Consider Yourself at Home for the Holidays with Milwaukee’s Home for Music Theatre
Skylight Music Theatre's upcoming production of Oliver! by Lionel Bart has sparked anticipation and excitement among Milwaukee-area theater enthusiasts for this timeless musical adaptation. As the renowned theatre company prepares to bring the classic tale of Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist to life on stage, audiences eagerly await the opportunity to witness the talents of the cast members, including 24 Metro Milwaukee area youth performers who will embody beloved characters. With a rich history of captivating performances and innovative productions, Skylight Music Theatre continues to enchant audiences with its unique blend of music, storytelling, and theatrical artistry. The show runs November 15th to December 29th, 2024, at the Skylight Cabot Theatre.
“We are overjoyed to bring this beloved classic to life with 24 of the brightest youth performers in the Milwaukee area,” said Unger. “In addition to a host of delightful young performers, a talented professional cast and creative team will bring this holiday treat for all ages to the Skylight stage for the first time. We welcome both Skylight favorites and new faces to the Cabot stage. The youth performers will be double cast with the title role of Oliver being portrayed by Gus Kolbe and Mac Heinrich, alongside Jenna Krysiak and Harper Fornstedt as the Artful Dodger. In addition to a youth ensemble of 20 additional performers, the adult cast will include Randall Dodge as the scrappy and resourceful Fagin, Rachel Schoenecker as the large-hearted Nancy, and Jared Brandt Hoover as the sly Bill Sikes. Rounding out the cast are many other colorful characters who will delight and transport our audiences this holiday season.”
“Oliver! is a timeless story filled with heart, hope, and transformation, and this cast is perfectly suited to bring it to vibrant life on our stage in the Skylight style people have come to expect from us,” said Unger.
The classic story tells the tale of a young orphan who navigates the gritty streets of Victorian London, encountering a colorful cast of characters along the way. With memorable songs like “Consider Yourself” and “As Long as He Needs Me,” this production promises to captivate audiences of all ages.
Meet the Talented Cast of Oliver!
With a talented ensemble of performers set to bring the characters to life on stage, the upcoming production promises to be a must-see event for anyone with a love for musical theater.
Cast
Oliver: Gus Kolbe (Piccadilly Cast) / Mac Heinrich (Trafalgar Cast)
Fagin: Randall Dodge*
Artful Dodger: Jena Krysiak (Piccadilly Cast) / Harper Fornstedt (Trafalgar Cast)
Nancy: Rachel Schoenecker
Bill Sikes: Jared Brandt Hoover
Bet/Ensemble: Hope Riesterer
Mr. Bumble/Ensemble: Miss Kyle Blair
Mrs. Corney/Ensemble: Candace Decker
Mr. Brownlow/Ensemble: Rick Richter
Mr. Sowerberry/Ensemble: Nathan Marinan
Mrs. Sowerberry/Ensemble: Samantha Sostarich
Charlotte/Ensemble: Becky Cofta
Noah Claypole/Ensemble: Connor Nekich
Dr. Grimwig/Ensemble: D Eric Woolweber
Matron/Ensemble: Rachel Bednarowski
Bedwin/Old Sally/Ensemble: Paula Garcia
Nipper: Jillian Vogedes (Piccadilly Cast) / Finley Brown (Trafalgar Cast)
Charley Bates: Brooklynn Smith (Piccadilly Cast) / Grayson Scott (Trafalgar Cast)
*Appearing through an agreement between Skylight Music Theatre and Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.
Youth Performers Ensemble
Piccadilly Cast Bristol Beasley Steven Gayfield Ira Kindkeppel-Longden Ainsley Kosek Emilia Kosek Maia Scherman Brooklynn Smith Stevie Smith Elias Totleben Jillian Vogedes | Trafalgar Cast Jozef Baudo Finley Brown Malia Brunner Jeremiah Cooper Emery Domer Grace Hennen Shaun Martin MacKenzie Rise Roberson Grayson Scott Ellory Woodford |
The Creative Force Bringing the Classic to Life
At the helm of Skylight Music Theatre's production of "Oliver!" is Artistic Director Michael Unger, directing the show and leading the creative team who all play a pivotal role in shaping the overall vision and execution of the show. Their creative decisions and artistic choices set the tone for the production and guide the cast and crew in bringing the story to life on stage.
