September 7, 2025 • Playhouse Square
Shining Star CLE is an inclusive singing competition showcasing the best of Northeast Ohio’s talented teens. Music plays a vital role in uniting communities and fostering shared experiences. Funds raised through this event allow us to both grow creative youth programming and enhance aging-in-place senior services.
Whether on the page, on the screen, on the stage, or anywhere else, art brings life to life. KeyBank is grateful for the passion and creativity that inspire and enrich all our lives, and we’re proud to support the arts across our communities. That's why we'reproudtosupport Shining Star CLE, a signatureprogram of Mandel JCC.
KeyBankcongratulatesallofthisyear's finalists!
Good evening friends,
Welcome to the 9th Annual Shining Star CLE Finals! We are excited to share this special night with all of you.
It means so much that you’ve chosen to spend your evening with us. Tonight, we not only celebrate incredible talent, but also the power of community and the generosity of spirit that each of you bring to this room.
To KeyBank our Event Sponsor, Glenmede, Monica Robins – WKYC, Cleveland Jewish News and many others who have been with the event from its inception, thank you. We are also thrilled to welcome new sponsors and partygoers each year.
On behalf of Mandel JCC and the thousands of individuals and families we serve, thank you. Your support this evening helps us continue o ering programs and services that build connections, strengthen bonds, and create opportunities across Northeast Ohio.
Shining Star CLE is more than a competition. Just as Mandel JCC brings people together every single day—creating a place where friendships form, ideas are shared, and lives are enriched—Shining Star CLE does the very same. It unites people from all walks of life and from 10 counties across the region, coming together to support teenage aspirations and dreams, while raising funds to enhance youth and senior programs at The J.
To our amazing Shining Star CLE co-chairs, our generous sponsors, our hardworking sta —and to each of you, our guests—thank you for being an essential part of this evening. Because of your presence and support, tonight promises to be a celebration of both extraordinary talent and the vibrant spirit of our community
So, sit back, relax, and enjoy an evening lled with talent, joy, and connection. We’re so glad you’re here.
With gratitude,
Bruce Rosenbaum Board Chair
Jesse Rosen President and CEO
Good evening,
Welcome to the ninth annual Shining Star CLE! We are thrilled to have you with us for this very special evening.
A heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsors, dedicated ticketholders, and incredibly talented Finalists, we are deeply grateful to each of you for making this evening possible. To KeyBank, our Event Sponsor, Glenmede, and to WKYC Studios and Monica Robins: your unwavering support of Shining Star CLE from the very beginning continues to light the way and make this event shine brighter every year.
To our esteemed judges, Jordan Matthew Brown, Mary Bridget Davies, Ben Fankhauser, Carl Topilow, and Mariama Whyte, we are honored to have your wisdom, talent, and dedication supporting our Finalists. Thank you for lending your expertise to this remarkable evening.
The journey to tonight’s Finals began months ago, as teens from across 10 Northeast Ohio counties submitted audition videos. We received 160 video submissions representing 75 high schools. With guidance, we narrowed the talent to 25 Semi nalists, and now to tonight’s Top 10 (plus 2 alternates), who will take the stage and share their gifts with all of us.
This evening, our celebrity judges will help select the top four nalists, and then YOU, as part of the audience, will vote along with them to determine the winners. A total of $18,500 in scholarships will be awarded, and $2,500 will be donated to the winner’s high school music program. The winner will be invited to perform with the Cleveland Pops Orchestra, and they will also receive a one-year Mandel JCC membership.
Shining Star CLE changes lives for the participants and for our community. Music has the power to unite us, to tell stories, and to create shared experiences. Proceeds from this event help us grow creative youth programming like the Mandel JCC’s Playmakers Youth Theatre program and expand aging-in-place services for seniors like our Lunch Plus program serving our most vulnerable seniors.
A very special thank you to the Shining Star CLE fundraising and event committee, Artistic Director Connor Bogart O’Brien and the Mandel JCC Philanthropy and Marketing teams. Your passion and hard work made this another spectacular year.
We know our Shining Stars will truly amaze you tonight. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this one-of-akind, inspiring event.
Thank you for being here with us.
Rachel and Raphael Glickman
Michelle and Evan Hirsch
Jennifer and Rob Reznick
Sharon and Bruce Rosenbaum
Marti and Je Davis
Larry Mack
Judy and Steven Willensky
“This is Me” - Shining Star CLE Finalists
Welcome to Shining Star CLE 2025.......................................................Monica Robins
KeyBank Remarks............................................................................................Eric Fiala
Chief Corporate Responsibility O cer, KeyBank and CEO, KeyBank Foundation, KeyBank, Event Sponsor
Finalists Perform
Roman Kline-Bossman / I’m Alive
Anna Pastirik / Wait a Bit
Ananya Yadati / Fallin’
Henry Dyck / For Her
Tatiaunna Hope / Killing Me Softly
Abby Becker / What Remains
Caroline McKendry / Creep
Lizzy Noall / I Have Con dence
Katherine Thiele / I Will Always Love You
Dajeun Dickerson / A Song for You
Mandel JCC Remarks.......................
Jesse Rosen, President and CEO
The Mandel JCC Playmakers Youth Theatre Performance “Something About This Night”
Top Four Finalists Revealed....................................................................Monica
Audience Voting
The J’s Many Stories
Alternates Perform
Miriam Patton and Charlotte Speyer / For Good
Presentation of Check..........................Larry Mack, Mandel JCC Honorary Trustee for Life
Bruce Rosenbaum, Mandel JCC Board Chair
Jesse Rosen, President and CEO
KeyBank
ENCORE SPONSOR
Anonymous
Cleveland Jewish News
Glenmede Trust Co., N.A.
