Million Dollar Quartet Program

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Rolling Green Village is proud to sponsor

WE ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT CENTRE STAGE!

We focus our experienced project management team on serving the needs of retail, restaurant, hospitality, healthcare, financial, industrial, and general office clients in the Carolinas and Florida, as well as residential clients in the Upstate. We keep our clients and their vision at the heart of all we do. It is built into our name — Forge ahead, together.

SPECIAL THANKS

BEVERLEY KENNETT AND JAMES SMITH

WHITTEN CHARITIABLE TRUST

Thank you to TJ Hills, Eliot Thomas, Erin Gill, Revel Event Center + Stone Pin Company, & more for their additional help on this production!

This program is funded in part by the Metropolitan Arts Council which receives support from the City of Greenville, BMW Manufacturing Company, SEW Eurodrive and the South Carolina Arts Commission.

This organization is funded in part by the South Carolina Arts Commission which receives support from the National Endowment for the Arts.

No flash photography permitted. Please silence all electronic devices including cellular phones and watches, and refrain from text messaging for the duration of the performance.

THE VIDEOTAPING OR MAKING OF ELECTRONIC OR OTHER AUDIO AND/OR VISUAL RECORDINGS OF THIS PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTING RECORDINGS OR STREAMS IN ANY MEDIUM, INCLUDING THE INTERNET, IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED, A VIOLATION OF THE AUTHOR(S)’S RIGHTS AND ACTIONABLE UNDER UNITED STATES COPYRIGHT LAW.

MESSAGEFROMEXECUTIVEARTISTICDIRECTOR

Dear Friends,

Welcome to Million Dollar Quartet a show that brings rock ‘n’ roll history roaring to life right here on the Centre Stage!

On December 4, 1956, an impromptu jam session at Sun Studio in Memphis united four rising legends: Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins. What followed was electric, unrepeatable, and iconic. Tonight, we invite you to step into that studio with us—to experience the heart, soul, and swagger that shaped a generation.

This production marks the final show of our Season of Adventure a year that has taken us to new artistic heights and into thrilling new territory. We’re so proud to close it out with a musical celebration of bold choices and unforgettable collaborations. In September, we launch our Season of Connection, and we can’t wait to welcome you back for another year of powerful stories, inspiring performances, and shared moments.

Personally, I find Million Dollar Quartet especially inspiring. There’s something electric about witnessing iconic artists at the very beginning of their careers before the fame, before the certainty, just raw talent, passion, and possibility. It’s a reminder that greatness often begins in small rooms with big dreams, and that creative magic is born from connection, risk, and the joy of making something together.

We are especially grateful to Rolling Green Village for sponsoring this production. Their partnership and long-standing support help make evenings like this one possible.

Thank you for being part of the Centre Stage family. Rock on!

With heartfelt gratitude,

Book by Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux

Original Concept and Direction by Floyd Mutrux

Inspired by Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins

July 24-August 10, 2025 Thurs-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 3pm

Originally developed and produced by Relevant Theatricals, John Cossette Productions and Northern Lights, Inc. at the Goodman Theatre, Robert Falls, Artistic Director - Roche Shulfer, Executive Director and transferred to the Apollo Theatre, Chicago, IL, 2008 Produced by the Village Theatre, Issaquah, Washington, Robb Hunt, Producer - Steve Tompkins, Artistic Director, 2007 and Seaside Music Theater, Daytona Beach, FL, Tippin Davidson, Producer - Lester Malizia, Artistic Director, 2006

The videotaping or other video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.

Blue Suede Shoes

SONGCREDITS

(music by Carl L. Perkins; lyrics by Carl L. Perkins) © MPL Music Publishing Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission of Wren Music Co., o/b/o Carl Perkins Music Inc.

Real Wild Child

(music by John O'Keefe, John Greenan and Dave Owens; lyrics by John O'Keefe, John Greenan and Dave Owens) (MPL Music Publishing Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission of Wren Music Co.

Matchbox

(music by Carl L. Perkins; lyrics by Carl L. Perkins) © MPL Music Publishing Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission of Wren Music Co. o/b/o Carl Perkins Music Inc.

Who Do You Love?

