Light Light
Dear Friends of O’Gorman HighSchoolTheatre,
Welcome to another remarkable season of theatre at O’Gorman High School! Each year, our students bring stories to life with creativity, passion, and purpose. Their performances reflect not only hours of preparation and teamwork but also the joyful expression of the gifts and talents God has entrusted to them.
Our theatre program continues to be a shining example of excellence within our Catholic school community. Under the leadership of our dedicated directors and staff, our students embrace the opportunity to grow as artists and as people of faith—offering their very best as a reflection of God’s glory. In every scene and every song, they reveal what it means to be part of something greater than themselves.
We are blessed to share in a tradition where faith and artistry come together to inspire, challenge, and delight. Thank you for joining us tonight and for supporting these talented students as they maximize their God-given abilities and shine their light for all to see.
Enjoytheshow!
Kyle L. Groos President
Dreams Filled By Grit
Adam Cantagui’s Journey to Juilliard
For anyone pursuing the arts, acceptance into The Juilliard School in New York City is considered the ultimate achievement — a distinction few ever attain. Yet for OGHS graduate Adam Catangui (’19), that dream has become a reality. He is now living in New York City and studying in one of Juilliard’s most prestigious programs. The Artist Diploma programs at Juilliard are the most advanced non-degree track, and provide focused studies for young artists in the pre-professional stages of their careers. The Juilliard Artist Diploma in Opera Studies only takes four singers a year after a thorough audition process. Auditions are three days long with cuts made at the end of each day. This program is tuition free and includes a stipend. The ideal candidate for the program is an advanced vocalist with a
strong musical personality, intellectual curiosity, a clear sense of artistic mission, and a demonstrable hunger for deep exploration of theatrical craft. Graduate Adam Catangui has achieved an incredible milestone that so many only dream of.
Previously, Adam received a Bachelor’s degree from the Eastman School of Music and a Masters from Rice University. He also is an alumnus of the Gerdine Young Artist Program at Opera Theatre of St. Louis, the Atelier Lyrique at The Verbier Festival, and the Studio Artist Program at Wolf Trap Opera. Now, Adam’s weekly schedule includes 9-11 hours of acting instruction (class and private), a voice lesson with his teacher, a session with Principal Coach Diane Richardson, and an
otherwise elective schedule of coaching with Juilliard’s legendary music, language and movement faculty.
Adam is the perfect example of following your passion and never giving up. “I have always been a firm believer in what’s meant for me will not pass me by. The work is hard, and requires a lot of discipline when things get stressful. My journey has brought me amazing opportunities; however, it has also brought me a lot of rejections and redirections.” In regards to Adam’s future, he is blessed to be part of a program that focuses on career placement at the highest possible level, with regular private auditions for and consultations with top artist managers and general and artistic directors of opera companies, and regular hearings by musical and administrative staff at the Metropolitan Opera.
Adam’s initial year at Juilliard is keeping him busy. The 2025-2026 season started with a Rossini recital in collaboration with Columbia University to celebrate the 200th Anniversary of Italian Opera in New York. He will debut in Alice Tully Hall as a part of their Wednesdays at 1 recital series. Adam will also debut in David Geffen Hall under the baton of Maestro Gustavo Dudamel singing an excerpt from Beethoven’s Fidelio before a screening of his new documentary El Canto de las Manos. Adam also will present Beethoven’s Op. 98, An die ferne Geliebte in recital as part of Juilliard’s Liederabend series. He will also debut the role of “Fenton” in Juilliard Opera’s production of Verdi’s Falstaff.
Finally, we asked Adam to provide some insight and advice for those seeking similar paths in the performing arts. Adam sums it up in one word, grit. “Above all else, an immense level of passion and perseverance is required for a career like this. Even above natural talent, an ability to dig deep
will get you further than you could ever imagine. I auditioned for Juilliard for my undergraduate and my graduate studies and did not get in. After each rejection, I cried, dug deep within myself, and persevered. At each turn, the world directed me to exactly where I was meant to be. When I look back at every stage of my life so far, I firmly believe that every place has taught me a lesson that I was supposed to learn.“
From his humble beginnings on the O’G stage, Adam Catangui has continued to grow, embracing new challenges and opportunities along the way. With the remarkable path he’s already forged, we can only imagine the extraordinary achievements still ahead.
