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The videotaping or other video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited. THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals. www.concordtheatricals.com

Nickelodeon ™ THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL

Based on the series by Stephen Hillenburg

Book by Kyle Jarrow

Original Songs by Yolanda Adams, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Sara Bareilles, Jonathan Coulton, Alex Ebert of Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, The Flaming Lips, Lady A, Cyndi Lauper, John Legend, Panic! At the Disco, Plain White T’s, They Might Be Giants, T.I.

And Songs by David Bowie, Tom Kenny & Andy Paley

Additional Lyrics by Jonathan Coulton

Additional Music by Tom Kitt

Musical Production Conceived by Tina Landau

© 2023 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. Nickelodeon, SpongeBob SquarePants and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Viacom International Inc. Created by Stephen Hillenburg.

A Note from the Director

A production like this one does not happen without a bunch of really talented people joining together to make it happen.

This production has >275 props (if you count each piece individually), >200+ lighting cues, >150+ costumes, >75+ projections, 10+ moving set pieces, a ton of production numbers including complicated dances, three scenes where cast members perform choreographed movement of inanimate objects, some of the toughest 'fun' music you'll ever seeincluding multiple numbers with 8 part harmony, a foley artist on stage, and any number of things that all have to come together for it all to work.

I am lucky enough to have the absolute best production staff one could hope for.

To John, Aleeza, and Rob and all of our set build helpers: thank you for all the stellar work in designing our set pieces and all of the scenic art work completed for the show. John, as always your set concepts are clever, dynamic, and bring joy! Rob, the countless hours you put into custom projections, rocks, a working Karen computer effect, and helping to ultimately stage manage the show went way above and beyond. Aleeza, you are an incredible artist, able to quickly paint amazing scenes and to pick just the right look. You all worked amazingly as a team.

To Maeve, Julie, and Betsy: Your costumes, makeup, hair, and costume effects make this show pop. The thoughtfulness and cleverness with which you designed the costumes was a joy to observe. Every costume effect, every thoughtful headpiece, the clever makeup, hair styling, and wigs - all stellar.

To Mike, Emily, Rob, Gabi, Aleeza, and all of our stage crew: Few shows are as hard to manage backstage or for sound/light/tech as this one. The traffic backstage could be chaotic, but you bring order to it. Running light cues and running sound cues for a show like this is very difficult and I've got the best production staff to do it. You are all amazing humans and I thank you for bringing this production to life each run.

A Note from the Director (continued)

To Barb and Brenda: I know you kind of knew what you were getting in to when you agreed to produce this monster of a production, but I'll best you didn't know exactly how many things would need to be done. I thank you for always keeping us organized, helping us decipher realistic options from non-realistic ones, answering all of the emails and questions, keeping our busy conflict calendar up to date, and the general support you've given all of us the entire run.

To Mark: I could not have asked for a more collaborative Music Director. It's been a blast hearing you teach this cast this fun, surprisingly complicated music and watching them grow. You've brought in great musicians and I am so thankful to have such amazing musical talent in every aspect of this production.

To Becky: You are an absolute joy to work with. You are detailed, organized, and set high expectations. The result is what we see on this stage. Not only did you choreograph people in this one, but inanimate objects as well. You are wonderful at giving the more experienced dancers choreography that can highlight their talents, while giving those with less experience movements that fit perfectly with everything else going on stage. Your impact on this show is immense.

To Laura: Being an Assistant Director to a bit of a control freak is no easy task. Your impact on this show is in the kindness with which you approached everyone, your willingness to fill in to make props, or to block scenes, or to run rehearsals, and your patience in hearing me talk about this show non-stop for months. Dealing with the Director not just while at rehearsals but in every family moment away from rehearsal is possibly the toughest job of them all. Thank you for all the love you show to me, to our kids, and to the entire cast and crew.

This show does not happen without each and every one of you bringing your full talents to the effort. Nothing I will say or do can ever thank you enough for all you've done. Thank you, thank you, thank you so much for everything. You've all made this an unforgettably positive experience.

CAST

Patchy the Pirate...................................................................................Dustin Yenser

The French Narrator..........................................................................Evan Schwartz

SpongeBob Squarepants.........................................................Justin Lamphere

Gary’s Handler............................................................................Mackenzie Stirling

Patrick Star..................................................................................Michael Thompkins

Squidward Q. Tentacles........................................................................Joseph Beck

Sandy Cheeks................................................................................................Rylee Cella

Eugene H. Krabs.......................................................................................Vince Vuono

Sheldon J. Plankton............................................................................................AJ King

Karen the Computer............................................................................Maddie Sapp

The Mayor of Bikini Bottom....................................................................Betsy Falk

Mrs. Puff..................................................................................................Lauren Ralston

Larry the Lobster......................................................................................Greg Kooker

Old Man Jenkins...........................................................................................Joe O’Neill

Pearl Krabs.......................................................................................................Jay McFalls

Perch Perkins................................................................................................Jim Hopper

Perch Jr...............................................................................................................Kent Weiss

The Electric Skates..............................................Michael Mann, Ryan Polito, .................................................................................................................Haley Simmonds

