about the show
BRIGHT STAR
Inspired By A True Story
Music, Book & Story by Steve Martin
Music, Lyrics & Story by Edie Brickell
Produced by Joey Parnes, Sue Wagner, John Johnson, Zebulon LLC, Jay Alix & Una Jackman, Len Blavatnik, James L. Nederlander, Carson & Joseph Gleberman, Balboa Park Productions, The Shubert Organization, Jamie deRoy/Catherine Adler/Cricket Jiranek
In Association With Rodger Hess, A.C. Orange International, Broadway Across America, Sally Jacobs & Warren Baker, Diana DiMenna, Exeter Capital, Agnes Gund, True Love Productions And The Old Globe
A workshop production of BRIGHT STAR was presented by New York Stage and Film & Vassar College at the Powerhouse Theatre, Summer 2013.
Bright Star is presented through special arrangement with and all authorized performance materials are supplied by Theatrical Rights Worldwide, 1180 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 640, New York, NY 10036. www.theatricalrights.com
setting
Time: 1923-1924 & 1945-1946
Place: North Carolina
Audio and Video Recording Policy
Any audio and/or video recording of this production is strictly prohibited.
Alice Murphy.................................................................................................................Hannah Duda
Billy Cane.....................................................................................................................Brayden Follett
Jimmy Ray Dobbs.......................................................................................................Colin Campbell
Margo Crawford.................................................................................................Peyton Kuryanowicz
Daryl Ames............................................................................................................Matthew Andresen
Lucy Grant..........................................................................................................................Anna Riess
Mama Murphy.................................................................................................Emma Faucault-Miller
Mayor Josiah Dobbs.........................................................................................................Chase Juster
Daddy Murphy...............................................................................................................Dom Luzwick
Daddy Cane..........................................................................................................Alexander Clarksen
Florence........................................................................................................................Makenna Case
Edna...................................................................................................................................Mae Adams
Max................................................................................................................................Terrek Schjoth
Stanford Adams.........................................................................................................Aiden Benewich
Dr. Norquist..................................................................................................................Liev Schiffman
Government Clerk.........................................................................................................Ella Bergfeld*
Well-Dressed Woman............................................................................................Addison Wytonick
Ensemble......................................Mae Adams, Aiden Benewich, Ella Bergfeld, Zalena Bradshaw, Makenna Case, Liev Schiffman, Terrek Schjoth, Marshall Taylor, Addison Wytonick, Violet Zolper
* denotes dance captain
production and design team
Director.................................................................................................................Matthew Hougland
Music Director...............................................................................................................Yu-Mei Chang
Choreographer..............................................................................................................Emily Winkler
Technical Director...............................................................................Lisa Gifford, Grace Kirk-Lazar
Scenic Designer.....................................................................................................Martin McClendon
Costume Designer..........................................................................................................Kim Instenes
Lighting Designer...........................................................................................................Jessica Baker
Stage Manager................................................................................................................Liv Bissonette
Assistant Stage Managers.......................................................................Julia DeFauw, Piper Nelson
Properties Lead...............................................................................................................Alyssa Sargis
Assistant Director.................................................................................Mengyan “Catherine” Zhang
Run Crew.................................................................................................Maddie Gibson, Jim Schulz
Costume Crew Head..................................................................................................Emma Mehnert
Costume Crew..........................................................................Vivian Alexander, Annika McCarthy, Lottie Prather, Triniti Redlin
Light Board Operator......................................................................................................Philip Steger
Spotlight Operator...............................................................................................................Ava Bucur
QLab Operator.............................................................................................Yingcheng “Charlie” Dou
Sound Board Operators..............................................Daniel Michalec, Maria Romero, Luchi Ruiz
special thanks
Costume & Scene Shop student workers, Heidi Baehr, Corinne Ness, Christie Burgess-Martino, ProAudio Designs
Scene 1: Limbo. 1945.
“If You Knew My Story” Alice, Billy, Company
Scene 2: Billy’s Home, outside Hayes Creek. 1945.
“She’s Gone” Billy, Daddy Cane
Scene 3: Margo’s bookstore. 1945.
“Bright Star” Billy, Ensemble
Scene 4: Lobby of the Southern Asheville Journal. Asheville. 1945.
“Way Back In The Day” Alice, Ensemble
Scene 5: Zebulon, North Carolina. 1923.
“Whoa Mama” Jimmy Ray, Alice
Scene 6: A cabin in the woods. Zebulon, North Carolina. 1923.
“Firmer Hand/Do Right” Daddy Murphy, Mama Murphy, Alice, Ensemble
Scene 7: Mayor’s living room. Zebulon. 1923.
