EVITA

Alaine Kay (Ensemble, Eva’s Sister, Aristocrat, Flamenco Dancer) – Alaine discovered a love for theater after accidentally auditioning for a middle school play. She has participated both on- and off-stage in many productions with New Lexington High School, Malone University, the New Lexington Community Theater, and the Zanesville Community Theater. Her favorite roles to date have been Vi Moore in Footloose, Gertie in Oklahoma!, and Sleeping Beauty in Into the Woods. Alaine lives in Zanesville with one ornery cat, works at Muskingum University as the Reference-Web Resources Librarian, and is thrilled to be a part of the fantastic cast of Evita.

Amanda Cox (Ensemble, Eva’s Sister, Military, Perón’s Escort, Flamenco Dancer, Cosmetologist) – Amanda earned a Bachelor of Music Education from The Ohio State University. She is currently the choir director at Philo Junior High and High School. She has performed in and been the musical director for the Follies Family, “The Show Must Go On” (previously Zaney Follies) for the past seven years. Prior to this performance, Amanda played the part of Alma in “The Music Man”.

Amber Allen (Ensemble, Tango Dancer, Children’s Chorus) – Amber is a sophomore at Zanesville High School. She enjoys video games and playing the tenor saxophone in the marching band, concert band, and is the member of The Blue Knights. She has been involved in Community Theater at both ZCT and The Renner for the past 5 years. Many shows include Music Man, several Disney Jr. & Kids productions, and four Angel Tree’s. Some of her favorite rules include Gizelle in Forgiven: a fairy tale, ensemble for 13: The Musical and The Producers and Zaneeta in The Music Man at ZHS where she is a member of the Drama Club and was inducted into the International Thespian Society this past spring. Evita has been so challenging and she is delighted to be apart of the wonderful cast.

Becca Wilson (Ensemble, Voice of On Screen Lover, Flamenco Dancer, Worker, Children’s Chorus) – Becca Wilson is a 17 year old homeschooler who loves theater! Becca has been in multiple other shows. She has been seen in Aladdin Jr., Quilters, Annie Get Your Gun, Forgiven, James and the Giant Peach jr., and Bye Bye Birdie She loves being on the stage and when she is not at the theater, you will find her with her friends or singing around the house.

Benjamin Stemm (Children’s Chorus) – Ben has participated in several shows. He loves singing and is in Philo Jr. High School Choir and Band. He is learning to play the Trumpet. This is Ben’s first stage appearance here at ZCT although he has made a few on stage at The Renner and recently at Philo High School.

Cadence Hendershott (Children’s Chorus) – Cady loves that she gets to hang out with her besties and make great art as a part of this tremendous cast. No stranger to this stage, Cady has become quite at home on the boards in roles big and small and she just can’t wait for you to enjoy this performance.

Cameron Scott (Ensemble, Military, Tango Dancer) – Cameron is a freshman at Tri-Valley High School. He participates in Archery, Choir, Cross Country, Marching Band, Jazz Band, Pep Band, Symphonic Band, District IX Honors band and Track. Cameron has enjoyed acting in many different plays in the community including 13 (Ritchie), Aladdin (Aladdin), Peter Pan (Jon), and Mid-Summer Night’s Dream (Francis Flute/ Thisbe). Cameron is excited to be the youngest member of the adult chorus of Evita.

Carleton B. Underwood (Lighting and Sound Designer and Technical Support) – I prefer to be invisible with what I do. I would rather the lighting, sound, and other technical elements I bring to the telling of the story be unknown to you. Unless you’re looking specifically for the elements, I expect you just to enjoy or appreciate the story we tell. I’ve always held an interest in the technical aspects of theatre, in how we can tell the story with quality as well as making the execution of the story telling consistent and repeatable. When I was getting ready to retire in 2005, I bought myself an AudioBox from Richmond Sound Design, LTD and started down the path of cued sound playback and Show Control. No more reel-to-reel tape and spot sound! Much easier to get consistencies in playback as well as integrate live sound. In March 2013, I purchased a Broadway class lighting console to “learn new things” and bring some extra complexity in cues and lighting looks. At the same time, develop cued shows and utilize new technologies and help in the story telling.

Into the Woods used LED wash lighting to good measure, as did The Little Mermaid, and every show since then. Evita continues the tradition of lighting, live orchestras and the support systems to enhance the telling of the story – and there is no going back! And I wouldn’t want it any other way!

