Well, well, well… look who decided to show up to the most mischievous, ghostly, and completely outrageous show in town: Beetlejuice Jr.! We’re thrilled to have you here for an evening of spooky antics, hilariously weird characters, and a lot of laughs—so buckle up, because this is going to be one wild ride!
As the director, it’s been an absolute blast watching these incredibly talented kids take on the roles of Beetlejuice, Lydia, and the whole gang. From the very first rehearsal, they’ve brought an energy that could raise the dead (no, really, it’s that infectious). Their creativity, commitment, and — let’s face it — general wackiness have made every single moment of this process an absolute joy. Whether they were mastering their lines or perfecting their dance moves (seriously, they’ve got some killer moves), I’ve had a front-row seat to some of the most fun, hilarious, and imaginative work I’ve ever seen.
And of course, this show didn’t just magically appear (though if Beetlejuice were involved, we wouldn’t put it past him). A huge thank you to the amazing Mark , who brought the tunes to life with more flair than a skeleton at a dance party. To our Choreographer, Nailah , whose moves were so smooth they could make a poltergeist jealous. To Amy and Gina, who kept everything running like clockwork, even when things were, well, a little… possessed.
A giant shoutout to our Set Crew, Mike & Matt who created the perfect spooky backdrop for all our ghostly goings-on, and to our parent volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, making sure our cast didn’t, you know, get eaten by a sandworm.
To our incredible cast, thank you for bringing Beetlejuice Jr. to life with your humor, passion, and just the right amount of weirdness. Without you, this show would still just be a collection of scripts and ideas—definitely not nearly as fun! And last but certainly not least, thank you to all of YOU, our wonderful audience, for supporting these talented kids. We hope you enjoy every second of this spooky, kooky, and totally unforgettable show!
Now sit back, relax, and remember: don’t say his name three times… we really don’t want to deal with that guy.
The Whole Being Dead Thing ...................................................................................... Beetlejuice, Mourners, Ensemble Ready, Set, Not Yet ............................................................................................................. Adam, Barbara, Beetlejuice
The Whole Being Dead Thing Part 2 ...................................................................................... Beetlejuice, Cheerleaders
The Whole Being Dead Thing Part 3 .............................................. Beetlejuice, Barbara, Adam, Cheerleaders, Ensemble
Dead Mom .......................................................................................................................................................... Lydia
No Reason ................................................................................................................................................ Delia, Lydia
That Beautiful Sound ................................................................................... Beetlejuice, Lydia, Girl Scouts, Sky, Clones
What I Know Now .........................................................................Miss Argentina, Parachute Jumper, Death by Toaster, Cigar Mobster, Dead Cheerleader, Machete Groom, Dead Jockey, Death by Fireworks
Home (Part 1) ..................................................................................................................................................... Lydia
Home (Part 2) ........................................................................................................................Lydia, Charles, Ensemble
Jump In The Line .....................................................................................................................................Full Company
crew
Director: Annette DeYoung
Annette has dedicated over 20 years to the theater, taking on every role imaginable – from actor to director, to working with lights, sound, costumes, and sets. Her love for theater is only surpassed by her deep commitment to supporting young performers, helping them build skills and confidence that will serve them throughout life. Beetlejuice marks her 15th production as a director, and she is incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication shown by the students and everyone involved in bringing this show to life!
Production Manager: Amy Silvestri
Amy has been a dedicated member of our theater program for 7 years, bringing passion and enthusiasm to every production. As a parent of a former student, she has witnessed firsthand the positive impact our program has on young artists. She finds immense joy in watching each production come together, from the initial rehearsals to the final curtain call. Her commitment to the arts and her deep connection to CTP make her an invaluable part of our team.
Music Director: Mark Westphal
This is Mark’s 7th show with CTP/YTP as the vocal/music director. He has been involved with theater since 1999 at Starlight Theater as a performer. In 2018 Mark became a foster parent and adopted his two boys, one in 2019 and one in 2023. Since becoming a foster caregiver he has put performing on hold and decided that directing and teaching voice is where he needs to be at this time in his life. Working with your kiddos has been the best time and seeing them grow into incredible performers has made Mark so proud. Please enjoy the show and thank you for supporting this program.
Gina StageMarinoManager / Assistant
Miss Gina is thrilled to be involved in this killer show with CYTP. Her directorial credits include Winnie the Pooh and Dino’s Before Dark. That experience was life changing, reiterating her passion for children’s theatre education. She gives her thanks to Mrs. Annette and the incredible kids and parents for allowing her to be a part of this experience.