“A Man’s Gotta Do” Mayor, Jimmy Ray, Stanford
Scene 8: Alice’s office. Asheville. 1945.
Scene 9: Margo’s bookstore. Hayes Creek. 1945.
“Asheville” Margo
Scene 10: A park in Zebulon. 1923.
“Picnic Dance” Stanford, Ensemble
“What Could Be Better” Alice, Jimmy Ray
Scene 11: A doctor’s office. Zebulon. 1923.
Scene 12: Mayor’s house. Zebulon. 1923.
“I Can’t Wait” (Part 1) Jimmy Ray
Scene 13: Zebulon. Limbo. 1923.
“I Can’t Wait” (Part 2) Alice, Ensemble
Scene 14: Inside Alice’s office. 1945.
Scene 15: A shack in the woods. Night. Zebulon. 1924.
“Please, Don’t Take Him” Alice, Mama Murphy, Daddy Murphy, Mayor, Stanford, Ensemble
Scene 16: Interior of a train car. 1924.
“A Man’s Gotta Do” (Reprise) Mayor
There will be a 15 minute intermission.
Scene 0: Train depot outside of Zebulon. 1924. “Sun’s Gonna Shine” Alice
Scene 1: The Mayor’s living room. Zebulon. 1924 “Heartbreaker” Jimmy Ray
Scene 2: Shiny Penny Cafe and Bar. Asheville. 1946. “Another Round” Lucy, Daryl, Billy, Ensemble
Scene 3: Asheville Southern Journal Office. 1946.
Scene 4: Government Office. Raleigh. 1946.
Scene 5: A well-manicured street. Raleigh. 1946. “I Had A Vision” Alice, Jimmy Ray
Scene 6: Margo’s bookstore. Hayes Creek. 1946. “Always Will” Billy, Margo
Scene 7: Alice’s childhood cabin. Night. Zebulon. 1946. “Sun’s Gonna Shine” (Reprise) Alice, Mama Murphy, Daddy Murphy
Scene 8: The next day. Daddy Cane’s house, outside Hayes Creek. 1946. / The woods. Moonlit night. 1924.
“I Can’t Wait” (Reprise) Young Daddy Cane “So Familiar/At Long Last” Alice, Ensemble
Scene 9: Southern Asheville Journal Office. 10am. Asheville. 1946. “Finale” Company
Mae Adams (Edna/Ensemble) is thrilled to be part of BRIGHT STAR! Mae is a sophomore PreMed Biology Major with minors in Musical Theatre and Chemistry. Previous productions at Carthage include: HEAD OVER HEELS (Ens/Gynecia u/s) and JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR (Ens/Peter u/s). Mae also performs with the Carthage College Dance Team. Mae would like to thank all involved in the production, as well as her family and friends for always supporting her. She hopes you enjoy the show!
Matthew Andresen (Daryl Ames) is a junior Musical Theatre major with a Public Relations minor. He is elated to be here in Asheville. Regional: Ensemble in PHANTOM IN CONCERT, Player in PIPPIN (BrightSide Theatre, Illinois). Wolfie in LOVE AT FIRST FRIGHT, Dancer in ADRENAL!NE (Six Flags Great America, Illinois). Carthage Credits: Ensemble in HEAD OVER HEELS, Grover et al. in ON THE VERGE, Dancer in TO THE GROWTH EDGE. Matthew is grateful for the love and support of his family and friends. IG: @matthewmandresen
Aiden Benewich (Stanford Adams/Ensemble) is a Junior majoring in Musical Theatre on the BM track. His previous shows at Carthage include TERMINAL EXHALE in the studio theater and the AFM Dance Show. He has also performed at Six Flags Great America as part of the SKELETON SQUAD and as the Nutcracker in THE NUTCRACKER BALLET (Infinity Dance, WI). Other work in the arts include being a dance instructor at Infinity Dance, assistant choreographer for the 24-Hour Musical FOOTLOOSE at Carthage, and assistant choreographer for the Janesville Craig Spotlighters. Aiden would like to thank his friends and family for their constant support. Enjoy the show!
Ella Bergfeld (Government Clerk/Ensemble) is a senior double majoring in Political Science and Music Theatre. Ella is the President of the Carthage Choir, a member of Lincoln Chamber Singers, the 2025-2026 Music Department Fellow, the Keyboards I/II peer tutor, and a member of Chi Omega National Sorority. Carthage Main Stage Credits: LEGALLY BLONDE (Brooke Wyndham), XANADU (Kira/Clio), NINE (Carla), CARRIE (Norma/Dance Captain), JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR (Priest/Soul Girl/Dance Captain/Ensemble).
