Bright Star Program

A Note from the Executive Director

As we draw the curtains on our 60th anniversary season, I find myself reflecting on the theme that guided us at the beginning of this milestone year: Tradition. We began with a celebration of the rich history and enduring legacy of La Crosse Community Theatre, paying homage to the traditions that have shaped us into the vibrant organization we are today as we did the classical shows Fiddler on the Roof and The Wizard of Oz

But now, as we bid farewell to this landmark season, we do so on a note that is both unexpected and exhilarating. Our final production, Bright Star, stands as a testament to our commitment to innovation and artistic exploration. Written by the incomparable duo of Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, this modern masterpiece is a departure from the traditional musical theatre fare, infused instead with the soul-stirring sounds of southern bluegrass music.

It is true that Bright Star may not fit the mold of what many expect from musical theatre, but therein lies its brilliance. It challenges conventions, breaks boundaries, and invites audiences on a journey that is as refreshing as it is unforgettable. And through it all, our remarkable local talent has risen to the occasion, embracing the unique demands of this production with passion, dedication, and unparalleled skill. This is truly one of the sharpest casts I have encountered in my brief time with LCT, and that is saying a lot, as I think all of our casts are great!

I want to give a big shout out to Mary Cate, our Artistic Operations Director, for the fabulous job she did putting this show together. Along with Peter's musical direction, Leslie's energetic choreography, and Kristin's leadership of the pit, this show is a triumph.

The production team also did a fabulous job bringing the world of this show to life. Nate returned to us from UWL to once again lend us his talents as a scenic designer, and I'm happy to report he's been promoted at UWL to the Technical Director, so I'm happy he'll remain in our community for hopefully a long time to come. Theresa, as always, did a fabulous job with her team of volunteers making striking costumes. Cassie painted the cyc with her lights in so many unique ways with her lights, they looked like individual backdrops! Doug and Katie have made a beautiful mix with the music, and Krissa, the props designer, created some wonderful props, including drinks that won't spill.

As I watch the radiant glow of Bright Star illuminate our stage, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of pride and optimism. This production not only marks the culmination of our 60th season but also serves as a beacon guiding us into the future. It is a reminder that as we embark on our 61st season and beyond, the possibilities are endless, and our potential knows no bounds.

To our loyal patrons, supporters, volunteers, and community members, I extend my deepest gratitude for your unwavering dedication and enthusiasm. Your continued support fuels our passion and drives us to new heights of excellence. As we set our sights on the horizon, let us carry the light of the "Bright Star" with us, illuminating the path forward and inspiring generations to come.

ERIK VOSE Executive Director

Audience Services

PURCHASING TICKETS

• The box office is open from 3 pm until 5 pm Monday through Friday and for one hour prior to each performance.

• The box office accepts cash, checks, and credit/debit cards.

• Single tickets become available for purchase 60 days before a production’s opening night.

NEED TO EXCHANGE YOUR TICKETS?

Any ticket exchanges must be done through the box office in person or over the phone. Tickets may only be exchanged for another performance of the same show.

UNABLE TO USE YOUR TICKETS?

Please contact the box office to see if an exchange for a different date can be made. On rare occasions, LCT has allowed a ticket for one production to be used at a different production. If no exchanges can be made, the ticket price may be written off as a donation tax credit.

CAMERAS AND/OR RECORDING EQUIPMENT

The use of cameras and/or recording equipment is strictly prohibited in the theatre. If you need to answer a call, please do so in the lobby so as to not disrupt the performance.

GREETING THE ARTISTS

Flowers may be left in the box office for the stage manager to deliver or you may hand them to the cast member once they are in the lobby at the conclusion of the performance. Audience members are not allowed backstage.

BAD WEATHER POLICY

If you have concerns about the weather facing an upcoming performance, please call the box office to double check that the performance will still continue. On rare occasions, LCT has canceled performances due to bad weather or cast conditions. If this occurs, exchanges or refunds will be issued.

BABIES AND SMALL CHILDREN

Every individual, no matter the age, must have a ticket in order to attend the performance. If you would like to bring your children, please purchase seats for them even if they will be seated on someone’s lap.

SEAT RESERVATIONS

Reservations for the general public begin at least 60 days before the opening of each show; season ticket reservations open the week prior. Patron donors may reserve their seats at any time. Please call the box office at 608-784-9292 if you have any questions.

LATE SEATING POLICY

Late arrivals will be seated at the house manager’s discretion during an appropriate point in the performance. If you arrive more than 15 minutes after the show begins, we reserve the right to release your seat(s) to someone else.

What Is A Hearing Loop?

Hearing Loops allow people who wear hearing aids to directly receive the sound from the theatre’s sound system in their own hearing aids, much like Wi-Fi for laptops. If you wear hearing instruments, and they have a wireless receiver called a T-coil or Telecoil built-in, you will benefit from the hearing loop in our theatre. The T-coil program is accessed by pushing a button on your hearing aid. This T-coil setting has to be activated before use. Please consult your audiologist to ensure your t-coils are properly adjusted.