Lisa & Richard Immerman
Susi & Peter Meisel
SCHOLARSHIP FUND SPONSOR
Jodi & Joel Adelman and Terry & Sheldon Adelman Benesch
Marti & Jeff Davis
Corinne L. Dodero Foundation for the Arts & Sciences
Rochelle & Harley Gross
Immerman Family
Larry Mack
Precious Cargo Trailways
Mr. and Mrs. Albert and Audrey Ratner
Sara & Daniel Solomon
Amy & Mike Southard
Jennifer & Neil Tramer
Penni & Stephen Weinberg
Judy & Steven Willensky
Sandy & Tim Wuliger
Ellen & Dan Zelman
Linda Angart
Brennan Heating & Cooling
Brunswick Companies
Debra & Kenneth Cohen
Cuyahoga Community College
EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants
Becky & David Heller
Huntington Bank
Shari & Marc Jacobson
Jones Day
Meisel & Pesses Families
Menorah Park Foundation
Cynthia & Keith Polster and Cecelia Polster
Loree & Steve Potash
Sharon & Bruce Rosenbaum
Kyla & Mitchell Schneider
Adrienne & Harvey Siegel
Singerman, Mills, Desberg & Kauntz Co., L.P.A.
UBS Financial Services
William M. Weiss Foundation
Danielle & Jeffrey Wild
Anonymous
Adcom
Alson Jewelers
Bialosky
Brandstetter Carroll, Inc.
Mindy & Martin Davidson
Barbara & Barry Epstein
Sharon & Bruce Epstein
Feldman-Wehn Family
Irving and Gloria Fine Foundation
Debbie Garson
Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, LLP
Sandra & Martin Horwitz
Kaye Family
Terri & Stuart Kline
Noreen Koppelman-Goldstein & Barry Golobo
Shelly & Scott Lewis
Lynne & Phil Cohen, Marty Marcus and Shelley & Greg Marcus
Gayle & Je Marks
Gauri & Jay Masurekar
Mt. Sinai Health Foundation
ORG
Jody & Dr. Tod Podl
Cindy & Scott Polster
Jesse Rosen & Debi Gilboa
Enid & David Rosenberg
Aliki & Peter Rzepka
Judith & Dr. Donald Schermer
Karin F. Schleifer
Drs. Marcy Schwartz & Daniel Simon
Jessica & Alan Semel
Cheri & Neal Shapero
Shani & Scott Spiegle
Cathy & Dr. Jonathan Stamler
Taft
UB Greensfelder LLP
Sally & Stanley Wertheim
A tribute to Rachel & Ra Glickman for a job well done.
Bruce Rosenbaum, Chair
Susan Borison, Vice Chair
Robert Marks, Vice Chair
Cheri Shapero, Vice Chair
Chris De Cicco
Larissa Elgudin
Barry Feldman
Lydia Yomtovian Frankel
Rachel Glickman
James Goldsmith
Evan Hirsch
Sandy Laserson
Eliana LeVine
Mindy Davidson
Marc Freimuth
Brent Grover
Earl Leiken
Scott Spiegle, Vice Chair
Heidi Perla, Treasurer
Michael Goulder, Assistant Treasurer
Loren Chylla, Secretary
Kelly Millstone, Assistant Secretary
Ryan Levine
Shelly Lewis
Jori Mintz
Jeremy Paris
Tod Podl
Jen Reznick
Sarah Sager
Karin Schleifer
Steve Shore
Harvey Siegel
Daniel Solomon
Danny Spitz
Alyssa Stein
Elizabeth Sunshine
Rachel Weinberg
Beth Weiner
Michael Peterman
Enid Rosenberg
Peter Rzepka
Alan Semel
Larry Mack
Greg Marcus
Keith Polster
Bill Schonberg
Hilda Fagan
Max Friedman
George Goulder
Alvin Gray
David Guralnik
Myron Guren
Harold Klarreich
Julie Kravitz
Jeanne Tobin
Neil Tramer
Peggy Wasserstrom
Arthur Weisman
Neil Tramer
Morton Mandel
Gordon Safran
Ernest Sigler
Darrell Young
As of 8/6/2025
($500+)
All For You Janitorial, Inc.
Fran & Jules Belkin
Elaine Bercu
Marsha & Alec Berezin
Bossman Family and Friends
Amy & Eric Carlson
Civista Bank
Davis Auto Group
Lois Davis
Elon University
Famous Enterprises
Nancy & James Goldsmith
Binnie Gun & Brian M Eisenberg
Hawken School
ICU Security Solutions
Impulitti Landscaping LLC
Joey Laidman
Lakeside Wealth Management
Group of Wells Fargo
Brad Harte, Arthur Weisman & Mitchell Frankel
Sandy & Steve Laserson
LJI Collision Center
Janisse Nagel & Ken Marblestone
Laurie & Robert Marks
Emily & Katherine Martin
McKendry Family
Jori & Lowell Mintz
Neptune Plumbing
Noall Family
Northeast Surgical Wound Care
Hermine & David Ostro
Jennifer & Rob Reznick
Jamie & Je Rindsberg
Cantor Sarah Sager
Saltzman Family
Lisa & William Schonberg
Sneiderman Law Firm
Alyssa & Evan Stein
Eileen Sill and Shari & Michael Perlmuter
Thiele Family
Jeanne & Jordan Tobin
Ursuline College
Emily & Seth Vilensky and Family
Margo Vinney & Dr. Je rey Chaito
Walt Kucharski Septic Service, Inc.
