The SDSU School of Theatre, Television and Film presents
WELCOME to our final production of the 2024-25 season, Rent. This groundbreaking musical has captivated audiences for decades with its raw energy, unforgettable music, and heartfelt message of love, loss, and community.
This year’s production holds special significance for the School of Theatre, Television, and Film, as it is directed by Courtney Corey—an SDSU MFA Musical Theatre student, and alum of our undergraduate program.
Courtney’s extensive professional experience, including as a member of the 1st National Tour of Rent, enriches every moment of this production. Her connection to Rent is not just historical—it’s personal. She embodies the very spirit of mentorship, artistry, and excellence that we strive to instill in all of our students.
Under her guidance, this production has become a powerful collaboration between our students, faculty and production staff blending professional insight with educational growth. We are proud to offer our students the opportunity to learn from and work alongside an artist of Courtney’s caliber. The result is a production that honors the original while breathing fresh life into its timeless themes.
Whether you have been with us all season long, or this is your first production this year, thank you for joining us. Your support of TTF not only enriches our SDSU community but also helps nurture the next generation of artists, storytellers, and changemakers. We look forward to seeing your next season, as we once again bring the vibrancy of our students’ work to the stage.
And…as a bonus for attending Rent, I am excited to share with you the next season of plays and musicals in the following pages that will grace our stages in 2025 and 2026. Ticket information will be forthcoming.
Enjoy the show!
Stephen Brotebeck, Director School of Theatre, Television, and Film
RENT
Book, Music & Lyrics by Jonathan Larson
Directed by Courtney Corey* • Music Director Robert Meffe
Associate Director Janeth Shayo* • Associate Choreographer Ajay Junious*
Performing Swing 2 / Cop .......................................................... David Lamb
Performing Swing 3 / Cop ..................................................... Robert Bednar
This production contains theatrical fog/haze and flashing/strobe lighting.
+MA in Theatre Arts | *MFA in Musical Theatre
°MFA in Design and Technology for Theatre, Television, and Film
^Qualifying or Thesis/Capstone Production
Original Production Information:
Book, Music, and Lyrics by Jonathan Larsen
Musical Arrangements
Steve Skinner
Original Concept/Additional Lyrics
Billy Aronson
Music Supervision and Additional Arrangements
Tim Weil
Dramaturg
Lynn Thomson
RENT was originally produced in New York by New York Theatre Workshop and on Broadway by Jeffrey Seller, Kevin McCollum, Allan S. Gordon and New York Theatre Workshop
2025-26T heatre Schedule
Merrily We Roll Along in Concert
Oct. 24- Oct. 26, 2025
Book by George Furth
Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Directed by Amy Schwartzreich Featuring the SDSU Jazz Ensemble Main Stage Theatre
Twelfth Night
Dec. 3- Dec. 7, 2025
By William Shakespeare | Directed by Dani Bedau Prebys Stage
When She Became The Moon
Feb. 20- March 1, 2026
By Mabelle Reynoso | Directed by Peter Cirino Prebys Stage
Elektra
April 8- April 19, 2026
By Sophocles
Translated and Adapted by Timberlake Wertenbaker Directed by Jesca Prudencio Prebys Stage
Tomorrow, The Island Dies
May 1- May 5, 2026
Book, Music, and Lyrics by Ryan Scott Oliver Directed and Choreographed by Stephen Brotebeck Main Stage Theatre
DRAMATURG’S NOTE
Rent: An Eternal Love Letter to the East Village
“There’s only us, there’s only this. Forget regret, or life is yours to miss. No other road. No other way. No day but today.”
The gritty, explorative, and marvelous East Village in late ‘80s, early 90s New York City serves as the center of Rent, Jonathan Larson’s fabulous rock & roll opera. From partying at CBGB’s and the Pyramid Club to protesting gentrification at Tompkins Square Park, the East Village was a cultural hub that allowed the voiceless and unheard to flourish and express themselves for who they are.
The exploration of art, the clash of classes, the search for love, and the fight for equality unfold as we see a group of friends and artists struggle to make ends meet and survive amidst treacherous times. Facing both the housing crisis and the AIDS crisis, these artists do whatever they can to bring light to the many atrocities afflicting their world. Together they make films, protest, and even “write that one bittersweet, evocative song” to bolster their community and demonstrate to the world that they are people who matter. Rent is a celebration of life and love that honors the East Village as a safe haven for the ostracized and forgotten, bringing light to the queer artists, musicians, and filmmakers that live there to this day.
DEAN VICEDO, DRAMATURG
DIRECTOR’S NOTE
The story of Rent begins on Christmas Eve 1990 and follows 525,600 minutes (one year) of the lives of a group of bohemian artists living in the East Village, New York. Rent remains deeply relevant today because it speaks to enduring issues—housing insecurity, healthcare inequality, the stigma of illness, and the struggle to live authentically in the face of systemic neglect. While it was born from the HIV/AIDS crisis of the late 20th century, its themes resonate with modern crises: the ongoing housing crisis, the mental health epidemic, the lasting impact of COVID-19, and the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. At its core, Jonathan Larson’s Rent is about chosen family, resilience, and the urgency of living fully—messages that still ring loudly in today’s world.