If you do not have a T-coil equipped hearing instrument, please feel free to stop by the box office to pick up a hearing assist device.

UFAH enhances the cultural life of the area by encouraging and providing opportunities for businesses to invest in the programs of local Arts and Humanities organizations in an efficient and effective way.

The La Crosse Community Theatre is a

Build a Legacy to Last

Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. Altra Federal Credit Union and Altra Financial Advisors are not registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using Altra Financial Advisors and may also be employees of Altra Federal Credit Union. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from, and not affiliates of, Altra Federal Credit Union or Altra Financial Advisors. Securities and insurance offered through LPL, or its affiliates are:

Bright Star as a production revolves around the concept of home: how we perceive our homes as young and old, how the people in our lives create a home for us no matter our physical location, and how we can return to home even after heartache and great loss. Steve Martin and Edie Brickel do an outstanding job of crafting a show that envelopes the audience into a state of celebration and comfort. The music makes one tap their foot constantly, the script winds its way through one's ears, and the theme of home swarms the audience from beginning to end.

This cast, live orchestra pit, and production team has embraced the concept of making this show a home. They have given countless hours away from their own home to create a home here for you to live in for the next 2 hours. Their work is incredible and a thrill running the range of every emotion to experience. The pride I feel in their work is hard for me to describe, thankfully their work speaks for itself.

I would like to dedicate this production to my home: my husband Lucas Wesling. This show is a love letter I didn't have to write but I can give to you as a gift. I have a vision of how our life will continue to be, everything is beautiful because you are next to me.

MARY CATE WESLING Director

Alice Murphy ................................................................................................ SUSANNAH ROED

Jimmy Ray Dobbs .......................................................................................... ADAM MOXNESS*

Billy Cane ................................................................................................................ GABE KARR

Margo ................................................................................................... SAVANNAH DESHAZO*

Daddy Murphy ............................................................................................... JORDAN ROOKER

Mama Murphy ................................................................................................SARAH JACKSON

Daddy Cane .......................................................................................................... ADAM KRUSE

Mayor Dobbs ................................................................................................ BRANDON HARRIS

Lucy ............................................................................................................... BRIANNA FROST

Daryl ............................................................................................................... COLE JACOBSON

Florence .............................................................................................................. FAITH WHEAT

Dr. Nordquist ................................................................................................... JAMES MURPHY

Edna .................................................................................................................MEGHAN FERGE

Max ....................................................................................................................... ZACH BUHL*

Stanford ......................................................................................... ZACHARY SCAFE-JOHNSON

Government Clerk ................................................................................................ WILL NYSSE*

Well-Dressed Woman ............................................................................. CHRISTINA SCOVILLE*

Ensemble ............................................. CARLY SWISHER, BRITTANY JANSEN, SIMON HAINES*

UNDERSTUDIES

Understudies never substitute for a listed performer unless a specific announcement is made at the time of the performance. For LUCY: Carly Swisher; For MARGO: Meghan Ferge; For ALICE: Brianna Frost; EDNA: Brittany Jansen

Production and Design Team

Director .................................................................................................... MARY CATE WESLING

Music Director ................................................................................................ PETER BOSGRAAF

Intimacy Director ............................................................................................. BRITTANY BARA

Choreographer ................................................................................................... LWSLIE WEBER

Conductor .................................................................................................. KRISTIN FREEDLUND

Scenic Designer ............................................................................................... NATE MOHLMAN

Costume Designer ......................................................................................... THERESA SMERUD

Lighting Designer............................................................................................ CASSIE VORBACH

Props Designer ..............................................................................KRISSA VALENTINE-HARNISH

Sound Designer ................................................................................................... DOUG WILKEN

Technical Director ..................................................................................................LEX VIOLETTE

Stage Manager ................................................................................................... LIZZ BRANNON

* = LCT debut

Production and Design Team Cont.

Assistant Stage Manager ......................................................................................... JOSH ZABEL

Spotlight Operators ............................................................................... SOPHIE MARTINE, MIA BONDY*

Carpenters ........... DENNIS DORMAN, STEVE LIBERA, KATIE FRIES, NATE MOHLMAN, KRISTI BECHTEL, BRI HANSON, JAMES ISLER, MACK MIKSHOWSKY

Painters ............................ AUGUST JENNINGS, KAILYN WITTROCK, RACHEL ROOKER, DAVID HOLLON

Costume Shop Volunteers ......................................................... CHARLOTTE GRANT, CHRISTINE PAPKE, JULIE KEITEL, NANCY MAHLUM, SHARON MARKEE, SUZANNE YOUNG, PAM SQUIRES, ANNA GOODMAN, CAROL SOLYST, TRINA SCHLIFER, PAT CHILSEN, RUTH DRISCOLL, BEVERLEE CLEARMAN, KELLY FARROW

Orchestra

Bass ................................................................................................................................................... PAUL JEWSON Bass.............................................................................................................................. THOMAS BROWN