Featured Dancers..............Anna Bobok, Sean Brennan, Dani Cantor, Ellie Fisher, Troy Gartner, Ali Johnson, Kayla Mastricolo, Hannah Mathur, Kalli McKee, Emily Murphy, Roseann Pignoli, Olivia Ruth, Adam Shoffner, Joie Shoffner, Gillian Szymanski, Claire Tanner, Em Wainstein

Ensemble............................Jack Boell, Bella Bonanni, Shirley Bonanni, .Alexis Bullock, Amelia Eckman, Gideon Falk, Spencer Falk, Troy Fisher, Brynn Hopper, Julia Park, Angelina Perry, Micah Perry, Valerie Perry, Danny Shapella, Katie Shapella, Alexis Stirling, Mackenzie Stirling, Kent Weiss, Harper Willis

ORCHESTRA

Reed 1.......................................................................................................Holly Kennedy

Reed 2......................................................................................................Shawn Snavely

Trumpet...................................................................................................Logan Bigelow

Trombone..................................................................................................Eric Landrieu

Drums.....................................Andy Williams (Austin Snavely 7/12, 7/19)

Percussion/Foley Artist...................................................Lindsay Zimmerman

Keys 1.......................................................................................................Laura Burhans

Keys 2/ Guitar..........................Pat D’Amato (Heidi New 7/19,7/20,7,21)

Keys 3/ Conductor...............................................................................Mark Urmson

Guitar 1..........................................................................................................Neal Phillips

Guitar 2..........................................................................................Michael Campanile

Violin1...................................................................................................................Tyler Meil

Violin 2..................................................................Lauren Leigh, Gianna Dragon

Viola..............................................................................................................Christa Levko

Cello..................................................................................................Beatrix Thompson

Bass.........................................Maggie McDonald (Erin Gouak 7/20, 7/21)

MUSICAL NUMBERS

ACT I

Bikini Bottom Day (by Jonathan Coulton).......................................................................The Town

Bikini Bottom Day (Reprise 1) (by Jonathan Coulton)

SpongeBob

No Control (by David Bowie and Brian Eno)................................Perch Perkins, The Town

BFF (by Plain White T’s)

SpongeBob, Patrick

When The Going Gets Tough (by T.I., Domani Harris, and Darwin Quinn)

..........................................................................................................................................Plankton, The Town

(Just A) Simple Sponge (by Panic! At The Disco)

SpongeBob, Mr. Krabs, ....................................................................................................................................................................Sponges

Daddy Knows Best (by Alex Ebert of Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros)

....................................................................................................................................................Mr. Krabs, Pearl

Hero Is My Middle Name (by Cyndi Lauper and Rob Hyman)......................................................

SpongeBob, Sandy, Patrick

Super Sea-Star Savior (by Yolanda Adams)....................................................Patrick, Sardines

Tomorrow Is (by The Flaming Lips) The Town

- There will be a 15-minute intermission -

ACT II

Poor Pirates (by Sara Bareilles) Patchy, Pirates

Bikini Bottom Day (Reprise 2) (by Jonathan Coulton).........................................SpongeBob

Bikini Bottom Boogie (by Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith)

The Electric Skates, Pearl, Fans

Chop To The Top (by Lady Antebellum)......................................................Sandy, SpongeBob

(I Guess I) Miss You (by John Legend)

SpongeBob, Patrick

I’m Not A Loser (by They Might Be Giants).............................Squidward, Sea Anemones

Simple Sponge (Reprise) (by Panic! At The Disco) SpongeBob

Best Day Ever (by Andy Paley and Tom Kenny)...............................SpongeBob, The Town

Finale: Bikini Bottom Day (Reprise 3) (by Jonathan Coulton)...............................The Town

SpongeBob Theme Song (by Derek Drymon, Mark Harrison, Stephen Hillenburg, and Blaise Smith)..................................................................................................All

PRODUCTION TEAM

Producers.................................................................Brenda Capwell, Barb Cross

Director.....................................................................................................Brian Shapella

Assistant Directors....................................Laura Shapella, Rebecca Yenser

Choreographer..................................................................................Rebecca Yenser

Music and Orchestra Director.......................................................Mark Urmson

Stage Managers......................................................Gabi Cherelli, Rob Frankel

Projection Artist.........................................................................................Rob Frankel

Set Design/Construction/Special Effects.....................................John Cross

Scenic Artist/Set Decorator.........................................................Aleeza Furman

Costume Designers...............................................Betsy Falk, Maeve O’Brien

Hair and Makeup Designer......................................................................Julie Kruk

Props............................................................................John Cross, Aleeza Furman

Tech/Light/Sound Designer.............................................................Mike Addice

Light Operator.............................................................................................Emily Cross

Sound Operators..........Mike Addice, Becca Begnaud, Emily Maroni

Spotlight Operator....................................................................................Jeff Stirling

Stage Crew................................Christa Fisher, John Cross, Ethan Fisher, ......................................................................................................................Jake Wainstein

Set Construction....................John Cross, Rob Frankel, Ashok Mathur,

.......................................................The SpongeBob Cast, Crew, and Families

Graphic Designer..............................................................................Christine Furey

Photographers............................................................John Gray, Leslie Hopper

House Manager.............................................................................................Barb Cross

Board Liaison...........................................................................................Allison Baron

Box Office...................................................Ashley Lawrence, Michelle Miller

MCT 2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

Nicolette Adams (President)

Lindsay Zimmerman (Vice President)