This show holds a special place in my heart, as I was a cast member in both the 1st and 2nd National Broadway tours. ‘No Day But Today’ is one of the major themes of Rent, and I would say my company members from decades ago would all agree that Jonathan’s message has become a beacon for how we live our lives today. I am honored to pass this torch on to our company and audiences with this SDSU production.
COURTNEY COREY, DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR/CHOREOGRAPHER COURTNEY COREY
Nominated for the 2020 Excellence in Theatre Education TONY AWARD and named one of “50 People To Watch” by the San Diego Magazine, Courtney is honored to direct Rent at SDSU. Directing credits: Rent (San Diego Musical Theatre, Lewis Family Playhouse, Red Mountain Theatre Company), Evita (IVT Best Direction Award), The Test (SDIFF Best Musical Award), Cabaret, The Tender Trap, A Year With Frog and Toad, The Island of B.A.D. Kids. Broadway/National Tours: Wicked (Original Chicago and Los Angeles Companies), Rent (Original 1st and 2nd Nat’l Tours). Regional: Limelight, The Wiz, Bonnie and Clyde, The Great American Trailer Park Musical, Lend Me A Tenor, This, Over The Tavern, Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas. Playwriting credits: Pandora and the Jar of Hope, Queen of Hearts, Pinocchio Versus the Whale, The Sky Has Fallen, La Grande Bataille Culinaire, Talent Texas, The Jungle Book (adaptation), The Not-So-Humdrum Conundrum of Port Tunbrum. BA in Theatre Arts at SDSU, MFA Musical Theatre candidate at SDSU. www.CourtneyCorey.com
MUSIC DIRECTOR
ROBERT MEFFE
Broadway: Associate Conductor of Little Women and the last six years of Les Misérables, keyboards for Evita (2012 revival), Newsies, The Phantom of the Opera, Avenue Q, Spelling Bee, Grey Gardens and Bombay Dreams. National Tours: Music Director of Evita, The Phantom of the Opera, Associate Conductor of Les Misérables, Sunday in the Park with George. Off-Broadway: Myths & Hymns, Violet, The Prince and the Pauper, and Gutenberg! The Musical!. TV: Encore! (Disney+), Earth to America (TBS), Renee Fleming-Live at Lincoln Center (PBS). San Diego: Craig Noel Award nomination for best music direction for Cabaret (The Old Globe) and Fun Home (San Diego Rep). Mr. Meffe is the Head of the MFA Musical Theatre Program at San Diego State University. At SDSU, he has music directed Little By Little, Pal Joey, Les Misérables, The Great American Trailer Park Musical, Into the Woods, The Drowsy Chaperone, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Full Monty, Enchanted April, Company, James and the Giant Peach, She Loves Me, Chess, Pippin, Postcard American Town, Pippin, Spelling Bee, Cabaret, and A New Brain.
STAGE MANAGER
MADISON MERCADO is San Diego-based stage manager with a love for all aspects of productions. She is currently a third year theatre student at San Diego State University, where she is a production manager for Skull and Dagger Dramatic Society. She has stage managed extensively at SDSU, including Children of Eden, Beyond Prison Walls (Playwrights Project), and Hansel and Gretel (SDSU Opera). Outside of SDSU, some of her favorite stage management/production credits are TL;DR (Diversionary), Summerfest (La Jolla Music Society), and The Rocky Horror Show (Cygnet). You can find her and her work on Instagram @madison.mercado.
ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER
ELLA RAMSEY As an avid Jonathan Larson fan, Ella is thrilled to be working on such an amazing show for her first mainstage production here at San Diego State University. She is a transfer junior pursuing her BA in Theatre Arts. Ella is a native San Diego-based stage manager. Previously, she stage managed Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead for SDSU’s Skull & Dagger Dramatic Society. Outside stage management credits include: Other Desert Cities (Cygnet); Our Town, James and the Giant Peach, and Pride & Prejudice (Grossmont College). She also works as a costume designer and technician, where credits include: A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Designer, Grossmont College), Lost Girl (Asst. Designer, Grossmont College), The Death of Zukasky (Technician, Skull & Dagger Dramatic Society). Ella would like to thank all of the mentors and friends who have encouraged her along her theatre journey, and the audiences who make theatre possible.
ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER
GIOVANAA ESPINOZA-LOPEZ was born and raised in San Bernardino County, where she started her Theatre Tech journey in high school as a Student Music Director, Sound Board Operator, and Student House Manager. She is currently in her third year at San Diego State University as a Theatre Design and Technology major. Her most recent stage managing work includes Children of Eden, Lucky Me!, Rent (SDSU), and as a scenic designer for Pride & Prejudice (SDSU Black Renaissance).
LIGHTING DESIGNER
NAYELI BAILEY (She/Her) is a Mexican-American lighting designer from Los Angeles, California. She has designed at various venues including San Diego State University, University of San Diego, MOXIE Theatre, and Diversionary Theatre. In addition to her work in theatre, she has also worked on themed entertainment lighting with LEGOLAND California and Radiance Lightworks Inc. This Capstone Design serves as her final production as she is set to graduate this May with a Master of Fine Arts - Theatre Arts Design and Technology with an emphasis in Lighting Design. Through her work she hopes to inspire and support other first generation students and artists. Gracias a mi familia y amigos por todo su apoyo. ¡Los amo!