Mandolin ........................................................................................................................... KYLE RENFRO

Guitar ........................................................................................................................... ANDREW MOORE

Banjo ............................................................................................................................... SYLVIE TOWNE

Guitar .................................................................................................................................. RYAB HOWE

Cello .............................................................................................................................. KEATON PURNEY

Fiddle ................................................................................................................................. CASSIE DAVIS

Viola ............................................................................................................................... NATHAN OLSON

Drums .................................................................................................................................RYAN AMBLE

Special Thanks

LCT Staff

Executive

Weber

UW La Crosse Theatre and Dance Department, Dan's Shoe Repair, Kennedy Johnson, Terri Johnson, Crew Cochran, Bob Divney, Theresa Smerud

LCT Board of Directors

President PAT HEIM

First Vice-President ................................................................................................................... JAY LOKKEN

Treasurer MARY ISAACS

Secretary ....................................................................................................................... MARY RATHGABER

Past President ................................................................................................................... BRADLEY WEBER

Members at Large STEPHEN CONRAD; KELLY GALVÁN; CAROLYN COLLEEN; JOE HAMMES; NEAL MEIER; MARLENE DE LA CRUZ-GUZMAN; BRADY LOWE; RANDY NELSON; DICK RECORD; ROB REIDER; RICHARD REYNERTSON HR Representatives ........................................................................STEPHEN CONRAD AND PAT HEIM

Friends of LCT Donors

The Friends of LCT Campaign aims to continually raise operational funds for LCT from large gift givers sustained over five-year long pledges. We thank the following for their pledges:

EXECUTIVE (Pledged $25,000+)

Scott and Mary Rathgaber

Russel L. and Vera M. Smith Foundation

Keith and Mary Isaacs

ASSOCIATE (Pledged $12,500 - $24,999)

Pat and Joe Heim

CONTRIBUTOR (Pledged $5,000 - $11,499)

Dr. J Michael and Vicki Hartigan

Scott and Sue Horne

Vicki and Chris Born

Dick Record

Michael and Sharon Markee

Arla Clemons

Randy and Lynn Nelson

Theresa Smerud

June 28-29 | 6pm June 29-30 | 2pm

Tickets on Sale Now!

July 26-August 4

Fri. Sat. | 7:30pm Sun. |2pm

Tickets on Sale 5/27! Tickets on Sale 6/17!

August 16-18 Fri.& Sat. | 7pm Sun. | 2pm

La Crosse Community Theatre Presents

BRIGHT STAR

BY

MARTIN

BRICKELL

Produced by Joey Parnes, Sue Wagner, John Johnson Zebulon LLC, Jay Alix & Una Jackman, Len Blavatnik, James L. Nederlander, Carson & Joseph Gleberman, Balboa Park Productions The Shubert Organization, Jamie deRoy/Catherine Adler/Cricket Jiranek In Association With Rodger Hess, A.C. Orange International, Broadway Across America, Sally Jacobs & Warren Baker Diana DiMenna, Exeter Capital, Agnes Gund, True Love Productions And The Old Globe

STARRING

ZACH BUHL SAVANNAH DESHAZO MEGHAN FERGE BRI FROST SIMON HAINES BRANDON HARRIS SARAH JACKSON COLE JACOBSON BRITTANY JANSEN GABE KARR

ADAM KRUSE ADAM MOXNESS JAMES MURPHY WILL NYSSE SANNAH ROED

JORDAN ROOKER ZACHARY SCAFE-JOHNSON CHRISTINA SCOVILLE CARLY SWISHER FAITH WHEAT

PLEASE

Musical Numbers

ACT ONE

If You Knew My Story ...............................................................Alice, Billy, Company

She's Gone......................................................................... Billy, Daddy Cane, Margo

Bright Star ....................................................

Max, Margo, Billy, Florence, Ensemble

Way Back in the Day ...........................................

Billy, Daryl, Lucy, Alice, Ensemble

Whoa, Mama ............................................................... Alice, Jimmy Ray, Ensemble

Firmer Hand|Do It Right .............. Daddy Murphy, Mama Murphy, Alice, Ensemble

A Man's Gotta Do .............................................

Asheville ......................................................

Picnic Dance ................................................

Mayor Dobbs, Jimmy Ray, Stanford

Margo, Edna, Florence, Billy, Ensemble

Margo, Edna, Florence, Billy, Ensemble

What Could Be Better ....................................................

Stanford, Jimmy Ray, Alice Mama Murphy, Daddy Murphy, Ensemble

I Can't Wait Pt. 1 ............................................................... Mayor Dobbs, Jimmy Ray

I Can't Wait Pt. 2 ......................................................

Alice, Daddy Murphy, Stanford, Dr. Nordquist, Mayor Dobbs, Jimmy Ray, Spirits, Ensemble

Please Don't Take Him ............................................ Mama Murphy, Daddy Murphy, Mayor Dobbs, Alice, Stanford, Ensemble

A Man's Gotta Do (Reprise) ............................................... Mayor Dobbs, Ensemble

There will be one 15-minute intermission.