Peggy Wasserstrom
Gail & Edward Weintraub
Jennifer & Arthur Weisman
Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging
($250-$499)
Beacon
Donald Bercu
Stacey & Adam Berebitsky
Susan & Daniel Borison
Heidi & Loren Chylla
Michelle Eisenberg
Electrical Innovations, LLC
Julie Gardner
Ellen Glickman & Harold Greenburg
Melanie & Andrew Halvorson
John Hostetler
Leikin Motor Companies
Mrs. Norma Lerner
Eliana LeVine & Scott Polster
Janet & Howard Mack
Mandel Jewish Community
Center of Cleveland Sta
Marc’s
Ruth Mardell & Jerry Kagan
Lisa Mariola
Katherine & Ross Myers
Meyers, Roman, Friedberg & Lewis
Sherry & Bob Miller
Jim Simler
Sirna & Sons Produce
Mary Ann Stropkay
Troyer Family
Beth Weiner
Yadati Family
Howard Epstein & Gregg Levine
Melissa & Je rey Klein
Doris Sopher
Ronna & Robert Zelwin
as of 8/27/25
We apologize for any errors or omissions.
are
The incredible talent and dedication of all the Finalists truly inspires us.
Each year, we are moved by the passion, talent, and heart of each and every one of you.
Your hard work and passion shine bright on and o the stage. Bravo!
Susi & Peter Meisel
The Mandel Jewish Community Center of Cleveland (The J) builds, connects and strengthens our Jewish and Greater Cleveland communities through exceptional lifelong programs and services that re ect the richness of Jewish life and enhance physical, intellectual and spiritual well-being.
For more than 75 years, The J has been more than a gym. It’s a cultural destination, and a place where rst steps are taken in our early childhood classrooms, where teens discover con dence and lifelong friendships in summer camps and where adults of every background come to strengthen their bodies, sharpen their minds, nurture their spirits and make new friendships.
Your support of Shining Star CLE fuels programs that transform lives— from inspiring a child’s rst love of learning to ensuring older adults stay active, engaged, and connected. Every dollar you contribute strengthens the bonds that hold our community together.
April 1-June 30, 2025
High school students with graduation dates of 2026-2029 from Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, Portage, Stark, Summit and Wayne counties were eligible to upload their video auditions.
Students had a maximum time limit of three minutes and the choice to perform one of their favorite songs with piano accompaniment, personal instrument usage or a capella.
A group of local music professionals reviewed online submissions from 160 students across 75 schools and selected the top performers to move on to the next round.
July 12-13, 2025
Ninety-one students participated in individual Zoom auditions, performing their songs live for a panel of music professionals. From these auditions, 25 students were selected to advance to the Semi nals.
August 3, 2025
Twenty- ve students spent the day at Mandel JCC working on their songs under the guidance of the judges, music director and Artistic Director. After auditions were completed, the judges selected the Top 10 Finalists and two alternates to advance to The Finals at Playhouse Square.
September 7, 2025
The Top 10 Finalists perform center stage at Playhouse Square! A multipiece band joins the students in the group and solo perfomances.
Finalists will be judged by independent, accomplished music professionals from all over the country who are quali ed in a wide variety of musical genres including, but not limited to, pop, R&B, classical, jazz and musical theatre. The judges select the Top 4 vocalists, then they will be asked to perform a nal time. Audience members, together with the judges, will vote for the winner of Shining Star CLE.
Abby Becker
Twinsburg High School
Addison Borders
Mastery School of Hawken
Allie Brewer
Hudson High School
Avery Carlisle
Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin High School
Julianne Choi
Revere High School
Parker Dansizen
Avon Lake High School
Dajeun Dickerson
Canton McKinley Senior High School
Henry Dyck
Cleveland Heights High School
Mariana Fuery
Lutheran High School West
Eliza Gonzales
Chagrin Falls High School
Owen Hill
Lakewood High School
Tatiaunna Hope
Cleveland School of the Arts
Thomas Hunt
Kenston High School
Jackson Kenny
Saint Ignatius High School
Roman Kline-Bossman
Chagrin Falls High School
Caroline McKendry
Highland High School
Cameron McLa erty
Twinsburg High School
Ariana Moneskey-Jones
Saint Vincent-Saint Mary High School
Lizzy Noall
Highland High School
Anna Pastirik
Magni cat High School
Miriam Patton
Orange High School
Alicia Sara an
Walsh Jesuit High School
Charlotte Speyer
West Geauga High School
Katherine Thiele
Hudson High School
Ananya Yadati
Hathaway Brown School
Congratulations to all the Shining Star participants and Mandel JCC for continuing to provide the opportunity for teens from all over Northeast Ohio to shine bright.
Rochelle and Harley Gross
Mandel JCC is thrilled to have WKYC as our broadcast media partner and Monica Robins, an Emmy award-winning reporter, well known as one of Northeast Ohio’s most reliable sources for all health news, as host for the ninth year of tonight’s Shining Star CLE.
As Senior Health Correspondent, Monica has earned the respect of the region’s medical establishments, including The Academy of Medicine of Cleveland and Northern Ohio, for fair, accurate and unbiased reporting. She has the ability to take even the most complicated medical procedure and make it understandable to viewers. Her stories are often broadcast nationally at other NBC and TEGNA stations and many of her stories have aired internationally.
With nearly 40 years of broadcast journalism experience, Monica has won eight Emmy awards and numerous rst place “Excellence in Journalism” awards from the Ohio Press Club, Cleveland Press Club and the Associated Press. She has also been inducted into the Ohio Broadcasters Hall of Fame.
Monica is the lead singer for two bands, the classic rock band Monica Robins and the Whiskey Kings and the country band The Ninja Cowboys. Her bands have opened for well known national acts such as The Temptations, Fabulous Thunderbirds, Donnie Iris and the Cruisers, Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, Hall and Oates, Eddie Money and Michael Stanley and the Resonators.