SCENIC DESIGNER
ALI ROUSTAEI is a third-year MFA student in Design and Technology; this is his last production at SDSU. Previously, he designed scenery for Lucky Me, Ziggy, Stardust, & Me, and Love’s Labor’s Lost at SDSU. His other credits include: Little Women and Our Dear Dead Drug Lord (Moxie Theatre), Mariology (Critical Mass Performance Group), Into the Woods (UCI), and Future Tripping (LOFT Ensemble). Website: Aliroustaei.com
COSTUME DESIGNER
HEATHER NUNN is a 3rd year Costume Design MFA candidate. She discovered a passion for costume design at George Fox University in Newberg, Oregon, where she graduated with a BA in Theatre Design and Technology. In San Diego, she has designed Gruesome Playground Injuries and Twelfth Night of the Living Dead with Loud Fridge Theatre Group and Our Dear Dead Drug Lord with MOXIE Theatre.
SOUND DESIGNER
PAUL PETERSON: Previous designs at San Diego State University include: Hamlet, Six Characters in Search of an Author, A New Brain, The Thanksgiving Play, Waiting for Godot, In A Sunshine State, The House of Bernarda Alba, Lucky Me, Mr. Burns-A Post Electric Play, Children of Eden, Ziggy, Stardust & Me, Cabaret, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, and Postcard American Town. Elsewhere, Paul’s work has been heard at: The Old Globe, Milwaukee Repertory Theater, San Jose Repertory Theatre, CenterStage, La Jolla Playhouse, Sledgehammer Theatre (Associate Artist), San Diego Repertory Theatre, San Diego Musical Theatre and many more. He earned his B.A. in Drama with an emphasis in Technical Design from SDSU. Paul is currently a Lecturer in Sound Design and Technology at SDSU’s School of Theatre, a proud member of United Scenic Artists Local 829, an Artist in Residence at Canyon Crest Academy, and a member of theTheatrical Sound Designers and Composers Association (TSDCA).
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
TAMARRA SYLBER is completing her 2nd year as a Technical Direction MFA and is proud to showcase Rent as her capstone production of grad school. This is her third production at SDSU as the lead Technical Director, the first shows being Bernarda Alba in Spring 2024, and A New Brain in Fall 2024. Tamarra began her backstage career at the age of 12 as her community theatre’s audio operator, and over the years has worked on hundreds of shows in backstage operations at venues such as the Thousand Oaks Performing Arts Center, Studio Theatre in Washington DC, and the Glimmerglass Opera Festival. This summer she will be rejoining the entertainment metal fabrication company, LA Propoint as their Project Coordination Intern. A special shout out and thank you to the shop staff, faculty, and production team for their support and incredible efforts into making this show a reality. A special thanks to Hannah, her assistant, and to her mom for always supporting her backstage kid. <3
CAST: WHO’S WHO
Quetzal Alcaraz
Quetzal (he/him) is a second year Musical Theatre major and is so excited to be working with such a wonderful group of people on this production. Some of Quetzal’s favorite roles include Troy in High School Musical, The Baker in Into the Woods, and Wadsworth in CLUE. Quetzal has also been working on Tomorrow, the Island Dies, as a part of SDSU’s new musical initiative. Along with being a performer, Quetzal is Co-Technical Director of MTC as well as one of SDSU’s Production Supervisors. Quetzal is very excited to share this incredible collaboration of creativity with all of you and hopes you enjoy the show. Viva La Vie Boheme! IG: @quetzal.alcaraz
Robert Bednar
Robert is thrilled to be a Swing/Benny US in this amazing production of Rent. He is a 3rd year Musical Theater Major. You may have seen him previously in, A New Brain (Mr. Bungee ) Children of Eden (young Abel), Alice By Heart (Mad Hatter). Creatively he has worked on Supertramp The Musical as a Sound Engineer/Music Arranger, as well as composing for the Old Globes Arts Engagement Program. He wants to thank the whole cast, crew, and director.
Nicole Buck
Nicole Buck is a dedicated theatre artist with a passion for storytelling and collaboration. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in General Theatre at San Diego State University, she has showcased her versatility in productions like Urinetown The Musical (Pennywise, Dance Captain) and A New Brain (Homeless Woman). Nicole is thrilled to be part of SDSU’s upcoming production of *Rent*, where she will play Mrs. Jefferson and other ensemble roles, continuing to bring energy and depth to the stage.
CAST: WHO’S WHO
Jonathan Coleman
Jonathan Bryce Coleman was born in Houston, Texas. He began singing in the Lakewood Church Children’s Choir which led to his acting career. Mr. Coleman was casted in several local productions prior to signing with both Houston and Los Angeles Talent Agencies and a Los Angeles Management firm. He is currently with AKA Talent Agency, Luber Roklin Management in Los Angeles and Pastorini Bosby Talent in Houston, Texas. As a SAG/AFTRA performer, his hope for the future is to be either on Broadway, TV or in films. Through his studies and classes at SDSU, he knows he can become an even stronger performer.