Zalena Bradshaw (Ensemble) is a Freshman double major in Musical Theatre and Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology. She is a member of Voces Aquae choir and the Carthage Spirit Team. Zalena is excited to make her Carthage main stage debut with an amazing cast and an equally amazing show. Previous Credits include: MAMMA MIA (Lisa), THE LITTLE MERMAID (ATTINA), and BRIGHT STAR (Alice) all performed at her high school Thornton Fractional South. Zalena would like to thank her family and friends for their support and hopes you enjoy the show just as much as she does.
Colin Campbell (Jimmy Ray Dobbs) is a Senior double majoring in Musical Theatre and Stage Management. He is unbelievably excited and lucky to play his first lead role in almost five years! Past Credits Include: Neil Sedaka/Bobby Vee/Bobby Hatfield in BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL (Rose Theatrics), Steve/Junkie/Waiter in RENT (Rose Theatrics), Dance Ensemble/Musidorus & Pythio u/s in HEAD OVER HEELS (Carthage College), Thalia/ Sonny Malone u/s in XANADU (Carthage College) & Freddy in CARRIE (Carthage College). Being trusted in this role as his last show at Carthage brings immense joy and assurance for him as a growing artist trying to put himself out there. Colin strives to bring welcoming, creative and authentic energy to every story that he is telling on stage, no matter the circumstances. Thank you to his girlfriend Aubree, this amazing creative team, his friends and his family for the constant support and encouragement while he finds his true self. IG: @colin.p.campbell
cast biographies
Makenna Case (Florence/Ensemble) is a freshman Allied Health Science (Pre-Athletic Training) major with a double minor in Dance and Musical Theatre. She is ecstatic to be making her Carthage Theatre debut with such an amazing team. Previous credits include Dancer in EVERYTHING YOU TOUCH (Carthage Dance) and Red Cross Nurse/Queen of Hearts in ALICE BY HEART (Stage Door Fine Arts, Hinsdale). Makenna would like to thank her family, friends, her cat, and Tommy Novak for being her biggest cheerleaders. Enjoy the show! @makennacase_
Alexander Clarksen (Daddy Cane) is a Freshman Musical Theatre Major. He is very excited to perform with this wonderful cast and crew. This is his first full show at Carthage, but he is also in Carthage Choir and Lincoln Chamber Singers. Alexander has previously performed in WHITE CHRISTMAS (Bob Wallace), MEAN GIRLS (Damian), OUR TOWN (George Gibbs), and BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Cogsworth). Alexander would like to thank his parents for always supporting his pursuits in Theatre. Please enjoy the show!
Hannah Duda (Alice Murphy) is a Sophomore at Carthage college majoring in Musical Theater, Theater, and Secondary Education. She is excited to be back on stage performing! Carthage credits Include: LIFE IS A DREAM Spring 2025 (Ensemble), JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR Fall 2025 (Judas U/S, ensemble), LAST TRAIN TO NIBROC Spring 2026 (May). Other credits: PUFFS Fall 2024, Lakeside Players (Megan Jones) Special thanks to her friends and family for all the support over the years, so much love to all!
Emma Faucault-Miller (Mama Murphy) is a junior Musical Theatre major with a minor in Communications. Past Carthage credits include: JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR (Director Assistant), ELEEMOSYNARY (Assistant Stage Manager), NINE (Guido’s Mother), and LIFE IS A DREAM (Queen Basilia) for which she was awarded “Most Outstanding Supporting Actress” for the Carthage Theatre 2024-2025 season. On campus, Emma is a member of The Carthage Choir and Voces Aquae, serves as the First Vice-President of Lambda Kappa, and works multiple jobs in and outside of the theatre department. Emma would like to thank her friends for always making her laugh, her family for their endless support on her journey, and her boyfriend for always celebrating her wins with her, big or small. Thank you to Chase and Ella for being the first people to talk to me at Carthage <3 I love you both. Enjoy the show! IG: emmafaucaultmiller_
Brayden Follett (Billy Cane) is a Junior Musical Theater major. He is incredibly excited for this production and to have the ability to perform in the renovated Carthage Theater. His previous credits include HEAD OVER HEELS (Musidorus), ANASTASIA (Gleb Vaganov), RENT (Mark Cohen). He would love to thank his fellow castmates, this incredible crew, his beautiful girlfriend Anna, and his family and friends for their endless support. May your hearts be about to bust, and enjoy the show!