Rebecca Yenser (Secretary)

Brenda Capwell (Treasurer) (non-board)

Allison Baron

Barb Cross

John Gray

Heather McElhiney

Kate McShane

Maddie Sapp

MEET THE CAST

Joseph Beck (Squidward Q. Tentacles)

Joseph is so excited to show off his “leggy” talents in his 2nd summer with MCT! Joseph is a rising Sophomore, majoring in Theatre Arts at Point Park University. His recent roles include “Rudolpho” in Matilda at MCT last summer and “Cosmo” in Singin’ in the Rain at Montgomery Theater. Joseph would like to thank the amazing cast and crew of Spongebob for making this such a goofy, unique, and unforgettable experience! He’d like to give extra thanks to Betsy for her incredible work on the Squiddy legs! He’d also like to thank his friends and family for their endless support!

Anna Bobok (Sardine Devotee/Featured Dancer)

Is thrilled to be in her first show with MCT! Previous shows include The Drowsy Chaperone (The Drowsy Chaperone), Firebringer (Chorn), and the first production of Gossamer: An Alpine Folk Opera (Queen Marie). She would like to thank her family and friends who have supported her love of theater and the entire MCT team for welcoming her.

Jack Boell (BFF/Pirate Soloist)

Is very excited for his 2nd show with MCT. Some shows he has been in are Seussical the Musical Jr, High School Musical Jr, Pirates of Penzance Jr, The Little Mermaid Jr, Anastasia Jr, and Les Misérables. This experience doing a big show with many great people has been super fun and incredible. He would like to thank his parents for letting him do this show as well as all the amazing people who made this beautiful show happen. He would also like to thank Mrs. Perry for driving him to rehearsal all the time.

MEET THE CAST

Bella Bonanni (Jellyfish/Ensemble)

Is ecstatic to be back with MCT, this time on the main stage with mom! She is 10 years old and will be in the 5th grade at IES in Radnor Township School District. She was previously seen in A Cozy Cabaret and the youth production of Anastasia (Ensemble). Bella would like to thank the cast and crew for welcoming her, as well as her family, friends, and Potato (her dog) for all of their support.

Shirley Bonanni (Girl Fish/Pirate Soloist)

Is excited to be back on the main stage with MCT and sharing the stage with her daughter, Bella! Most recently, she was Dr. Billeaux in Urinetown with ETC. Shirley was in A Cozy Cabaret, A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder, and Matilda with MCT. Catch her next on the MCT mainstage in November in The Prom! Shirley would like to thank the incredibly talented and welcoming cast and crew for this wonderful experience! She is grateful for the encouragement from her family, especially Fabian, her husband, and their children, Logan and Bella. Special thanks to friends, coworkers, and vocal coach, Heidi Hayes, for all of their continued support!

Sean Brennan (Sardine/Featured Dancer)

Is thrilled to be a part of another MCT production. This is his fourth appearance on stage with MCT, most recently performing in the Cozy Cabaret. Sean is a part of the ensemble and a featured hip hop dancer. He’s ready for everyone to see him as well as the entire so-fished-icated cast bust a move and blow this production of The SpongeBob Musical out of the water.

MEET THE CAST

Alexis Bullock (she/her) (Pirate Soloist/Mob Fish)

Is excited to be back for her 4th show with MCT! She loves spending her summer with all her pals from Bikini Bottom! Starting September she will be a sophomore at Haverford High School. She would like to thank the production team for helping her become a better performer. Most importantly, she thanks her grandfather for introducing her to MCT and its amazing community.

Dani Cantor (she/her) (Buster BlueTang/Featured Dancer)

Is having the time of her life busting a move as Buster BlueTang in this wacky and wonderful show. She’s apparently always wishing for nautical nonsense, as she recently dropped on the deck as a pirate and fish-turned-mermaid in MCT’s Peter and the Star Catcher. You may have also caught her in the Cozy Cabaret, A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder, Matilda, H2$, or Big Fish (so many fish!) All the love and thanks to her family, friends, and feline sons Oliver & Pippin.

Rylee Cella (she/her) (Sandy Cheeks)

Is more excited than a rhinestone cowboy at a disco rodeo to be playing Sandy Cheeks in MCT's production of The Spongebob Musical. She previously appeared as Mrs. Sowerberry in Oliver (NCT), Google Girl in First Date (MCT), and a Gargoyle in The Hunchback of Notre Dame (The Barn). Enjoy the show and Yeehaw!

MEET THE CAST

Amelia Eckman (she/her) (Mob Fish/Ensemble)

Is excited to be doing her first show with MCT after getting her feet wet in her 5th Grade Production of Annie Jr. She is so happy to make new friends and learn more about the theater. She looks forward to starting middle school in the fall at Haverford Middle School as a 6th grader. She would like to thank the production team for all the fun she had on this journey!

Betsy Falk (Ms. Mayor)

Is excited to join MCT for a third show, having previously been in Matilda and The Cozy Cabaret. She is also part of the SpongeBob costume coordination team. Betsy has been involved in theatre most of her life, in diverse roles such as actor, director, choreographer, costume designer, puppet designer, and dialect coach. She is currently the Operations Manager at Monkey Boys Productions. She would like to thank her family for their support, her sons, Gideon and Spencer, for joining her in this production, and Maeve for putting up with all her crazy ideas!