Like to come along too? Come to auditions or use the Contact Form on the web site. You may also snag one of the production team for Evita and let them know of your interests!

Theatre is a collaborative effort. Come join the fun!

Cary Underwood (Follow Spot Operator) – Cary has been involved in the theater all of her life. Cary has taken part in various productions throughout the years such as Into the Woods (Little Red Riding Hood), Chicago (Hunyak), Murder on the Nile (Christina), The Hollow (Midge), You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown(Lucy), and many more. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for Zanesville Community Theatre.

Chad Stemm (Assistant Director, Secretary of the Press, Eva’s Bodyguard) – Chad studied Music Education at The Ohio State University where he was in the OSU Marching Band and Men’s Glee Club. He has played in Off Broadway Pit Orchestras and many other professional musical entities. He lives in Zanesville with his wife and seven children, three of which are also participating in this production; one in the band and two in the children’s chorus. This is his first time on the director side of shows; although not a stranger to the music side of directing, his most recent event was here at ZCT as music director for Quilters in autumn 2016. Chad is President of the Zanesville Memorial Concert Band (come see our free summer concerts www.zmcb.org), Vice President of Philo Band Boosters and also on the Muskingum Behavioral Health Board. His sincere hope is that you continue to support the arts locally. “This show contains over 15 local people that has formally studied music, theatre, dance and art. It is a labor of love and showcases world quality talent in our back yard. Working with this great group of vocalists, dancers, actors, actresses, musicians, tech team and production team has been very rewarding and fulfilling. Everyone has their own special niche and qualities that they bring to the stage in telling this passionate story of a well-loved female leader truly ahead of her time.

Dakota McConaha (Tech Coordinator and Designer) – “I don’t do bios!” Dakota has recently returned to music and theatre here at ZCT from a hiatus. Dakota has been very instrumental in aiding Carleton Underwood in establishing the newest technology to bring us up to speed with Broadway productions. He is also single and has a full time job; for all you single ladies.

Daniel Kelty (Magaldi, Voice of On Screen Lover, Aristocrat, Soldier) – Daniel is making his debut here at ZCT! While he may be a fresh face here, he is no stranger to the stage. Daniel has been singing his entire life. He began competing on the state level in solo and ensemble competition from 1983-1987, earning superior ratings each year. He has starred in productions of: Annie Get Your Gun, Guys and Dolls and a variety of one act plays. More recently he has performed in a talent search on Loretta Lynne’s Ranch in Hurricane Mills Tennessee. While he was not the final winner, he had the honor of performing on her stage in her amphitheater! Daniel has also sang with prestigious groups such as the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus and the Columbus Gay Men’s Chorus for two seasons where he stared in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat as well an 80’s show. Daniel took a break from theater for several years while he served in the United States Navy during desert storm. He studied Russian at the Defensive Language Institute in Monterey California and also speaks Spanish fluently. He has spent decades traveling the world where he has performed in small social venues in several parts of California, Arizona and Bolivia South America. He is a published author and co-authored a textbook where he wrote about helping and understanding post wartime veterans and their families. Daniel holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a masters degree in social work. He holds a clinical certificate in Ecotherapy and works as a psychotherapist with a nonprofit organization he and his husband created called Wild Ohio Ranch. Daniel practices animal assisted and nature based therapy on his 50 acre ranch in Roseville Ohio where he teaches and encourages children and adults how to explore the healing connection between people and nature. Daniel is also an artist and enjoys teaching his clients the therapeutic beauty of glass mosaic art therapy. Daniel has a strong passion for underserved populations and has dedicated his life to providing education and advocacy. He provides public speaking engagements in the tri state area for LGBT issues, adoption, mental health, death and children’s grief. Daniel has also been asked to be a guest speaker at several events for suicide awareness. He and his husband have adopted two children and have recently moved to our community where Daniel has become reconnected and involved in the theater! We are happy to have him in this production of EVITA and welcome he and his family to our community!

Dee McCarthy (Ensemble, Eva’s Mother, Worker, Aristocrat) – Dee is a 25 year veteran at ZCT and loves to do musicals! Bonus is doing it with her talented husband Kevin McCarthy! Fun roles in the past were Mrs. Bassick in Sherlock, Kanga in Seussical the Musical, and Helga in Hagar the Horrible. No role is too small and all have been a true pleasure. Hope you enjoy the gorgeous music and story of Evita!

