PLAYBILL
Shoreline Theater Academy Kidz Konnection
Ms. Laura’s Musings ~
Do you remember the joy of daydreaming as a child? Doodling in the margins of a notebook, staring up at the trees, or watching the world pass by through a car window, imagining what life might be like somewhere else. These moments of mind-wandering help us focus our goals, discern right from wrong, and strengthen problem-solving skills. Kids naturally have limitless imaginations. Even when obstacles arise, they keep dreaming. They don’t yet carry the skepticism of adulthood no idea is too big, no dream too impossible. In my work, I see those imaginations in full bloom, and the energy is contagious. When kids tap into their creativity, their excitement spreads to their families, bringing joy, possibility, and hope. The arts take daydreaming and supercharge it.
This year, Kidz Konnection, now in its 20th year, looks back at the dreams we’ve shared, having started from nothing, we’ve watched it grow into an incredible home of love, laughter, daydreaming and hope. And we have the kids to thank for making it all happen. It was their innate ability to hope against all odds and believe we could when we had no idea how, even when it seemed no one really could imagine it. It was this courageous creativity that brought us Miss Maria. Being courageously creative brought us the Academy Building despite the odds against us. Being courageously creative led us to our next chapter—earning a place for our youth to perform at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland this August. And so, our season this winter and through the year will reflect a celebration of that courage in unity, that our voices matter, that we can affect positive change through arts activism one for all and all for one!
Newsies tells the story of youth demanding to be heard, standing against systems that seek to silence them. Game of Tiaras, though disguised as a comedy, is a sharp critique of power, betrayal, and the cost of ambition. 101 Dalmatians reminds our youngest thespians that when we rise together, we can fight injustice. Each story shares a common heartbeat: the fight for justice, the struggle for identity, and the courage to stand up for what matters. Theater is where imagination meets action, where the stories of yesterday inspire the leaders of tomorrow. We are not just creating great performers we are shaping visionaries, activists, and changemakers. Whether fighting for workers’ rights in 1899, navigating the chaos of a fractured kingdom, or addressing today’s
most pressing issues, the message remains clear: The future belongs to those who dare to speak up.
My own 20-year journey building Kidz Konnection has been filled with ups and downs but my strength to keep pushing new programs forward always came from the very kids I serve. The Emerging Artists Initiative has been at the core of our entire mission from its inception. Seeing it all come full circle with such a dedicated and deserving group of young people makes every hardship and every challenge worthwhile a thousand times over. In these difficult times, we owe it to our kids to join in taking risks challenging norms, making bold choices, and standing up for what’s right, even when it’s difficult. When we recognize the child who needs a particular opportunity at this moment in their journey they are transformed forever. And I can’t imagine a better society than one where every child believes they have purpose, where every voice is valued, and where success is defined by courage, not conformity. Because courageous creativity isn’t just about art it’s about believing in every child’s potential and making sure they believe in it too.
Now, more than ever, in our hyper-digital world where so many kids struggle with mental health, our youth need a safe, nurturing space to dream boldly enough that their dreams find a path to action a place where they can shape the future, no matter what labels have been placed on them. Despite pressures to confirm or voices that challenge our unconventional path, the arts must be the refuge for truth.
People often ask, “What is the magic of Kidz Konnection?” It’s this: the constant cycle of laughter, joy imagination, and unwavering support. It’s a community that lifts each other up. I hope this season, you will laugh with us, reflect with us, and most of all, leave inspired. Because these emerging artists remind us - onstage and in life - that when you see injustice, you don’t just sit back. You rise up, you speak, and you seize the day.
“Speak the truth, even if your voice shakes.”