(music by Ellas McDaniel; lyrics by Ellas McDaniel) © ARC Music Corp. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Folsom Prison Blues

(music by John R. Cash; lyrics by John R. Cash) Published by House of Cash, Inc. Administered by Bug Music Inc All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Fever

(music by Eddie Cooley and Johnny Davenport; lyrics by Eddie Cooley and Johnny Davenport) © Carlin America Music/Windswept Pacific Music Publishing. Published by Fort Knox Music, Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Memories Are Made of This (music by Terry Gilkyson, Richard Dehr and Frank Miller; lyrics by Terry Gilkyson, Richard Dehr and Frank Miller) © EMI Blackwood Music, Inc. (BMI) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

That's All Right

(music by Arthur Crudup; lyrics by Arthur Crudup) © 1947 (renewed). Unichappell Music Inc. (BMI) and Crudup Music (BMI). All rights administered by Unichappell Music Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Brown Eyed Handsome Man

(music by Chuck Berry; lyrics by Chuck Berry) © Arc Music Corp. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Down by the Riverside (Traditional; arranged by Chuck Mead), © Zoilink Music. All rights administered by Coburn Music. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Sixteen Tons

(music by Merle Travis; lyrics by Merle Travis) © Merle’s Girls Music. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

My Babe (music by Willie Dixon; lyrics by Willie Dixon) © Bug Music, Inc. o/b/o Hoochie Coochie Music (BMI). All right reserved. Used by permission.

Long Tall Sally

(music by Robert Blackwell, Enotris Johnson and Richard Penniman; lyrics by Robert Blackwell, Enotris Johnson and Richard Penniman) ©Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Peace in the Valley

(music by Thomas A Dorsey; lyrics by Thomas A Dorsey) © (renewed) 1939 Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp (BMI). All rights reserved. Used by permission.

I Walk the Line

(music by John R. Cash; lyrics by John R. Cash) Published by House of Cash, Inc. Administered by Bug Music Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

I Hear You Knocking

(music by Dave Bartholomew and Pearl King; lyrics by Dave Bartholomew and Pearl King) © EMI Unart Catalog Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Party

(music by Jessie Mae Robinson; lyrics by Jessie Mae Robinson) © MPL Music Publishing Inc All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Great Balls of Fire

(music by Otis Blackwell and Jack Hammer; lyrics by Otis Blackwell and Jack Hammer) © 1957 (renewed), Unichappell Music Inc. (BMI), Mijac Music (BMI), Chappell & Co., Inc. (ASCAP) and Mystical Light Music (ASCAP). All rights reserved on behalf of itself and Mijac Music, administered by Unichappell Music Inc. All rights reserved on behalf of itself and Mystical Light Music, administered by Chappell & Co., Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Down by the Riverside (Reprise)

Hound Dog

(music by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller; lyrics by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller) Published by Sony/ATV Songs LLC. Copyright 1953 Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC. All rights administered by Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, 8 Music Square West, Nashville TN 37203. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Ghost Riders

(music by Stan Jones; lyrics by Stan Jones) © MPL Music Publishing Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission Edwin H. Morris & Company.

See You Later Alligator

(music by Robert Guidry; lyrics by Robert Guidry) © Arc Music Corp. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On (music by Curly Williams; lyrics by Curly Williams) © 1997 N’Mani Entertainment Co. (ASCAP). All rights reserved. Used by permission.

THEJAMESANDBEVERLEYWHITTENCENTREFORTHE PERFORMINGARTS

A second facility located on Laurens Road honoring James and Beverley Whitten—beloved friends and generous supporters of Centre Stage.

This building will serve as a dedicated space for rehearsal, storage, and educational programming, operating alongside the downtown performance venue at 501 River Street. This expansion will enhance artistic opportunities and ensure greater accessibility for the community.

CLAIM YOUR SPOT IN CENTRE STAGE HISTORY!

Support the arts one hanger at a time.

With a $100 donation, you can sponsor a Z-rack or prop shelf in our brand-new Laurens Road building, helping us store and protect the costumes and props that bring our productions to life.

Each rack/shelf will proudly display the name of its donor—whether it’s your name, your business, or in honor of someone special.

Donate today and leave your mark behind the scenes.

Scan the QR Code below or stop by the lobby to reserve your spot!