Insights into Director's Vision
The director's vision for Oliver! provides a unique perspective on how the story will be told and interpreted for the audience. By delving into the themes, character motivations, and overall emotional arcs of the musical, the director helps shape the performances and guide the actors in bringing authenticity and depth to their roles.
We asked Skylight Music Theatre’s Artistic Director, Michael Unger, who is directing the musical masterpiece Oliver!, his thoughts on bringing Dickens’ class to the Cabot Stage.
I am a huge Charles Dickens fan. I directed a massive production of A Christmas Carol on the east coast for twenty years and truly love how Dickens captures all levels and ages of humanity and society, and makes you understand why people behave the way they do – the good and the bad. His stories are almost Shakespearean in scope. Oliver! is one of the great musicals of all time – and one of the greatest movie musicals of all time. Skylight Music Theatre has never done this show, so it is quite a privilege to help introduce it to our audiences. The fact that it has 24 of Milwaukee’s finest young performers, alongside 14 Skylight favorites as well as some new faces, makes it a cast that you won’t want to miss.
I try to ensure that all the shows we do at Skylight speak to our world right now. With Dickens’ craft (and brilliant wit) on the original novel, and Lionel Bart’s wise and glorious adaptation (he impressively wrote book, music, and lyrics), we can learn from another place and another time how important it is to take care of one another, how we must correct societal imbalances, and that family can take all forms.
Collaboration with Designers and Choreographers
In addition to working closely with the cast, the director collaborates with designers and choreographers to create a cohesive and visually stunning production. By integrating elements such as set design, lighting, sound, costumes, and choreography, the creative team enhances the storytelling and brings the world of Oliver! to life in a captivating and immersive way.
Skylight is thrilled to welcome back Stephanie Staszak as choreographer of the show. This is Staszak’s second time choreographing for Skylight Music Theatre. Fans of Xanadu! in the 2023-24 season will remember her fancy footwork, which included rollerskates!
In addition to Stephanie Staszak, the creative team for Oliver! also includes:
Music Director: David Bonofiglio
Scenic Designer: Jonathan Berg-Einhorn
Lighting and Projections Designer: Smooch Medina
Costume Designer: Michelle Terese Grimm
Sound Designer: John Tanner
Props Designer: Amaya Rockett
Consider Skylight Part of Your Holiday Tradition
Skylight Music Theatre is in the heart of downtown Milwaukee in the Historic Third Ward. The classic tale of Oliver! is a timeless story that appeals to audiences of all ages. Whether you're looking for a heartwarming experience with your family, a romantic evening with your significant other, or a team-building activity with your colleagues, Oliver! has something for everyone. The catchy songs, captivating performances, and engaging storyline make it a perfect choice for any type of outing. So, gather your loved ones, friends, or coworkers and enjoy a night out at the theater with Oliver! - you won't be disappointed!
For information and tickets, visit https://www.skylightmusictheatre.org/oliver or call the Box Office at (414) 291-7800.
More About the Cast and Crew
Rachel Bednarowski (Matron/Ensemble) is ecstatic to be returning to Skylight for this incredible season! Rachel holds a BFA in Musical Theatre and minors in Dance Performance and Music from UW-Milwaukee. Rachel’s favorite credits include Erato in XANADU! (Skylight), Rosie - MAMMA MIA! (GCT), and Charlotte in Cinderella (Appleton East Players). She also teaches and directs with Shallece Saleen Studios. Love to Gavin, family, friends and mentors for their unending support in all her endeavors.
Miss Kyle Blair (Mr. Bumble/Ensemble) [she/they/he] Skylight debut! Miss Kyle has spent a sizeable portion of their career in international waters, performing with Disney Cruise Line as Kings, Clocks, and Genies, and originating the role of Hook Hand in Tangled: the Musical. They have worked regionally in Chicago, Portland, Memphis, Arizona, and Colorado; with the National Players - America’s Longest-Running Touring Company (Olney, MD); and sometimes performs in drag as Great Aunt Mavis. Love to family and forever friends. Hi, Georgia!
Becky Cofta (Charlotte/Ensemble) is thrilled to be in Oliver! She was last seen at Skylight in Noises Off, the Rocky Horror Picture Show Fundraiser and Pippin. Becky is a performer and teaching artist in the Greater Milwaukee area. She has worked with Milwaukee Opera Theatre, The Constructivists, Schmitz & Giggles and more. Endless thanks to her family and friends for their unconditional love and support!