ACT TWO

Sun's Gonna Shine ............... Mama Murphy, Alice, Daddy Cane, Margo, Ensemble Heartbreaker .................................................................... Jimmy Ray, Mayor Dobbs

The Shiny Penny ............................................................. Daryl, Lucy, Billy Ensemble

Another Round ............................................................... Daryl, Lucy, Billy Ensemble

I Had A Vision ............................................

Alice, Jimmy Ray, Well-Dressed Woman

Always Will .................................................................. Margo, Max, Billy, Ensemble

Sun's Gonna Shine (Reprise) ........................ Alice, Daddy Murphy, Mama Murphy

I Can't Wait (Reprise) ............................. Alice, Billy, Daddy Cane, Spirits, Ensemble

So Familiar|At Long Last ........................ Alice, Billy, Daddy Cane, Spirits, Ensemble

Finale .......................................................................................................... Company

ZACHARY SCAFE-JOHNSON

The Company

JAMES MURPHY

BRITTANY JANSEN

SIMON HAINES

ZACH BUHL

CHRISTINA SCOVILLE

WILL NYSSE

GABE KARR

BRANDON HARRIS

SAVANNAH DESHAZO

CARLY SWISHER

SANNAH ROED

ADAM KRUSE

SARAH JACKSON

MEGHAN FERGE

FAITH WHEAT

JORDAN ROOKER

ADAM MOXNESS

COLE JACOBSON

BRIANNA FROST

The Company

CASSIE VORBACH

NATE MOHLMAN

BRITTANY BARA

MARY CATE WESLING

LESLIE WEBER

THERESA SMERUD

KRISTI BECHTEL

LIZZ BRANNON

KATIE FRIES

DOUG WILKEN

KRISSA VALENTINE-HARNISH

PETER BOSGRAAF

JOSH ZABEL LEX VIOLETTE

KRISTIN FREEDLUND

Who's Who

ZACH BUHL (Max) is very excited to make his LCT debut in Bright Star! His past credits include Disney's Newsies (Jack Kelly) and Les Misérables (Marius) both at Tartan High school. Zach is studing a BFA in Music Theatre at Viterbo University and finishing out his first year. Zach would like to thank his cast for being so welcoming and supportive throughout the entire process!

SAVANNAH DESHAZO (Margo) is a junior musical theatre major at Viterbo University, from Fort Worth, Texas. She is very excited to make her LCT debut! A few of her past credits include Mary Frances in Tar Beach, Ensemble/Mary Understudy in Jesus Christ Superstar, and Cop/Ensemble in Footloose Savannah would like to thank all her friends and family for their love and support. Enjoy the show!

MEGHAN FERGE (Edna, u/s Margo) Bright Star is Meghan’s 3rd production with La Crosse Community Theatre!! Her most recent role was Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz!! She is very excited to tell this beautiful story with an incredible cast and crew!! You may find her in the wild at Grounded Patio Cafe in downtown La Crosse!! Meghan would like to thank her cast, co workers at Grounded, friends, cast and crew of The Wizard of Oz, family, and especially Grandma for always supporting her and encouraging her to do what she loves!!! Enjoy the show! <3

BRIANNA FROST (Lucy, u/s Alice) is thrilled to be back on stage again! Her last role at LCT was Enchantress/Belle u/s in Beauty and the Beast Other favorite roles include Jovie in Elf, Katherine in Newsies, and Kate McGowan in Titanic. When she's not on stage, Brianna can be found baking at home or at the Festival Foods bakery in Onalaska. So much love and thanks to her husband and baby boy at home!

BRANDON HARRIS (Mayor Dobbs) is excited to be back on the LCT stage after recently performing as the Tin Man in The Wizard of Oz and Gaston in Beauty and the Beast. He spends his days working as the CTO for Dependable Solutions in La Crosse. He sends his love and appreciation to his wife Alison, family, and friends for their love and support.

SIMON HAINES (Ensemble) is currently a senior at Arcadia High School. In the fall, he will be attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison, pursuing a degree in Music. His favorite productions he has participated in are Newsies (Ensemble), Mary Poppins (Bert), Into the Woods (Baker), and most recently, Footloose (Ren). He wants to thank family, friends, teachers, and the audience for their support. He is excited to be making his LCT stage debut! Find him @simonhaines_ and @simonhainesmusic

SARAH JACKSON (Mama Murphy) is excited to be Mama Murphy in Bright Star! This is Sarah’s second production with LCT. Sarah last performed in the rock musical Lizzie as Emma Borden. Working with talented performers and growing personally is Sarah’s favorite part of being in a musical theatre production! When Sarah is not performing, she works as a mental health counselor at Winona State University. Sarah gives a special thanks to Justin, her partner, who listened and sang along to every song during this process.