CAST

Elizabeth Dyann
rdan Hanne
Brother Jay
Andy Lehman
Sam Phillips
Fluke
Nathan Day
Seay
erkins
Brandon Le
Johnny C
Phillip Rast
Jerry Lee Lewis
Paden Lipe
Elvis Presley

CAST OF CHARACTERS

Johnny Cash ...........................................................Brandon Ledford

Jerry Lee Lewis ................................................................Phillip Rast

Carl Perkins ........................................................................Jacob Seay

Elvis Presley ......................................................................Paden Lipe

Dyanne ....................................................................Elizabeth Turner

Sam Phillips .................................................................Andy Lehman

Brother Jay ..................................................................Jordan Hanner

Fluke ..................................................................................Nathan Day

On December 4, 1956

Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Elvis Presley played together for the first and only time, and became the Million Dollar Quartet

There will be one 15-minute intermission

PRODUCTIONTEAM

Connor Vetter Director
Wesley Hix Musical Director
Samantha E Stage Mana
Colin Moroney
Set Designer
p g
Jonathan Wiley
Lighting Designer
Asst. Stage Manager
Eric Mills
Audio Engineer
Jordan Heidler
Scenic Artist
Jacquelyn Roark Light Board Operator
Christian Vega Spot Light Operator
Samael Lazarus
Spot Light Operator

PRODUCTION TEAM

Director ........................................................................Connor Vetter

Musical Director ..............................................................Wesley Hix

Stage Manager .........................................................Samantha Eyler

Assistant Stage Manager .........................................Colin Moroney

Set Designer ...............................................................Laura Nicholas

Costume Designer .................................................................Erin Gill

Props Designer & Set Dresser .............................Evelyn LeTeshia

Lighting Designer ....................................................Jonathan Wiley

Audio Engineer ....................................................................Eric Mills

Scenic Artist ................................................................Jordan Heidler

Light Board Operator .............................................Jacquelyn Roark

Spot Light Operator ..................................................Christian Vega Samael Lazarus

STAFF

CASTBIOS

Nathan Day (Fluke) is thrilled to take on the role of Fluke the Drummer in Million Dollar Quartet with Centre Stage! A passionate and dynamic life-long percussionist, Nathan has most recently performed in local productions such as Come Fly With Me and A Honky Tonk Christmas (Mill Town Players), as well as Newsies (Southern Wesleyan University). With a love for rhythm, rhyme, and rock'n'roll, Nathan is jazzed to be part of such a swingin’ show and thanks the incredible cast, crew, and audience for making it all possible!

Jordan Hanner (Jay Perkins) is a 32 year old resident of Greenville, South Carolina who works by day as a humble mailman. By night, he is proud to regularly take part in theater productions at Centre Stage and other theater venues across the upstate. He studied double bass and bass guitar at Southern Wesleyan University, which he uses to specialize in pit orchestra and character-musician roles. Jordan is happy to reprise his role of Brother Jay (Whom he also portrayed in 2016), making him the sole representation of the character in the upstate that he is aware of. Apart from theater, Jordan enjoys creating music, learning about history, and cats.

Andy Lehman (Sam Phillips) lives in Simpsonville, SC with his wife Becca and two kids (ages 7 and 8). Eight years ago this summer he played Sam in Centre Stage’s 2017 production of Million Dollar Quartet. The chance to relive the magic was too much to pass up, so he threw his name in the ring to play Sam again in this year’s production. By day, he manages an investment fund as well as some other entrepreneurial endeavors. Most nights (when not doing a play) he enjoys spending time with family and friends. He attends Fellowship Greenville and has a deep appreciation for Jesus’ gift of salvation. He wholeheartedly embraces the belief that the Gospel of Jesus truly changes everything, and has a desire for people in the theater community to see in him someone who loves, respects, and appreciates them, no matter where they are in their life’s journey.

Brandon Ledford (Johnny Cash) is thrilled to be making his Centre Stage debut as Johnny Cash. Being a lifelong Johnny Cash fan, he is honored to be performing these beloved songs and sharing this special story. Some of his most notable credits include Prince Eric in The Little Mermaid (Mauldin Cultural Center), Prince Topher in Cinderella (Spartanburg Little Theater), and Anthony Marston in And Then There Were None (Mill Town Players). Some other projects you may have seen him in include Ensemble in Sweeney Todd (Mauldin Cultural Center) and Deputy Johnson & Others in Bonnie & Clyde (Mill Town Players). He would like to honor the immense talent of his fellow cast mates, and thank his family as well as his lovely partner Asia Hopwood for their never-ending support!

Paden Lipe (Elvis Presley), a North Greenville graduate, is honored to be making his Centre Stage debut after recently moving back to the US from Guatemala. While in Guatemala, he and his wife started a theatre company and education program. Recent credits: Beast in Beauty & The Beast (Bilingsley Theatre), Jervis in Daddy Long Legs (Bilingsley Theatre), Tony Kirby Jr. in You Can’t Take It With You (Bilingsley Theatre), Laurie in Little Women (GAPA), Aslan in The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe (GAPA), and Lumiere in Beauty & The Beast (GAPA).