Maggie Kuhn
Artistic Director
Musical Director/Choreographer
Maria Teresa Lonetti
Technical Director/Lighting Design
James Norrie
Assistant Technical Director/Auditory Design
Sam Reed
Sound Assistant Xan Marsella
Costume Coordinator Lisa Seales
Newsies Song/Scene List
Act One
“Overture”
Prologue Rooftop, Dawn:
“Santa Fe (Prologue)” - Jack, Crutchie
Scene 1 Newsboys’ Lodging House & Newsie Square:
“Carrying the Banner” - Jack, Newsies, Nuns
“Carrying the Banner (Tag)” - Newsies
Scene 2 Pulitzer’s Office, Afternoon:
“The Bottom Line” - Pulitzer, Seitz, Bunsen, Hannah
“Carrying the Banner (Reprise)” - Newsies
Scene 3 A Street Corner:
“Chase”
Scene 4 Medda’s Theater:
“That’s Rich” - Medda
“I Never Planned on You/Don’t Come a-Knocking” - Jack, Bowery Beauties
Scene 5 Newsies Square, Next Morning:
“The World Will Know” - Jack, Davey, Les, Crutchie, Newsies
Scene 6 Jacobi’s Deli & Street, Afternoon:
“The World Will Know (Reprise)” - Jack, Davey, Les, Newsies
“Watch What Happened” - Katherine
Scene 7 Katherine’s Office:
“Watch What Happens (Continued)” - Katherine
“Watch What Happens (Playoff)”
Scene 8 Newsie Square, Next Morning:
“Seize the Day “- Davey, Jack, Les, Newsies
“Seize the Day (Tag)” - Newsies
“The Fight”
Scene 9 Rooftop:
“Santa Fe” - Jack
Newsies Song/Scene List
Act Two
“Entr’acte”
Scene 1
Jacobi’s Deli, Next Morning:
“King of New York” - Davey, Katherine, Les, Newsies
“King of New York (Tag)”
Scene 2 The Refuge:
“Letter from The Refuge” - Crutchie
“Letter from The Refuge (Playoff)”
Scene 3 Medda’s Theater:
“Jack’s Painting”
“Watch What Happens (Reprise)” - Davey, Jack, Katherine, Les
“Back to Pulitzer’s Office”
Scene 4 Pulitzer’s Office & Cellar, Afternoon:
“The Bottom Line (Reprise)” - Pulitzer, Seitz, Bunsen
“Brooklyn’s Here” - Spot, Newsies
Scene 5 Brooklyn Bridge & Medda’s Theater:
“Brooklyn’s Here (Continued)” - Spot, Newsies
Scene 6 Rooftop, Night:
“To the Rooftop”
“Something to Believe In” - Katherine, Jack
Scene 7 Pulitzer’s Cellar:
“Seize the Day (Reprise)” - Newsies
“Once and for All” - Jack, Davey, Katherine, Newsies
“Once and for All (Playoff)”
Scene 8 Pulitzer’s Office, Next Morning:
“Seize the Day (Reprise 2)” - Newsies
Scene 9
Newsie Square:
Finale Ultimo (Part 1) - Company
Finale Ultimo (Part 2) - Company
Newsies Cast List
Cast A________ Cast B_______
Jack Kelly Breanna Tregelles Nolan Borysewicz
Davey Isla Seales Bobby Chasteen
Katherine Sloane St. Pierre Morgan Cheslock
Les Yasmine Oumay Mila Pendergast
Crutchie Natalie Sutherland Camryn Mazzarella
Pulitzer Callum Taylor Aesop Rish
Medda
Brooke Atwater Elise Paglino
Albert Brody Armstrong
Jo Jo/Tap Solo Eyren Murnane
Buttons/Tap Duo Pietra Moradi
Sniper/Tap Solo Ella Kapsinow
Race/Tap Solo Kiera Flannigan
Rome/Tap Duo
Sofia Guccione
Finch Riley Bogart
Henry Josh Cooper
Specs/Tap Quartet Kelsi Lewis
Splasher Grace McMillian
Elmer/Tap Trio Lily Bertelli
Mush Rowan Phillips
Tommy Boy
Tap Quartet
Cameron Cast A
Mike/Scab 2
Harper Cast B
Lily Guarnieri
Madeline Stevens
Newsies Cast List
Ike/Scab 1
Tap Quartet
Cameron Cast B
Cast A______ Cast B________
Regly De La Rosa
Spot Conlon Kate Ethier
Jamie Cast B
Newsie/Darcy
Bowery Beauty
Harriet Powers
Newsie/Bill Leo Tapia
Newsie/Scab 3
Quinn
Anya Moradi Annelise Thompson
Anya Moradi Josh Cooper
Weisel Colton Schroder
Morris Delancey Ronan Love
Oscar Delancey
Snyder/Newsie
Mr. Jacobi/Emery
Newsie
Seit