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Designs by Dexter
Spotlight on our Costume Director: Kendra Dexter
Kendra (Liesinger) Dexter (OG ’96), owner of Designs By Dexter , has spent 25 years designing and building everything from wedding gowns to pro wrestling costumes. In addition to alterations and tailoring, she recently designed the Miss South Dakota 2025 state costume. Working from her home studio near O’Gorman, she’s a go-to for prom and choir alterations. Over the years, she’s created gowns, bridesmaid dresses, and costumes for films, commercials, and theater productions.
Kendra’s O’Gorman connection began in 1986 when her family moved to Sioux Falls and her mother, Janet Liesinger, joined the OG science faculty. Growing up backstage as her mom
sewed for school productions sparked her love for theater. She performed throughout school and college before stepping into costume design during her senior year at the University of Sioux Falls. Her first major project, The Spell of Sleeping Beauty (2000), directed by lifelong friend Scott Nelson (OG alum), launched her professional career — and Designs By Dexter soon followed.
Since then, Kendra has served as Costume Director for multiple high schools, including 19 years at Brandon Valley, and later as Costume Director and Associate Professor at the University of Sioux Falls (2014–2023). She earned her M.A. in Theatre from Regent University (2021) and received
a Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival commendation for her Much Ado About Nothing design (2016).
A pioneer in her field, Kendra has designed for more than 200 productions and countless specialty projects — from Shriner clowns and Lincoln High drum majors to the Cygnets synchronized swim team. Her work also includes costuming for Hutterite (2017), Tis the Season with the South Dakota Symphony (2018), and the film His Name is Michael (2023) with fellow OG alum Joseph Bezenek. Each December, her costumes appear in The Premier Playhouse’s A Christmas Carol , and many of her designs are rented across the Midwest.
Kendra’s design philosophy centers on dramaturgy — exploring the who, what, when, and why of each production to inform every costume. Collaboration, attention to detail, and creativity guide her process, from conceptual sketches to hundreds of completed costumes in just six weeks. She treasures the teamwork behind the scenes — sewing
with students, parents, and colleagues — and loves watching performers light up when their costumes help them find their characters. She has also found great joy in teaching people of all ages how to sew.
Deeply grateful for her “village,” Kendra credits her success to the support of her parents, husband Eric, children Lillian (OG ’22), Auburn (OG ’24), Eldon (OG junior), and Nolan (OG freshman), as well as her extended O’Gorman family. “There are people from O’Gorman I will never forget. They’ve shaped my life and supported me through everything. I’m forever grateful — here’s to another year!”
If you are looking for an experienced seamstress, look no further than Designs By Dexter . We know through experience that she will get the job done and her designs do not disappoint.
We live for finding our
voice.
No matter your role, you contribute to the beautiful rhythm and spirit of life. You’re essential at your job and in your family.
Stay well with Avera, who proudly partners with Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools, where teachers and staff encourage students to find their own rhythm that will encourage generations to come.
CAST LIST
SAMMY SCOOP .................................................
Micah Benjamin
ALICE .............................................................. Audrey Arend
POLICE CHIEF .................................................... Owen Tschetter
LITTLE BO PEEP ............................................... Sarina Ellenbecker
LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD ........................................ Alexa Robbins
KING’S HORSES ............................................... Riley Breckenridge
Nicholas Marrow
Emmy Stanek
Natalie Benjamin Noelle Miller
KING’S MEN .......................................................... Libby Ernst
Nway Thai
Mitchell Skuza
Luke Solomon
WALL ...............................................................