Thank you to my biggest inspirations: my wife, Allison and daughter, Bobbi. This performance is dedicated to the life and legacy of Elvis Presley. T.C.B.

Phillip Rast (Jerry Lee Lewis) is a graduate of Coastal Carolina University, where he received his B.F.A. in Musical Theatre in 2018. This is Phillip’s first production with Centre Stage! He was most recently seen in Mauldin Theatre Company’s The Last Five Years and has directed multiple productions at Clemson Little Theatre. His professional credits include Barter Theatre, The Greenbrier Resort, the Hudson Valley International Festival of the Voice, and The Lost Colony. Phillip currently serves as the Creative Producer for NewSpring Church and is the host of the Narrow Way to Broadway podcast (@nwaybway).

To Dad, Mom, Gracelyn, and Mimi this one’s for you. Thank you for all the years of listening to me bang on the piano at home.

- Psalm 13:6

Jacob Seay (Carl Perkins) is thrilled to be rocking out with this incredible cast of actor-musicians and to be making live music onstage once again! Centre Stage audiences may remember him from Waitress (Earl), Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story (Buddy Holly), Once (Andrej), and Rockin’ Boots (Performer). Other favorite credits include Tick, Tick…Boom! (Jon) at Market Theatre, Escape to Margaritaville (Tully) at Greenville Theatre, A Chorus Line (Zach) at Mauldin Cultural Center, and The Great Gatsby (Nick Carraway) at Spartanburg Little Theatre. Endless thanks to his favorite show buddy, Elizabeth, for putting up with him through their fourth production together, and to Baba, Mom, and Dad for filling his childhood with the very music he now gets to share onstage in this production.

Elizabeth Turner (Dyanne) This is Elizabeth’s debut performance at Centre Stage. Being a Spartanburg native, she loves doing theatre all around the upstate. She has a BA in Theatre Performance from USC-Columbia. Recent credits include Wednesday in The Addams Family (SLT), Pam in The Full Monty (SLT), Heather/Ensemble in Escape to Margaritaville (GT), Dainty June in Gypsy (TLT), and Emily Arden in State Fair (TLT). She is very grateful for this journey and all of the loving people who support her.

PRODUCTION BIOS

Samantha Eyler (Stage Manager) has been working as both a performer and technician for over a decade. After graduating from Marywood University with a BA in Musical Theatre, she worked with several regional theatres throughout the East Coast and Midwest before settling here in Greenville.

Previous local performances: Paulette in LEGALLY BLONDE at Centre Stage, Bea in SOMETHING ROTTEN at Greenville Theatre, Ensemble and Lovett U/S in SWEENEY TODD at Mauldin Theatre and Dragon/Gingy in SHREK at The Market Theatre.

Previous local technical work: Stage Management for BUDDY:THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY, MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET, and 9 TO 5, at Centre Stage, and CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY at Greenville Theatre. Costume Designs for LEGALLY BLONDE at Hendersonville Theatre, TREASURE ISLAND at The Montford Park Players, CHARLOTTE'S WEB at The South Carolina Children's Theatre, ONCE at Centre Stage, and NUNSENSE at Hendersonville Theatre.

Erin Gill (Costume Designer) is a designer, director, theatre artist, and educator based in the Upstate. She has had the privilege of working with theatre artists, students, and teachers throughout South Carolina for more than a decade in public schools, community spaces, and state organizations. Erin earned a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from Winthrop University, and a Masters of Fine Arts in Theatre Education from Mississippi University for Women. Erin is a drama instructor at the South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities and works as a costume designer and director throughout the upstate in educational, community, and regional theaters. She also serves as a board member for the South Carolina Theatre Association. Erin’s work, focusing on inclusion and creativity, is guided by the belief that theatre should be accessible and celebrated as an art form that is a vehicle for self discovery and community.

Jordan Heidler (Scenic Artist) received his artistic training through a rigorous Atelier-style education in Classical Realism at The Schuler School of Fine Arts in Baltimore, Maryland. He moved to Greenville in 2018 and quickly fell in love with its vibrant Arts community. He has been a practicing Fine Artist for over a decade, creating hundreds of original watercolor works. In addition to Scenic Painting, Jordan continues to take on a wide variety of commission work as well as participating in many local exhibitions, including being a featured presenter for Greenville Center for the Creative Arts upcoming ArtBash, Artsphere’s Artists of the Upstate, and Warehouse Theatre’s SeasonArt Series.