Bowery Beauty/Nun
Bunsen
Hanna Bowery Beauty/ Nun
Nunzio/Parker
Newsie
Roosevelt/Kevin
Newsie
Sante Stillwater Gallagher
Devon Craig
Maisie Williams Wally Brewster
Eliza Sweeney
Emme Dowling-
Moreno Charlotta Brewster
Adeline Burnette
Maile Sullivan Ethan Kilbride
Bobby Aufiero Tavis Nicklis
Nun 1-
Sister Mary Clarence
Ollie/Newsie
Mayor
Robin/Newsie
Stage Manager
Max/Newsie
Skyler
Newsie/Woman
Guard
Aaron/Newsie
Brooklyn Soloist
Cast A_______ Cast B_______
Ana Guarnieri Lina Kilbride
Jack Aufiero Jack Stevens
Grace McMillian Talia Kapsinow
Samantha Schlansky Lucia Linde
Ben Hoyt Tucker Ackerman
Drew/Newsie Cora Phillips
Bronx Soloist
Newsie
Jamie Newsie Cast A
Manhattan Soloist
Newsie
Bailey Haynes Tucker Ackerman
Bailey Haynes
Sophia Wilhoit Lucia Linde
Harper Cast A Sophia Wilhoit
Flushing Soloist
Newsie
Ella Kapsinow Tess O’Neal
Drew/Newsie Tess O’Neal
Richmond Soloist
Newsie Lina Kilbride
Woodside Soloist
Newsie
Claire Courchesne Jack Stevens
Newsies Jr. Thespians
The Charters
Cast A_______
Cast B_______
Taylor Piper Courchesne Teddy Richard
Alex Madeleine Morgan Wyatt Pendergast
Jordan Kensley Garcia Scalici Zack Linke
Casey Charlotte McSweet
Riley Charlie Mullen
Morgan Laila Bolduc
Ian Bertelli
Olivia Boyer
Isabella Moura
Understudies:
Sofia Guccione, Josh Cooper, Ella Kapsinow, and Eyren Murnane
Dance
Captains:
Sofia Guccione, Grace McMillian, and Kiera Flannigan
We, at Kidz Konnection, try our best to make sure every actor is listed properly in our playbills. If we have made an error in spelling or otherwise, we sincerely apologize. We hope you can forgive that we are only human.
Support Staff
Producer/Artistic Director Laura Attanasio
Musical Director/Choreographer Maria Teresa Lonetti
Technical Director James Norrie
Assistant Technical Director Sam Reed
Playbill Jenna Cheslock
Stage Right Manager Ciro Falanaga
Stage Left Manager Samantha Clapper
Photographer Keturah Murnane
Voice Coaching
Stacey Mathews Xan Marsella
Costume Coordinator Lisa Seales
Costume Support Crystal Green Lisa Sutherland
Stacey Bertelli
Sound Operators Xan Marsella Daniel Thompson
Tech Support Molly Cooper
Spot Lights
Kevin Gallagher II Simone Moradi
Amy Nicklis Jax Wilcox
Curtains Lucia Acampora
Set Crew
Prop Master
Backstage Wing Support
Steve Kapsinow Dan Burnett
Jim Phillips Amelie Brewster
Mary Taylor
Liz Edwards
Erica McMillian Donna Kapsinow
Beth Borysewicz
Amelia Brasile
Clare DePeter Powers Lauren Williams
Pete Wilholt
Jessica Tregelles
Backstage Wing Support
Brooke St. Pierre
Simone Moradi
Erin Ethier
Greenroom Parents
Marie Linde
Viki Craig
Torrie Atwater
Junior Thespians
Hair & Makeup
Makeup
Load In/Load Out
Ticket Organizer
Amy Cooper
Cynthia Sullivan
Jill Dowling-Moreno
Mary Taylor Rebecca O’Neal
Ashley Hoyt
Sarah Koster
Julia Phillips
Lisa Aufiero
Erica McMillian
Brooklyn Smith Olivia Catalano
Andrew Bertelli
Keith Pendergast
Kristi Schroder Brian Aufiero
Donna Kapsinow
Fan Mail Coordinator Erin Ethier
Concessions Coordinator Erin Ethier
Tickets/Concessions
Dhainy De La Rosa Reilly Love
Allison Tapia Kate Schumann
Sarah Koster
Rehearsal Support
Jackie McCarthy Megan Sesma
Deb Galasso
Katie Cardoso
Mary Guarnieri Tara Cleary
Elizabeth Haynes Alyssa Lindquist
Mary Pendergast
Kat Bogart
Amanda Stevens
For anyone not listed due to print deadlines or accidentally being left off, please know we sincerely appreciate and thank you too!