Brice Daniel
Brice (he/him) is thrilled to be performing in RENT, and is extremely thankful for the opportunity to bring this powerful story to life. Currently pursuing a degree in Musical Theatre, Brice has loved the opportunity to learn and grow alongside such a talented and supportive cast & creative team. Recent credits include The Minister in A New Brain (SDSU), Dance Ensemble in Hello Dolly! (SDMT), Adam in Freaky Friday, Marius in Les Misérables, and Shrek in Shrek The Musical. When not on stage, Brice enjoys rooting for the San Diego Padres, listening to music, and spending time with his friends. Brice would like to extend a huge thank you to Courtney & Rob for this amazing opportunity, as well as the entire production and design team who had a hand in bringing this show to life. He would also like to thank his mentors and teachers for their guidance, and his friends and family for their endless love and support. Enjoy the show!
Andy Elden Mejia
This is Andy Elden’s last year at San Diego Diego State University, finishing up his degree in Theatre Performance with an emphasis on Acting. He’s originally from Turlock, CA where he spent his childhood and adolescence in the theatre. Some of his favorite roles are Paul, A Chorus Line, Jackie Motherf*cker, With The Hat, Frank-N-Furter, The Rocky Horror Show. He is currently a professional model with hopes of moving to New York later this year. He is incredibly excited to share this incredible story with you all, and expresses his gratitude to the entire RENT cast & crew. Enjoy the show!
CAST: WHO’S WHO
Nole Jones
Nole Jones is a singer, actor, voice teacher, and director from Birmingham, Alabama. Nole is an MFA Musical Theatre candidate and graduate instructor at SDSU, where he teaches courses in musical theatre performance and music theory. Prior to joining SDSU he taught on the faculty of the BFA Music Theater program at Illinois Wesleyan University from 2018 to 2024. He has appeared previously at SDSU in A New Brain (Roger); other favorite stage appearances have included Bright Star (Jimmy Ray), Jesus Christ Superstar (Judas), The Secret Garden (Archibald), She Loves Me (Georg), three original short musicals with Dollywood Entertainment featuring music by Dolly Parton, and most recently Sondheim Toight! at Rady Shell with the San Diego Symphony. Nole holds a Master of Music in Voice Performance and Literature from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and undergraduate degrees in both theatre and music from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He is thankful for the support of his wife, Hannah, and his daughter, Tzeitel.
Ajay Junious
Alyssa “Ajay’’ Junious is an interdisciplinary artist, choreographer, pilates practitioner, and creative entrepreneur from Oceanside, California. She has a BFA in Performance, Choreography, and a Certificate of Arts Management from the University of California, Irvine. For the past 10 years, she has performed and choreographed professionally throughout San Diego. Some of her professional theater credits include La Jolla Playhouse, Cygnet Theater, New Village Arts, Oceanside Theater Company, Teatro San Diego, and San Diego Musical Theatre. She is the founder of Continuum Arts & Pilates, a movement training and performance company. You can learn more by following @ continuum.sd! Ajay is a first-year MFA student in the Musical Theater department and is thrilled to be working with a talented creative team, cast, and crew here at SDSU!
David is a second year at SDSU, double majoring is Musical Theater Performance and Kinesiology, with the goal of having a professional career in both fields. Some of his recent works include: Martin Harrison/ensemble in Chicago, ensemble member in Children of Eden, Cinderella’s Prince and Wolf in Into the Woods, Dennis Shepard in The Laramie Project, and Hans in Frozen the Musical. David is thrilled to be apart of this production of Rent and is so excited for everyone to see all the hard work the cast has put in.
Abigail Maurer
Abigail Maurer is a fourth-year Musical Theatre student based in Thousand Oaks, CA. Abigail has been in 25 shows in her 16 years of performance experience and has played roles such as Claire in The Long Christmas Ride Home (San Diego State) and Edna in Mr Burns: A Post Electric Play (SDSU). She most recently was the understudy for Mimi Schwinn, Homeless Woman and Doctor in A New Brain (SDSU). Abigail has worked as an acting coach at Hillcrest Players’ musical theatre summer camp for the last two years. This is Abigail’s final semester (and final show) at SDSU, and she is so grateful for all she has done/learned in this program. Abigail would like to thank her family, friends, and all her teachers and directors for making her the artist she is today. You can follow her on Instagram @abigailrawlings
Milo Mee
Milo Mee is a senior at SDSU majoring in Musical Theatre with a Minor in Marketing. In his time at this school, Milo has performed in as many plays and musicals as possible, learning and growing along the way. With this being his final show, Milo simply wants to say thank you to this community and all it has given him. From Vice Principal Panch in Spelling Bee to Vladimir in Waiting for Godot, each role was a gift he will never forget. To follow his journey after graduation, you can find him on Instagram @milomeeofficial.