Gideon Falk (Teen Fan/Ensemble)

Is so excited to be back on stage at MCT, having previously performed as a soloist in The Cozy Cabaret and in the Little Kid Ensemble of Matilda. Gideon is a rising sixth grader and enjoys video games, legos, puzzles, and drawing, and has been singing with his school chorus and taking guitar lessons for two years. He would like to thank his family for their support and everyone in the audience for coming!

MEET THE CAST

Spencer Falk (Jellyfish/Ensemble)

Is glad to be on the MCT stage again this year after his first ever performance in last year's Matilda. He especially enjoys being a gullible sardine. Spencer is entering fourth grade and enjoys legos, drawing, video games, and writing and illustrating books with his brother. He would like to thank his mom and his dad and his family and hopes you enjoy the show!

Ellie Fisher (she/her) (Cowboy Fish/Featured Dancer)

Is a rising 9th grader and has spent the last 3 years at University Scholars Program/Center For Performing and Fine Arts at PALCS. She is pleased to be returning to the MCT stage. This is her 4th production at MCT. Past credits include: Matilda (Dance Ensemble), Frozen Jr (Middle Elsa), and Big Fish (Ensemble). Other favorite roles include Turtle in Frog & Toad Jr, and Snoopy in You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown. She would like to thank the entire cast and crew along with her family and aunt for taking her to rehearsal and supporting her theater endeavors.

Troy Fisher (he/him) (Johnny The Bartender/Security Guard)

Troy is reuniting with MCT after a brief 21 year hiatus. Troy last appeared in an MCT production as the puppet and a vagabond in Little Shop Of Horrors when MCT was still located in The Trappe Building in Collegeville. MCT holds special standing because Troy met his wife Christa working together on Little Shop. He was active elsewhere over the last two decades, performing in dozens of area shows including Man Of La Mancha (Sancho), Gypsy (Eddie Ryan), Drowsy Chaperone (Robert Martin) and Catch Me If You Can (Agent Branton). SpongeBob has been a special experience because his entire family is involved as either cast or crew.

MEET THE CAST

Troy Gartner (Security Guard/Sardine Devotee/Ensemble) is thrilled to make his return at Methacton Community Theater. As a sophomore in high school, Troy commenced his tutelage with the Kim Russell Voice Studio, a privilege he continues to this day. Upon high school graduation, Troy matriculated at Millersville University, as a double major in Music Education and Voice Performance. Troy completed this nine-semester program in 2020, culminating in his graduation with two bachelor’s degrees. Afterward, Troy went back to his passion for theater and performing in multiple productions and cabarets. Previous roles include Mr. Fezziwig in A Christmas Carol, A-Rab in West Side Story, and Nick Cricker Jr./Deputy in The Mystery of Edwin Drood.

Brynn Hopper (Jellyfish/Ensemble)

Enthusiastically debuts in her first MCT mainstage show, though she also was in MCT’s most recent youth show, Anastasia. Some of her past shows include Music Man Kids (Amaryllis), Lion King Kids (Rafiki) and Newsies Jr (Seitz). Brynn is so excited to be sharing the stage with her dad for the third time (Beauty & the Beast, Cinderella), and thanks her family for their support throughout her theater journey.

Jim Hopper (Perch Perkins)

Returns to MCT for a second consecutive season, after a 20year hiatus between the previous two shows (City of Angels, Little Shop of Horrors). In between he was a nomadic actor, doing both musicals and plays. There’s too many name, but favorite roles include Nick Arnstein (Funny Girl), Sir Bedevere (Spamalot), Gaston (Beauty & the Beast). Jim would like to thank his extraordinary daughters, his friends and family, and the entire cast and crew for their support while exploring this under the sea world.

MEET THE CAST

Ali Johnson (she/they) (Sardine Devotee/Ensemble)

Is ecstatic to be performing in another MCT production. Some of Ali’s most memorable roles are Dr. Bennet u/s in Big Fish, and assistant director/stage manager for Anastasia. Ali would like to thank her family and friends for supporting her passions. She would also like to thank MCT for being an outlet for creativity. She also would like to thank our friendly neighborhood Spider-Man for looking out for the little guy, potatoes for being delicious, and Zendaya for existing.

AJ King (Plankton)

Is ecstatic to make his debut at Methacton Community Theater. This is his first lead role and a dream role so he is going to give all of his energy on stage. He looks forward to hypnotizing all of you into loving his chum burgers and he will soon rule the world after he is done! He wants to thank his Mother for her undying support and his castmates for being a ton of fun to work with! Enjoy the show and ALL HAIL PLANKTON!

Greg Kooker (he/him) (Larry The Lobster)

Is elated to be making his debut with MCT! Spending his summer in Bikini Bottom has been an absolute blast! Greg would like to thank his friends and family for their constant support of his love for musical theatre!

MEET THE CAST

Justin Lamphere (SpongeBob)

Is overjoyed to be living in a pineapple under the sea in his first show with MCT! A few roles he played in the past include Quasimodo (Hunchback of Notre Dame), Nigel (Something Rotten), and Scotty (Evil Dead the Musical). You can catch him in the Queen jukebox musical We Will Rock You at the Barn Playhouse in Norristown in September. He would like to thank his family and friends for their support and the cast and crew for welcoming him to the MCT family and for being the reason he’s having a blast with this show.