Breanna Tregelles (Jack Kelly Cast A) is 12 years old and has been performing with Kidz Konnection for multiple seasons. Breanna has a passion for singing, dancing, and performing. She would like to thank Ms. Laura, Miss. Maria, her family and friends for all the love and support.
Nolan Borysewicz (Jack Kelly Cast B) is a Sophomore at Robert E. Fitch High School and has been doing shows with Kidz Konnection for just over 2 years now. He enjoys writing and spending time with his friends and family. Huge thanks to Mom, Dad, Ms. Laura, and Ms. Maria. Enjoy the show, and remember to Seize the Day!
Isla Seales (Davey Cast A) is completing her 17th production at Kidz Konnection this winter. She is especially excited to play Davey in Newsies and Snow White in Tiaras. Isla would like to thank her family for supporting her, her friends at Kidz Konnection for making rehearsal so fun, Ms. Maria and Ms. Laura.
Bobby Chasteen (Davey Cast B) has been performing with K’s for three years and has appeared in several shows. His favorite roles have been Damien in Mean Girls, Jack in Newsies and Albert in Bye Bye Birdie. He would like to thank Ms. Laura and Ms. Maria for their support and encouragement.
Sloane St. Pierre (Katherine Cast A) is a 7th grader at Walsh intermediate school and is 13 years old. In her free time, she enjoys playing soccer and hanging out with her friends. She is excited to return to the stage in Newsies. She would like to thank Ms. Maria and Mrs. Laura for their support over the years.
Morgan Cheslock (Katherine Cast B) is 17 years old and has been performing with Kidz Konnection since she was six. Morgan loves to sing and dance and has loved every second of her 10+ years spent on stage. She would like to thank Ms. Laura, Miss Maria, her family and her friends for supporting her all these years.
Yasmine Oumay (Les Cast A) was born in Marrakech, Morocco and moved to New York City at 5 years old. Living in NYC gave her the opportunity to love Broadway, the American Ballet and performing. This will be her 10th show with Kidz Konnection and she is grateful for the friends made & the caring directors and teachers.
Mila Pendergast (Les Cast B) is performing in her 14th show! Newsies holds a special place in her heart! It is the first (and favorite) Kidz Konnection play she ever saw, and it instantly inspired her to act. Playing “Les” is her dream role, and is thankful to Ms. Maria & Ms. Laura for this amazing opportunity!
Natalie Sutherland (Crutchie Cast A) is 13 years old and is in the 8th Grade. Natalie loves acting, singing and hanging out with her friends. This is Natalie's 14th show and she is super excited to play Crutchie! She would like to thank her family, Miss Maria and Ms. Laura for their support.
Camryn Mazzarella (Crutchie Cast B) is 16 years old and has been performing with Kidz Konnection since she was six. Camryn also loves to play field hockey, draw, and paint. She would like to thank her family and friends especially the ones she made at Kidz Konnection.
Callum Taylor (Pulitzer Cast A) is in 7th grade at Adams Middle School in Guilford. Besides performing, he loves watching WWE, working out, and listening to Eminem and Eillish. Cal is so excited for his 6th production with Kidz Konnection, playing his 4th villain. He thanks his family, Ms. Laura, and Ms. Maria!
Aesop Rish (Pulitzer Cast B) 16, is a newer actor to Main-Stage productions, but an improv veteran. Since birth, he’s enjoyed the arts as much as playing video games. He’d like to thank the entirety of Kidz Konnection for giving him a welcoming community, as well as his family and friends for supporting his hobbies.
Brooke Atwater (Medda Larkin Cast A) is 13 years old and is on her 2nd year at Kidz Konnection. Brooke loves playing soccer, singing, dancing, spending time with friends, and acting. She would like to thank her friends, family, Ms. Laura and Miss Maria for supporting her and making Kidz Konnection a happy place.
Elise Paglino (Medda Larkin Cast B) is 15 years old and so excited for her second show with Kidz Konnection! She has loved theater since she was young and would like to thank everyone at the Academy for making her feel so welcome. Special thanks to her family, her voice teacher Keliann, and Ben Cook.
Brody Armstrong (Albert Both Casts) is 15 years old and started acting at the age of 9 and has loved meeting all the wonderful people he’s met along the way. He would like to thank Ms. Maria, Ms. Laura, his friends and family for supporting him all these years.
