to major in Musical Theatre or Vocal Performance upon graduation next year.
Alex Van Handel ~ Charlie Brown in Charlie Brown and Ensemble in Godspell
Alex is from Hartford, Wisconsin and is currently attending the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point where he will be a senior in the BFA Musical Theatre department. Some of his previous roles have been Claude in Hair, Kenneth Talley, Jr. in Fifth of July, and Lumiere in Beauty and the Beast. When he is not on stage he enjoys spending time with his friends and watching the Packers with his fellow cheeseheads. He would like to thank his family for their continuous love and support.
* Appears Courtesy of Actor’s Equity Association
Return to Top
2010 Company – Production Team
Steve Barth ~ Director for Charlie Brown and Godspell
Steve Barth was born and raised in Kearney. He discovered his passion for music and theater performing on stages across the community, until he eventually took his love for arts to the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, where he received his BA and MFA in Acting. During that time, Steve had the opportunity to perform with many theaters throughout the Midwest, including the Nebraska Repertory Theater, Minnesota Repertory Theater and Illinois Music Theater. He served as artistic director of Theatrix for two years overseeing many productions in multiple apacities: producer, director and designer. Once the years of studying came to an end, Steve set his sights on New York City, where he has resided for the last 6 years acting and directing. The most memorable productions include Two Rooms, Boy Gets Girl and Of Mice and Men.
Brian Botsford ~ Musical Director for Charlie Brown and Godspell
Brian Botsford is a 1995 graduate of Kearney High School and a 2000 graduate of University of Nebraska at Kearney with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education. He now lives in Wahoo, Nebraska where he has served as the vocal music instructor, assistant instrumental instructor and drama director at Bishop Neumann High School for nearly ten years. Brian is an active performer in the Lincoln and Omaha area participating in groups such as the Omaha Symphonic Chorus, Lincoln Community Concert Band, Lincoln Civic Orchestra, First Presbyterian Church of Wahoo as well as solo music performances. Currently he is pursuing a Master of Music degree at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln.
Brooke Bradford ~ Educational Director for the Explore Theater Classes
Brooke Bradford grew up in Kearney and graduated from Kearney High School in 1995. She attended Brigham Young University-Idaho, where she received her degree in Theater Performance. She met her husband, Steve Bradford, while doing repertory-theater at the Playmill Theater in West Yellowstone, Idaho, just outside Yellowstone National Park. She has appeared in a variety of local and regional productions as well as commercial, industrial and short films. Brooke and her husband own and operate Blue Media, a video production company based in Kearney since 2003. They reside in Kearney with their five children.
Kyle Garrelts ~ Scene Designer/Technical Director for Charlie Brown and Godspell
Kyle started his theater career at Kearney High School, where he graduated in 2008. Since then he has worked on shows at the University of Wyoming, Tibbits Opera House in Michigan, University of Nebraska at Kearney, and the Kearney Community Theater. A few of the shows he has worked on include Hair, Fiddler on the Roof, Almost, Maine, Rabbit Hole, Zombie Prom, and Room Service. Kyle has been an actor, designer, technical director, props master, master carpenter and much more, however out of all the shows he has been apart of, he is most excited about designing this summer for Crane River Theater. Kyle wants to extend an invite to everyone to come and enjoy an amazing season at Crane River Theater.
Danielle Kimball ~ Stage Manager for Charlie Brown and Godspell
Danielle is excited to be part of the first season of Crane River Theatre Company, stage managing You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown and Godspell. She just completed her first year in the Stage Management Program at The Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster in St. Louis, Missouri. While at Webster, she stage managed a production of the Vagina Monologues and the BFA Dance Concert. A native of Houston, Texas, Danielle enjoyed the successful opportunity to stage manage Hello Dolly. She has been involved in theater since grade school and would like to thank her family for all their love and support.
Matthew Baye ~ Props Master for Charlie Brown and Lighting Designer for Godspell
Matthew is originally from Kearney where he started his love for theatre at a very young age. Throughout high school he acted, directed, and did technical work backstage whenever he had the chance. After graduating from Kearney High, he continued his passion for theatre in college. Matt will be a senior in the Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film this fall at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln where he is on track to get a BFA in Technical Theatre. Some of his most recent credits include lighting designer for Shipwrecked, assistant lighting designer and carpenter for King Lear, master electrician for Tartuffe, and actor and properties master for the New Artists Festival. Matthew is excited to be working with Crane River Theatre on their two shows this summer.
Gay Longfellow ~ Costume Designer for Godspell
Take a girl from the farm, teach her how to sew, encourage her artistic side and you’ve got a costumer. After doing many, many shows, Gay still loves to put her creative touch on productions. She is thrilled to be a part of Crane River Theater this summer
Bob Heiden ~ Scenic Artist for Charlie Brown and Godspell
Bob is excited to be part of the Crane River Theater’s production team this summer. A Kearney native, Bob graduated from Kearney High School in 2002. He earned a BFA in Graphic Design and a minor in Technical Theater from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Bob has designed and painted sets for many local organizations including KHS, UNK and KCT. When he’s not painting, Bob channels his creativity as Art Director and Graphic Designer for Buckle’s Marketing team.