Michael Mann (Electric Skate, Sardine Devotee)

Is ecstatic to make his MCT debut with such a wonderful cast. Michael is a full-time operating room nurse and a nurse practitioner student through Walden University. Michael has been involved in several productions over the years. Previous credits include American Idiot (Tunny), The Rocky Horror Show (Riff Raff), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Quasimodo), She Loves Me (Head Waiter), and The Wizard of Oz (Tinman/ Hickory) amongst others. Michael would like to thank his production team and wonderful cast for being so welcoming and inclusive, as well as being so dedicated to putting together a truly remarkable show.

Kayla Mastricolo (Sardine/Featured Dancer)

Is so excited to be a part of her second production at MCT. She has had a great time working with everyone involved in the production. Some previous shows she has been in have included Anastasia, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Into the Woods. Kayla is a rising junior at North Penn High School and outside of theatre she also dances. She would like to thank the production team for their hard work and dedication to putting on this show. Being part of this cast has been so much fun and she can’t wait for everyone to see the show.

MEET THE CAST

Hannah Mathur (she/her) (Pirate Soloist/Featured Dancer) Is thrilled to be back for her 6th show with MCT after taking a short break from the stage. She has been dancing for 16 years and is involved in various choirs outside of school. Currently she attends West Chester University and is majoring in Social Work. In her free time, you can find her working at Wegmans, hanging with friends, dancing, singing, or playing with her dog Ellie. Some of her past favorite roles include being a Lost Boy in Peter Pan, Thing 2 in Seussical, a Heaven Hop Girl in Anything Goes and a Dancestor in The Addams Family. Hannah would like to take a moment to thank all her friends, family, and coworkers for their constant love and support. Break a leg to the cast and crew of The SpongeBob Musical!

Jay McFalls (Pearl Krabs)

Is ecstatic to be in The Spongebob Musical again, this time in one of her biggest dream roles! Jay is going into her senior year at Phoenixville Area High School where she has previously been seen in The Addams Family (Morticia Addams) and The Secret Garden (Martha). She has also been in Rock of Ages (Sherrie Christian) at Facetime Theatre and Anastasia (The Dowager Empress) here at MCT. At school, Jay is the co-leader of the acapella group, Vocal Fusion, as well as a Cappies Critic. She is also a proud Dreamer with the Broadway Dreams program. Jay would like to thank the amazing cast, crew, and staff at MCT, her friends for their endless support, her vocal coach Lori Ann O'lock, and her parents for letting her watch Spongebob as a kid.

Kalli McKee (Sardine/Featured Dancer)

The SpongeBob Musical is Kalli‘s first show with MCT. She goes to North Penn High School and has been a part of many shows, such as The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Into the Woods, and Seussical the Musical. She would like to thank The SpongeBob Musical’s production staff for giving her this opportunity and her friends for making this show memorable!

MEET THE CAST

Emily Murphy (Sardine Devotee/Featured Dancer)

Emily is thrilled to make her MCT debut in this colorful, kooky beast of a show. She was most recently seen at the Barn Playhouse in Evil Dead (Annie) and Nice Work if You Can Get it (Jeannie). Next up, she'll be back at the Barn, rocking out as Scaramouche in We Will Rock You!

Joe O’Neill (Old Man Jenkins)

Has had a great time with the energized MCT cast of SpongeBob this summer. Great memories watching this show and voicing the characters with his daughter Claire in her youth. 4th time gracing the Shannondell stage having previously played Daddy Warbucks in Annie, Sky Masterson in Guys and Dolls, and Reverend Shaw Moore in Footloose. Other favorites include Miss Saigon at BTP, extras work in Law Abiding Citizen, Limitless, and Silver Linings Playbook feature films. Love to his wonderful wife and supporter Amy, talented daughter Claire, and sports fanatic son Connor.

Julia Park (she/her) (Pirate/Ensemble)

Is thrilled to be performing in her first MCT musical! The last musical she performed in was Seussical the Musical as JoJo at Millersville University. She graduated from MU with a degree in Early Childhood Education and is now a certified teacher. Julia loves to spend time with her family, pets, and friends and enjoys crafting. She would like to thank her loved ones for their constant support! Julia would also like to thank everyone involved in this production for making Bikini Bottom such a welcoming and fun place to visit (aside from the volcano, of course)!

MEET THE CAST

Angelina Perry (Pirate Soloist/Mob Fish)

Is very excited to be in her first MCT and community theater show. She has been a part of Indian Crest Middle School productions for all three years she has attended and is hoping to be a part of her high school shows in the years to come! She would like to thank the Shapellas who have introduced her to theater and have directed every show she’s been part of. She would also like to thank her brother and her mom for being a part of SpongeBob alongside her.

Micah Perry (Sea Turtle/The FIRST F)

Is extremely excited for his third show with MCT, and has experience in four other shows being The Little Mermaid Jr, in which he played Sebastian, in High School Musical, which he played Chad, Matilda, where he played Michael, and Anastasia, where he was in the ensemble. Micah absolutely loves music in general, and especially loves to sing, and play a wide range of instruments, including piano and saxophone. He also loves anything SpongeBob, having grown up with it. Overall, he’s extremely happy that he was able to take part in The SpongeBob Musical this year!