Emma Gross (Ensemble, Worker, Fashion Stylist, Flamenco Dancer, Children’s Chorus) – Emma is a sophomore in high school, homeschooled, 15 years old, and the oldest of six children. Aside from theatre she enjoys writing, playing guitar, soccer, and spending time with friends. Some of her favorite roles in previous shows include Sara Crewe in “A Little Princess,” and Princess Jasmine in “Aladdin Jr.” She is very excited to be apart of the Ensemble in “Evita,” and hopes you enjoy the show!

Gabriel Stemm (Children’s Chorus) – Gabe has enjoyed being on stage and stage crew for several shows here and at The Renner Theaters. He recently was in two one acts at Philo High School. He loves music and has started playing Trombone this year in the Philo Jr. High School Band. He also sings in the Choir there as well. Gabe wants to be a police officer when he grows up.

Gabrielle Labishak (Ensemble, Cosmetologist, Worker, Children’s Chorus) – Gabrielle is 18 years old and a senior at Rosecrans High School. There, she is a part of the national honor society, senior class office, and pep club. She is the current Vice President of the RHS drama club. Gabby has previously played as “Belle” in her school’s production of Beauty and the Beast as well as “Little Red” in Into the Woods. This show marks her debut at the ZCT, which she is very excited about.

George Patterson (Producer)– A nearly 30 year veteran with the theater, George has worked on stage as a performer, in the pit as a drummer and served as a director and a producer. He was honored when asked by his sister-in-law, Michelle, to help in this production. He has expressed how wonderful it has been to see the passion of everyone involved and has enjoyed watching “Evita” grow from concept to reality. He invites you to enjoy the show and the journey the musical biography of Eva María Duarte.

Grayson Gantzer (Children’s Chorus) – Grayson is a 3rd Grader at Zane Grey Intermediate. He plays basketball for the Zanesville Little Devils, is fixated on fidget spinners, and enjoys tormenting his older sisters. Favorite past roles for Grayson include: Winthrop in “The Music Man”, Racoon in “Peter Pan Jr”, and Benny in “The Boxcar Children.

Jadyn Hendershott (Follow Spot Operator) – Jadyn has become a regular fixture here at ZCT over the last few years, playing many parts from chorus roles to getting her time in the spotlight. She’s very excited to be part of such a well-known, well-loved, and wonderful show with the rest of this great cast.

Jared Gantzer (Stage Manager) – Jared has been fortunate to have performed in many great shows at both ZCT and the Renner Theater. Some of Jared’s favorite roles include Scarecrow in “The Wizard of Oz”, Lysander in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, Rev. Crisparkle in “The Mystery of Edwin Drood”, Paul Singer in “Moon Over Buffalo, Ernie Cusack in “Rumors” and Larry “Guts” Regan in “Night of January 16th”. Jared is also a fire juggler in the performance group, “Pyrotechnika Fire and Light”. Jared lives in Zanesville with his wife Sarah, their three children Julia, Maddie, and Grayson and thanks you for supporting the arts in Zanesville.

Jillian B. Von Gunten (Eva MarÍa Duarte de Perón, Choreographer) – Involved in local theater for her entire life, Jillian currently serves as the President of the Board of Directors for Zanesville Community Theatre. Jillian also serves as the Coach for Powerhouse’s SPARKS!! Improv Troupe and sits on the Board of Directors for the McIntire Terrace Association, the Southeast Ohio Symphony Orchestra, and the Zanesville Memorial Concert Band. Some of her favorite roles include: Maggie in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Alais in The Lion in Winter, Nancy in Oliver!, Barbara Fordham in August: Osage County, Henrietta in The Hollow, Ruth Condomine in Blithe Spirit, and the Witch in Into the Woods, all at ZCT, and Stella Kowalski in A Streetcar Named Desire, Suzy in Wait Until Dark, Karen Andre in The Night of January 16, and Helena in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, at The Renner. Some of her favorite shows to direct were: The Mystery of Irma Vep, HONK!, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged), The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Rumors, The Producers, and 13, the Musical. A graduate of Rosecrans High School, Muskingum University, and Capital University Law School, she works in Zanesville as an attorney at Allen & Baughman, Attorneys at Law. Jillian is thrilled beyond measure to tackle this role of a lifetime in her very favorite musical! Patti LuPone originated the role of Eva in 1979 and Jillian had the amazing fortune to see Ms. LuPone on Broadway this year in War Paint. (Reports are that Jillian still hyperventilates when she thinks about it.) In that show, Ms. LuPone sang the following: “A woman scales the wall, stands high above them all, and, oh, what gates of Hell they put her through.” As fitting in Evita as War Paint and real life. Here’s to all the women scaling the walls and fighting like Hell. Enjoy the show and thank you!