Mandel JCC is delighted to have Connor Bogart O’Brien return as Artistic Director for his sixth year! A native of Ashtabula, Connor grew up as a classical violinist before ultimately studying vocal performance/ opera at the Eastman School of Music in New York. During his time at Eastman, he was accepted into the nationally ranked male a capella group, The University of Rochester Yellowjackets (as seen on NBC’s “The Sing O ”) as a featured soloist.
Connor has been a headliner with the Cleveland Pops Orchestra, the National Repertory Orchestra, the Fort Worth Symphony, the New Haven Symphony, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the Charlotte Symphony and the Cleveland Orchestra. As a songwriter, several of his original songs have been featured on national television including Net ix, The Hallmark Channel, and the 2022 NCAA Finals.
“Inside Out,” the lead single from his rst album, vaulted to the number one radio position in France. Two full-length albums followed, which led to performing as the opening act on more than 20 national tours including Jim Brickman, Huey Lewis and the News, Rick Spring eld, Hall & Oates and Mariah Carey.
Connor can be heard singing and recording jingles for companies such as Hasbro Toys and American Greetings, as well as in more than 60 countries worldwide as a headlining act on Princess, Holland America, Celebrity and Royal Caribbean cruise lines.
Best of luck to the
Thank you to the incredible staff at Mandel JCC for making the magic happen! The Immerman Family
You are all Shining Stars. Congratulations to you and Mandel JCC on this memorable evening!
The Mack Family
What a thrill it is to be back for Shining Star CLE 2025! It is hard to imagine that ve years have passed since I rst stepped into this role when the world shut down in the summer of 2020.
Yet, perseverance and tenacity are one of the core skills we try to teach these young performers each year. It’s easy to shine when your voice is rested and warm, when the audience is lled with friends and loved ones, and the production elements are in perfect sync. It is when you are worn from rehearsals, when you scan the crowd and see only strangers, or can’t nd your spotlight, that true professionals are made. And these young artists are true professionals. They are already at the top of their game at such a young age. They have mastered the notes, the control, and most importantly the storytelling needed to captivate an audience. And tonight that is you.
Shining Star CLE has pivoted and forged ahead as well. From nding a new home at Mandel JCC for our second season, to reaching out to the best of the best celebrity judges to help choose our winners, Shining Star CLE continues to raise meaningful funds to support creative youth programming and enhance aging-in-place senior services in our community. You, our friends, family and neighbors make that happen year after year.
So, as I think back ve years to the night we hit the “Broadcast” button on our livestream, and how nervous we all were to succeed. I remember that we are all forging ahead for the same cause: to lift up the best of the best of our youth and to support youth and senior programming in our community. As always, the show must go on, and what a show it is going to be, thank you for being here and enjoy!
Connor Bogart O’Brien Artistic Director, Shining Star CLE
Congratulations to all the Finalists and Mandel JCC f continuing to h t this ex a dinary event!
Sara and Daniel Solomon
Proud supporter of the vibrant Mandel JCC.
Neil & Jennifer Tramer Certified Public Accountants
You
Judy & Steven Willensky
A round of applause for the Mandel JCC Shining Star finalists. And everyone in your audience.
A round of applause for the Mandel JCC Shining Star finalists. And everyone in your audience. A round of applause for the Mandel JCC Shining Star finalists.And everyone in your audience.
Music illuminates the human experience. It connects us to each other, brings us closer, and reminds us of the incredible heights we’re capable of reaching. So from all of us at Huntington, a big thank you to Mandel JCC for reminding us how brightly we all can shine.
Music illuminates the human experience. It connects us to each other, brings us closer, and reminds us of the incredible heights we’re capable of reaching. So from all of us at Huntington, a big thank you to Mandel JCC for reminding us how brightly we all can shine.
Music illuminates the human experience. It connects us to each other, brings us closer, and reminds us of the incredible heights we’re capable of reaching. So from all of us at Huntington, a big thank you to Mandel JCC for reminding us how brightly we all can shine.
A round of applause for the Mandel JCC Shining Star finalists. And everyone in your audience.
A round of applause for the Mandel JCC Shining Star finalists. And everyone in your audience.
Music illuminates the human experience. It connects us to each other, brings us closer, and reminds us of the incredible heights we’re capable of reaching. So from all of us at Huntington, a big thank you to Mandel JCC for reminding us how brightly we all can shine.
Music illuminates the human experience. It connects us to each other, brings us closer, and reminds us of the incredible heights we’re capable of reaching. So from all of us at Huntington, a big thank you to Mandel JCC for reminding us how brightly we all can shine.
Jones Day proudly supports Mandel JCC and its mission to build, connect, and strengthen the Jewish community and the greater Cleveland community through exceptional life-long programs and services that reflect the richness of Jewish life and enhance physical, intellectual, and spiritual well-being. We also congratulate all of tonight’s talented Shining Star CLE 2025 participants!
The Meisel and Pesses Families congratulate all the Shining Star CLE contestants!
We are grateful to Mandel JCC for providing a welcoming place where community members can gather for mind and body enrichment.
Congratulations to the talented performers and in support of the Mandel JCC.
Menorah Park Foundation
Twinsburg High School
Abby Becker is a senior at Twinsburg High School. She has studied voice at the Aurora School of Music for four years and has attended several master classes, programs, and camps. Abby has been performing in theater since the age of six and was featured in numerous productions. Some of her favorite roles include Jane Seymour in Six with Curtain 440, and Crutchie and dance captain in Newsies with Akron All-City Musical. Abby is especially proud to have served as the soprano section leader for two years in her school’s competitive show choir, Twinsburg’s Great Expectations. This past summer, she studied Musical Theater at the Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts. She is deeply grateful to Anna Lowrey-Clark for her continued guidance and support and to Shining Star CLE for believing in her.