CAST: WHO’S WHO
Anthony Methvin
Anthony Methvin (he/him) is currently pursuing his MFA in Musical Theatre from San Diego State University, where he played Gordon in A New Brain. Directing credits include: How I Learned to Drive, Proof, Steel Magnolias, Bachelorette, and co-director with Fran Gercke for Abundance and the World Premiere of Tarrytown (Backyard Renaissance Theatre Company); Significant Other, The Santaland Diaries and Director/Conceiver for Linda Libby’s HoliGay Storytime (Diversionary Theatre), and the workshop of Affected Place (La Jolla Playhouse). Assistant Director: Buyer & Cellar and Sense & Sensibility (Old Globe), and Dogfight (Cygnet). Selected San Diego performances: Little Charles in August: Osage County, Doug in Gutenberg! The Musical! and Lord John in The Elephant Man (Backyard Renaissance), Sir Bedevere & others in Spamalot (Cygnet), Roger in A New Brain and Reed in Boys and Girls (Diversionary). Education: BFA in Acting from Florida State University.
Rebecca Murillo
Rebecca Murillo is a multi-hyphenate artist originally from Orange County, California. Performing — International: West Side Story (IHI StageAround, Tokyo). Regional: Legally Blonde (Engeman), A Chorus Line (Argyle), Footloose (Theatre By The Sea), All Shook Up (WBT). Educational: A New Brain (SDSU). New York Theater: Evita (New York City Center; Asst. Choreographer), Lolita, My Love (OffBroadway; Asst. Director), Pippin & 9to5 (Director/ Choreographer; Pace University). Music — Misc: Bhangin’ It (La Jolla Playhouse; Music Asst.). Projects: Breathe (written with Rob Rokicki; Amazon Audible), A Seat at the Table (TNNY Soundbites Festival). BFA Musical Theater from Pace University. MFA Musical Theater from San Diego State Class of ‘26. To the little girl in me who fell in love with musical theater-- this one’s for you. @rebecca.murillo
MISSION The School of Theatre, Television, and Film provides a high quality education for undergraduate and graduate students that emphasizes excellence in the arts and technology, grounded in conceptual and historical foundations.
CAST: WHO’S WHO
Dante Nathaniel
Dante Nathaniel is a third year student at SDSU pursuing his BA in Musical Theatre. He is excited to make his return to the mainstage with this all-star cast and crew! His most recent mainstage endeavor was 2022’s production of Spelling Bee (dir. Jesca Prudencio), understudying the role of ‘Chip Tolentino’. His most recent endeavors include MTC’s Chicago (dir. Rylee Pitner), As Amos Hart, I Could Use A Drink, (dir. Daniel Holmes and Amelia Simpson) a student written work utilizing the songs of Drew Gasparini, and Into the Woods (dir. Lillian Johnson), playing ‘Jack’. He has also performed in a number of staged readings including Balloonfest, written and directed by Justin Magallanes, and Tomorrow The Island Dies, written by Ryan Scott Oliver and directed by Stephen Brotebeck. He is forever grateful to his beautiful family who has always supported him, and of course to his lovely boyfriend, Nicholas.
Harper Nooney
Harper Nooney is thrilled to be a part of her first SDSU production! She started her journey as a background singer for artists such as Rick Springfield and as a vocalist for FOX. After singing for the camera she discovered her passion for performing. Her recent productions have been Frozen (Anna), The Sound of Music (Liesl), Chicago (Roxie), and Into The Woods (Baker’s Wife). She would like to thank all of the incredible people in this cast for inspiring her at every rehearsal. Secondly, she would like to thank her parents for supporting and encouraging her to follow her dreams! She hopes you enjoy the show!
Acknowledgments & Special Thanks
• Paul Edmonds • Peter Bennett • Lambda Archives of San Diego • • SDSU Pride Center • SDSU Arts Alive • SDSU Alumni • • Andy Señor, Jr. • DSU Office for Graduate Life & Diversity •
• Jack Holden • Ron Councell • Karen Van Riper • Laurinda Nikkel • • Nancy Snow Carr • Dr. Sara Gianella Weibel •
CAST: WHO’S WHO
Javon Simmons
Javon Simmons is honored to reprise the role of Tom Collins in Rent at San Diego State University, having previously played the role at San Diego Musical Theatre. Recent credits include Scarecrow in The Wiz (Teatro San Diego) and the title role in the independent film Marcus Bixby, written and directed by Corey Baxter. A psychology major graduating this semester with his bachelor’s degree, Javon has a deep passion for acting and singing and looks forward to blending psychology and the arts to help people through storytelling and performance. When he’s not on stage or screen, he enjoys movies, going to concerts, collecting vinyl records, and singing everything from country to R&B to show tunes. He is excited to continue his journey in both film and theater, using his voice and creativity to inspire and connect with others. He thanks his friends, family, and mentors for their support and, most importantly, hopes that this production inspires the audience to embrace unconditional love, equality, and community going forward, because that is what this story is all about.