Choreographer: Nailah Brooks
Nailah is a passionate performer, choreographer, and dance instructor with a deep love for dance and musical theatre. Specializing in tap, jazz, and hip hop, they teach at Rockford Dance Company and Beauty in Motion Dance Arts, instructing in hip hop, jazz, contemporary, and musical theatre.Recent choreography credits include You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown and The Addams Family (Choreographer), Guys and Dolls (Assistant Choreographer), and The Futile Search for Equilibrium (Choreographer). They are also thrilled to be returning as Assistant Choreographer for Grease at RVC Starlight Theatre. Nailah is especially excited to present this production of Beetlejuice Jr. and is incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication of the cast and creative team. They are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with such talented individuals and hope you enjoy the show!
senior Bios:
Bael DeYoung Lydia Deetz
Bael DeYoung is thrilled (and a little heartbroken) to take the stage for the 30th and final time in Beetlejuice as Lydia Deetz! A 17-year-old senior, Bael has been in CTPYTP since kindergarten. Huge thanks to those who made this happen, especially Mrs. Cox, Abby, and Autumn, for helping them embrace extroversion and grow.
FAVORITE QUOTE: “How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard” - Winnie The Pooh
Carter Denton Beetlejuice
Carter has been in theater since fifth grade. Since then he has been apart of more than 30 shows. Some of his favorite roles have been were Orin (Little Shop of Horrors), Antipholus of Syracuse (Shakespeare’s The Comedy of Errors), and Shrek (Shrek Jr). He would like to thank his parents for always supporting him in all of his endeavors.
Kahlan Day Delia Schlimmer / Emsemble
Kahlan Day is a senior in highschool and has been a part of many shows, onstage and off stage throughout her highschool career. Unfortunately, this will be her last show. Kahlan has plans to study marine biology and go into the veterinary feild to work with animals. Kahlan hopes you enjoy the show!
FAVORITE QUOTE: Just keep swimming
cast Bios:
Abby Rabon
Lydia Deetz
Abby is a junior at Guilford High School along with being a freshman in the running start program at Rock Valley College. She has just finished playing the role of Fiona in Shrek the musical at Guilford high school. She has also enjoyed playing different roles at Starlight Theatre. Abby would like to thank you all for coming out and thank her family for all of the support to help her do what she loves.
Addie Bryant Cheerleader, Lawyer, Sandworm
Addie is 10 years old and goes to Bridget School. She loves spending time with her two older siblings and her dog, Tucker. She loves playing soccer, basketball and making funny videos. She also loves acting in plays and was part of last year’s Willy Wonka play.
This is Addy’s 3rd show with CTP. She is a current 5th grade student in Machesney Elementarys Fine Arts Program FAVORITE QUOTE: “The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.” -Pablo Picasso
Annabella Torres Delia Schlimmer
Annabella Torres is a Sophomore at North Boone High School. This is her 5th production with CYTP and 25th production overall. Some of her highlights include playing Flounder in The Little Mermaid at Starlight Theatre as well as playing Wednesday in the Addams Family at NBHS. She hopes you enjoy the show as much as she has enjoyed being in it! It’s like my Guru Otho always says, “Every success begins with ‘Sucks’ but ends with ‘Yes!’
Annabelle (AJ) Johns Juno
AJ is excited to start her 10th year with CTPYTP performing in Beetlejuice. A sophomore at Harlem High School, she is known mostly for sarcastic and quick-wit roles, but her favorite was completely out of character for her – Grandpa Joe in Willy Wonka. She is honored to perform again alongside her CTPYTP family and on stage at her second home. FAVORITE QUOTE: “It was only in the theatre that I lived” - Oscar Wilde
Arabella Marruffo Miss Argentina
Arabella’s an 8th grader at Rochelle Middle School. She’s an active Cadette Girl Scout, on the state-bound Math Team and Scholastic Bowl captain. She volunteers with the Student Action Team, Student Council and the PLUS Program. Arabella LOVES Speech Team, Choir, Cross Country and Track. Beetlejuice Jr is her 11th performance, but her first with CTP. FAVORITE QUOTE: “Oops, I Did It Again”-Britney Spears
Ayu Siregar
cast Bios:
Death by Fireworks
Ayu Siregar is an 8th grader at Harlem middle school. Her first play with CYTP was Junie B Jones in 2023. She loved it so much she hasn’t stopped since. Ayu has also been an Oompa Loompa in Willy Wonka, Pooh’s Tummy in Winnie the Pooh, & Mom in Dinos Before Dark. Ayu looks forward to being a part of the theater next year when she starts High School, and many more plays with CYTP.
Chase Marruffo
Maxie
Dean
Chase is in 5th grade at Tilton Elementary in Rochelle. He does Radio and Humorous Interpretation on the Speech Team. Chase has been wrestling since he was 4 years old and this year he is a state-qualifyer. He also runs cross country and track. Beetlejuice Jr is his 8th performance but his first with CTP. Scaramouche, Scaramouche, will you do the Fandango? Queen
Daphne Wise
Charles Deetz
Daphne has been in six shows, the most prominent role being tamatoa (the crab) from Moana. When Daphne isn’t at play practice, she spends her time doing everything else under the sun in the quest to be the most well rounded person imaginable. You have all the equipment.