Wesley Hix (Musical Director) is thrilled to serve as music director for Million Dollar Quartet. His most recent musical adventure was composing original music and serving as music director for Alice at South Carolina Children’s Theatre. Other past productions include Junie B. Jones The Musical (Music Director) (SCCT) and ROCKIN’ BOOTS (Music Director; guitar, mandolin) (Centre Stage). Endless thanks to his wife, Kathryn, and child, Vi, for their unwavering love and support.

Samael Lazarus (Spot Light Operator) (he/they) is a theatre artist pursuing his passion for storytelling in the local community. He has experience in varied roles both onstage and backstage, and views every moment within the theatrical process as a chance to truly make magic through art.

Some recent technical credits include Spotlight Operator for Cabaret (Centre Stage), Backstage Crew in Peter and the Starcatcher (Centre Stage) and Set Constructor (Bob Jones University and Upstate Shakespeare Festival).

Samael would like to thank his chosen family for their treasured love and support.

Evelyn LeTeshia (Props Designer & Set Dresser) A South Carolina native, Evelyn LeTeshia is a well established actress & vocalist with credits in film, television, & theater! She’s also an Entertainment Freelancer in production roles through her independent business Evelyn LeTeshia LLC.

Evelyn has production credits at Mad River Theater Works, Mauldin Theatre Company, Glow Lyric Theatre, Inkwell Pictures, Mill Town Players, & Centre Stage in roles as Director, Stage Manager, Props Master, Costume Designer, Costume Coordinator, Sound Designer, & Set Dresser.

Recent work at Centre Stage includes Meghan Reimers’s Murder, Plain and Simple serving as Props Master & Set Dresser. For Million Dollar Quartet, she serves in the same capacity.

Evelyn’s drive & ambition for entertaining is a great passion in life, and she enjoys sharing it with others! Allow her to breathe new life, excitement, and/or adventure into your project with her professionalism, ability to take direction, & superb attention to detail! Evelyn LeTeshia is readily excited with every new opportunity & looks forward to future endeavors!

Eric Mills (Audio Engineer) Past Centre Stage Productions: The Color Purple; Ain't Misbehavin'; Buddy; Beautiful. Eric is a native of Montclair, NJ, but has spent the past 20 years in South Carolina where his love for music and the arts continues to flourish. After years of engineering sound for live music events and studio productions, he eventually crossed over into theater and Million Dollar Quartet is his fifth production at Centre Stage. He is an artist, musician, outdoorsman, and a hard

working, but only mildly successful gardener. He is grateful for the support of his incredible wife Megan and the opportunity to be working with an amazingly cool team on Million Dollar Quartet.

Colin Moroney (Assistant Stage Manager) is a student at Clemson University currently studying Performing Arts with an emphasis in Lighting Design and Stage Management. Credits include: Light Board Operator for Waitress (Centre Stage), Lighting Designer for Hadestown: Teen Edition (GCS All County), Lighting Designer for The Earth is Flat (Clemson University).

Laura Nicholas (Set Designer) see more in Staff Bios.

Jacquelyn Roark (Light Board Operator) has been studying Design and Production for three years now with the Fine Arts Center. She was most recently seen working as a Co-Lighting Designer for Hadestown Teen (Greenville County Schools), and shadowing Matt Leckenbusch at Don Quixote (Peace Center). Jacquelyn is incredibly grateful for this amazing opportunity, and would like to thank the rest of the amazing cast and crew for the hard work and passion they put into this show.

Christian Vega (Spot Light Operator) is an emerging actor and dedicated theatre artist with a BA in Performing Arts – Theatre and a minor in Communications from Newberry College. He has trained in audition techniques and agency preparation with Casting Call Inc. under Conner Weil and Kate Kreiger. Christian’s recent stage credits include Lead in Fat Pig (Newberry College), Somebody to Love (Newberry College), and The Old Desolate Road (Greer High School). He has also explored voice acting with lead roles in The Last Five Years (Newberry College) and Shapeless: Origins (Vivlo Studios). In addition to his stage work, Christian appeared as a background actor in the series Outer Banks (Netflix). While currently serving as the spotlight operator for this production, he continues to pursue every opportunity to grow as a performer. Christian is driven by a love for storytelling and a passion for bringing characters to life on stage and screen.