COLE JACOBSON (Daryl) is thrilled to be back for “Another Round” on the LCT stage. During the day, Cole is a 1st grade teacher at Summit Environmental School in the La Crosse School District. He would like to dedicate his performance to his amazing and supportive coworkers at Team Summit, who all have been welcoming him into his first year of teaching with open arms. He hopes that you enjoy this beautiful story!

BRITTANY JANSEN (Ensemble, u/s Edna) is so happy to join this cast for her fifth show at LCT! She was most recently seen in Legally Blonde, performing in the ensemble and as Vivienne understudy. Other past productions include Beauty and the Beast (Ensemble, u/s Mrs. Potts), Lizzie (Bridget Sullivan), and Elf (Charlotte Dennon/ Ensemble). When not performing, she works as a copyeditor at Interact Communications.

GABE KARR (Billy Cane) is a current sophomore BFA Music Theatre student at Viterbo University. Last seen earlier this season as the mischievous dog Toto in The Wizard of Oz, this is his second production at LCT. This summer, Gabe will be heading back home to

Who's Who

the Springfield Muni Opera performing in The Music Man (Dancer), and The Little Mermaid (Jetsam). He would like to thank all of his friends and family for their constant love and support throughout his endeavors!

ADAM KRUSE (Daddy Cane) This is Adam’s second time performing in an LCT production. You may have recently seen him as the Winkie General in The Wizard of Oz. Outside of the theatre Adam enjoys his work with the amazing kiddos at Chileda, as well as spending time with his fiancé Dylan and their two puppies - Minnie and Dolly.

ADAM MOXNESS (Jimmy Ray Dobbs) is thrilled to be returning to the stage with LCT. Recent credits include: Jervis Pendleton/ Daddy Long Legs (Awaken Theatre/ Towle Theatre); Lt. Cable/ South Pacific (Music on Stage); Phil Davis/ White Christmas (Forte Productions); Bert/ Mary Poppins (Fremont Street); Laurie/ Little Women (Judson University). Original Cast credits: Shawn/ The Callback (Inhabit Theater); Ricky Rock/ Vaudeville Fiasco (Inhabit Theater). Adam is an Instructor of MT Voice at Viterbo University. Те сакам. WEB: adamoxness.com. IG: @ adamoxness/ @udvt.studio

JAMES MURPHY (Dr. Nordquist) is incredibly excited to be a part of his 11th onstage production and 13th overall production with LCT. Previously, he has appeared in such shows as Legally Blonde (Emmett Forest), Beauty and the Beast (Cogsworth), Titanic (Hartley/Bride), as well as stage managing RENT and The Odd Couple. He would like to thank the amazing crew, design and production team, cast, and the audience we get to put this wonderful show on for. Without any of these pieces none of this would be possible.

WILL NYSSE (Government Clerk) is a junior at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse studying theatre performance. He has recently been seen in UWL's production of The Tragedy of Doctor Faustus (Faustus), but this is his first show at LCT and he is thrilled to be involved in their production of Bright Star as Government Clerk. He would like to thank his friends, family, and professors for their constant

support and he hopes you enjoy the show!

SANNAH ROED (Alice Murphy) is so thrilled, and humbled to be involved in this beautiful show! You last saw her in LCT’s Legally Blonde (Serena). Other recent credits include Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, Avenue Q, Next To Normal, and The Sound of Music. In her downtime, Sannah is a local barista and bartender. She would like to send her thanks and love to her family, her friends/coworkers, and this incredible cast for all of their encouragement and support. This show has touched her heart, and reminded her what truly matters… she can only hope that you all have the same experience.

JORDAN ROOKER (Daddy Murphy) is honored to be able to take to the stage again for his 4th production with LCT! He most recently appeared as Mordcha in Fiddler on the Roof in the fall. Offstage he works at UWL as a Technical Support Consultant and enjoys spending time at home with his family and online gaming. He is thankful as always for the loving support of his wife Rachel and kiddos Wyatt and Layla.

ZACHARY SCAFE-JOHNSON (Stanford) Zachary is happy to be performing with LCT again. This is his second show with them. He was also in Mamma Mia as part of the ensemble. Zach is a graduate from Viterbo University with a degree in Fine Arts. He wants to thank his family, both biological and chosen, for the amazing support. He also wants to thank his husband Morgon and his 2 cats, Wiggles and Nugget, for being an amazing support system.

CHRISTINA SCOVILLE (Well-Dressed Woman) has been involved in music all of her life, however this her first show at the La Crosse Community Theatre. Or anywhere! She is a La Crosse Logan High School teacher, mother of three, and wife. She would like to thank those at home and at work for their tremendous support and encouragement on this awesome adventure

Who's Who

CARLY SWISHER (Ensemble, u/s Lucy) is thrilled to be returning to the Weber Center stage for her second LCT show! She was recently in the Wizard of Oz and enjoyed every second! You may recognize Carly from her time anchoring the morning show at WXOW or teaching throughout the school district of La Crosse. She truly enjoys meeting new people and connecting with others. She hopes to continue dancing and singing for the rest of her life! Thank you to everyone in her life for the constant support and love.