Eyren Murnane (Jo Jo & Tap Soloist Both Casts) has been performing with Kidz Konnection for just over a year. She comes from a competitive dance background and has 11 years of dance experience. Eyren is excited to explore theatre and acting with Ms. Laura and Miss Maria. She thanks family and friends for being so supportive!
Pietra Moradi (Buttons & Tap Duo Both Casts) is 14 years old and is beginning her 2nd year with KK. She's ecstatic to be in Newsies (one of her favorite shows!) and perform with so many wonderful people. Thanks to Ms Maria and Ms Laura for everything they do at the academy and to her family for all the love and support. STRIKE!!!
Ella Kapsinow (Sniper & Tap Solo Both Casts) a sophomore at Guilford High School, first joined Kidz Konnection 11 years ago as Sunny the Sunflower in Snow Queen. She is BEYOND excited for these shows and to add more t-shirts to her collection! Many thanks to Ms Laura, Miss Maria and her family for their support.
Kiera Flannigan (Race & Tap Soloist Both Casts) is 15 years old and has been doing theater for 6 years. She loves to sing and tap dance. She has recently played Roxie which has been her favorite role so far. She wants to thank the cast and crew for all the support. She wants to shout out Ben Cook and Jeremy Jordan!
Sofia Guccione (Rome & Tap Duo Both Casts) is 13 years old in 8th grade at Old Saybrook Middle School. She is on varsity field hockey and loves to read and write, and of course to sing and dance. This is her 4th year at Kidz Konnection but has been on stage since she was 3. She would like to thank Ms. Laura, Ms. Maria, and her family and friends for the support!
Riley Bogart (Finch Both Casts) has found her passion for performing here at the academy and is thrilled to be doing her favorite show- Newsies! She would like to shout out Jeremy Jordan for being one of her biggest inspirations, and of course Mrs Laura and Ms Maria for their endless support.
Josh Cooper (Henry Both Casts) is a 17 year old high school senior who has been performing and doing technical design at the Shoreline Theater Academy for years and has loved every second of it. They will be making their playwriting debut this winter when the Academy produces their play “Lost in Time”.
Kelsi Lewis (Specs & Tap Quartet Both Casts) has been performing with Kidz Konnection for many years and loves any chance to be on stage. She shines brightest when she is singing and dancing with all her friends she has made over the years. Kelsi loves animals, art, music while bringing joy to all those around her.
Grace McMillian (Splasher Both Casts) is a 7th grader at Polson in Madison. This is her 16th show with Kidz Konnection and her favorite roles so far have been Bruce in Matilda Jr, Young Eponine in Les Mis, and Peter in Peter Pan. Grace wants to thank Miss Maria, Miss Laura, and all of the cast and crew for an amazing show!
Lily Bertelli (Elmer & Tap Trio Both Casts) has been performing since 2022 and is excited for her first play with Miss Laura this year. When she is not at Kidz Konnection she is reading, drawing, or riding her skateboard. She'd like to thank Miss Maria and Miss Laura for making Kidz Konnection her happy place.
Rowan Phillips (Mush Both Casts) is 12 years old and has performed at Kidz Konnection for 2 years. He loves to play baseball, play the clarinet, boy scouts, and theatre. He wants to thank his family for all the support.
Lily Guarnieri (Cameron Cast A Tommy Boy, Tap Quartet Both Casts) is thrilled to be playing Ellie in Game of Tiaras and to dance in Newsies! Her favorite roles have been Olaf, Annie, and Michael in Peter Pan. She loves singing, ventriloquism and playing with her guinea pigs. She thanks Miss Maria and Miss Laura for making Kidz Konnection the best place to be!
Madeline Stevens (Harper Cast B Mike, Scab 2 Both Casts) is 11 years old and this is her 4th show. Maddie is excited to be playing Middle Elsa in the show. In her spare time she likes to play lacrosse, play with her pets, and go on her boat. She would like to thank Miss. Laura and Miss. Maria for supporting her.
Regly De La Rosa (Cameron Cast B Ike, Scab 1, Tap Quartet Both Casts) is 11 year old and in 6 grade in Clinton. Regly loves sing , dance , playing piano, and spend time with her friend. She would like to thank Ms Laura , Ms Maria, Ms Stacey, her family and friends for all the love and support.