Canton McKinley Senior High School
Dajeun Dickerson is a senior at Canton McKinley Senior High School. From a young age, he has been passionate about the arts, beginning his journey at Triumph Church under the mentorship of Shepherd Kimberly Barnes. Over the years, he has grown into a powerhouse vocalist, showcasing his talents through various performances. He has opened for Grammy Award-winning artists Marvin Sapp and Fred Hammond, sung the national anthem at two Guardians baseball games, and most recently earned Gold at the NAACP ACT-SO National Competition.
Dajeun also holds leadership roles as Youth President at his local church, President of Speech and Debate (two-time National and three-time State Quali er), President of Student Council, and Vice President of the Pep Club. A strong advocate for youth empowerment, he believes young people are not just tomorrow’s leaders, but today’s.
Dajeun expresses heartfelt gratitude to his parents for their unwavering support and gives all glory to God for the opportunities he has received.
Cleveland Heights High School
Henry Dyck is a senior at Cleveland Heights High School. As a lifelong singer, he has been involved in a variety of musical and operatic productions, including Amahl and the Night Visitors (Amahl), The Addams Family (Lucas), and Big Fish (Will). This fall, he will take on the role of Jean Valjean in his school’s production of Les Misérables. Henry has also performed as a boy soprano soloist in Chichester Psalms and Requiem for the Living, and was a member of the Cleveland Orchestra Youth Choir. Most recently, he performed at Severance Hall with his barbershop quartet, The Freakybobs. Outside of music, he plays on the soccer, swim, and lacrosse teams and plays piano for his school’s Jazz Band. He thanks his parents and sister for their constant support and is extremely excited to participate in another year of Shining Star CLE.
Cleveland School of the Arts
Tatiaunna Hope is a junior at the Cleveland School of the Arts. She began singing at the age of eight, with her mother as her biggest supporter. Singing has opened many opportunities for her, boosting her con dence when performing and helping her connect with others. Tatiaunna recently starred as the lead in the All-City Musical Chicago at Playhouse Square. She extends heartfelt thanks to her mother for always encouraging her, to her music teacher Robert McCorvey for his guidance, to Mr. Morris for inspiring her to audition, and to Kimberly Brown for her work with Chicago. Tatiaunna is also deeply grateful to her supportive family and especially her grandmother Selena Hope who has always reminded her that she can achieve anything she puts her mind to.
Chagrin Falls High School
Roman Kline-Bossman is a senior at the Academy for the Performing Arts at Chagrin Falls High School. After a life-changing summer last year, he began a new chapter in both his personal and artistic life. The Academy has been a transformative experience, allowing him to grow in con dence, deepen his training, and nd himself as an artist. Roman has performed in productions that he loves and has formed lasting relationships with directors and peers. He feels more alive as an artist than ever before, an emotion re ected in his song choice this year, I’m Alive. Roman is very excited to be participating in Shining Star CLE and is proud of the growth and discovery he has experienced over the past year.
Highland High School
Caroline McKendry is a senior at Highland High School and she is honored to participate in Shining Star CLE. A passionate and versatile vocalist, she has explored genres from classic rock to contemporary pop through her work with School of Rock, performing songs by artists like Pink Floyd, Florence + the Machine, and Adele. She also sings in her church’s contemporary worship band where her love for music and faith come together. Last fall, Caroline played Miss Medda in Newsies and will star as Eurydice in Highland’s upcoming production of Hadestown. She earned First Place in Contemporary Music at the 2023 Ohio NATS competition and placed Second in 2024. Caroline is grateful for the support of her family, friends, and vocal coach Mrs. Denise Howell. She is excited to continue growing as a performer and hopes to uplift and inspire others through the music she loves.
Highland High School
Lizzy Noall is a senior at Highland High School. Her love for performing began when her grandparents took her to Playhouse Square as a child, sparking a fascination with storytelling through live theater. Since then, she has worked endlessly to improve her craft. Some of her career highlights include playing Katherine Plummer in Newsies and Persephone in Hadestown. Lizzy has performed with the Cleveland Pops Orchestra and has earned several awards, including First Place in two categories at the Great Lakes regional NATS vocal competition. She aspires to pursue a career in the wonderful world of musical theater and is excited to begin her college search with the goal of starting on her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in the fall of 2026.
Magni cat High School
Anna Pastirik is a sophomore at Magni cat High School and is thrilled to be participating in Shining Star CLE for the rst time. She has been involved in the performing arts since the age of four and her love for theater has blossomed. Anna’s favorite roles that she has played include Princess Fiona in Shrek the Musical, Katherine Blake in Freaky Friday, and Eponine in Les Misérables: Teen Edition. Anna extends heartfelt thanks to her family and friends for always supporting her and her passion for the arts. Anna would like to thank the Shining Star CLE team for giving her and many other teens in the area this amazing opportunity.
Hudson High School
Katherine Thiele is a senior at Hudson High School, where she is an active member of Chamber Choir, Drama Club, Vocal Impact, and the Jazz Band. Outside of school, she has sung with The Cleveland Orchestra Youth Chorus and Chamber Chorus, placed Second in the Women’s Musical Theater category at NATS, and was a semi nalist in Shining Star CLE in 2023 and 2024. She was also a “Best Actress” nominee at the 2025 Dazzle Awards. Some of her favorite roles include Nala in The Lion King, Rapunzel in Into the Woods, and Persephone in Hadestown. When she is not performing, Katherine enjoys writing poetry, being a camp counselor, watching movies, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. She would like to thank her voice teacher Benjamin Czarnotta at Baldwin Wallace Conservatory, choral director Jacob Moore, and drama director Bob Russell for their support and mentorship. Finally, she would like to thank her family for supporting her and Shining Star CLE for this wonderful opportunity.