Valerie Perry (Pirate Soloist/Jellyfish)

Has loved performing for as long as she can remember. Although she is no stranger to the stage, having sung in choirs and as a soloist for special events, this is her debut performance in a musical. Val has always wanted to be in a musical, and she is so thrilled to be sharing the stage with two of her children, Micah and Angelina, in a show with such an eclectic musical score. Val wants to thank her family and friends for their encouragement and support. She also wants to thank the production team and directors, Brian and Laura Shapella, for helping her ‘get out of her own way’ and add this experience to her resume and her chum bucket list!

MEET THE CAST

Roseann Pignoli (Jellyfish/Featured Dancer)

Is very excited to dust off her tap shoes and join MCT for the first time in Bikini Bottom. Thanks to her awesome family, she is no stranger to the stage, having appeared in shows since she was very young. She would like to thank her husband, the cast, and the production team for making her return to the stage a welcome one.

Ryan Polito (Electric Skate/Dance Captain)

Is excited to be in his fourth performance at Methacton! Some of his favorite roles have been Gabe (First Date), Arpad (She Loves Me), Smalls (Newsies), and Jehan (Hunchback of Notre Dame). He would like to thank the cast and production team for making this show such an amazing experience.

Lauren Ralston (Mrs Puff)

Is puffin' stoked to be making her MCT debut! She received her B.A in Musical Theatre from West Chester University in 2021. Notable past roles include Portia (Something Rotten), Shelby (Steel Magnolias), and Agnes (She Kills Monsters: Virtual Realms). Lauren is a director for Harmony Theater, a nonprofit performing arts program based in Montgomery County for adults with developmental disabilities (@harmonytheraterinc). She would like to say the biggest thank you to her family and friends for their support - love you, mean it! She would like to dedicate this performance to her dad, who's love of Patrick Star inspired her to do this show and to her mom who tried (and failed) to ban SpongeBob in the house and who now has to sit through two hours of it live.

MEET THE CAST

Olivia Ruth (she/her) (Cowboy Fish/Pirate/Featured Dancer) Is thrilled to be in Bikini Bottom for her first show at MCT. Her recent shows include Titanic the Musical and Jekyll & Hyde at FaceTime theater, and Little Women (Beth) and Into the Woods (Steward) at Eastern University. By day, she is an elementary music teacher, and by night she is a cat mom and an avid reader. She’d like to thank her family, friends, and boyfriend for their support. Enjoy the show!!

Maddie Sapp (Karen)

Is having a blast in Bikini Bottom this summer! This is her fifth show on the MCT stage and first year as a board member, although she has used theater as a creative outlet for many years. Her favorite role to date was Magenta in The Rocky Horror Show! She is a caffeine queen working at Starbucks as a Shift Supervisor, and her other hobbies include reading, running, macrame, baking, and other crafty things! She would like to thank the cast, crew, and pit for dedicating so much of their time to put on this wonderful show, and Rob, Vince, and John for bringing Karen to life!

Evan Schwartz (French Narrator)

Evan’s parents instilled his love of theatre by taking him to Broadway at a very young age (to see HAIR!), and he’s grateful both his sons share that love. This is his 5th show with MCT, including playing Buddy Fidler in last year’s City of Angels. Recent roles: Mr. Cladwell (Urinetown); Dr. Norquist (Bright Star). Other favorites: Man in Chair (Drowsy Chaperone), Brother Jeremiah (Something Rotten), Otto Frank (Diary of Anne Frank), Billy Crocker (Anything Goes). “Meanwhile,” when not adopting a horrible French accent, Evan can often be found at Open Book Bookstore, the bookstore he owns in Elkins Park. #ShopLocal #BanBookBans

MEET THE CAST

Danny Shapella (Pirate/BFF)

Was last seen in the ensemble at Souderton Area High School's performance of Les Mis. Other favorite roles include Gleb in Anastasia, a Big Kid in Matilda, King Triton in The Little Mermaid Jr, and Young Will in Big Fish. Danny is 15 years old, a freshman in high school, and enjoys Boy Scouts and baseball. He'd like to thank the crew for all of their hard work to make this show possible, and everyone in the cast for making this show such an enjoyable experience!

Katie Shapella (she/her) (Girl Fish/Pirate Soloist)

Is a rising sophomore at Souderton High School and excited to return to the MCT stage! Favorite roles include Ariel (The Little Mermaid Jr.), Sharpay (HSM Jr.), Jojo (Suessical Jr.). She will next be performing as Alyssa Greene in The Prom at MCT. Thanks to everyone in the cast, crew, and production team for making this show so enjoyable!

Adam Shoffner (he/him) (Cowboy Fish/Featured Dancer)

Is kicking his heels with joy in his first show at MCT. He was most recently seen in Best Christmas Pageant Ever (Bob) and long ago in It’s a Wonderful Life (George Bailey) at Barley Sheaf Players . Adam is also an accomplished one act play director winning awards and accolades at local and regional festivals, including his most recent show, Kicking, at ESTA. Adam would like to thank his darling wife for her encouragement and his daughter for making this show an experience he’ll never forget. Have a Bikini Bottom Day!