Kate Ethier (Spot Conlon Both Casts) is 12 years old and from Guilford. Some of her favorite roles include LeFou (Beauty & the Beast), Wendy (Peter Pan), Young Cosette (Les Mis) & now Anna (Frozen). When she’s not acting Kate loves spending time with friends, family and her cats. Kate would like to thank Miss Laura & Miss Maria.
Harriet Powers (Jamie Cast B, Newsie, Darcy & Bowery Beauty Both Casts) is an 8th grader at St. Joseph School in New London. She performed Matilda and Rock of Ages during summer programs but is excited to make her Kidz Konnection Main Stage debut with Newsies. She would like to thank the Kidz Konnection staff for their support and her family for all the rides.
Leo Tapia (Newsie & Bill Both Casts) (12) is thrilled to be part of this production! Leo’s favorite roles include performing in Peter Pan and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. He loves drawing in his free time. He would like to thank Kidz Konnection, his family and friends for encouraging him on his journey to the top!
Anya Moradi (Quinn, Scab 3 & Newsie Cast A) is 9 years old and this is her 2nd KK production. She is very thrilled to be in Newsies. She enjoys singing, reading, and playing with dolls. She'd like to thank her parents and big sis and Ms Laura & Ms Maria for everything. :)
Annelise Thompson (Scab 3 & Newsie Cast B) is 12 years old and has preformed in Kidz Konnection since she was 8 years old. From the little kids production of Aladdin to Newsies, she loves this program, she would like to thank Ms. Laura, Miss Maria, her friends and family for supporting her through these shows.
Colton Schroder (Weisel Both Casts) is 12 yrs old and attends LOL Middle School. He has been performing with KK for 3 yrs. He is super excited this year to perform in both Clue & Frozen Jr. He loves spending time at the Academy and would like to thank Ms. Laura & Miss Maria for all their guidance and support along with his family.
Ronan Love (Morris Delancey Both Casts) is 12 years old and is so excited to be Sven the reindeer. He loves improv, acting in plays, hiking, and playing with his brothers and ridiculous dog. He would like to thank Ms. Laura, Ms. Maria, and his family and friends for all their support and all the fun!
Sante Stillwater Gallagher (Oscar Delancey Both Casts) is 13 and has been performing with Kids Connection for 2 years! Sante loves the theater community and performing. He is very grateful for Miss Maria and Miss Laura for all they do. And his family for all their continuing support.
Devon Craig (Snyder & Newsie Both Casts) is 12 years old and this is her fourth Kidz Konnection performance. Devon loves the stage and acting. She also loves art and drawing. She would like to thank Miss Laura, Miss Maria and everyone who helped put the play together.
Maisie Williams (Mr. Jacobi, Emery & Newsie Cast A) is 9 years old and a student at Brown Intermediate School in Madison. This is her third year performing with Kidz Konnection. Maisie entertains her family with her songs and is thrilled to be on the stage with her fellow performers. She thanks all at Kidz Konnection and her family!
William (Wally) Brewster (Mr. Jacobi, Emery & Newsie Cast B) is excited to be performing in his first show with Kidz Konnection. Wally is in sixth grade at Baldwin Middle School in Guilford. He would like to thank his sister, Charlotta, for getting him interested in theater!
Eliza Sweeney (Seit, Bowery Beauty & Nun Both Casts) is 17 years old and has been performing with Kidz Konnection for 4 years. Eliza has loved being a part of this family and would like to thank Ms. Laura, Miss Maria, and her family and friends for supporting her.
Emme Dowling-Moreno (Bunsen Cast A) is 12 years old and this is her fourth play with Kidz Konnection. Emme loves acting and is very excited to be performing in Newsies.
Charlotta Brewster (Bunsen Cast B) is 9 years old and has been performing with Kidz Konnection for two years. Charlotta is in fourth grade at Calvin Leete Elementary School in Guilford. She loves theater, horseback riding, and spending time with her friends. Charlotta would like to thank Ms. Laura and Ms. Maria!
Adeline Burnette (Hanna, Bowery Beauty, Nun Both Casts) is 14 years old and this is her third year preforming with Kidz Konnection. Adeline loves acting and would like to thank her dad and Ms. Laura for giving her the opportunity to be a part of such a wonderful program.
Maile Sullivan (Nunzio, Parker & Newsie Cast A) is 12 years old and this is her second performance with Kidz Konnection. She enjoys singing in the 6th grade chorus at Baldwin Middle School. Maile also loves to play soccer, basketball and ride her bike.