Candace Decker (Widow Corney/Ensemble) is ecstatic to be making her debut at Skylight Music Theatre. Favorite roles include Dolly Levi in Hello Dolly! and Marmee in Little Women The Musical at Forte Theatre Company. She is a Chicago After Dark Award winner for Best Actress as Alma in The Christmas Schooner at Bailiwick Repertory Theatre, a Midwest Individual Artist grantee, and a NY Cabaret Symposium Fellow. Thank you, Susan Westfall and Steven Decker for your love and support.
Randall Dodge* (Fagin) was last seen at Skylight as Judge Turpin in Sweeney Todd! He has performed and directed throughout the country. Favorite acting credits include: Frollo The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Javert Les Miserable, Billy Flynn Chicago, Emile De Becque South Pacific, Captain Hook Peter Pan, Carl Magnus A Little Night Music, Grinch How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and the Cowardly Lion The Wizard of Oz. He is also the Founding Artistic Director for Forte Theatre Company.
Paula Garcia (Mrs. Bedwin/Old Sally/Ensemble) is excited to be back at Skylight, with previous credits of The Sound of Music, HMS Pinafore, Sweeney Todd and others. Favorites elsewhere include Mother Superior in Sister Act and Marge in Bridges of Madison County at Waukesha Civic, Ma in Torch Song with Theatrical Tendencies, Ida in The Cemetery Club at Sunset Playhouse, and Marmee in Little Women at Lake Country Playhouse. She has also appeared in MCT’s Young Playwright’s Festival and Br!nk Briefs with Renaissance Theaterworks.
Jared Brandt Hoover (Bill Sikes/Ensemble) is honored to be brought back for Skylight’s 65th season. He made his Skylight debut last season as Judson in From Here To Eternity, and most recently appeared in Waitress as Earl. He is so honored to be back for his 3rd production at Skylight. Jared moved to Milwaukee in 2021 for the Milwaukee Rep Residency program, he has also been seen in Milwaukee at the Milwaukee Rep, Vanguard Productions, and Renaissance Theaterworks. Jared would like to thank Michael, Susan, and the cast for their endless amount of collaboration and support as he worked on being the “resident bad guy” for this production and the last two. He would like to thank Mom, Dad, Ethan, Conor, Aunt Vicki, Mimi, and Papaw for their support in making his life passion possible. @jared_hoover
Nathan Marinan (Mr. Sowerberry/Ensemble) Regional: Dave Bukatinsky in The Full Monty, Lady Augusta Bracknell in Being Earnest, Ensemble/Quasimodo Understudy in Dennis DeYoung’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Billy Boy Bill in Urinetown, Bamatabois/Joly in Les Misérables, and Princeton/Rod Understudy in Avenue Q with Skylight Music Theatre. Additional appearances with In Tandem Theatre (The Fabulous Lipitones, Carnival, Scrooge In Rouge, and Earnest In Love), Boulevard Theatre (Mothers and Sons), Theatrical Tendencies, and Sunset Playhouse. For Joel and the guys. www.NathanMarinan.com
Connor Nekich (Noah Claypole/Ensemble) a recent graduate of UW-Milwaukee’s Peck School of the Arts, Connor Nekich is an up-and-coming actor in Milwaukee. He has spent this past year understudying as Gerald in Elephant and Piggie at First Stage Children’s Theater and as Scratch and Cuddy in Witch at Renaissance Theaterworks. He was also delighted to perform as Finn in a staged reading of Black Bear Island at Br!nk Theater Festival.
Rick Richter (Mr. Brownlow/Ensemble) is very happy to be working here again at his favorite theatre Skylight on such a beloved show with an extremely talented cast and crew! His previous roles here have been: Danny in XANADU, Colonel Pickering in My Fair Lady & Professor Marvel/Wizard in The Wizard of Oz. A few of his other favorite roles in the area have been: Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof, King Arthur in Camelot, Gaston in Beauty & the Beast and Scrooge in A Christmas Carol. Follow Rick at www.rick-richter.com
Hope Riesterer (Bet/Ensemble) is a graduate of the UW-Milwaukee, with a BFA in Musical Theater and a Dance Minor. Recent performance credits: Thea in Spring Awakening, Sophie Sheridan in MAMMA MIA!, Amber Von Tussle in Hairspray, and the Kids from Wisconsin tour for four seasons! Hope also has a passion for choreographing and teaching and is a recent recipient for “Outstanding Choreography” from the Overture Center of the Arts Jerry Awards.