Hathaway Brown
Ananya Yadati is a senior at Hathaway Brown. She has a passion for music and has pursued it from a young age. She loves participating in Shining Star CLE and she made the Top 10 in 2022 and 2024. She performed at a concert for the Beachwood Arts Council in June 2025. Last year, Ananya won the Dazzle Award for “Best Supporting Actress” for her portrayal of Glinda in The Wiz and received the “Excellence in Performing Arts Award” from Hathaway Brown in 2024. In addition to singing, Ananya is committed to playing the piano and participating in debate. She would like to thank her teachers and family for supporting her musical journey throughout her life and Shining Star CLE for this wonderful opportunity.
Orange High School
Miriam Patton is a sophomore at Orange High School and is excited to make her debut in the Shining Star CLE competition. She has been involved in theater and singing since the age of six. Miriam was recently nominated for a Dazzle Award for “Best Supporting Actress” for her role as Crystal in Little Shop of Horrors. She has also portrayed Fantine in Les Misérables and the Baker’s Wife in Into the Woods. Miriam is thankful for everyone who has supported her journey and gives special thanks to her parents, all of her past directors, and her voice teacher.
West Geauga High School
Charlotte Speyer is a junior at West Geauga High School. She has participated in musical theater since elementary school and nds joy in embodying characters and telling their stories. Charlotte’s journey began with vocal instruction from Mrs. Caitlin and direction from Emma Figge, one of her earliest supporters. She currently studies under choir teacher and music director Samantha Weiskind. Charlotte is deeply grateful to her family, especially her parents, Jen and Mike Speyer, for encouraging her to pursue her passion, teaching her courage, and instilling in her the importance of kindness.
Mandel JCC is more than a gym, preschool, camp or a cultural center. It is a place where memories are created, new experiences are shared and connections are made. From our youngest program participants to our senior members, The J provides opportunities to nd what is meaningful to you.
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Mandel Jewish Community Center
Cheers to all the talented high school students from across Northeast Ohio chosen to compete in this year’s competition.
We would like to recognize each of you and wish you continued success, both in this competition and in all your future endeavors.
We would also like to thank the Event Co-Chairs, Celebrity Judges, Emcee and Artistic Director for their time and energy in making this event so successful.
Finally, we offer our sincere thanks to Traci Felder for the tremendous amount of work she puts into making the Mandel JCC Shining Star CLE such a spectacular and successful event.
the programs
We are proud to support Mandel JCC Shining Star CLE 2025 in awarding scholarships to top competitors as well as raising money to support the Mandel JCC.
The JCC provides programs and services to so many people and in so many areas and is an absolute gem in the Cleveland area. The JCC has long been and remains extremely near and dear to our hearts.
We salute all of you for
your hard work and dedication.
Peter & Aliki Rzepka
Jordan Matthew Brown is a Broadway actor originally from the suburbs of Cleveland and a proud alumnus of Playmakers Youth Theatre! He is most well known for playing Elder Cunningham in The Book of Mormon on Broadway, as well as on the National Tour. He won the award for “Touring Performance of the Year” in LA for his portrayal of the role. Other recent credits include Dennis in All Shook Up (Goodspeed), the OBroadway premiere of As Time Goes By (Out of the Box Theatrics), Motel in Fiddler on the Roof (North Shore Music Theatre), Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors (Kansas City Rep), William Barfée in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (George Street Playhouse), and Jack in Into the Woods in concert alongside other Broadway talent with connections to Ohio including Betsy Wolfe and Lee Wilkof. Jordan is a proud graduate of Boston University with a BFA in Acting and a concentration in Musical Theatre, and the National Music Theatre Institute at the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center. He is also a college audition coach with MTCA. Jordan is thrilled to be back in his hometown to celebrate such remarkable and exciting new talent!
Mary Bridget Davies initially trained as a dancer before transitioning to singing and acting in Cleveland. In 2005, she secured the lead role in a touring production of Love, Janis. Mary Bridget also toured in Europe with Janis Joplin’s original band, Big Brother and the Holding Company. Her lead role in A Night with Janis Joplin, earned her a Tony Award nomination for “Best Lead Actress in a Musical.” Mary Bridget has recorded multiple albums including Stay with Me: The Reimagined Songs of the Late Jerry Ragovoy, the legendary songwriter who co-wrote the Joplin classics Piece of My Heart and Cry Baby. Mary Bridget starred as Virginia Woolf in A Room of One’s Own, a play with original music at New York’s legendary Cabaret 54 Below and The Public Theater’s Joe’s Pub. She returned home recently to play the lead role as Narrator of Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and her homecoming concerts Janis to Alanis at the Beck Center for the Arts.
Ben Fankhauser is a Broadway actor, singer, writer and educator living in New York City. He graduated from Orange High School and he is an alumnus of Playmakers Youth Theatre. Best known on Broadway as Davey from Disney’s Newsies, Ben has also performed in numerous O -Broadway productions and concerts around New York, and his musical A Commercial Jingle for Regina Comet (co-written with Beachwood’s Alex Wyse) was the rst new musical to open in NYC post-pandemic. He’s starred in the rst national tours of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical and Spring Awakening and has performed at countless regional theaters all over the country including Hartford Stage, Bucks County Playhouse, Olney Theatre, Sacramento Music Circus, Papermill Playhouse, and North Carolina Theatre. Television credits include FBI: Most Wanted, The Deuce, Indoor Boys, Tony Awards. He earned a BFA in Musical Theatre from Ithaca College.