Connor Vetter (Director) is a South Carolina-based theatre artist. She graduated from Wofford College in 2014 with a BA in Theatre and studied acting at the Moscow Art Theatre School under master teachers Sergey Zemtsov and Igor Zolotovitskiy. Connor works throughout the Upstate as an actor, director, and acting coach, and has collaborated with many theatres, including South Carolina Children’s Theatre, Centre Stage, and the Warehouse Theatre. She is a full-time faculty member in the Drama Department at the South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities, where she teaches acting, devising, and creative movement.

Jonathan Wiley (Lighting Designer) brings with him a decade of professional experience in technical directing, project management, and entertainment design. With a dynamic background ranging from Broadway first national tours to construction projects across the globe, his experience is well-rounded and diverse. He has a passion for innovation and creativity that resonates through every project he undertakes. He is a former Disney Imagineer and a proud graduate of the University of South Carolina Upstate. Recent work includes lighting design for The Winter Wonderettes (Center Stage South Carolina) and Cendrillon: A Cinderella Opera (Converse University), as well as serving as Master Electrician and Programmer for Don Quixote (International Ballet).

AUTHORBIOS

Colin Escott Born in England, Colin Escott lives near Nashville, Tennessee. He is the author of Good Rockin’ Tonight: Sun Records and the Birth of Rock ‘n’ Roll, the first indepth account of the Sun Records story. His book Hank Williams – The Biography has been adapted into the movie I Saw the Light, starring Tom Hiddleston and Elizabeth Olsen. His multi-CD box set, The Complete Hank Williams, won a Grammy, and another of his productions, B.B. King – King of the Blues, was nominated for a Grammy. Million Dollar Quartet received three Tony nominations, including Best Book and Best Musical. Escott was part of the writing/producing team adapting the show for CMT/Viacom. The first season aired in 2016.

Floyd Mutrux apprenticed at the Alley Theatre in Houston and worked at Second City in Chicago; he attended Columbia University. He has conceived, written, directed, or produced 50 films, including Dusty and Sweets McGee; Freebie and the Bean; Aloha, Bobby and Rose; The Hollywood Knights; American Hot Wax; Dick Tracy; American Me; Blood In, Blood Out; There Goes My Baby; and Mulholland Falls. With his wife Birgitte, he is preparing a new film Moon Over Memphis (a rock-and-roll Field of Dreams.) He also cowrote the musical Baby It’s You! With Colin Escott and helped adapt Sun Records, the new television series based on Million Dollar Quartet. Million Dollar Quartet received three Tony Award nominations in 2010, including best book and best musical.

STAFFBIOS

Laura Nicholas (Managing Artistic Director) brings a dynamic blend of artistic vision and leadership to Centre Stage, where she serves as Managing Artistic Director. A recipient of the prestigious 40 Under 40 award, she is recognized for her impact on the arts and her dedication to cultivating a thriving cultural community. She holds an MFA in Directing and has extensive experience in both directing and set design, with a particular focus on creating innovative work for the thrust stage.

Under her leadership, Centre Stage has continued its multi-decade tradition of the New Play Festival, championing new work by artists from across the country, and the Fringe Festival, producing smaller, socially resonant works. She has also led the theatre in acquiring multiple new works for the mainstage season, including several regional premieres—expanding the company’s artistic reach and impact.

Directing credits at Centre Stage include Next to Normal, Singin’ in the Rain, Clue: On Stage, and My Way: A Tribute to Frank Sinatra.

Some of her favorite set design credits include Cabaret, Rockin’ Boots, Legally Blonde, and Fences.

As always, Laura is thankful for the opportunity to work alongside the incredible local artists both on staff and by production who bring these stories to life.

TJ Hills (Technical Director) was born in Decatur Illinois but had the opportunity to live in five different states by the time he graduated high school. After high school he moved back to Atlanta to pursue a degree in aviation. While in Atlanta, he served as a production technician, sound engineer and broadcast director with Northpoint Ministries and a few of their strategic partners around the Atlanta area. TJ calls the south home and lived in Atlanta for many years before moving to Greenville with his wife and two children. TJ has always loved live show production and is excited to turn his passion into a career with Centre Stage.

Jenny Bennett (Patron Services Manager) was born in Murray, KY and relocated to Greenville with her husband and 2 children in 2006. She has a BA in Business from Murray State University. She began working with local theatres several years ago costuming shows that her children were in and found a real passion for all things theatre related. At Centre Stage she has found a place that combines both her customer service and management experience with her love of theatre. She hopes to see you at a show soon!