Rachel Schoenecker (Nancy) is a Wisconsin-raised, NYC-based actress making her Skylight debut. Select previous credits include Rent (Maureen), Spring Awakening (Wendla), The Little Mermaid (Ariel), and Grease (Marty). She is a recent Oklahoma City University music theatre graduate, and offers her endless thanks to family and friends always. @rchlschoenecker
Samantha Sostarich (Mrs. Sowerberry/Ensemble) [she/her] is thrilled to be back at Skylight Music Theatre after spending the fall with Children’s Theater of Madison in Diary of a Wimpy Kid. National Tour: Emojiland the Musical. Regional: The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Rona Lisa Peretti), Hairspray (Velma Von Tussle), Annie (Lily St. Regis), Boeing Boeing (Gretchen), Spamalot (Lady of the Lake), Matilda (Mrs. Wormwood), Fortuna the Timebender vs. The School Girls of Doom (Fortuna), The Taming (Katherine), and Who’s Holiday! (Cindy Lou). samanthasostarich.com
D Eric Woolweber (Dr. Grimwig/Ensemble) A native of SE Wisconsin, D Eric has performed globally aboard Crystal Cruises; in the Chicago area with Bailiwick Arts Center, Theo Ubique Cabaret Theater, Theatre at the Center, and Music Theater Works; in Branson with Dolly Parton’s Stampede, Silver Dollar City, and the Clay Cooper Theatre; in the Milwaukee/Madison area with MKE Rep, First Stage, Forward Theater Co, Renaissance Theatreworks and is honored to once again appear with Skylight Music Theatre. 143 mum and Gale
Youth Performers
Piccadilly Cast
Bristol Beasley (Ensemble) is very excited to be performing in Oliver! Previously, she played the role of Sophie in School of Rock at Skylight Music Theatre and was a part of the Holiday Cast in A Jolly Holiday: Celebrating Disney’s Broadway Hits also at Skylight. She has performed in Beauty & the Beast Jr. and Moana Jr. with Shallece Saleen Studio-Fine Arts Academy; Willy Wonka Jr., Matilda Jr. and The Lion King Jr. at Muskego Lakes Middle School. Bristol loves acting, singing, dancing, baking, and horseback riding. She hopes you enjoy the show!
Steven Gayfield (Ensemble) is excited to make his Skylight debut! He is a 5th grader at Lumen Christi Catholic School. He performed in Annie Jr. the Musical with MTRD. Steven loves to sing, play the piano and guitar. Steven cantors at church as well as sings in the choir. In his spare time, he enjoys playing football, video games, and hanging around with friends. Steven sends thanks to his family and friends for their support.
Ira Kindkeppel-Longden (Ensemble) is thrilled to be a part of Skylight’s Oliver! Some favorite past roles: Willy Wonka in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (Creator Collaborative), Ryan Evans in High School Musical (Creator Collaborative), and Matthew Cratchett in A Christmas Carol (The Milwaukee Rep). Ira also enjoys writing, building Legos, and drawing. A big thank you to all who have helped him develop as a performer and person and to his family for being his biggest fans.
Gus Kolbe (Oliver) is a 7th grader at Pilgrim Park Middle School in Elm Grove. He is excited to make his Skylight debut! Gus has enjoyed acting since his first school musical at Tonawanda Elementary School. Since then, he has been hooked. When Gus isn’t acting, he is playing volleyball, doing school clubs, or finding new things to keep himself entertained. In 2023, he was Charlie in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever at Sunset Playhouse.
Ainsley Kosek (Ensemble) is excited to be making her acting debut! She is 8yrs old and enjoys being on the swim team and playing the alto saxophone. She is looking forward to her first theater experience and is happy to be sharing the stage with her sister. She loves to sing and dance and hopes to be part of many more shows in the future.
Emilia Kosek (Ensemble) is thrilled to be back on the Cabot Theater stage for her second time, making this her 9th theatre production. She is 11yrs old and enjoys playing volleyball and playing flute in her school’s band. A few of her favorite roles were: Summer Hathaway in School of Rock at Skylight Music Theatre, Chip in Beauty and the Beast and Little Anastasia in Anastasia with WAWM Theater. She is looking forward to being in her first show with her sister and hopes to have a long future in acting.