Chase Juster (Mayor Josiah Dobbs) is a senior Music Theatre Major and Choral Literature and Conducting Minor. Carthage Credits: LEGALLY BLONDE (ENS/Emmett US/Callahan US), CARRIE (Billy Nolan), XANADU (Terpsicore), HEAD OVER HEELS (Pythio), LIFE IS A DREAM (Segismundo), LIFE CYCLE OF A STAR (Lily’s Dad/James), DEAR ELIZABETH (Robert Lowell), and NINE (Guido Contini) for which he received a KCACTF Irene Ryan nomination. Other Credits Include: BAND GEEKS (Jake), and THE SPITFIRE GRILL (Joe Sutter). Outside of theater Chase is a member of Carthage’s flagship ensemble, the Carthage Choir, as well as the Lincoln Chamber Singers. Additionally, he works as the Music Theatre Department faculty fellow. After graduation, Chase will be performing professionally as a Resident Actor for Charleston Stage’s 49th Season. IG: chasejstr
Peyton Kuryanowicz (Margo Crawford) is a sophomore nursing major, and is very excited to be back on the mainstage for her favorite show. Past roles include: HEAD OVER HEELS (Ensemble/Philoclea and Mopsa U/S) on the mainstage, HEATHERS (Veronica, at Lakeland Players), LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS (Ensemble, at KAPA Repertory Theatre), and ANASTASIA (Anya/Anastasia, at Lakeside Players). Peyton would like to thank her family and friends for always supporting her dreams, and she hopes you enjoy the show!
Dom Luzwick (Daddy Murphy) is a Junior Musical Theatre Major with a Theatre Directing minor. Previous roles at Carthage include Raleigh in LAST TRAIN TO NIBROC, Father/Time in THE BLUE BIRD, Tommy Ross in CARRIE, Danny/Zeus in XANADU, and in the ensemble for HEAD OVER HEELS and NINE. Dom would like to thank his family for their continued support and to his girlfriend Annelise for being by his side on this crazy journey of life! Insta: domluz_arts
Anna Riess (Lucy Grant) is a sophomore Music Theatre major. She is so excited to be a part of such a beautiful show! Carthage credits: THE BLUE BIRD (The Cat/DC). Other credits: SOMETHING ROTTEN (Portia), MAMMA MIA (Donna Sheridan), ACTF Region III 2026 Festival Irene Ryan Semi-Finalist. She would like to thank her family and friends for their never ending support! IG: @riess_anna
Liev Schiffman (Dr. Norquist/Ensemble) is a Freshman Musical Theatre and Psychology double major. He is excited to make his debut at Carthage. Outside of Carthage, Liev has played Hades in HADESTOWN TEEN EDITION (Children’s Theatre of Madison), Rapunzel’s Prince in INTO THE WOODS (Middleton Players Theatre), and Gaston in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Middleton High School), to name a few. Alongside this, Liev is a part of both Carthage Choir and Lincoln Chamber Singers. He would like to thank his parents for supporting him in his journey through theatre, as well as the cast and crew of BRIGHT STAR for making the musical experience exciting and fun.
Terrek Schjoth (Max/Ensemble) is a Freshman Musical Theatre Major, Creative Writing Minor. This is his first mainstage production with Carthage, but he has been a part of the Directing Scenes for both I & YOU and GRUESOME PLAYGROUND INJURIES. Outside of Carthage, Terrek has played Billy Flynn in CHICAGO TEEN EDITION (DC Everest Performing Arts), Karl Hanratty in CATCH ME IF YOU CAN (DC Everest Performing Arts), and Johnny Casino in GREASE (Playhouse Theatre Group). He would like to thank his parents for supporting him and his theatre career, as well as his college and hometown friends for making life that much more exciting.
Marshall Taylor (Ensemble) is a sophomore Theatre Education major. He is very excited to work with a talented group of collaborators. This marks his first performance at Carthage, and he is grateful for the opportunity to work with such a talented and supportive team.
Addison Wytonick (Well-Dressed Woman/Ensemble) is currently a sophomore at Carthage College receiving a dual degree in Musical Theatre and Criminal Justice with a pre-law emphasis. This is her third Carthage College Production. Her previous Carthage credits include Maggie (BLUEBIRD), & Mopsa (HEAD OVER HEELS)! Addison would love to thank her Grandparents for always supporting her in everything she does. Enjoy the show! IG: @_ addisonanne_
Violet Zolper (Ensemble) is a freshman music theatre major. This is her very first show at Carthage and she is so excited to be working with this incredible group. Violet has done a variety of shows throughout high school and is very happy to be in her first Carthage production. Enjoy the show!