Samantha Jemmott (Production Manager) has been working as both a performer and technician for over a decade. After graduating from Marywood University with a BA in Musical Theatre, she worked with several regional theatres throughout the East Coast and Midwest. Previous Centre Stage work includes Stage Management for BUDDY: THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY, MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET, and 9 TO 5, and Performing as Paulette in LEGALLY BLONDE. Other local credits include: Stage Managing: ASM for MS. HOLMES AND MS. WATSON (Warehouse), SM for CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY (Greenville), SM for SORDID LIVES (Proud Mary); Performing: Lucinda in INTO THE WOODS (Greenville), Lauren in KINKY BOOTS (Proud Mary), Bea in SOMETHING ROTTEN (Greenville), Dragon and Gingy in SHREK (Market) and The Witch in INTO THE WOODS (Market); Costume Designs: LEGALLY BLONDE (Hendersonville), TREASURE ISLAND (Montford Park Players), CHARLOTTE’S WEB (South Carolina Children’s Theatre), ONCE (Centre Stage), and NUNSENSE (Hendersonville).

Samantha Cole (Marketing & Engagement Manager) is a creative professional passionate about storytelling, design, and the performing arts. With a diverse background in multimedia marketing, costuming, and theatrical production, she thrives at the intersection of creativity and organization. Previous Centre Stage work includes Stage Manager for Murder, Plain and Simple; Costume Designer for PETER AND THE STARCATCHER and ROCKIN’ BOOTS. Before joining Centre Stage, Samantha worked in multimedia marketing, brand development, and content creation, helping businesses craft compelling narratives through digital media.

Samantha holds a BA in Theatre Arts, Theatre Performance from Appalachian State University and is currently pursuing an MBA in Digital Brand Communications at Clemson University. When not working at Centre Stage, she is a fiber artist, avid reader, dog mom, & tattoo lover.

SEASON SPONSORS

CENTRESTAGEPARTNERS

As of July 17, 2025

Ruby Partner ($15,000+)

Beverley Kennett and James

Smith Whitten Charitable Trust

Hughes Investments

Mary Ireland Murphy Estate

Metropolitan Arts Council

South Carolina Arts Commission

The Shubert Foundation

WineHouse

Producing Partner

($10,000 - $14,999)

AFL Global

City of Greenville

Daniel-Mickel Foundation

Maynard Nexsen

Rolling Green Village

Presenting Partner

($5,000 - $9,999)

Community Foundation

Community Journals

First Citizens Bank

Greenville County

Directing Partner

($2,500 - $4,999)

Bradshaw, Gordon, & Clinkscales

Courtyard Marriott of Downtown

Greenville

Forge Construction

Pam & Lee Foster

Peabody Foundation

Spotlight Partner

($1000 - $2,499)

Bob Dibella & Carol Savage

Bonnie Jilek

David & Ginny Hoppenworth

Elizabeth Ann Hayes

Hart Tools

Helen Maish

Jake Cluverius

Joe & Ann Jennings

Nason Accounting LLC

Rebecca & Doug Donivan

Sandra Holmes

Backstage Partner

($500 - $999)

Industry Event Rentals

Jaime & Susan Cruz

Michael & Robin Aleksinas

Mr Stephen Bell

Patricia S Shufeldt

Westin Poinsett

Offstage Partner

($100 - $499)