Ethan Kilbride (Nunzio, Parker & Newsie Cast B) has been a fan of Kidz Konnection since 2022 supporting his sister Lina. He was inspired by her joy and Ms. Laura’s encouragement to join. Ethan likes gaming. running, soccer, & time with his family. He thanks Ms. Laura & Ms. Maria for challenging him to experience the world of theatre!
Bobby Aufiero (Roosevelt, Kevin, Newsie Cast A) is excited to join his friends on the big stage for his second show with Kidz Konnection. He loves crocheting, riding bikes with family and going to the beach. Most of all he loves pandas. Bobby hopes you enjoy the show!
Tavis Nicklis (Roosevelt, Kevin & Newsie Cast B) is 13 years old and this is his first time performing with Kidz Konnection. He has been doing musical theatre at school and loves it. He is looking forward to doing more with Miss Laura and Miss Maria.
Ana Guarnieri (Nun 1, Sister Mary Clarence, Ollie & Newsie Cast A) is 10 years old and is excited to act in Newsies and 101 Dalmatians! Her favorite roles have been Elsa and Tinkerbell. When not acting, Ana enjoys reading, playing soccer, and playing with her guinea pigs. She thanks Miss Maria and Miss Laura for making Kidz Konnection a fun place to be!
Lina Kilbride (Nun 1, Sister Mary Clarence, Ollie, & Newsie Cast B) is 9 years old and has been performing with Kidz Konnection since 2022 (main stage x 4). Lina loves animals, with the love of her life being her dog Leo. She loves soccer, singing, art, and time with her family. As always, thank you Ms. Laura & Ms. Maria for your unwavering encouragement!
Jack Aufiero (Mayor, Robin & Newsie Cast A) This is Jack’s first big show with Kidz Konnection and he is so excited to be here! Jack has always loved music and has been singing and dancing for his family since he was little. He also loves gaming, nerf battles, swimming and talking about FNAF lore.
Jack Stevens (Mayor, Robin & Newsie Cast B) is 9 years old and this is his fourth show with Kidz Konnection. Jack loves telling jokes, reading graphic novels, building Legos, and rollercoasters! He loves to be a part of the shows and has fun meeting new friends at The Academy!
Talia Kapsinow (Stage Manager, Max & Newsie Cast B) is a 9 year old 4th grader at Calvin Leete in Guilford. When not acting, she enjoys playing basketball, dancing to Taylor Swift and collecting slime. She would like to thank her family and Ms Laura and Miss Maria for making Newsies so much fun.
Samantha Schlansky (Skyler, Woman & Newsie Cast A) is a nine-year-old actress, artist and singer. She loves to travel, dance, read, and laugh. She is grateful to Ms. Laura, Ms. Maria, her family, her Mimi and her little dog Ted for the love and support!
Lucia Linde (Skyler, Manhattan Soloist, Woman & Newsie Cast B) is 10 years old and has been performing with Kidz Konnection since she was seven. Lucia loves singing, dancing, rock climbing, swimming, photography, and tending to her hens. She would like to dedicate this performance to her little brother Nico.
Ben Hoyt (Guard, Aaron, & Newsie Cast A) enjoys reading, writing, and drawing while not rehearsing for plays and in choir groups at his school. Ben would like to thank his parents and all of his teachers, including Mrs. Laura and Mrs. Maria.
Tucker Ackerman (Guard, Aaron, Bronx Soloist & Newsie Cast B) is thrilled to be making his debut performing in Newsies with Kidz Konnection! While new to the theater, he has performed on stage many times as a singer. He is excited to share his love for musicals and singing with you all. He wants to thank all of his family, Ms. Laura and Miss Maria!
Cora Phillips (Brooklyn Soloist & Newsie Both Casts) is 11 years old and has been in many Kidz Konnection performances, including Lion King, Mary Poppins, Peter Pan & Beauty and the Beast. When she's not on stage, Cora enjoys crocheting, playing basketball & rollerblading. Cora thanks her family and friends for their love and support.
Bailey Haynes (Jamie, Bronx Soloist & Newsie Cast A) 10 years old, has been acting since she was eight. This is her 5th musical, but her first with Kidz Konnection. While sweet in real life, Bailey loves to play a villian! She is always singing and dancing her way through life! She can't wait to make her debut on this big stage!