Jenna Krysiak (Artful Dodger) is thrilled to “consider herself at home” with Skylight Music Theatre as Artful Dodger. Other credits: Patty Farrell in Diary Of A Wimpy Kid The Musical with First Stage, LeFou in Beauty And The Beast Jr. and Flounder in The Little Mermaid Jr. with SMYT, and many more. She is also part of AMT3 with First Stage. Offstage, she loves playing basketball and baking. Special shoutout to her family, especially Kylie Radulovich.
Maia Scherman (Ensemble) is 15 and goes to University School of Milwaukee. She has recently been in The Amazing Lemonade Girl (Alex) and The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (Beth Bradley) at First Stage, as well as her school’s production of The Little Mermaid (Ariel). Maia loves to read, write, sing, dance, and play tennis. She is so excited to be a part of her first Skylight production and she hopes you enjoy it!
Brooklynn “Brooke” Smith (Charley Bates) is an actress who has participated in over 30 performances in her short career. Her long-term aspirations are to attend The Juilliard School in New York. Her hobbies include reading, violin and piano. Although she is shy when meeting new people, at home Brooklynn sings more than she talks!
Stevie Marie Smith (Ensemble) is a current fifth grader at Glen Hills Middle School. She loves singing, drawing, saxophone, crafting, and acting. Stevie has always had career aspirations of becoming an engineer; however, she has most recently discovered a passion for helping her neurodivergent friends.
Elias Totleben (Ensemble) [he/him] is thankful and honored to be back on the Skylight stage! He was last seen here as Zack in School of Rock and has also appeared in productions at First Stage Milwaukee, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Paramount Theatre Aurora, and Mercury Theater Chicago. Elias is a songwriter-guitarist who is currently recording his first album. He turns 13 in December and is a home-schooled seventh grader. Thanks friends and family, and Hi Julian!
Jillian Vogedes (Nipper) is thrilled to be returning to the Skylight Music Theater! Some of her favorite roles include: Student Ensemble & Summer Hathaway (understudy) in School of Rock: The Musical at Skylight Music Theatre; Olive Biddle in Pete the Cat and the Ice Cream Penguin in Elephant & Piggie at First Stage. Outside of theater, Jillian enjoys geocaching and reading books by Judy Blume. She is a 5th grader at Downtown Montessori Academy.
Trafalgar Cast
Jozef Baudo (Ensemble) is a 6th grader at Glen Hills Middle School. He is beyond thrilled to be making his debut performance at Skylight Music Theatre! Theatre experience includes participating in the KidsWrites summer program where he played Captain Cool Guy in The Blueberries of Wrath and taking class at First Stage Academy! He’s grateful to his family for their support, including his doggos Sunshine and Gary.
Finley Brown (Nipper) is so excited to play the mischievous Nipper in her first Skylight Music Theatre production. She is a 3rd grader at Maryland Avenue Montessori who loves to sing, dance, play violin (on rollerblades!), and host movie nights with friends. Finley would like to thank her family, teachers, and friends for their support, and she wishes everyone a wonderful holiday season.
Malia Brunner (Ensemble) is thrilled to be returning to Skylight Music Theatre after appearing as Lauren the piano player in School of Rock. Malia has a passion for singing and dancing, especially when it involves being on stage with her theater buddies. When not on stage, Malia can be found bumping the volleyball with her teammates, racing between the gates on the ski hill, and running on the trails with her cross-country team. Any time she gets to hang out with friends and family is a good day!
Jeremiah Cooper (Ensemble) is an 8th grader at River Trail School of Agricultural Sciences. He likes to play piano, watch tv, and read. Oliver! will be his second show for Skylight but his third show in general. He was Pinocchio in Shrek the Musical Jr. At Whitnall Middle School, and James in School of Rock at Skylight Music Theatre. His hobby is listening to music. In summary, Jeremiah cannot wait to consider himself one of you.
Emery Domer (Ensemble) is thrilled to make her debut with Skylight Music Theatre in Oliver! Emery is a freshman at University School of Milwaukee; her favorite school roles to date include James in James and the Giant Peach, Sebastian in The Little Mermaid and The Witch in Into the Woods. In her spare time, she dances with the company team for Bella Via Dance Studio, runs cross country, and takes voice lessons with Claudia Johnson. Emery would like to thank her mom, dad, and sister, Willa, for their love and support.