MEET THE CAST

Joie Shoffner (she/her) (Mob Fish/Featured Dancer)

Is immensely excited to be in her first show at MCT! She was most recently seen in Fun Home (John Bechdel) and Best Christmas Pageant Ever (Gladys Herdman) at Barley Sheaf Players and Aristocats Kids (Marie), Finding Nemo Kid (Pearl) and many other shows at Stagelight. Joie plays piano and cello and loves using her imagination. She’d like to thank Innovative Performing Arts (dance) and Emily Merow (voice) for their guidance and support. And, her Dad for being in this show with her.

Haley Simmonds (Electric Skate/Dance Captain)

Is so excited to be performing with MCT! Haley has received a BA in Theater from CALU as well as an A.A. in Theater Arts from MontCo. Haley has been seen in Godspell (Haley/Learn Your Lessons Well soloist), The Drowsy Chaperone (Mrs. Tottendale), Alice in Wonderland (Alice), and Mr. Burns: A Post Electric Play (Edna Krabappel). Haley Would like to thank Becky for all her support and trusting them with the role of dance captain. As well as the entire cast and crew for making this experience so much fun! Rock and Roll!! Eavesdrop on my life! Website: haleysimmonds.mystrikingly.com

Alexis Stirling (Mob Fish/Ensemble)

Is thrilled to be back on stage in her 4th show with MCT!! This one is even more enjoyable as she shares it with her sister! Alexis has performed in Frozen Jr (Middle Anna), Matilda (Tommi) and Anastasia (ensemble) with MCT. She would like to thank the cast and crew for this experience as well as her family for all of their support.

MEET THE CAST

Mackenzie Stirling (Gary/Ensemble)

Is thrilled to be a part of SpongeBob in her first ever MCT show! She is 8 years old and so happy to be making her theater debut alongside her sister. She would like to thank the cast and crew for this experience as well as her family for all of their support.

Gillian Szymanski (she/her) (Featured Dancer/Ensemble)

Is excited to be making her MCT debut in this awesome show! She has volunteered with various community theatres in Delaware, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania. Her current gigs are choreographer for the BSC&AJ Players, adjudicator for the Philadelphia Independence Awards, and, most importantly, stay-at-home wife and mom to the two best kiddos. She is also an adult intermediate/advanced tapper at Dance Time Dance Academy. Gillian would like to thank the entire cast and creative staff for their dedication in bringing Bikini Bottom to life, her husband for his continuing support of her creative endeavors, and her kids for being her biggest fans.

Claire Tanner (Mob Fish/Featured Dancer)

Is thrilled to be back at MCT in her third summer MainStage production! Claire is 15 years old and is a rising sophomore at Conestoga High School. Some of her favorite past shows include Curtains (Bambi) at Salt Performing Arts; The Little Mermaid (Ensemble) at Conestoga High School; Once Upon A Mattress (Lady-in-Waiting) at Footlighters Theater; Matilda (Hortensia) at MCT; Big Fish (Ensemble) at MCT; A Christmas Carol (Old Hag/Ghost of Christmas Future) at Footlighters Theater; and Annie (Pepper/Annie U/S) at the Upper Main Line YMCA). She would love to thank the cast and crew of this production, her parents and brother, and her voice teacher, Nick Harmantzis, for all their support and words of encouragement!

MEET THE CAST

Michael Thompkins (he/him/his) (Patrick Star) Is excited to play this legendary Super Sea Star Savior as he rescues Bikini Bottom in MCT’s The SpongeBob Musical! Michael resonates with Patrick’s support of his friends and appreciation of all things fun and enjoyment of a snack break. Some of Michael’s favorite roles include Miss Trunchbull (Matilda), Reggie/Stoner Guy/Aaron’s Future Son (First Date), and Brucie (Sweat). Michael also directed and music directed MCT’s first ever cabaret, A Cozy Cabaret, in March 2024. The SpongeBob Musical marks Michael’s two-year anniversary with MCT, and he is proud to be part of this community of actors and friends. Get ready to join us for the BEST SHOW EVER!

Vince Vuono (he/him) (Mr. Krabs)

Vince is thrilled to be making his MCT debut with SpongeBob! Vince has previously been seen in Nice Work If You Can Get It (Duke), Legally Blonde (Emmett), and 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Chip) at Dramateurs at the Barn, The Rocky Horror Show (Eddie) at Footlighters Theater, Crazy for You (Eugene) and The Wedding Singer (Sammy) at Narberth Community Theater, and in A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder (ensemble) and Yo, Vikings! (Sebby) at Players Club of Swarthmore. Vince would like to thank the entire cast and crew for an amazing experience, as well as his family, including his wonderful wife Cassidy.

Em Wainstein (they/them) (Mob Fish/Featured PopNLock Dancer).

Em is excited to be back on stage with MCT for their second summer show. Em’s a rising 7th grader at the Center for Performing and Fine Arts. They’d like to thank MCT for believing in them, Suzanne, Sarah, and Becky for helping them be a stronger dancer, Christa for seeing them and their potential, Cristy for being their everything coach, and their family for loving and supporting them, especially in all things theatre. Em hopes you enjoy the show and have THE BEST DAY EVER!