FAITH WHEAT (Florence) This is Faith's 5th production with LCT and is so excited to share this beautiful story with you all. You may have seen her in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Vagina Monologues, 5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche, and Legally Blonde. She had so much fun working on this show with the amazing cast and crew. Thank you for coming and supporting LCT!

BRITTANY BARA (Intamacy Director) is an actor, director, and educator in her second year as an assistant professor of theatre and mucic theatre at Viterbo. Recent Viterbo credits: Tar Beach (Director), The Hello Girls (Director). As an actor and director, she has worked extensiveley throughout the U.S., Canada, and Western Europe. As a performer, favorite roles include Reno in Anything Goes, Woman 2 in I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change, MME. Thernardier in Les Miserables, and Hermia in A Midsummer Night's Dream. Bara holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Emerson College in Boston and an MFA in Performance Pedagogy from the University of Pittsburg. Thanks to the cast and creative team for trusting me through this process; and thanks and love to Dan, for everything. For more information, visit www.brittanybara.com

KRISTI BECHTEL (Lighting Assistant) This is Kristi's first time (and certainly not the last) assisting with lighting for LCT and she had an absolute blast learning a new skill! Thanks to Mary Cate for the opportunity and to Cassie for being an amazing teacher about all things lighting in a theatre production. She can't think of a more wonderful show to help out with and hopes you enjoy Bright Star!

PETER BOSGRAAF (Music Director) is excited to be Music Directing at LCT again! Peter has previously music directed LCT's productions of Thoroughly Modern Millie, Jesus Christ Superstar, Avenue Q, and Penguin Project's Seussical Jr. and Honk Jr. Peter is a vocal music teacher, theatre educator, director, music director, and accompanist in La Crosse and has taught voice, piano, and theatre to students in Wisconsin, Florida, and Colorado. He would like to thank his family and this AMAZING cast for being so supportive of his crazy schedule these past few weeks!!

LIZZ BRANNON (Stage Manager) is happy to be back in the Lyche, and back behind the board! Over the last few years, Lizz has been on stage and back stage for A Nice Family Christmas, 'night Mother, Lizzie, The Laramie Project, The Long Christmas Dinner, The Vagina Monologues, and countless comedy shows. She would like to thank her cast for making this process so fun, and the production team for making this process so smooth. This show has been such a fun experience, and we all hope you enjoy the show!

NATE MOHLMAN (Scenic Designer) is currently the Assistant Technical Director and Scene Shop Supervisor at UW-L. He earned his MFA in Technical Direction at the University of Southern Illinois. Nate has worked professionally as a Technical Director at the La Crosse Community Theatre and as an Assistant Technical Director at the Des Moines Metro Opera and the Utah Shakespeare Festival.

THERESA SMERUD (Costume Designer) has been involved with LCT since she was 10 years old, when she was cast in The Music Man. Over the years, she participated on stage, but then gravitated to working with costumes. She designed costumes on and off over the years, even before a costume shop was established, with volunteers meeting at her home. Theresa has been LCT’s volunteer photographer, capturing most of the productions for the archives and PR. She is a national awardwinning photographer,and her photos have graced the covers of "Dance Studio Life Magazine" and other publications.

Who's Who

KRISSA VALENTINE-HARNISH (Props Master) is a freelance artist and photographer who has appeared onstage and offstage in many local theatre productions. Most recently, she directed Appleseed Community Theatre’s production of Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus and Peter Pan JR. She lives in La Crosse. In her free time, she loves to adventure out cross-country rock hunting.

DOUG WILKEN (Sound Designer) Doug has contributed to stage and live music productions at UWL, Viterbo University, WCPA, Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati, and Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. Bright Star is Doug's 6th design with LCT and past works include: A Nice Family Christmas, Sister Act, Cabaret, The Music Man, and Mamma Mia!

LEX VIOLETTE (Technical Director) is currently the Technical Director at LCT. Previous work at LCT includes The Last Five Years (Scenic Designer/TD), The Wizard of Oz (TD), A Nice Family Christmas (Scenic Designer/TD), Fiddler on the Roof (TD), Legally Blonde (TD), and Dog Sees God (Patricia/ TD). She would like to thank her family and friends for the overwhelming support she has received. Enjoy the performance!

CASSIE VORBACH (Lighting Designer) This is Cassie's fifth production with LCT, last season she worked on The Wizard of Oz, Five Lesbians Eacting a Quiche, The Diary of Anne Frank and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Cassie received her BFA in Lighting Design from Texas State University - San Marcos and her MFA in Lighting Design from the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. She worked as an Event Coordinator at Viterbo for a year and as the Head Electrician at the Gallo Center for the Arts in Modesto, California for ten years. In Modesto, she regularly designed for YES Company and the Modesto Symphony Orchestra

LESLIE WEBER (Choreographer) is so pleased to be working on another LCT production. Some of her past LCT shows include Scrooge in Rouge, Newsies,

Sister Act, Rent, and A Charlie Brown Christmas Leslie is a dance teacher in La Crescent, and spends her days as an office manager for Feils Knapp Chiropractic. She is also a co-founder of Trilogy Dance Competition. Leslie is so grateful for her wonderful husband Brad and their three crazy kids, and wants to thank them for all of their support and love.