Luke Meyer
Lucy Winter
Sydney Eide
Adalyn Harskamp
Piper Luke
MISTRESS MARY .................................................. Molly Johnson
RIP VAN WINKLE. ................................................... John Kovash
HENNY-PENNY.. ....................................................... Adud Arop
RAPUNZEL .......................................................... Lucy Baloun
HANDSOME PRINCE. ............................................. Garvey Mueller
TROLL ............................................................ Beckett Moffitt
LITTLE BILLY GOAT GRUFF ...................................... Maggie Solomon
FLOPSY ..............................................................Shay Boetel
MOPSY. .......................................................... Camryn Mages
COTTONTAIL ..................................................... Penelope Swier
PETER RABBIT. ....................................................... Quinn Buus
MOTHER HUBBARD ................................................... Lillian Kerr
MOTHER GOOSE .................................................... Sarah Castle
PRODUCTION CREW
Director ........................................................ Ms. Teresa Fester
Technical Director ............................................ Ms. Kimberly Schulte
Stage Craft Designer
Costume Director
Mr. Jeff Rhone
Mrs. Kendra Dexter
Costume Assistant ........................................... Mrs. Janet Liesinger
Student Directors ................................................... Audrey Arend Adud Arop
Activities Assistant .......................................... Mrs. Chelsea Gannon
Theatre Manager ................................................. Mr. Aaron Strand
Playbill Coordinator ......................................... Mrs. Summer Wagner
Playbill Photos ................................................... Jeannie Johnson
Playbill Designer ................................................ Ms. Jaci Mollman
TECHNICAL CREW
Madison Brown
Kennedy Brown
Ave Stanek
Fanyun Sun
Lyn Sims
Flynn McElroy
Evan Ernst
Leah Nielsen
Natalie Ulin
Elizabeth Lindell
Mara Havard
Eva Henning
Lander Bell
Gabriella Picconi
Owen McElroy
David Jirik
Joe Kunz
COSTUME CREW
Brenna Kestel
Giselle Sinclair
Ava Meyer
Julie Shuck
Alexander Schieffer
Owen Rislov
Lily Anderson
Sean Kolker
Shya Stencil
Brooke Gourley
Delaney VandenBos
SENIORS
Lucy Baloun
Libby Ernst
Adud Arop
Gabriella Picconi
Sarina Ellenbecker
Garvey Mueller
Luke Meyer
Molly Johnson
Audrey Arend
John Kovash
Leah Nielsen
Brenna Kestel
Ave Stanek
Fanyun Sun
Owen Tschetter
DIRECTOR
Ms. Teresa Fester
Acknowledgements
Jeannie Johnson & Yellow Bug Photography
Mr. Aaron Strand
Mr. Alex Anderson
Mr. Neil Hoogendoorn
Mr. Steve Kueter
Mrs. Chelsea Gannon
Mrs. Joan Mahoney
Mrs. Jodi Rysavy
Mrs. Tara VanDenBos
Parents of Cast, Costumes, & Technical Crew
Dakota Lettering
TECHNICAL CREW
Back Row: David Jirik, Shya
Joe Kunz, Julie Shuck, Alexander Schieffer, Owen Rislov
Middle: Evan Ernst, Mara Havard, Eva Henning, Lander Bell, Gabriella Picconi, Owen McElroy
Front: Madison Brown, Kennedy Brown, Ave Stanek, Fanyun Sun, Lyn Sims, Flynn McElroy
Not Pictured: Lily Anderson
Stencil,
COSTUME CREW
Not Pictured: Delany VandenBos, Ava Meyer
JUNIORS
Left to Right: Brooke Gourley, Giselle Sinclair, Natalie Ulin, Leah Nielsen, Brenna Kestel, Elizabeth Lindell
Back Row: Quinn Buus, Micah Benjamin, Lillian Kerr, Owen McElroy, Camryn Mages, Mitchell Skuza
Front: Nway Thai, Lander Bell, Natalie Ulin, Lyn SIms
SOPHOMORES
Back Row: Sean Kolker, Joe Kunz, Beckett Moffitt, Luke Solomon, Alexa Robbins, Penelope Swier, Sarah Castle, Alexander Schieffer