Carl Topilow is well known as the Founding conductor of the Cleveland Pops Orchestra whose eclectic programs have been acclaimed by audiences and critics alike. He enjoys a dual career as both conductor and clarinetist, often nding an occasion to perform a selection with the Pops on one of his brightly colored clarinets. Carl is also conductor of the Firelands Symphony Orchestra, based in Sandusky, Ohio. After 42 years as conductor of the National Repertory Orchestra, a summer festival in Breckenridge, CO, he is continuing an active role with the orchestra as Conductor Laureate. He was named Faculty Emeritus after 37 years as Conductor and Director of the Orchestral Program at the Cleveland Institute of Music and has served as principal pops conductor of the Toledo Symphony Orchestra, Southwest Florida Symphony Orchestra and Mans eld Symphony Orchestra. Carl has performed as guest conductor with 134 di erent orchestras in 37 states and 12 foreign countries. He continues his role as educator with his work as clinician and teacher for conductors. Carl’s wife Shirley is President and CEO of the Cleveland Pops Orchestra
Mariama Whyte is a dynamic multi-hyphenate artist from Shaker Heights. Mariama has performed on several national and regional stages as well as behind the scenes as a singer, songwriter, actor, vocal arranger, speaker, and producer. From R&B/soul to pop, reggae, musical theatre, singer/songwriter, and inspirational music, Mariama thrives on the joy of performing and writing in various styles of musical expression. An alum of the College of Wooster, Mariama has performed in the Broadway National Tours of Disney’s The Lion King, Oprah Winfrey Presents The Color Purple, and on several stages throughout the Northeast Ohio area including Severance Hall with the Cleveland Pops Orchestra, Blossom Music Center, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland Play House, and Karamu House. She has shared the stage with world-renowned musicians and artists such as David Foster, John Legend and Michelle Williams. As an independent recording artist, Mariama has released multiple music projects, and is looking forward to releasing her new full-length album, Beyond, in the near future. She has served as a teaching artist and host for various arts programs including Playhouse Square’s Dazzle Awards and Disney Musicals in Schools.
A community theatre and performing arts program that is inclusive, accessible and rewarding for new and experienced performers.
• K-2 Theatre Classes
• Fall & Spring Musicals
• 24-Hour Musical
Connor Bogart O’Brien - Artistic Director
Megan Mingus - Production Stage Manager
Tom Humes - Front of House Stage Manager
Allan Licht - Audition / Semi nals Judge
Miranda Dolson - Audition / Semi nals Judge
Colleen Albrecht - Lighting Designer
Angie Hayes - Sound Designer
Tabitha Miner - Choreographer
Ed Leonard - Music Director / Piano
Allan Licht - Keyboard
Tim Keo - Bass
Justin Hart - Drums / Percussion
Jesse Fishman - Guitar
Yoni Arad
Jill Cappy
Traci E. Felder
DeMarcus Jordan
Lynn Bercu Krumholz
Kate Martin
Emma Miller
Larry Nozik
Jack Ovalles
Max Rosenberg
Carly Workman
Thank you to our SHINING STAR CLE family. We are truly grateful for your generous support, your time and the trust you placed in Shining Star CLE 2025!
Kudos to Mandel JCC’s SHINING STARS, our amazing 2025 Co-Chairs: Rachel & Raphael Glickman, Michelle & Evan Hirsch, Jennifer & Rob Reznick Sharon & Bruce Rosenbaum
Emeritus Co-Chairs:
Marti & Je Davis, Larry Mack, Judy & Steven Willensky
Much Gratitude to our 2025 Fundraising Committee: Rachel Glickman, Michelle Hirsch, Larry Mack, Greg Marcus, Keith Polster, Jennifer Reznick, Jesse Rosen, Bruce Rosenbaum, Karin Schleifer, Harvey Siegel, Scott Spiegle
Shout out to our wonderful partners!
WKYC Studios, Monica Robins - Senior Health Correspondent Cleveland Jewish News PKC – Preferred Kosher Catering
Special thanks to those who are making dreams come true.. Cleveland Pops Orchestra for providing an opportunity for the rst-place winner to perform with the Pops BMI (Broadcast Music Inc.) for providing the opportunity for the Finalists to be coached in songwriting
Cheers to all the Shining Stars from your friends at Adcom.
engageadcom.com
Congratulations to all the Shining Star CLE nalists! Kol Tuv Mandel JCC. Barbara & Barry Epstein Congrats to the 2025 Shining Star CLE Finalists! You have hit all the right notes and stolen our hearts! Big applause for your talent, passion, and fearless performances. Mazel Tov to Mandel JCC for giving these stars a stage to shine! ~ A friend of The J
Bialosky congratulates all of the Shining Star CLE finalists.
TO THE DONORS, SHINING STAR CLE’S CO-CHAIRS AND COMMITTEE, MANDEL JCC STAFF AND THE FINALISTS
Thank you for reminding us what it means to reach for the stars.
Proud to be part of such an amazing community.
– JESSE ROSEN AND DEBI GILBOA
Shining Star CLE finalistsKeep reaching for the stars!
Congratulations to Mandel JCC for such a special event!
Congrats to the 2025 Shining Star CLE finalists! From lullabies to solos, we’ve always believed in music’s power to light up lives.
From Camp Wise to center stage, we’ve seen Mandel JCC help young people find their voice—and raise it high.
Proud to support Shining Star CLE, where music uplifts, community connects, and every rising star shines in their spotlight. With pride and applause, Dr. Donald & Judith Schermer aka Poppie Don & Nannie Judy
Congratulations to all the Shining Star nalists. “The only thing be er than singing is more singing” - Ella Fitzgerald
This is just the beginning.
Best of luck to all of you!
Karin Schleifer
Congratulations to all the Shining Star CLE Finalists! You are all shining stars!