Harper Fornstedt (Artful Dodger) is in 8th grade at Golda Meir Middle School. Her hobbies include badminton, volleyball, oboe, writing, and reading. She is also a member of Young Company at First Stage. This is Harper’s first show with Skylight Music Theatre. A few past credits include: Greg Heffley in Diary of A Wimpy Kid: The Musical at First Stage, Old Crow/Troll in The Snow Queen, and Ulysses in Flora and Ulysses at Milwaukee Youth Theatre.
Mac Heinrich (Oliver) [hey/they] is a sixth grader at Milwaukee Parkside School. He made his Skylight debut as an ensemble member and Freddy understudy in School of Rock and is excited to return as Oliver! Mac studies voice with Jackey Boelkow and also enjoys playing drums and skateboarding.
Grace Hennen (Ensemble) is beyond thrilled to be performing in her first production! She is a second grader at Elmwood Elementary in New Berlin and already loves being on stage. Her extracurricular activities include performing with Character Kids and Irish dancing with the Glencastle Irish Dancers. In her free time you can find her snuggling one of her many dogs and cats or singing along to her favorite musicals.
Shaun Martin (Ensemble) is in the sixth grade, and he loves music. He is very proud and excited to join Skylight Music Theatre for his first professional theater production. He also enjoys playing basketball and video games. Shaun would like to thank his family for their love and support.
MacKenzie Rise Roberson (Ensemble) after appearing in many Poplar Creek Church productions, and The Wizard of Oz with Children’s Theatre of Wauwatosa, MacKenzie is thrilled to be making her Skylight debut in Oliver! MacKenzie is in 6th grade and a cheerleader at her middle school. She loves singing, dancing, and trying new things. She would like to thank her family, especially her twin Maddie for encouragement. She dedicates her performance to her grandma, and Whitney, her mom, who always inspire her.
Grayson Scott (Charley Bates) is absolutely exhilarated to be making their Skylight debut in Oliver! Grayson is a freshman at Whitefish Bay High School and they are an enthusiastic actor. Grayson has most recently been Chris in Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical at First Stage and Rudolpho in Matilda with Drama Jr. along with being in Young Company at First Stage. When not on stage, Grayson enjoys rock climbing, playing with their bulldog, and choreographing dances.
Ellory Woodford (Ensemble) is grateful to once again consider herself at home at Skylight! Ellory’s favorite roles have been Olaf in Frozen Jr., Madison in School of Rock, playing Lavender and Bruce in separate productions of Matilda, and Gladys in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. When not on stage, Ellory enjoys singing, biking, and gymnastics. She would like to thank both the casts for such a fabulous experience and hopes that everyone enjoys the show!
Creative Team
Michael Unger** (Director/Artistic Director) For Skylight, Michael has directed Dennis DeYoung’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame (nine BroadwayWorld Awards – including Best Director and Best Musical), the Deaf and Hearing production of Spring Awakening, School of Rock, Noises Off, Little Shop of Horrors, A Jolly Holiday: Celebrating Disney’s Broadway Hits, as well as Me, Myself and I for Skylight’s Education program. Amongst many virtual offerings, he directed Skylight’s BroadwayWorld Award-winning Being Earnest, now available worldwide online. He was previously the Associate Artistic Director of Off-Broadway’s York Theatre; credits there included You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown and Big. For nine years, he was the Producing Artistic Director of NewArts, started with a local father in response to the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy; directing 17 productions working with over 650 area-children. Other selected directing credits include A Christmas Carol (McCarter Theatre for 18 years), Two Point Oh (NY Times Critics’ Pick), Time Stands Still (Cape Cod Chronicle Best 2015), My Sister in This House (Deaf West, Ovation Recommended), and new versions of Kander and Ebb’s The Happy Time and The Rink. World premieres include The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Caligula, and A ROCKIN’ Midsummer Night’s Dream (featured in the award-winning documentary film “Midsummer in Newtown”). He has directed 14 operas plus benefit concerts honoring Susan Stroman, André DeShields, Maltby and Shire, and Leslie Uggams, as well as for the communities of Sandy Hook, CT and Parkland, FL.
Stephanie Staszak (Choreographer) This is Stephanie’s sixteenth production with Skylight, second as choreographer. Oliver! made her fall in love with musical theatre as a freshman in high school and she’s choreographed it twice since, so she considers herself very much at home with this production. Stephanie has won three Tommy Awards for her choreography. As a performer, she was recently seen on this stage as Rosalie Mullins in School of Rock and Donna Marsala in Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding. She looks forward to upcoming productions on the Cabot stage!