Middle: David Jirik, Madison Brown, Shay Boetel, Riley Breckenridge, Emmy Stanek, Adalyn Harskamp, Elizabeth Lindell
Front: Kennedy Brown, Evan Ernst, Mara Havard, Eva Henning, Julie Shuck, Lucy Winter Sydney Eide
FRESHMEN
Back Row: Owen Rislov, Nicholas Marrow, Flynn McElroy, Natalie Benjamin
Front: Maggie Solomon, Noelle Miller Piper Luke
COSTUME DIRECTOR
Ms. Kimberly Schulte
Mrs. Kendra Dexter and Family
Mr. Jeff Rhone
The O’Gorman Performing Arts Department wishes to thank the following for their patron support
ACTOR:
John and Katy Billion
Mark and Jeanie Conzemius
Michael and Sandy Fitzgibbons
Keith and Anna Gauer
James and Lynn Josten
Kathleen Kunkel
Mark and Aleta Lindell
Tom and Kerry Boetel
DIRECTOR:
Lee and Whitney Bumgarner
Tom and Kareen Dougherty
Steven and Brigetta Klein
Michelle McElroy
Interested in becoming a patron? Scan QR Code to learn more!
PRODUCER:
Brett Baloun and Jennifer White
Michael and Carri Bornitz
Fr Chuck Cimpl
Shawn and Julie Cleary
Nick Earley
Wallace and Pamela Fritz
Dave Geiver
Quintin and Mary Honerman
Matthew and Annette Johnson
Gregory and Kaye LaFollette
Jacqueline Lampert
Prairie Acres Investment & Development
Keith and Ann Schaefbauer
Jon and Nancy Schulte
Ben and Tricia Solomon
Richard and Kathleen Sweetman
The Duncan Law Firm, LLP
Mike and Dawn Thomas
Daryl and Anita Thuringer
Stuart and Pamela Tiede
Matthew and Annette Tschetter
SPOTLIGHT ON JACOB THOMAS
2024-2025 Thespian Award Recipient
Last year’s Thespian Award winner, now attending Creighton University and majoring in Business, looks back fondly on his time in O’Gorman Theatre—a place he describes as “the most welcoming” of all the many activities he participated in during high school.
When asked about his favorite role, he immediately recalled playing “Lieutenant Frank Cioffi,” a character he brought to life with enthusiasm and charm. His favorite production, however, was The Pirates of Penzance, a show that combined humor, energy, and teamwork in a way that left a lasting impression.
Beyond the bright lights of the stage, his memories shine just as brightly. From cast meals and elementary school tours to one-act festivals and show warmups, he says there wasn’t a single part of the process he didn’t enjoy. “The cast parties and pre-show warmups will always be my
favorites,” he shared.
He believes that O’Gorman Theatre serves the community by creating a space for students to build friendships and showcase their talents. “There is truly a spot for everyone to have a good time,” he said. “Very rarely does someone only do one show.” That sense of belonging, he explained, is what makes OG Theatre so special.
When reflecting on what he’s learned, his advice for current students is heartfelt and practical: “Having fun, making friends, and new experiences are just as important as your grades (so long as you graduate). Now, in college, I truly see how far ahead the average O’Gorman student is compared to others. You don’t have to be the smartest or highest academic achiever at O’Gorman. Having memories to look back on is worth more than being perfect academically.”
He says he has no regrets about his time at OG or in theatre. “I always felt like OG theatre was a place where I could be authentically myself—probably too authentic sometimes,” he added.
As for his favorite Broadway show? Dear Evan Hansen tops the list for its emotional storytelling and relatable themes.
When recalling his favorite part of the rehearsal process, he joked, “Memorizing lines! (Just kidding lol).” But in truth, auditions were his favorite part. “If you can put your social anxiety aside for a bit and go in with complete confidence, it makes for a very good time.”