Maya Ponce
Maya Jean Ponce is a first year Musical Theater Major. She began performing at the age of eight, when she joined Act1 Academy for Children’s Theater in Los Angeles. Since then she has been in over 25 Musical Theater Productions, most recently starring in Village Christian High School’s, Beauty and the Beast as Belle. The production won the prestigious Jerry Herman Award for Best Production in 2024. This is Maya’s second main stage production after being a swing in “A New Brain” last semester. Maya would like to thank Courtney Corey and Rob Meffe for the opportunity to play her dream role, Mimi in Rent. She would also like to thank her castmates, especially Rebecca Murillo for sharing her theatre wisdom during this process. @mayajeanponce
Ashley Roche
Ashley Roche is a second-year Musical Theatre Major and is thrilled to be performing in her second Mainstage production at San Diego State University. Previous credits include Storyteller in the department’s production of Children of Eden, Sophie in Mamma Mia!, and most recently, Roxie Hart in Musical Theatre Club’s production of Chicago Originally from Los Angeles, Ashley has been honing her skill as a performer for as long as she can remember. She would like to thank her family, friends, and the tv show Glee- yes, Glee- all for helping her recognize she truly was a theatre kid from a young age. Instagram: @ashleyyyroch
PRODUCTION STAFF
MANAGEMENT & CREATIVE
Associate Director .........................................................................Janeth Shayo
Drapers .............................................. Peter Herman, Anastasiia Sennikova°
1st Hand .................................................................................Arianna Quintero°
Stitchers ...............................Linda Litchy-Cervantes, Sarah Lingenfelter°, .................................. Jocelyn Tamayo°, Rin Soto, Sarah Jepson, Thea 442B
Costume Run Crew ............................. Sydney Manning, Valerie Sanchez, ..................................... Brooke Schrock, Alana Marshall, Emery Anderson
Costume Laundry Crew ................................Braxton Bell and Reid Green
PRODUCTION STAFF
LIGHTING
Lighting Advisor.......................................................................Anne E. McMills
Lighting Shop Supervisor..................................................... Kat Makarushka
Lighting Programmer ............................................................... Jacob DeMare
Lighting Sound Board Operator............................. Sebastian Della Gatta
Assistant Lighting Designer ........................ Nia Mason and Tiffany Arita
Production Electrician ............ Oleander Zeissig°, Stephanie Ma’alona°
Assistant Production Electricians ..... Vanessa Jimenez, Daniel Holmes
Box Office Staff ......... Zaida Alonzo, Andrea Dankah, Emerson Clarke, ... Feliz Citron-Pousty, Audrey Daynes, Rebecca Helft, Amanda Mann
Concessions............................................................................ Skull and Dagger +MA in Theatre Arts
*MFA in Musical Theatre
°MFA in Design and Technology for Theatre, Television, and Film ^Qualifying or Thesis Production
SDSU SCHOOL OF THEATRE, TELEVISION, AND FILM DONORS
We are pleased to thank our generous supporters, as all that we accomplish would not be possible without the generous support of alumni and community members, who make significant contributions to support our students and programs at SDSU. Thank you!
Endowed Funds
Established with a commitment of $50,000 or more Ages of Drama - Live! Endowment • Allison Rossett Endowed Scholarship in Musical Theatre • Bellinghiere Endowed Scholarship • Bolles Family Musical Theater Endowed Scholarship • Brita C. Davis and Richard R. Davis Musical Theatre Endowed Scholarship • Carol Vassiliadis Endowed Scholarship in Musical Theatre • Chad Shelton Memorial Endowed Scholarship for Theatre Design and Technology • Chuck and Robin Luby Endowment for Musical Theatre • Clarence and Catherine Stephenson Musical Theatre Endowed Scholarship • Clayton Brace Awards Endowment • Darlene and Donald Shiley Endowment for Student Excellence in Musical Theatre • Deborah M. Dexter Endowed Scholarship in Musical Theatre • Denis Sanders Memorial Endowment • Denise Madruga Endowed Scholarship in Theatre • Don Powell Interface Program Endowment • Drama Circle Endowment • Gordon J. Lusk Endowment • Hayes Anderson Student Excellence Endowment • Henry Edward and Gail Johnson McAdams Memorial Endowed Scholarship • Henry Stanton Endowment • Hunton D. Sellman Endowment • James Chris Nichols Memorial Endowment • Judith and Jack White Musical Theatre Endowed Scholarship • Julia R. Brown Musical Theatre Endowed Scholarship • Maggi McKerrow Endowed Scholarship for Theatre • Maggi McKerrow Endowed Scholarship for Study Abroad • Mangan/Christensen Endowed Scholarship for Musical Theatre • Marion Ross Endowed Scholarship • MFA Musical Theatre Endowed Professorship • Musical Theatre Endowed Scholarship • Nella Feldman Gross Endowment • Paulette Wilson Endowment for Musical Theatre • Powell/SCE Design Endowed Chair • Robert Shields Memorial Endowment • Ron and Sue Heller Musical Theatre Endowed Scholarship • Roscoe-Tiffany MFA Musical Theatre Endowed Scholarship • Ruth Anna, Louis F., Dorothy Cable Endowed Scholarship • Sybil E. Jones Endowment • The McCabe Family Endowed Scholarship • Theatre Endowment
Annual Funds & Scholarships
Up to $50,000
Aztecs to Hollywood • Bellinghiere Scholarship • Clayton Brace Awards Scholarship Fund • Drama Circle • Nella Feldman Gross Scholarship Endowment • Michael and Anne-Charlotte “A.C.” Harvey Scholarship • Ron and Sue Heller Fund for Musical Theatre • Gale Anne Hurd TFM Program Love Letters Production Fund • Los Lobos Documentaries Film Fund • Denise Madruga Scholarship • John J. Martin and Katherine Fitzhugh • MFA Musical Theatre Scholarship • Gail Johnson McAdams Memorial Scholarship • Musical Theatre Musical Theatre Archive Operations • Musical Theatre Production Fund • Dan Prentice Memorial Musical Theatre Fund • Dennis Sanders Scholarship • San Diego Theatre Arts Research Lab • Michele Schlecht MFA Musical Theatre Scholarship • Hunton Sellman Scholarship • Chad Shelton Memorial Scholarship • R P Shields Scholarship Student Success Fund Theatre, Television and Film • Judy White Scholarship
SDSU SCHOOL OF THEATRE, TELEVISION, AND
DONORS
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Sarah Coombs
Jeff Cotta and Pamela Cotta
Michael J. and Judith M. Darweesh
Adela de la Torre, Ph.D. and Stephen Bartlett
Karen H. DeLaurier
Alice and Doug Diamond
Gregory C. Durbin
David and Marilyn Eisenman
John Ellison
Roselyn E. and Chukuka S. Enwemeka, Ph.D.