A J Jester

Albert Wargo

Alton Ferguson

Amy Hartman

Anne Risdon

Art Young & Donna Reiss

Mrs. Barbara Murray

Bernardine Atkins

CENTRE STAGE PARTNERS

As of July 17, 2025

Berry & Julie Garrett

Berry & Richard Zander

Bev & Bob Howard

BJ Koonce

Bob Morris

Carol Bollenback

Cecile Workman

Chris Wiggins

Colin & Lynda Sayer

Cynthia Gibson

David Guzman

Derek Enderlin

Diane Doolittle

Diane W Dalbo

Dr Michael Morrow-Fox

Dr. Glen Halva-Neubauer

Duncan Kennedy

Elizabeth A. Cazel

Elizabeth Jordan

Ellie & John Mioduski

George Hammond

Gower Gardeners

Jill Vales

John & Sylvia Peters

John Brock

John Cuturilo

John Fagan & Jack Ashton

Janice Mcneal

John Bissell & Jane Chambers

John Polo

Judy Dowell

Karen Traxler

Katharine Williams

Kathleen Sargent

Kenneth Drake

Kevin & Julie Treu

Kim Holbrooks

Kristen Scroeder

Leon & Irene Friedman

Lillian Keeling

Linda & Randy Foshee

Lori Morton

Martha Team

Matt & Carol Carson

Matthew and Elsbeth Chaney

Merrily Anderson

Michael Lackey

Mr Walker Birdsong

Pat Garren

Patricia Rodgers

Patti Bacon

Pearlie Harris

Peggy & Larry Comereski

Randall Garriott

Randy Whitworth

Rebecca Schmale

Richard Rhame

Richard Yoesting

Robert Head

Robert & Bobbie Cancelliere

Ronald LaMascus

Sam Frenkel

Ms. Sandra Sanderson

Sharon Hickman

Spence Turner

Stanley Crowe

Dr. Stephen Creager

Mr. Stephen Luck

Taylor Roy

Terry & Ginny Botruff

Van & Melinda Matthews

Vicky Anthony

Mr. Walker Birdsong

Walter Burgess

Mr. William Bryant

Bakery Off Augusta

Domino’s Pizza

Leopard Forest Coffee

McPhail Animal Hospital

Women’s Club of Greenville

SUPPORT CENTRE STAGE

Your donations not only fill community needs, but they also ensure the continued success of Centre Stage. While we realize there are so many worthy causes to donate to, we would appreciate anything you are able to give.

No gift is too small!

By donating to the theatre, you make a REAL IMPACT on our excellent, year-round programming. Your investment goes directly to:

Cast fees for over 250 local artists and crew members

Rights & Royalties Fees

Set Building Materials

Production Design Fees

Costumes

Marketing & Print materials

Musical Tracks

Equipment Rentals

Staffing Needs

Visiting Artists

ABOUTCENTRESTAGE

Mission

Centre Stage’s mission is to captivate audiences through diverse programming, cultivate local artistry, and inspire community collaboration.

History

Founded in 1983, by Douglas P. McCoy (1937-2005), Centre Stage is a year-round, 285-seat regional theater offering a wide range of entertainment within easy walking distance of historic Falls Park and the many shops and restaurants that line downtown Greenville’s Main Street corridor. Augmenting its subscription season of music, comedy, and drama, the theater also hosts art exhibitions and other special events inside the performance facility noted for its unique configuration, comfort and intimacy.

Affiliations

Theatre Communications Group (TCG)

The National Organization of the American Theatre

The South Carolina Arts Commission

The Metropolitan Arts Council

The Greater Greenville Chamber of Commerce

The Downtown Merchant Association

The Dramatists Guild

The Greenville Convention and Visitors Bureau

The South Carolina Theatre Association

South Carolina Association of Nonprofit Organizations (SCANPO)

Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC)

The South Carolina Arts Alliance

BOARDOFDIRECTORS

Adam Jennings

Taylor Roy

Sharon Hickman

James Starks

Christy Ashkettle

Officers

President

Vice President

Secretary

Treasurer

Past President

Board Members

Deb Peabody, Sarah DuBose, Grace Hartley, Liz Jordan, Kristi

Parker Byers, Lillian Keeling, Darath Mackie, Rebecca Schmale

Past Presidents

Christy Ashkettle

Nolan Merritt

Harriet Wallace

Pam Foster

Catherine Stoddard

Mike Chengrian

Jack Ashton

Cindy Brothers

Tim Baiden

Steven D. Bichel

Claude W. Blakely

Margaret Brockman

Catherine C. Christophillis

Marshall F. Clarke

Charles M. Groves

Barbara Hackett

Michael H. Hawley

Michael R. Hoffman, MD

Kathleen P. Jennings

Ruth A. Nicholson

James A. Pierce, III

Michael Richardson

Louie Sagedy

Rowena Buffett Timms

William S. Wilder

Robert A. Wilson, MD

In Memoriam

Douglas P. McCoy

Founding Executive/ Artistic Director 1937 - 2005

Claude Blakely

Founding Administrative Director 1942 - 2022

First

2025-2026SEASON

Sept 11-28, 2025 Nov 20-22, 2025 Dec 4-21, 2025

Mar 19-Apr 4 2026 May 7-24, 2026 June 25-July 12, 2026 Aug 6-23, 2026

Jan 15-18, 2026

Jan 29-Feb 1, 2026 Feb 12-15, 2026

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Million Dollar Quartet Program by Centre Stage - Issuu