MEET THE CAST

Kent Weiss (he/him) (Perch Perkins’ Sidekick/Ensemble)

Is beyond excited to appear in his first production with MCT. Working with such a talented and kind cast has been an amazing experience. Kent has been participating in theater since he was 4 years-old, performing featured roles in many Disney Jr. musicals at CECA. When Kent is not on stage, you can find him on the golf course or working hard to obtain his 2nd degree Taekwondo Black Belt. Kent would like to thank his family for their support while pursuing his acting dreams. This is just the beginning!

Harper Willis (she/her) (Jellyfish/Krabby Patty)

Is a rising 6th grade student who will attend Boyertown East Middle School next year. This is Harper’s 6th show, but her MCT Main Stage debut! When Harper is not shining on stage, she can be found shredding the slopes snowboarding or dreaming away costumes, drawing in her art room. Harper would like to thank the directors, producers, cast, and crew for believing in her and providing this amazing opportunity. Harper would also like to thank her family for always supporting and encouraging her dreams.

Dustin Yenser (he/him) (Patchy the Pirate)

Dustin returns once again to a life of piracy, having played Captain (Bob???) Hook in his very first MCT show eight years ago. He has appeared in Cabaret, Hope and Gravity, and several other shows with MCT. He recently played Jonathan Brewster in Arsenic and Old Lace at Forge Theatre in Phoenixville. He would like to thank his wife, Rebecca, for her dedicated leadership and amazing choreography, as well as his parents and the rest of his family for their constant support. Special thanks to cousin Jon McNatt for the piracy consultation!

MEET THE PRODUCTION TEAM

Brian Shapella (Director)

Has been involved in regional community theater in the Lehigh Valley and Greater Philadelphia Region for 23 years. The Spongebob Musical is his 5th as Director, previously having directed Next to Normal, The Wedding Singer, Pippin, and Communicating Doors. Music or Vocal Direction credits include Big Fish, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, The Secret Garden, The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Hair, and Rent, amongst others. Brian is lucky enough to be participating in this production with his wife, Laura, and kids, Danny and Katie. He hopes you have the BEST DAY EVER watching this joyful, fun production.

Laura Shapella (Assistant Director)

Is having the Best Day Ever with this incredible cast and crew! She is in awe of the artistic talents and creativity of the people involved in this show who have made it the beautiful experience you see on stage. Laura's favorite MCT acting roles include Ursula (The Little Mermaid) and Lady Toby Belch (Twelfth Night), and she will next be seen as Mrs. Greene in this fall's The Prom. It is always a thrill to work alongside her entire family. Love you all!

Mark Urmson (Music Director/Orchestra Director)

Mark is all a-boat theater and is very so-fish-tocated when it comes to musicals. Mark has had the pleasure of music directing over 75 musicals in his life, and SpongeBob was a bucket list show. Mark is glad to do it with the talented cast and super e-fish-ent orcastra this summer! Many thanks to the production team and all involved to make this show possible. As always, much love and gratitude to Paula and Ella for supporting him in another theatrical endeavor just for the halibut.

Rebecca Yenser (she/her) (Assistant Director / Choreographer)

Is as happy as a clam to return for her thirteenth show with MCT. She received her BA degree from Penn State University in Theatre/Dance Performance. When she isn't busy frolicking in Jellyfish Fields, or devouring Krabby Patties (be careful; they go right to your thighs), she spends her free time doing escape rooms, playing board games, and cuddling with her kitties. Rebecca would like to thank her husband and First Mate, Dustin, for his continued and unwavering support. She would also like to thank the production team, cast, crew, and volunteers that made this show possible! And thank you to Suzanne for assisting with the hip hop choreo! Rebecca would like to dedicate this show to her cousin, Andy Beck, a true SpongeBob fan!

Special Thanks

ASI Drives Inc., Montgomeryville PA

Sean Collins

Laura Donnelly

Evansburg United Methodist Church, Collegeville PA

Suzanne Rainear

Theatre and Kids, Lansdale PA

Variety, The Children’s Charity, Worcester PA

DONORS

- Cat Adams

- Ken Brown

- Barb and John Cross

- Jen Dryburgh

- Lauren Franz

- John and Katherine Gray

- Johnson and Johnson

- Elisabeth Majewski

- Monica Mastricolo

- Steve and Yvonne Montgomery

You have a role at MCT.

- Joe O’Neil

- Julia Park

- Val Perry

- Evan Schwartz

- Gillian Szymanski

- Michael Thompkins

- Liz Tulig

- The Vanguard Group

- Dana and Jason Wainstein

MCT is an all-volunteer non-profit 501(C)(3) theater company that has produced high quality live theater in Montgomery County for over forty years. This season, we will present three musicals, one stage play, and one youth theater production. We create outstanding shows that entertain our audiences, provide a creative outlet to the community, and educate people of all ages about the theater arts.

Support our mission by becoming a member, becoming a patron, and telling a friend about the show you saw today. Word of mouth is the most effective way that we attract new audiences.

Our members create costumes, design sets, source props, devise lighting and sound plans, perform, manage our finances, create marketing plans, and much more. We welcome new volunteers at every skill level and would love to tell you more about how to get involved at MCT!

Our patrons support our shows through ticket sales, direct donations, employer matching, annual giving, corporate sponsorships, and planned gifts. We gratefully accept cash and check donations at every performance.

To contribute online, please use this link to donate: https://my.cheddarup.com/c/become-a-mct-donor

To contribute by mail, please send your donation to: MCT

PO Box 26144

Collegeville, PA 19426