MARY CATE WESLING (Director) is elated to be directing her eighth production with LCT. Previous credits include Miracle on 34th Street, The Sound of Music, 'night, Mother, Lizzie, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Legally Blonde, and Fiddler on the Roof. Mary Cate has also directed Oklahoma! for Appleseed Community Theatre in La Crescent, MN and Back to Summer in Pecatonica, IL. Mary Cate is a graduate of Viterbo University with a BS in Theatre Education. Mary Cate is originally from Rockford, IL and has participated in theatre every year since she was nine years old. Mary Cate would like to thank her husband Lucas and her family for their support and attendance.

SOPHIA MARTINE (Spotlight Operator) is currently a sophomore in high school. She started at the community theater with The Wizard of Oz last year and now The Odd Couple and Bright Star this year at the LCT! But before then, she decided to get involved after seeing her first live musical, Hamilton, and grew interested with everything that goes on behind the scenes. Since then, she joined her school's tech team and the LCT.

KRISTIN FREEDLUND (Conductor) is grateful for the opportunity to join the talented production team of Bright Star. During the day she is a middle school band director and remains an active performer in the area. She recently conducted Fiddler on the Roof and RENT at LCT. Much love goes to her parents, husband and pit family. I hope this musical reminds you of the power of perseverance and the light that can emerge from even the darkest of times. The sun will shine again!

Who's Who

PAUL JEWSON (Double Bass) A graduate of UW-La Crosse, Paul has been a regular musician in musical pits around the area, having played many musicals for LCT, UW-L, Viterbo, and Appleseed Community Theater. He also plays with the band Fly Casual, is part of Driftless Urban Orchestra, is the bass coach for La Crosse Youth Orchestra, and has played with many other groups. He loves the variety of music musicals offer the chance to play.

EDDIE KIM (Piano 1) is grateful for Another Round of playing for LCT. Recent pit work includes RENT and Fiddler on the Roof, Newsies, and James and the Giant Peach. He accompanied for Legally Blonde, Fiddler on the Roof, and The Wizard of Oz here, and James and the Giant Peach at UWL. He hopes your experience today is full of love and laughter and sweet harmony.

CASSIE DAVIS (Fiddle) This is Cassie’s second pit production with LCT, the first being Fiddler on the Roof this past fall! She’s a recent graduate of UWL, originally from Minneapolis, and currently works at the LSO, Reed Studios, and LYSO. You can find Cassie hanging out with her cat, Oswald, FaceTiming her siblings, or trying to spend time with her friends. Special thanks to those that begrudgingly accept her schedule!

RYAN AMBLE (Drums and Percussion) Currently working at SSE Music in La Crosse, I have been heavily involved in the La Crosse and Winona music scenes since 2012. In winona I played in Texas Toast and Karate Chop Silence, and also co-owned and operated the “Karate Camp” music festivals in 2021 and 2022. Nowadays you can catch me playing around the area with Last 3, The Lavender Project, Ryan Howe and the Atmosphere, Juiceneck, and Charlieboy.

KYLE RENFRO (Mandolin) is a local musician and educator. He plays in local band Flibbertijibbet as well as a solo artist. He’s lost count of how many pits he has played in, but it has to be close to 30.

Considering he doesn’t play Mandolin, this has been a wonderful challenge, and thanks his wife Kristin for the opportunity. Enjoy!

KEATON PURNEY (Cello) is a junior in high school at La Crosse Polytechnic School, and has been playing cello for almost 8 years. This is his first time participating in a theatre production. He performs with local orchestras and as a soloist. When not playing cello, Keaton likes to train martial arts.

LA CROSSE COMMUNITY THEATRE has been the Coulee Region's premiere arts institution since 1963 and is currently the primary resident of the state-of-the-art Weber Center for the Performing Arts which is nestled on the beautiful banks of the Mississippi River. Entertaining thousands of patrons each year, LCT now produces five main stage shows in the 450-seat Lyche Theatre, four black box shows in the 100-seat Veterans Studio Theatre, and presents a theatre for young audiences touring production series. We also offer youth performance and education opportunities through our Star Academy, which provides tuition free classes and camps to socioeconomically disadvantaged youth, and The Penguin Project, which invites youth with disabilities to appear in a musical with the support of a peer mentor. LCT is a member of the American Association of Community Theatre and the Wisconsin Association of Community Theatre.

Coming Soon to LCT!

Scan Here for Tickets!

The Enduring Families Project is a theatre project which brings to life the stories of 19th Century African Americans that lived in La Crosse and its surrounding area: a presidential candidate, a politically active farmer, a vaudeville musician, a woman boarding house owner, several barbers, including one woman who owned her own barbershop. These stories, told through reenactments, run the gamut of life experiences in 19th Century La Crosse.