David Bonofiglio (Music Director) holds a BFA in piano performance from Cardinal Stritch University. Selected credits as musical director: Xanadu, School of Rock, Evita, Mamma Mia!, The Full Monty, Little Shop of Horrors, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, and Oklahoma! for Skylight Music Theatre; Little By Little, Scrooge In Rouge, A Cudahy Caroler Christmas, and Jesus Christ Superstar for In Tandem Theatre; Sunday In The Park With George for Windfall Theatre. As assistant musical director: A Christmas Carol for Milwaukee Repertory Theatre.
Jayne Regan Pink (Dialect Coach) serves as the Artistic Associate at Renaissance Theaterworks. Born in London, Jayne studied at the Royal Ballet School. Hailed as one of the finest dramatic dancers of her generation. Since 2000 she has acted as repititeur and coached internationally. She has also worked as a choreographer, and movement director, and dialect coach. Her local credits include: Happy Days, Neat, Witch, The Wolves, The Moors (RTW); Matilda, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Elephant and Piggie, Robin Hood, Urinetown (First Stage Children’s Theater); Happy Now, The Norman Conquests, A Christmas Carol (Milwaukee Rep). Upcoming: Frankenstein, Skylight Music Theatre, and Circle Mirror Transformation (Next Act Theatre).
Daniel J. Hanson* (Production Stage Manager) is an Equity Stage Manager based in Chicago. Some previous Skylight credits: Oklahoma!, Newsies, Kiss Me Kate, Hairspray, Annie, Sweeney Todd, Urinetown, Tosca, Violet, La Cage aux Folles, Carmina Burana. Other select credits: Jersey Boys, Young Frankenstein, Rock of Ages, Big River, Sister Act (Mercury Theater Chicago); The Sound of Music, Into the Woods (Paramount Theatre); Guys on Ice (Milwaukee Repertory Theater). Dan received his M.F.A. in stage management from the University of Missouri-Kansas City.
Jordan Ilyssa Angelo (Resident Assistant Stage Manager) is thrilled to be a part
of this incredible musical, making it her 17th show with Skylight! Originally from
Rhode Island, Jordan relocated to Milwaukee to pursue her love of theatre. Skylight
favorites include Waitress, From Here to Eternity, SuperYou, and Dennis DeYoung’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Select Rhode Island credits: 42nd Street, The Sound of Music (Theatre By The Sea), and The Secret Garden (Epic Theatre Company). Much love to her family, 3 kitties, and Steve.
Mallory Topel (Assistant Stage Manager) is excited to join Skylight Music Theatre for Oliver! A Wisconsin native, she graduated from Viterbo University in 2021. Favorite credits include Next to Normal, A Christmas Carol, Hunchback of Notre Dame, Million Dollar Quartet (Greenbrier Valley Theatre), and productions with Portland Stage Company and Portland Theater Festival. Mallory also works as a virtual assistant and marketing operations for her family’s business. She’s grateful for her family’s continued support!
Jonathan Berg-Einhorn (Set Designer) [he/him] is a Chicago based scenic designer. Favorite design credits include Hand to God (Paramount Theatre); Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (Mercury Theater); The Reclamation of Madison Hemmings (American Blues Theater); The Spongebob Musical (Kokandy Productions); Hedwig and the Angry Inch (Haven Theatre); The Producers (Music Theater Works); Picasso at the Lapin Agile, The Christians (Citadel); Associate designer for Ernest Shackleton Loves Me (Porchlight); Babel, Isaac’s Eye (Jeff nominated, Redtwist). Jonathanbergeinhorn.com.
Michelle Terese Grimm (Costume Designer) is thrilled to be back in her hometown working on this production after spending fourteen years in the Seattle area. In Seattle, Michelle worked at a variety of places including the 5th Avenue Theatre, Pacific Northwest Ballet, Seattle Opera, Village Theatre, and Cornish College of the Arts. Michelle has a B.A. in Theatre Arts from Marquette University where she currently works in the costume shop, and an M.F.A. in Costume Design and Tech from Northern Illinois University.