Daniel and Phyllis Epstein
Esther Fischer
Sylvia J. Fitch
Katherine L. Fitzhugh and John Martin
Joyce M. Gattas, Ph.D.
Sherman George
David Arthur Glass
Michael S. Gregory
Justin Samuel Halpern
Hal Lawrence and Sheila Harrison
Michael and Anne-Charlotte “A.C.” Harvey
Ronald and Susan Heller MFA Fund
Bruce A. and Jane W. Hopkins
Margaret A. Howard
Osborn and Dea Hurston
Blair G. Irwin
Jay W. Jeffcoat
Paul H. Jozwicki
Paula Kalustian
Koji C. K and Susan F. Kasuyama
Georgette M. Katz
Dennis G. Keith
Brett Karl Kelly and Chad Stewart Birmingham
Gary A. and Maxine A. Kreitzer
Michelle Anne LaGrandeur
Dr. William and Evelyn M. Lamden
Jeremy Lane
Kathleen M. Lemieux
Charles S. Luby and Robin B. Luby
Denise Madruga and Michael Lesniak
Mort Marcus and Deborah Klein
Jim A. and Deborah D. Marshall
John Andrew Mateja
Stewart Scott Mc Donald
Timothy Mccalister
McCulloch Family Charitable Fund
Oliver R. McElroy
Paul S. Mcintyre and Cynthia McIntyre
Colin Mckearnan
Randi and Thomas L. McKenzie, Ph.D.
Margaret McKerrow, Ph.D.
Martin McKerrow
Toni B. McKerrow
Kevin J. O’Connor and Katherine D. O’Connor
Terry Lee O’Donnell
Mike and Chris Pack
Adam Parrocha
Michael James Perkins
Paula Perry
James P. and Gale S. Petrie
Richard Sellers and Ellen Porter
Marshall A. Lewis and Judy M. Price-Lewis
Linda J. Rankin and Rodney T. Whitlow
Jon Carl Ringbom
Dr. Patti Roscoe and James Tiffany
Allison Rossett, Ed.D.
Michele Schlecht and Richard Alan Covey
The Shelton Family
John A. Shelton
Mike Shelton
Karen and Christopher (Kit) Sickels
Fred and Sonia Silverstein
Jeffrey H. and Malka Silverstein
Emily Norine Smith
Jane K. Smith
Nancy A. and Alan Richard Spector, M.D., Ph.D.