May 24-25, 2024 7:30 pm

Presented by the Enduring Families Project which is generously sponsored by the La Crosse County Historical Society

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($20,000+)

Debra Wakeen

($5,000+)

John & Linda Lyche

Barbara & Donald Frank

($2,000-$4,999)

Mark Chamberlain

Binsfeld Family Fund

($1,000-$1,999)

Stephen Conrad

John Mason

Scott & Mary Rathgaber

Sharon & Michael Markee

Kristin Albrecht Charitable Fund

($500-$999)

Diane Foust & Jim Nelson

David & Christine Papke

Bill & Jackie Pritchard

Joseph Alexander

Jim Brickl

Roger & Kenna Christians

Tom & Heidi Grau

Vantage Architects, Inc

Mary Jean Sartz

Pamela & Richard Strauss

Jim & Jo Ann Wickizer

($250-$499)

Jennifer French

Nancy & Andrew Matchett

Nancy Richgels

Barbara Burchill

Bob & Kay Conzemius

Joe Hammes

Julie Keitel

Jeri Sebo

Ross & Lynn West

Peter & Joan Allen

Tom & Kimberley Culp

Kevin Drewiske

Ted & Mary Jean Eisenbacher

Carery & Suzanne Falkenberry

Roger & Charlotte Grant

Nicole Letendre

Aurel & Sue Mailath

Richard Melvin

Brian & Karen Rude

Tina Ruskey

John Dawidowski & Sharon SingerDawidowski

Dick & Pat Spencer

Richard & Judy Williams

($150-$249)

Jim & Jo Glasser

Joe & Linda Kastantin

Rosemary Nelson

Tom and Lori Nigon

Michael Porter

Leah Reimann

Kurt & Julie Schroeder

Kathy Spelker

Ann Brice

Rob Reider

Tom & Jean Thompson

Scott A. Ziebell

($100-$149)

Patrick & Susanne Peck

Tony & Patrice Vander Wielen

Theron & Judie Wilson

Laurel Allen

Margaret Andersen

Carol Bakkestuen

Michael Bottcher

David Bruemmer

Gale Bruessel

Rachel Bryant

Jean Burgess

Cari & Mark Burmaster

Roy Campbell & Ellen Ullsvik

Susan Custer

Kathleen Danaher

Candyce Del Bello

Jolene DeMaiffe

Dennis & Ellie Dorman

Daryl & Nancy Ert

Mark & Dorie Etrheim

Anita Evand & Larry Lebirecki

April Farrell

Steve & Katie Fleis

Rebecca Goche

William & Sarah Goff

Herb & Barbara Heili

Mike & Cheri Herro

Mike & Lynn Hickey

John & Linda Hoehn

Charlene Hopkins

Richard & Marlene Hutter

John Kelly

Bruce Kerr

Roger & Jean Klousia

Bob & Marlene Kohner

Alma Kohnert

John & Mary Komperud

Steve & Karen Lind

Steve & Cheryl Loehr

Jay Lokken & Ken Riley

Arden Markos

Margie Mason

Krister Mattson

Jane Miller

Corine Neuman

Chris Olson

Ralph & Judy Osborn

Elsie Patterson

Dianne Pogreba

Kathryn Ready

Cam & Carlene Roberts

Tom & Sharon Ryan

Ole Ryan

Gail Schneider

Sandy Sechrest

Kari Shaw

Mark & Carol Solyst

Kristy Stokke

Jim Tempke

Mary Colleen Walsh

Eileen Walsh Doyle

Ray & Joyce Wichelt

Marc & Ruth Williams

Libby & Andrew Winga

Harvey & Patricia Witzenburg

Terry & Loran Zibrowski

Kathleen Zietlow

Sponsorship

Exposure to 30,000+ patrons annually

Logo listed on LCT’s sponsor webpage

Logo on interior digital displays during 2024-2025 season

Logo listed at bottom of all programs, posters, and banners for 2024-2025 season productions

Listed as a “Sponsor” in all 2024-2025 Mainstage programs

Link to your business’ website from LCT’s sponsor webpage

Quarter page ad in all 2024-2025 Mainstage programs

Half page ad in all 2024-2025 Mainstage programs

Listed as a season sponsor in all 2024-2025 Mainstage programs

Announced as “Season Sponsor” before every performance of all 2024-2025 season productions

Full page ad in show program of sponsored event

Logo on all webpages/social media pages for sponsored event

Business/Organization name or logo on all social media posts for sponsored production

Social Media cross-promotion of “Presenting Sponsor”

Logo on all printed marketing materials for sponsored production

Business/Organization identifiers on exterior Weber Center marquee during sponsored production

Announced as a “Presenting Sponsor” before every performance of sponsored production

Recognized as a “Presenting Sponsor” during all TV, radio, and podcast interviews

Recognized with LCT as the “Presenting Sponsor” of a 2024-2025 season production

Over 500,000 impressions through paid and social media advertising

Single tickets to sponsored event

Thank You to Our Season Sponsors!