Smooch Medina (Lighting & Projections Designer) is thrilled to be working with a wonderful team of artists on Oliver! Smooch is a Chicago area designer whose other show credits include Projection Design for Cabaret, Rent, Ernest Shackleton Loves Me - Jeff Nominated (Porchlight Music Theatre) Sheep Dog, London Road (Shattered Globe), The Watsons Go to Birmingham (Chicago Children’s Theatre), Alice in Wonderland (Governors State University) A Swell in the Ground, Pilgrims, and A Life Extra Ordinary (The Gift Theatre), Women in Jeopardy, Silent Sky (First Folio), Saturn Returns (Neo-Futurists), Estrella Cruz [The Junkyard Queen] (Halcyon Theatre), The White Road - Jeff Nominated (Irish Theatre of Chicago), Tightwire (Chicago Tap Theatre). He currently is the Technical Supervisor at Hemmens Cultural Center as well as the City of Elgin Special Events Dept. Smooch holds a BFA in Lighting Design from Columbia College Chicago. See his work at Smoochdesign.com
John Tanner Monagle (Sound Designer) is a composer, recording engineer, and sound designer. His experience covers a broad range of work in scoring, arranging, recording, and music composition for television, documentaries, radio, industrial video, and theatre. His original music has won numerous awards, including Golden Reel Awards; Telly Awards; national American Advertising Federation Awards, and Silver Microphone Awards. John has garnered Gold and Platinum sales certifications for his album engineering work. johnt@tannermonagle.com
Amaya Rockett (Props Supervisor) is excited to be working on Skylight’s production of Oliver! She has been involved in Milwaukee theatre for almost 5 years. Previously set designing shows such as The Forgotten Girl (First Stage), AIDA (Waukesha Civic Theatre) and Zuri’s Crown (Bronzeville Arts Ensemble). Her previous Properties work includes Black Arts MKE’s Mudrow, and UW-Milwaukee’s Piggsville and Into The Woods.
Terry Harper (Director of Production and Facilities) is originally from Houston Texas where he began his career as a Rock and Roll Lighting Designer, a Musical Theater Sound Engineer, and an Opera Technical Director. Opera has taken up most of his time working for Texas Opera Theater, Central City Opera, Opera Omaha, Vancouver Opera, The Atlanta Opera, and most recently Houston Grand Opera. Terry spent 5 years on the road touring the world with magician David Copperfield. He also helped take Mr. Copperfield’s show to Broadway for a limited, record breaking run.
Joseph Piirto (Interim Director of Production) started in theatre at UW-Parkside in Kenosha. Joe has been a Technical Director for many theatres over the last 20 years including the San Francisco Opera’s Merola program, The Boston Children’s Theatre, and Ballet Arizona. Joe owns his own production company in Racine, “The Scene Shop.” Joe was the Technical Director here last season and was happy to come back this season as the Interim Director of Production and facilities.
Susan Varela (Executive Director) Originally from Milwaukee and a graduate of UW-Stevens Point, her professional career as a performer landed her in New York City for 20 years. She performed on Broadway in Les Misérables and at Radio City Music Hall in The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber. Other notable performances include Jo March in Little Women: The Musical; Grizabella in Cats and Eva Peron in Evita. Susan performed in world premieres at both the Denver Center Theater (for their Tony-award winning season) and the Yale Repertory Theater. Before joining the Skylight staff, she appeared on the Cabot stage in Sweeney Todd, Into the Woods, The Wizard of Oz, and Les Misérables. Susan has produced, directed, performed and written for the stage and television alongside her husband, actor Andrew Varela. Susan currently serves on the board of directors for Brew City Opera and The Historic Third Ward Association.
About Skylight Music Theatre
Skylight Music Theatre is a professional theatre company that produces high-quality musical productions that entertain, educate, and inspire. We are committed to providing a platform for local talent and showcasing the best of Broadway and beyond. Founded in 1959, Skylight is Milwaukee’s professional Equity music theatre company and the state's largest employer of Wisconsin actors. Skylight produces the full range of music theatre from blockbuster Broadway musicals to reimagined operas, and from exciting world premieres to contemporary off-Broadway hits.
About Skylight Music Theatre – Milwaukee’s Home for Music Theatre
Skylight’s mainstage home is the Cabot Theatre in the Broadway Theatre Center, which was built by Skylight in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward in 1992. Considered to be one of Milwaukee’s most beautiful theatres, the Cabot Theatre is based on the design of an 18th-century French opera house. With just 350 seats it offers audiences great views of the action onstage and an undeniable connection with the performers. Skylight Music Theatre marks its 65th season in 2024-2025. Skylight Music Theatre is a proud Cornerstone Member of the United Performing Arts Fund.
Learn more about Skylight Music Theatre’s history here.