Sophia Wilhoit (Manhattan Soloist & Newsie Cast A) is a 10 yr old fifth grader from Guilford CT. She comes from a musical family, surrounded by music and instruments, and plenty of support for her love of dance and performing. She has enjoyed all of her Kidz Konnection experiences and hopes there are many more to come!
Tess O’Neal (Flushing Soloist, Drew & Newsie Cast B) is 10 yrs old and this is her second production with Kidz Konnection. She is excited to sing and dance for you!
Claire Courchesne (Woodside Soloist & Newsie Cast A) is 10 years old and this is her first production with Kidz Konnection. She has previously been in Shrek Jr with Blue Fire Stage Company, Aladdin Jr and two productions at HKIS. When she's not on stage, you can find Claire dancing at Rayna's School of Dance or playing soccer!
Jr. Thespians
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Piper Courchesne (Taylor Cast A) is 8 years old and this is her first ever production! She's been dancing for 5 years at Rayna's School of Dance and loves to stage her own productions at home with her two sisters. She also loves singing, art and being silly!
Teddy Richard (Taylor Cast B) is 8 years old and in 2nd grade at Daisy Ingraham in Westbrook. He loves lacrosse, gaming and being a part of the Kidz Konnection family. This is his 3rd year and he would like to thank Ms. Laura and Miss. Maria for believing in him and just letting him be Teddy!
Madeleine Morgan (Alex Cast A) is seven years old, and this is her first year on stage. Maddie loves to listen to Disney music and “act the part”, including getting into costume, singing, and dancing. She adores all things theater and looks forward to growing her skills with Kidz Konnection.
Wyatt Pendergast (Alex Cast B) is performing in his 3rd show! Wyatt loves art class and recess. He takes piano lessons, sings in the St. Mary’s Children’s Choir and plays soccer, baseball and skis. Newsies is his 2nd favorite musical, and has been singing along to it with his big sister ever since he was little!
Kensley Garcia Scalici (Jordan Cast A) is thrilled to be performing in her first show with Kidz Konnection. Kensley has been singing, dancing, and performing for her family since she could talk! Kensley would like to thank Ms. Maria, Ms. Laura, her family and friends for supporting her.
Zack Linke (Jordan Cast B) is a 6 year old 1st grader at Ryerson Elementary School in Madison. He has had a love of singing and performing since pre-school. This is his first year performing with Kidz Konnection. He would like to thank his family for their support as he takes the stage for the first time.
Charlotte McSweet (Casey Cast A) age 8, is thrilled to be joining Kidz Konnection for her first year! She's having a blast at rehearsals and is excited to learn all about theatre. A natural performer, she has loved singing and dancing since she was little.
Ian Bertelli (Casey Cast B) is in third grade and is really excited to be in his third Kidz Konnection show. In his spare time he likes to play video games, read, and eat a lot of snacks.
Charles Mullen (Riley Cast A) is 7 years old and this is his first time acting and working with Kidz Konnection. Charlie participates in basketball and football. He really loves singing and trying new things. Charlie is outgoing, friendly and enjoys meeting new people.
Olivia Boyer (Riley Cast B) 6, is new to the stage at Kidz Konnection but has attended shows to support her cousin Sofia, inspiring her to join. With 4 years of dance, including tumbling and hip-hop, Olivia is energetic, sometimes sassy, and eager to meet new people. She thanks her acting community for their support.
Laila Bolduc (Morgan Cast A) has done plays before at the Kate in Old Saybrook. She was in Hansel and Gretel, Rapunzel, and Jack and the Beanstalk. She has also signed up for finding Nemo in the Spring. When not on stage, Leila is doing gymnastics and Girl Scouts. She loves acting!
From a tiny paperboy to Katherine, you have Seized the Day and the opportunity to show your talent. We are so proud of all you have accomplished in that time and can’t wait to Watch What Happens as you shine on that stage. The Bottom Line is you are incredible and always give us Something To Believe In.
Maddie and Jack,
We wish you an incredible show! You have put in hard work and dedication and we are always so proud to watch you on stage. Have fun and “seize the day!” Your biggest fins, Mom, Dad, and Claire
Thank you for creating a space where kids can be themselves. We are grateful for you and the positive impact that you have on each child on the stage. Warmly, The Stevens Family
Callum,
You are so kind, so talented, and you make us so proud.
“Ohhh Yeahhh!” Love always, Mom, Dad, Addy, and Lydia