From his first audition to his final curtain call, this Thespian Award winner’s journey embodies the spirit of O’Gorman Theatre—friendship, growth, courage, and joy in every performance.
LOCAL EXPERTS & O’G ALUM
Sioux Falls is our home, and we’re invested in putting your interests first.
Whether you want to save for a rainy day, take the vacation of a lifetime, support the charitable causes that mean the most to you, or provide a legacy for your family, our team of wealth management professionals is prepared to guide you.
Give us a call, and you can start a conversation with one of these O’Gorman alumni today.
Matt Adamson, Maggie Groteluschen, Nick Ratzloff, Sarah Hogg, Adam Cox, and Connor Hurley
O†GOrman Thespian award
presenTed TO The BesT aLL-arOUnd drama sTUdenT in memOry Of Jeff dOnneLLy
2024-2025............................................. Jacob Thomas
2023-2024.............................................. Olivia Duncan
2022-2023................................................ Aiden Geiver
2021-2022 .................................................. Jacob Olson
2020-2021 .................................................. Maria Evans
2019-2020 ............................................ Elli Richardson
2018-2019 .................................................Nick Maxwell
2017-2018.................................................. Miles Cowan
2016-2017 .............................................. Samuel Billion
2015-2016 ................................................ Kelly Maxwell
2014-2015 .......................................... Samuel Maxwell
2013-2014 .................................................... Clara Bentz
2012-2013 ...................................... Alexander Shields
2011-2012 ........................................Joseph J. Bezenek
2010-2011 .............................................Steve Schaeffer
2009-2010 .......................................... Emily Hoffmann
2008-2009 .................................... Andrew Thuringer
2007-2008 ............................................ Chloe Goldade
2006-2007 .............................................. Kate Hennies
2005-2006 ............................................... John Michels
2004-2005 ...................................... Mary Fitzgibbons
2003-2004 ..........................................Xavier Pastrano
2002-2003 ....................................................... Jeff Miller 2001-2002 Kate Orlando
John Boe
1999-2000 Bryan Hagg & Whitney Burkey
1998-1999 ................................................ Ben Solomon
...................................................... Ruth Lyons
1996-1997 ................................................... Tony Kutayli 1995-1996 ................................................... Jackie Garry 1994-1995 ...........................................Andrew Schafer
1993-1994 .................................... Amanda LaFollette
1992-1993 ......................................................... Matt Pehl
1991-1992 .......................................................Jean Gross
1990-1991 ....................................... Nancy Bannwarth
1989-1990 ................................................... Jon Clausen
1988-1989 ............................................ Sharon Picasso
1987-1988.................................................... Mollie Krum
1986-1987 ..................................... Jennifer Waggoner 1985-1986 ................................................... Mark Curley
1984-1985 ........................................... Mary McGreevy 1983-1984 ........................................ Kevin McCluskey
1982-1983 ......................................... Mary Ellen Doyle
1981-1982 ............................................... Kathryn Lyons
1980-1981 .................................................. Mark Bechtel
1979-1980 ........................................... Michael Randall
1978-1979................................................. Dave Dedrick
1977-1978 ...................................... Barbara Rossmeisl
1976-1977 ................................................ Paul Donnelly
1975-1976 ....................................................... Kathi Brick
1974-1975 .................................................. Teresa Lyons
1973-1974 Gerry Kreitzer
1972-1973 Theresa Donley
1971-1972 Richard Zimmer
1970-1971 ........................................... Marybeth Billion
2025 .................. Mike and Dawn Thomas
2024 .................. Tom and Linda Penisten
2023 ...................................... Ann Henkhaus
2022 ..........Mark and Jeanie Conzemius
2021 ............ Mike and Brenda Dinsmore
2020 ..... Brad and Teresa Schoenfelder
2019 ...................... Steve and Jill Sudenga
2018 ................... Casey and Dawn Tomac
2017 .......................... John and Katy Billion