Clarence E. and Catherine Ann Stephenson
Charles J. and Nancy M. Stewart
James J. Tarbox
Ronald T. Thornton
Seth and Cynthia L. Trostler
C. Anne Turhollow
Kenneth G. and Joyce Ulrich
Edward Law Underwood
Carol Vassiliadis
Richard and Patricia Wagner
Carey Gail Wall
Debra Wanger
Judith and Jack White
Rodney T. Whitlow
Carole Wilson
Joshua A. Young
The Conrad Prebys Foundation
ADMINISTRATION
FACULTY & STAFF
Stephen Brotebeck, Professor & Interim Director of TTF
Stephanie Garibo Alday, TTF Academic Advisor
TaiReikca LA, Box Office Coordinator
TELEVISION, FILM, AND NEW MEDIA FACULTY/STAFF
Marwa Abdalla, Lecturer
Abraham Amkpa, Lecturer
Ralph Blanchard, Lecturer
Jose De Matos, Tech Engineer
Krystal Dawkins, Lecturer
Jeff Deverett, Lecturer
Oliver Eclarinal, Lecturer
Alex Farnsley, Lecturer
Michael Feinstein, Lecturer
Lizzette Flores, Equipment Supervisor
Mark Freeman, Professor
Ángel Granados, Lecturer
Glenn Heath, Lecturer
Brian Hu, Associate Professor
Brie Iatarola, Lecturer
Donn Johnson, Lecturer
Brendan Julian, Lecturer
Martha M. Lauzen, Professor, Executive DirectorCenter for the Study of Women in Television/Film
Stephanie Lee, TFM Shop Foreman
Jessica McGaugh, Assistant Professor
David Morong, Professor, Graduate Advisor
Vernon Mortensen, Lecturer
Greg Penetrante, TV/Film Studio Engineer
Dane Picard, Lecturer
Mary Posatko, Assistant Professor
Timothy A. Powell, Professor, Area Head
Genadi Radiul, Lecturer
David Steinberg, Lecturer
Rich Underwood, Lecturer
Stuart Voytilla, Lecturer, Undergrad Advisor
THEATRE FACULTY/STAFF
Adrian Alita, Associate Professor, Head of Acting
Dani Bedau, Associate Professor
Denitsa Bliznakova, Professor, Head of Costume Design & Technology
Cynthia Bloodgood, Lecturer
Peter Cirino, Associate Professor
Ronald Councell, Staff Accompanist/Vocal Coach
Kristen Flores, Scenic Charge Artist/Prop Master
Ralph Funicello, Don Powell Chair, Scene Design
TaiReikca LA, Production Facilitator
Peter Herman, Wig Making, Make-up Costume
Construction
D.J. Hopkins, Professor
Brooke Kesler, Lecturer
Noah Lange, Performing Arts District
Technical Specialist
Kat Makarushka, Theatrical Lighting, Projection, & Sound Lead
Randi McKenzie, Emerita Assistant Dean
Anne McMills, Associate Professor, Design/Technology MFA Graduate Advisor
Brian McVicker, Technical Director
Robert Meffe, Professor, Graduate Advisor, Head of Musical Theatre
Laurinda Nikkel, Lecturer
Shelley Orr, Associate Professor, Graduate Advisor for MA Theatre Arts
Wilfred Paloma, Lecturer
Paul Peterson, Lecturer
Nicholas Ponting, Lecturer
Jesca Prudencio, Associate Professor
Randy Reinholz, Professor
Jill Rovatsos, Lecturer
Jay Sheehan, Faculty Production Manager, Stage Management Advisor
Nancy Snow Carr, Lecturer
Teri McConnell Tavares, Costume Shop Manager
Katie (Laura) Turner, Lecturer
Josh Walden, Visiting Professor
Christopher Warren, Associate Professor
Andrew Young, Scene Shop Foreman
EMERITUS FACULTY
Hayes Anderson, Professor Emeritus
Carroll Blue, Professor Emerita
Anne-Charlotte Harvey, Professor Emerita
Greg Durbin, Professor Emeritus
Michael Harvey, Professor Emeritus
Elizabeth Heighten, Professor Emerita
Kaye Jameson, Professor Emeritus
Paula Kalustian, Professor Emerita
Margaret Larlham, Professor Emerita
Peter Larlham, Professor Emeritus
Robert E. Lee, Professor Emeritus
Roy Madsen, Professor Emeritus
Donald R. Martin, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus
Margaret McKerrow, Professor Emerita
Tom Meador, Professor Emeritus
Jack Ofield, Professor Emeritus
Michael Real, Professor Emeritus
Beeb Salzer, Professor Emeritus
Loren Schreiber, Emeritus Professor
Rick Simas, Lecturer Emeritus
Carolyn “C.J.” Keith, Lecturer Emerita
John Witherspoon, Professor Emeritus
Craig Wolf, Professor Emeritus
GENERAL INFORMATION
CELL PHONES
As a courtesy to those around you, please turn off or silence cell phones while in the theatre.
CAMERAS & RECORDING DEVICES
The use of any cameras and/or recording devices is strictly prohibited without advance written permission from The School of Theatre, Television, and Film.
LATE ARRIVALS & NO-SHOWS
Please arrive on-time and do not be a no-show. Latecomers may be asked until an intermission to be seated; and, seats not claimed will be re-sold.
BOX OFFICE
Hours of Operation: One-hour before Curtain
The Box Office is closed for all school holidays as well as during the summer vacation period.
Purchase Tickets Online: ttf.sdsu.edu
General Admission Tickets: Theatre $20 / Film $10 (Prices may vary for special events/productions)
Email: ttf.boxoffice@mail.sdsu.edu
Phone: 619-594-6884
Administrative Office Phone: 619-594-5091
Theatre productions, film events, and TV programming are made possible by the generous support of our donors. To make a contribution to our outstanding programs, please call 619.594.4548 or visit psfa.sdsu.edu
Take a Seat!
SDSU performing arts invites you to take part in an exciting opportunity to support its new Performing Arts District in a meaningful way by participating in the Take A Seat campaign.
You have the opportunity to Take A Seat in the spotlight and enjoy having your name, a sentiment, anniversary date, or the name of another person you wish to honor laser-engraved on an elegant nameplate placed on one of the theater seats. Your sponsorship will support performances, students, faculty, and the greatest needs of the SDSU performing arts program.
The engraving you select promises that you or your loved one will be a visible part of this dynamic Performing Arts District for years to come.
Interested in reserving a seat?
Scan the QR Code above for more information, or visit psfa.sdsu.edu/takeaseat