FAVORITE QUOTE: You just need to read the manual. -Elle Woods
Edyn Williams
Charles Deetz
I am 14 years old and this is my 3rd show ever! I love playing basketball, volleyball, and singing. I love theater with all of my heart and hope to continue doing it.
FAVORITE QUOTE: No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.- Eleanor Roosevelt
Ellie Martzr Sky
Ellie is making his CTP debut as Sky. Previous favorite roles include Ellie in Freaky Friday, Pinocchio in Shrek, Jr., and Spiker in James and the Giant Peach. He hopes you enjoy the show!
Emberleigh Schoensiegel
Barbara Maitland
Emberleigh is a freshman at Auburn High School and enjoys theater and choir. She is a member of Auburn’s Acapella Choir, Rockford Youth Chorus, and Kantorei Choir. This is her lucky 13th show with CTP/YTP. She would like to thank the cast and crew for an amazing theater experience!
Ethan Eddy Priest/Waiter/Mover
Ethan is excited to be back on the CTP stage! This is his 4th production with them. He was previously in Winnie The Pooh/Dinosaurs Before Dark as Christopher Robin/Jack, Willy Wonka Jr as Charlie and Junie B. Jones as Sheldon. Ethan would like to thank you all for coming to the show and hopes you enjoy it!
FAVORITE QUOTE: What is right is not always popular and what is popular is not always right. - Albert Einstein
cast Bios:
Haddie Watson
Cigar mobster, mover, waiter, Girl Scout, Studio audience and dead drill team
This is my fourth play with Nordlof. I study ballet, jazz, and lyrical dance. I collect items like original Beanie Babies, Squishmallows, Funko Pops, and pins. I also attend Cherry Valley Elementary School.
FAVORITE QUOTE: Mistakes are proven that you are trying - Albert Einstein
Hailey Mayfield
Death by Toaster / Lawyer / Sandworm
Hello I’m Hailey and this will be my first show with ctp I can’t wait for this shows final product. Don’t be pushed down by the fears in your mind. But led by the dreams in your heart.
Hazel Simms Sky
Hazel is very excited to be in this play with her friends Sloan and Emerson. This will have been her 6th play and her sister’s Eliza’s too. She has been working very hard for you to enjoy the show!
FAVORITE QUOTE: “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” – Theodore Roosevelt
Kate Nooner Otho
I’m so excited to preform because this is my first musical!!! I was doing the into to the woods musical here but then covid came and it had to end. I know being in eighth grade may be a little late to start but nonetheless I’m here and I hope you enjoy the show!
Kirin Patel
Otho
Kirin Patel, who is playing Otho, is so excited to be part of yet another production. She had only been in a few plays, but as a teenager who loves acting, she hopes to continue into the future. Kirin thanks all of her friends and family who supported and inspired her.
Madeline (Maddie) Carr
Beetlejuice Clone
Maddie Carr is thrilled to bring stories to life on stage! She has performed in Finding Nemo, Junie B. Jones, Willy Wonka, The Lion King, Winnie the Pooh, and Dinos After Dark. She also performs in the annual Lake Mills production. Maddie loves performing and sharing the joy of theater, showcasing all the hard work that goes into each production.
FAVORITE QUOTE: “Don’t let fear stop you from doing the thing you love” - Buster Moon
CAST Bios:
Madelyn (Mady) Martz
Miss Argentina
I am very excited to perform in my eighteenth production, Beetlejuice! I have been doing theater for as long as I can remember, and Beetlejuice has always been one of my favorite shows. I am thrilled with the amount of support and love from the directing team and cast. I can’t wait to work with CTP again! Life is too short to let other people influence how you want to spend yours.
Natalie Stern
Mover 2 / Girl Scout
I am in 5th grade. I love Hamilton. I’m ten. I love Taylor Swift. This is my first play. FAVORITE QUOTE: There’s a million things I haven’t done, but just you wait! -Hamilton
Olivia Roher
Mover 1
This is Olivia’s 3rd show with CYTP. Past roles included ensemble in Willy Wonka, Rabbit in Winnie the Pooh, and Otto in Dinosaurs Before Dark. She has previously been involved in soccer, ballet, and gymnastics. Favorite hobbies are reading, collecting Aphmau MeeMeows, and hanging out with friends.
Ryan Nosbisch
Adam Maitland
Hey! Ryan is super excited about their first production with YTP and hopes you enjoy! :3
Sloan Buss
Dead cheerleader, Girl Scout
Sloan has been working super hard on this musical she has been in 8 shows! She does piano and singing with a private voice teacher! She is super excited to show you the show. She hopes you enjoy!!! tHaTs mY dAd!!! iM aLL aLoNe!!!!!!!