Thank you Mandel JCC for everything you do for our community
Marcy Schwartz and Dan Simon
A wonderful night to be a Mandel JCC supporter! Jessica & Alan Semel
Congratulations to the incredibly talented Shining Stars CLE finalists singing tonight and to Mandel JCC for continuing this important community event.
Cheri and Neal Shapero
WE ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT MANDEL JCC’S SHINING STAR CLE 2025. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE FINALISTS!
SALLY & STANLEY WERTHEIM
to our Shining Star CLE Finalists and all 160 teens who submitted audition reels.
Everyone is a star when they follow their dreams.
to our Shining Star CLE Finalists and all 160 teens who submitted audition reels.
to our Shining Star CLE Finalists and all 160 teens who submitted audition reels.
Everyone is a star when they follow their dreams.
Everyone is a star when they follow their dreams.
to our Shining Star CLE Finalists and all 160 teens who submitted audition reels.
Janice Adell
Traci Felder
Everyone is a star when they follow their dreams.
Jill Cappy
to our Shining Star CLE Finalists and all 160 teens who submitted audition reels.
Larry Chiu
Lynn Krumholz
Stephanie Lipscomb
Everyone is a star when they follow their dreams.
Scott Dann
Janice Adell
Janice Adell
Jill Cappy
Jill Davidson
Jill Cappy
Larry Chiu
Julia Di Baggio
Janice Adell
Larry Chiu
Scott Dann
Michelle Eisenberg
Scott Dann
Jill Cappy
Jill Davidson
Jill Davidson
Larry Chiu
Janice Adell
Julia Di Baggio
Scott Dann
Julia Di Baggio
Jill Cappy
Michelle Eisenberg
Jill Davidson
Michelle Eisenberg
Larry Chiu
Julia Di Baggio
Scott Dann
Michelle Eisenberg
Jill Davidson
Julia Di Baggio
Michelle Eisenberg
Traci Felder
Katie Martin
Traci Felder
Lynn Krumholz
Beth Nudelman
Lynn Krumholz
Jill Sadowsky
Stephanie Lipscomb
Traci Felder
Stephanie Lipscomb
Katie Martin
Margot Tomer
Katie Martin
Lynn Krumholz
Beth Nudelman
Beth Nudelman
Stephanie Lipscomb
Traci Felder
Jill Sadowsky
Katie Martin
Jill Sadowsky
Lynn Krumholz
Margot Tomer
Beth Nudelman
Margot Tomer
Stephanie Lipscomb
Jill Sadowsky
Katie Martin
Margot Tomer
Beth Nudelman
Jill Sadowsky
Margot Tomer
mandeljcc.org
mandeljcc.org
Congratulations to all of the finalists and future stars performing here tonight.
Shine Bright! Proud supporter of Mandel JCC Shining Star CLE.
Tim and Debbie O’Donnell
“Elon Hillel and Jewish Life have given me the opportunity to be myself and feel comfortable and safe as a Jewish student on Elon’s campus. I have made such meaningful bonds and will always cherish the memories made at Elon Hillel.” —
ILANA BOYER ’27
Learn more about Elon’s vibrant Jewish student population by visiting elon.edu/hillel. at Elon University
Your voices, your hearts, and your friendship shine so brightly on every stage you touch.
We are endlessly proud of the dedication, courage, and grace you’ve shown on this journey.
Keep shining your bright light! With all our love and admiration, Your families
Special thanks to Mrs. Denise Howell for your incredible guidance, support, and belief in our girls. Your impact will echo in their voices forever.
Proud Supporter of Shining Star CLE & Mandel JCC – e Saltzman Family
Ursuline College is proud to sponsor Mandel JCC to support college scholarship opportunities for students.
With the distinct advantage of being part of the Mandel JCC, our teachers and children build a foundation for innovative thinking, compassion, and resilience within the community.
For more information, contact us at EarlyChildhood@mandeljcc.org • 216-593-6275
Limited spots still available from 2 months - Pre-K!
Questions? Contact Rachel Hildebrandt at Jkids@mandeljcc.org • 216-593-6249
At J-Kids After School Care, your child can explore, play, create and connect with friends.
PROGRAM RUNS
Monday – Friday Aug 25, 2025 –June 5, 2026 School dismissal to 6 pm
REGISTER TODAY!
Roman,
You are forever our Shining Star!
Broadway bound baby! We love you so much.
Mom, Hanshaw-Kok Families, Jason & Lori Kline, Jenae, Yusuf & Bella, Moncrief Family, Chilton Family, Fazio Family, Gomez Family, Melika Family, Dayton Family
I love learning and meeting new friends at The J. The J is a Shining Star. Congratulations! Elaine Bercu
Best wishes to all the Shining Star CLE Finalists! Don Bercu
We’re so proud of you, Katherine!
All of our love, Mom, Dad, and Henry
The Cleveland Pops Orchestra and Conductor, Carl Topilow, congratulate all of the talented contestants and are proud to be a part of this event!
We look forward to the winner’s performance with the Cleveland Pops Orchestra!
Anna,
May you always find the courage to soar!
Follow your dreams and you will find happiness. You are a joy to watch on stage! We are so proud of you. Love, Mom, Dad, Emma and Owen
Charlotte,
Shine like the star you are! Your future will be bright!
Your Family
Dajeun, Keep reaching for the stars and soaring to new heights!
Your Family
The talent … O the charts. The energy … Absolutely electric. The support … Nothing short of amazing!
The spotlight came on and the Finalists took center stage with courage, heart, and undeniable star power. Every clap, cheer, and gift made this night magical. Dreams got a little closer. Con dence soared higher. And the future? Shining a whole lot brighter.
Thanks for being part of a truly unforgettable experience.