production team biographies
Matthew Hougland (Director) is Assistant Professor of Music, Director of Undergraduate Musical Theatre Studies, and Music Department Chair at Carthage College in Kenosha, WI. Matthew holds a Master of Music in Vocal Performance, an Advanced Certificate in Vocal Pedagogy from New York University, and a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Anderson University. Matthew is a current doctoral candidate in Educational Leadership at Indiana State University. A native Hoosier, Matthew has taught and performed in venues around the world. Matthew’s students can be seen on Broadway, in national tours, TV/film, cruise ships, and in various regional theaters. Performing credits include: National Tour: SPAMILTON as Man at the Piano/King George III and Music Director; Off-Broadway: EMERGENCY: THE MUSICAL; Regional: CHICAGO (Mary Sunshine) – Broadway World Best Actor Award Winner; Workshops: WICKEDEST WOMAN. Other highlights: SISTER ACT, AMOUR, THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD, A CATERED AFFAIR. Matthew also worked closely with Larry O’Keefe (BAT BOY, LEGALLY BLONDE) and Nell Benjamin (MEAN GIRLS, LEGALLY BLONDE) in a workshop production of their show THE WILD PARTY. Previous teaching credits include faculty at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Professional Performing Arts School, NYC Vocal Studio, Rosie’s Theater Kids, and international appointments in Beijing, Guangzhou, Yiwu, Hangzhou, and Shanghai, China. Matthew is also a Vocal Director and audition pianist for Celebrity Cruises Entertainment in Miami, FL.
Yu-Mei Chang (Music Director) is a music director and keyboardist active in Taiwan, China, and the U.S. Her major Chinese-language credits include MAMMA MIA! (Asst. MD/KB2), AVENUE Q (Asst. MD/KB-Conduct), HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING (Asst. MD/KB-Conduct), DADDY LONG LEGS (MD/KB-Conduct), MURDER BALLAD (MD/KB-Conduct), LAUNDRY (MD), and MIDNIGHT DINER (MD). She also performed in JEKYLL AND HYDE (KB3) and THRILL ME (Pianist). In English-language productions, she has served as Music Director for I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE and NEXT TO NORMAL in Taiwan, and played keyboards for THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA international tour (China/Taiwan) and YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN at Chicago’s Mercury Theater. At Carthage College, she assisted on SOMETHING ROTTEN! and LEGALLY BLONDE, and played for HAIR. Workshop credits include SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD (Pianist), THE LAST FIVE YEARS (MD/Pianist), and ORDINARY DAYS (MD/Pianist). Chang holds a Master’s degree in Music Theatre Vocal Pedagogy from Carthage College and continues to build an international career in musical theatre.
Emily Winkler (Choreographer) has worked as a dancer, choreographer, and instructor for the past 25 years. She has a BA from the University of Illinois, Champaign. Her performance experience has varied from company work with Emergence Dance Theatre, to regional musical theatre, theme park, industrial work, and as a dancer for R&B artist Montell Jordan. Movie credits include Kevin Costner’s Message in a Bottle. Emily’s choreography includes Six Flags Great America, Stage Right Dinner Theatre, Lincoln Park Zoo, Lake Forest Children’s Theatre, Carthage College, and Drew Thomas Production in Orlando, FL. She has been a guest teacher for Dance Masters of Wisconsin and Columbia College Chicago, and is currently a faculty member at Carthage College. Emily has also served as the Director of Jazz Theatre of Illinois, a member of NDEO, and a judge for IHSA competitive dance.
Lisa Gifford (Technical Director) is honored to serve as Technical Director for BRIGHT STAR, reconnecting with the stages and mentors that first shaped her artistic journey. A proud Theatre major from the Class of 2006, Lisa discovered at Carthage not only her passion for storytelling, but also the intricate craftsmanship and collaboration that bring a production to life from the ground up. Since graduating, she has worked across educational, community, and professional theatre in a wide range of roles, with a particular focus on technical direction, production management, and design. She is especially passionate about guiding emerging artists as they develop both technical skills and confidence in their craft. In addition to her technical work, Lisa has remained active as a performer, appearing in productions such as MOON OVER BUFFALO (Engle Lane Theatre) as Charlotte, THE GREAT BEYOND (Morris Theatre Guild) as Monica, SHREK (River Valley Players) as Ugly Duckling, and THE CEMETERY CLUB (Princeton Arts Council) as well as performances at Stage 212 in JAKE’S WOMEN and THE MIRACLE WORKER. Her lighting design credits include A MIDSUMMER NIGHTS DREAM (Festival 56) , THE MOORS (Carthage Mainstage), and CAROUSEL (Aurora University). She has served on several local theatre boards, as well as the Illinois Theatre Association, where she held the role of Second Vice President. She was awarded Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (KCACTF) Certificates of Merit for her lighting design work on PICASSO AT THE LAPIN AGILE. Lisa holds a BA in Theatre and Studio Art from Carthage College, a BS in Psychology from Kaplan University, and MAs in Education and Administrative Leadership from Aurora University and Concordia University. She looks forward to continuing her support of Carthage in this role, mentoring student artists and contributing to the realization of BRIGHT STAR, and extends her sincere gratitude to her family for their unwavering support.