2016 .......................................... Meg Johnson
2015 ...................... John and Molly Heisler
2014 ......................Jon and Nancy Schulte
2013. ................ Ron and Shelley Johnson
2012.................Barry and Carol Solomon
2011. ......................... Jim and Sharon Brink
2010. ..................................... Janet Liesinger 2009. ................... Rich and Barb Hennies
2008 .. Michael and Sandy Fitzgibbons
2007 ....................... Jane and Tim Kinsella 2006. ............ Tom and Kristi Weisbecker 2005. ....................................... Judy Pastrano 2004. .......................... Art and Cathy Hagg 2003 .................................... Marcella Effertz 2002. ..................Kevin and Linda Moehn 2001.............. Ron and Diane Bannwarth 2000. ........................ Rich and Mary Garry 1999 ................ Larry and Bonnie Schafer 1998. .............................Jim and Pam Burke 1997 ................................................ Gay Haber 1996 ................ Greg and Kaye LaFollette
The Tree of Life
Honoring the Legacy of Frank and Cathy Maxwell
The Tree of Life has long stood as a symbol of wisdom, strength, protection, growth, beauty, and abundance. Its many leaves remind us of our uniqueness—each one a different shape and color—yet all part of the same tree. Together, they represent harmony in diversity, a beautiful reminder that we can coexist peacefully. The tree’s branches, reaching outward and upward, symbolize our human drive for expression, growth, and understanding in the arts, sciences, and spirit. Most importantly, they represent our potential to improve the human condition through compassion and connection.
In the spirit of this symbolism, the O’Gorman Theatre Department proudly embraces the Tree of Life as a representation of who we are and what we strive to be. Each year, we will honor an outstanding parent who has given exceptional service to our department and our students. This award now carries an
even deeper meaning, as it is presented in memory of Frank and Cathy Maxwell.
In 2016, Frank passed away suddenly, and on September 5, 2025, Cathy passed away after bravely battling cancer. Together, Frank and Cathy raised five wonderful children—Frankie, Haley, Samuel, Kelly, and Nick—all of whom were deeply involved in O’Gorman’s theatre and oral interpretation programs. For over a decade, the Maxwell family was a constant presence in our theatre community. Their children brought life to our stage, while Frank and Cathy worked tirelessly behind the scenes—helping wherever needed and cheering on every performer, not just their own.
Those who have been part of O’Gorman Theatre know that our program is more than just a collection of students and shows—it is a family. We spend countless hours together throughout
the year, and the bonds that form on stage and behind the curtain often last a lifetime. One of the most profound testaments to this family spirit can be seen in how our theatre community continues to show up for one another— long after the curtains close and the graduates have moved on.
I have personally attended both Frank’s and Cathy’s funerals, and each time my heart was filled with the same thought: the students who pass through our program don’t just learn about performance—they learn about connection, empathy, and love. The friendships and relationships formed here extend beyond the stage, creating a network of support that endures through both joy and sorrow. The Maxwells embodied that spirit in every possible way.
After Cathy’s passing, I sat with the Maxwell siblings in their home and reminded them that their parents’ legacy
would live on. Through the Outstanding Supporters of the Performing Arts Award, we will continue to honor their memory by celebrating those who give selflessly to our program—just as Frank and Cathy did for so many years. Their example of love, dedication, and community will forever be rooted in the heart of O’Gorman Theatre.
Ms. Teresa Fester
Clients are the most motivating part of my work. Many come to us scared or stressed, and helping them through those moments—giving them peace of mind—is incredibly rewarding."
Melanie Carpenter / Shareholder
We’re proud to support Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools, where creativity, dedication, and community values take center stage. Whether you’re in the spotlight or behind the scenes, Woods Fuller is here to support your success. Together, let’s inspire a brighter future.
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To assist you with making or updating your future plans, we can provide you with our FREE Estate Planning Guide. To obtain a copy, please contact us or visit our website.
Contact us at 605-575-3343 or foundation@ogknights.org www.BishopOGLegacy.org