Tavia BeetlejuiceSchidemanClone
Tavia is a fifth grade student at Keith. Her love of theater began at the age of 5 when she first took the stage with CTP. She is thrilled to be in her sixth production here and even more excited that it is Beetlejuice!
Tessa BarbaraLarsonMaitland
Tessa is a junior at Hononegah High School. This is her 21st show and she is very excited to play Barbara! Outside of theater, Tessa loves to listen to music, play video games, and draw. She hopes you love the show!
CAST Bios:
Francesca McGraw
Maxine Dean / Ensemble
I am an 8th grader at St. Bridget School. I love sports, art, and the theater. This is my 7th production with CTP and have had so many great experiences!
Gracelyn ParachuteDriscoll Jumper / Ensemble
Gracelyn is excited to be in Beetlejuice! This is her third production with CYTP but she has been on stage since she was 6. She is passionate about theater and thankful to the people at CYTP for all the work they put in. Enjoy the show!
Kendall Washington
Hunter w/Shrunken Head / Ensemble
This is Kendall’s second performance at CTP. She previously participated in Winnie/Dinos. She also performed in KFAD’s production of Matilda, and did competitive cheer for three seasons at Wicked Elite. In the spotlight is her favorite place to be! Kendall wants to thank all of her friends and family for being in the audience supporting her!
Eliza Simms
Dead Jockey / Ensemble
Eliza is in third grade at Marshall Elementary. She loves Harry Potter, watch Pokémon, and play with her friends. Theatre is one of her favorite things and she’s so grateful for the opportunity to shine! She would like to thank her family and friends.
FAVORITE QUOTE: “You’re a wizard, Harry.” – Hagrid
Kamden Ballard
Hunter w/Shrunken Head / Mover / Ensemble
This is my 3rd production with CTP. With every new role I have enjoyed meeting new friends. Being on stage has really helped to boost my confidence. When I’m not on stage I enjoy playing video games and basketball along with going to the movies.
Liam PriestMonette / Ensemble
Liam has been in CTP and school productions for the last 4 years. He is in 6th grade at Roscoe Middle School. When he’s not acting he plays football and baseball for local leagues. He enjoys hockey and anything Michigan Sports.
Nicole (Nikki) Buckley
Dead Jockey / Ensemble
This is Nikki’s second production with CTP and she loves it! When not at rehearsal Nikki enjoys dancing, tumbling, singing and playing the piano. She has made some wonderful new friends through theater. “You often have to hear a lot of ‘No’s’ before hearing a ‘Yes’.
Scarlett Sutherland Machete Groom / Ensemble
Scarlett is a talented actress, dancer, and softball player. She enjoys art, music, math, and science. When Scarlett gets older she would like to be an artist or an engineer. Her favorite food is sushi and her favorite color is orange, because why wouldnt it be.
FAVORITE QUOTE: I would rather reget the risk that did not work out than the chances I did not take at allSimone Biles
CAST Bios:
Emmerson Lott
Dead Cheerleader / Girl Scout / Ensemble
Emmerson has been doing theatre for 4 years. Her favorite roles thus far have been Alice in Alice meets Dorthy at HMS and Lucille in Junie B. Jones at CTP.
Emersyn Akerman
Mover 2 / Ensemble
Emersyn is a 3rd grader and is taking part in her second production. If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours.
Carmella McGraw
Maxine Dean / Ensemble
I am in 5th grade at St. Bridget School. I love dance, sports, and of course acting. This is my 4th production with CTP and am having so much fun!
Charlotte Naugle
Machete Groom / Ensemble
I’m a 3rd grade student at Montessori. This is my 6th musical and I’m having so much fun! I love cats, dogs, Squishmallows, and drawing!
Allison BeetlejuiceLampleyClone / Ensemble
This is my first year rehearsing. I play as a clone (clone 2). My favorite part is where Beetlejuice calls out “dance break!” ...Scandinavian old folk song.
Evelyn Wax
Dead Jockey / Ensemble
I’m 9 years old and this is my first musical. I like to play outside with my friends and sing the Wicked soundtrack. The best thing about me is I am very funny! Kindness is the best policy!
Svea Ensemble,DentonBeetlejuice Clone
Svea began her journey into musical theatre here at CTPYTP in Frozen jr as young Elsa. Since then she has been involved in multiple productions with several area theater companies including Byron Civic Theater and Starlight. When not on stage, Svea enjoys crochet, creating makeup looks and dancing. Sometimes you have to be a little bit naughty.
Wesley EnsembleJohnson
Wes Johnson is a second grade student in the Harlem district. This is his first performance. He’s so excited to join the Beetlejuice jr. cast! He enjoys singing and making people laugh and was inspired to join after seeing a play with his classmates on a field trip. Wes has hopes of working and improving on his singing skills. He hopes to be in his more productions in the future!