Grace Kirk-Lazar (Technical Director) was the Technical Director at Carthage College in Kenosha, WI. Grace holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Peck School of the Arts at University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. She has been the Technical Director for Carthage’s productions of JESUS CHRIST SUPER STAR (Mainstage), EVERYTHING YOU TOUCH (Mainstage), THE BLUE BIRD (Mainstage), DEAR ELIZABETH (Studio), LAST TRAIN TO NIBROC (Studio) and THE MOORS (Mainstage). For THE BLUE BIRD (Mainstage) she was also the Properties Lead. She has worked as a Shop Sub-Manager for shows such as TWELFTH NIGHT (Mainstage, UW Milwaukee), THE RESISTABLE RISE OF ARTURO UI (Mainstage, UW Milwaukee), FEMALE TRANSPORT (Studio, UW Milwaukee), TROJAN WOMEN (Mainstage, UW Milwaukee) and A PIECE OF MY HEART (Studio, UW Milwaukee). Grace was also the Sound Designer for TWELFTH NIGHT (Mainstage, UW Milwaukee) and A PIECE OF MY HEART (Studio, UW Milwaukee). She has been the prop artisan/lead for WITTENBERG (Mainstage, Concordia Chicago), WINTER’S TALE (Mainstage, Concordia Chicago) and IN THE NEXT ROOM (or THE VIBRATOR PLAY) (Mainstage, UW Milwaukee). Grace has worked at multiple venues such as the Pabst, Milwaukee Rep, Riverside and Fiserv Forum in the City of Milwaukee through the I.A.T.S.E. Stagehand Union in positions focused on set up and strike of large scale productions.
production team biographies
Martin McClendon (Scenic Designer, Professor of Theatre) is in his 20th year of teaching at Carthage College. In addition to teaching, designing, and directing, he has worked with students and fellow faculty for a decade to create original verbatim plays. In 2024, Carthage Theatre was honored with a Kennedy Center/American College Theatre Festival Citizen Artist award recognizing ten years of Carthage verbatim projects. He has also received KC/ACTF Certificates of Merit for scenic design for the Carthage productions of MAN OF LA MANCHA, BOEING BOEING, ONE DAY IN THE SEASON OF RAIN, DEAD MAN’S CELL PHONE, and a collaborative certificate for video technology for THE BREATH OF STARS. Before coming to Carthage, Martin spent 10 years working as a professional actor, carpenter, and scene designer in Chicago and Los Angeles. He was nominated three times for Non-Equity Jeff Citation Awards while designing scenery for the Defiant Theatre Company, Chicago. In addition to designing scenery, video, and sound at Carthage, regional scene design credits include Milwaukee Chamber Theatre and First Stage Children’s Theatre (Milwaukee, WI), Actor’s Ensemble (Rockford, IL), and The Evidence Room and Odyssey Theatres (Los Angeles, CA). Onstage appearances in Chicago include MOJO and SKYLIGHT (Steppenwolf), DANNY BOUNCING (Victory Gardens) and THE CRIPPLE OF INISHMAAN (Northlight). On-camera work includes several independent movies, episodes of ER and EARLY EDITION, and numerous commercials. He is a proud member of Actor’s Equity and SAG/AFTRA. Martin received his MFA in acting from the University of Illinois Champaign/Urbana, and his BFA in acting from Rockford College. He would like to thank his beautiful wife Jennifer and his wonderful kids Arabella and Horatio for their support and inspiration.
Kim Instenes (Costume Designer, Associate Professor of Theatre) holds an MFA in Costume Design and Technology from Ohio University and a BA in Theatre from UW-Whitewater. Her faculty credits include UW Parkside, UW Whitewater, UW Milwaukee, and Lawrence University. In addition to teaching at these schools, she has designed costumes and makeup for a number of productions, including IMAGINARY INVALID, PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, TROJAN WAR, SWEENEY TODD, and TRANSLATIONS. Kim continues to work as a freelance costume and make-up designer in the Milwaukee-Chicago area. Professional design credits include First Stage Milwaukee, Milwaukee Shakespeare, the Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Renaissance Theatreworks, Third Avenue PlayWorks, Forward Theater, Utah Shakespearean Festival, and the Racine Theatre Guild. Kim is excited to be part of the Theatre Department here at Carthage, as it strives to cultivate theatre artists of the highest quality. She enjoys the thrill of watching a student understand what a costume does for their character and watching that character come to life as a result. She would also like to thank her family, husband Doug, and children, Lauren and Sarah, and Dalen, Haley, and Cayson, for their continued support of her creative endeavors.
Jessica Baker (Lighting Designer) is a freelance lighting designer in Southeastern Wisconsin. She has designed at the Rita Talent Picken Center, College of Lake County, Wartburg Auditorium, Todd Wehr, Goodman Mainstage Hall, Fireside Dinner Theatre, Harborside Academy and Kith & Kin Theatre. Her most recent design was LES MISERABLES at Indian Trail High School. She holds multiple awards in KCACTF, Lou and The Jerrys. This is her second show at Carthage College, the first being LIFE CYCLE OF A STAR.
Liv Bissonette (Stage Manager) is a senior majoring in technical stage management and minoring in both creative writing and French. Career-wise, BRIGHT STAR will be Liv’s twenty-fifth show in a stage management role, ten of which have been Carthage productions. In addition to BRIGHT STAR, Liv’s Carthage credits include EVERYTHING YOU TOUCH Fall Dance Show 2025 (Stage Manager), THE BLUE BIRD (Costume Crew Head), JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR (Assistant Stage Manager), LIFE CYCLE OF A STAR (Stage Manager) – which also performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival Summer 2025, HEAD OVER HEELS (Costume Crew), TERMINAL EXHALE (Stage Manager), NINE (Stage Manager) – which her work on also earned her a finalist position in ACTF’s Region 3 Festival in January 2025, THE GENDERLESS PLAY EXPERIMENT (Light Board Operator for the Carthage performance in fall 2023), CARRIE (Stage Manager), LEGALLY BLONDE (Assistant Stage Manager), FML: HOW CARSON MCCULLERS SAVED MY LIFE (Co-Stage Manager), and IN THE MOMENT Fall Dance Show 2022 (Assistant Stage Manager). Liv’s SM work at Carthage has also earned her four ACTF certificates of merit in stage management over the years. Additionally, Liv’s dedication to theatre has served her in working in Carthage’s VPA department, working in both the costume and scene shops, and having also been deeply involved in Alpha Psi Omega, the Theatre Honor Society on campus, where she has served as APO’s president for the past two years. «Merci à tous: ma famille, mes amis, mes collègues régisseurs/techniciens de théâtre, et la faculté du département théâtre pour votre gentillesse et soutien constants! J’espère que vous apprécierez tous le spectacle!» Liv’s work on this production is serving as her senior thesis project.
Alyssa Sargis (Properties Lead) is a junior elementary and middle school education major with a dance and theatre minor. Previously, she has worked on projection and audio design for ON THE VERGE, sound mixer for THE GENDERLESS PLAY EXPERIMENT, properties lead for ELEEMOSYNARY, LIFE IS A DREAM as well as properties lead/crew lead for LIFE CYCLE OF A STAR – which was performed in the 2025 season of the Edinburgh Fringe festival. In addition to working on shows and being a scene shop employee she has also performed in AWAY FROM THE MIRROR 2025. This is her first time working on a musical during her time at Carthage, and is very excited to take on such an amazing show. “You never know what life will bring.”
Julia DeFauw (Assistant Stage Manager) is a freshman triple-majoring in directing, theatre, and secondary education and double-minoring in music and public relations. Julia has been doing theatre for over ten years, and BRIGHT STAR is Julia’s fifth show in a stage management role, her first at Carthage. Along with BRIGHT STAR, Julia’s Carthage credits include THE MOORS (Sound Board Operator) & JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR (Costume Crew). Other recent credits both on and backstage are FIDDLER ON THE ROOF (Hodel), SHREK (Gingy/Bluebird), RADIUM GIRLS (Irene Rudolph/Katherine Wiley), PRIDE AND PREJUDICE (Assistant Director), BEETLEJUICE JR (Music Director), & WIZARD OF OZ (Director). Julia is also a part of Alpha Psi Omega, the Theatre Honors Society, and Lambda Kappa, the Music Fraternity on campus. Julia would like to thank her mom, Lindsey Crozier, for pushing her to be the best she can be and for being her #1 supporter. She would also like to thank Liv Bissonette for giving her the opportunity and guiding her through assistant stage managing her first Mainstage show.
Piper Nelson (Assistant Stage Manager) is a sophomore musical theatre major with a minor in public relations. She has been doing theatre for over 10 years, but this is her first time as an assistant stage manager! It has been a thrill for her to learn new skills and find a different way to be involved in theatre that doesn’t involve performing on stage. Her most recent stage credits include JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR (Ensemble), ANASTASIA (Featured Dancer) at The Rhode Center for the Arts, and GREASE (Sandy) at Unity High School. She has also participated in the student-led production THE LAST TRAIN TO NIBROC (Run Crew) and has participated in a few student-directed scenes from the fall directing class. Piper is also the current secretary of Alpha Psi Omega, vice president of the Carthage Treble Choir, and a member of the Carthage Philharmonic Orchestra. She would like to thank her friends and family for encouraging her to try something new, and everyone involved in BRIGHT STAR for supporting her through this exciting new experience.
Mengyan “Catherine” Zhang (Assistant Director) is passionate about musical theatre performance and vocal teaching. She has over eight years of professional performance experience in China, including THE SOUND OF MUSIC and CINDERELLA (National Tours, China) and I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE (Shanghai, China), as well as several original Chinese musical premieres. She is a graduate of the Shanghai Conservatory of Music.
Emma Mehnert (Costume Crew Head) is a junior double major in costume design and graphic design at Carthage College. She has been involved in theatre for about ten years and has been designing for five. Recent shows she has run costume crew for include ON THE VERGE, XANADU, and LIFE CYCLE OF A STAR for both its Carthage and Edinburgh Festival Fringe runs. She has also worked as the costume designer for multiple shows at Carthage, including ELEEMOSYNARY, TERMINAL EXHALE, and THE MOORS. She is super excited for you to see this show and hopes you enjoy it!!
theatre faculty
Breannin Beelow..................................................................Instructor of Theatre
Melissa Benson.........................Costume Shop Assistant, Instructor of Theatre
Maureen Chavez-Kruger........................Adjunct Assistant Professor of Theatre
Lisa Gifford.................................................................Interim Technical Director
Kim Instenes.......................Costume Designer, Associate Professor of Theatre
Herschel Kruger....................................Department Chair, Professor of Theatre
Martin McClendon................................................................Professor of Theatre
Dr. Neil Scharnick.................. Honors Director, Associate Professor of Theatre
Jesse Todd.............................................................................Instructor of Theatre
dance faculty
Rich Ashworth ......................................................... Adjunct Instructor of Dance
Rebecca Crystal ....................................................... Adjunct Instructor Of Dance
Elizabeth Harrison-Holmstrom .............................. Adjunct Instructor of Dance
Stacy Pottinger ...............................................................Head of Dance Program, Adjunct Assistant Professor of Dance
Hilliary Vaccarello .................................................... Adjunct Instructor of Dance
musical theatre faculty
Dr. Corinne Ness....................................Dean of Arts and Humanities Division, Director of Graduate Music Theatre Studies, Professor of Music
Melissa Kelly Cardamone.........................................................Staff Accompanist
Yu-Mei Chang............................................................................Staff Accompanist
Matthew Hougland.......................................................Music Department Chair, Director of Undergraduate Music Theatre Studies, Assistant Professor of Music
Emily Winkler................................Adjunct Instructor of Movement for Singers
Spring Thesis 2
Friday, April 24 - May 2
Visual & Performing Arts Lab & H. F. Johnson Art Gallery
Spring Thesis Opening Reception
Saturday April 25 • 1 p.m.
Visual & Performing Arts Lab
Joshua Heinlein: In Tandem, Grad Student Recital (Duets Concert) Tuesday, April 28 • 7:30 p.m.
Campbell Student Union Auditorium
Jazz Ensemble Concert Tuesday, April 29 • 7:30 p.m.
A. F. Siebert Chapel
Aaron Kahn: Did Anyone Ask for a Tenor?, Grad Student Recital Saturday, May 2 • 1 p.m.
Campbell Student Union Auditorium
Marissa Fisher: Finding My Voice, Grad Student Recital Saturday, May 2 • 4 p.m.
H. F. Johnson Recital Hall
The Arts at Carthage acknowledges that the land on which our building stands is part of the traditional Potawatomi, Sioux, Peoria, Kickapoo, and Miami peoples past, present, and future. These homelands reside along the southwest shores of Michigami, North America’s largest system of freshwater lakes. We honor with gratitude the land itself, and the people who have stewarded it throughout the generations. Many Indigenous peoples thrive in this place—alive and strong, and this calls us to commit to continuing to learn how to be better stewards of the land we inhabit as well.