Jim Hoskinson (Che) – Jim has a long history in Community Theatre and has played parts such as “The Chairman” in “ The Mystery of Edwin Drood”, “Roger Dubris” in The Producers, Hysterium in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Charlie Brown in the Show You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown. Plus many other parts and shows. Jim has a Vocal Performance background from the Ohio State University and lives in Zanesville with his wife Susan, and two sons CJ and Drew, both who are in College. Jim is ecstatic to be able to play a part of Che and he hopes that you enjoy.

Jodi Wolfe (Ensemble, Eva’s Sister, Aristocrat, Worker) – I’ve been involved in theater since the age of 5, but my parents will tell you I’ve been performing for them since birth. I studied musical theater and vocal music education at Kent State University, I was a singer in the rock band Mad Shadows, and I also sing for weddings. I live here in Zanesville with my 11-year-old son Liam Jeffrey. I’ve been active in local theater for many, many moons, and I’ve had the good fortune to have played wonderful roles such as Matron “Mama” Morton in “Chicago,” Violet in “9 to 5: The Musical,” Nancy in “Oliver!,” Gilmer in “Godspell” and Ronette in “Little Shop of Horrors,” to name a few. I’m excited (and lucky!) to be back onstage with my friends in Evita!

Jon Kelty (Children’s Chorus) – Jon is a 6th grader at Philo Middle School. He enjoys gymnastics, basketball and most recently has experienced an interest in theater. John also has a passion for running and scored the best time in the district last year for sprinting. John has many talents and we are excited to see him make his debut in EVITA at ZCT.

Julia Gantzer (Children’s Chorus, Ballet Dancer) – Julia is an 8th grader at Zanesville Middle School. She participates in choir plays the Flute, and dances at Movement on Main. Favorite past roles for Julia include: Beth in “In-laws, Outlaws, and Other People (That Should be Shot)”, The White Rabbit in “Alice in Wonderland Jr”, Sebastian in “The Little Mermaid Jr”, Gracie Shinn in “The Music Man”, and Moth in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”.

Kari Scott (Ensemble, Military, Cosmetologist) – Kari is the Band Director at Philo Jr. High and the Assistant Band Director at Philo High School. She enjoys participating in the Community Theater with her two Boys (Cameron and Nathan) and her Husband (Ian). Some of her favorite productions have been; Mid-Summer’s Night Dream (Puck), 13 (Asst. Music Director), Forgiven (Elizadora) and many other chorus roles. Evita chorus is one of her Bucket list roles. She is so excited to be a part of this amazing cast and crew!

Katie Gahagan (Ensemble, Worker, Children’s Chorus) – Katie is 18 years old and a senior. When not at the theater or selling Donald’s Donuts, you can find her spending her free time with her art supplies. She has enjoyed being parts of many casts at ZCT, including “Quilters” and “Sherlock Holmes”. She has enjoyed being a part of the Evita cast and hopes you enjoy the show!

Kelly Patterson (Producer)

Kevin McCarthy (Ensemble, Priest, Admiral, Aristocrat, Worker, Boy Suiter, Mistress Ex-Boyfriend) – Kevin is unsure of what parts he will be playing (beyond a General) as one of the many in her entourage, but he is looking forward to becoming intimately more familiar with the exciting Evita. Thanks for coming & enjoy the show!

Kevin Rahrig (Ensemble, Military, Photographer/Suiter) – Kevin Rahrig is thrilled to be back performing at ZCT. He was last seen on this stage as Frank Butler in Annie Get Your Gun in 2016, but has performed this year at the Renner in Bye Bye Birdie and the 2017 Angel Tree Benefit. He enjoys singing in Greater Zanesville Singers, playing trumpet in the Zanesville Memorial Concert Band, and being happily married to his wife Christy. During the day, Kevin is the K-12 music teacher for the Catholic Schools of Zanesville. Thank you very much for supporting the arts here in Zanesville and enjoy the show.

Madeline Gantzer (Children’s Chorus) – Madeline is a 6th grader at Zane Grey Intermediate. She plays percussion for the school band, is a member of the choir, and is on the Robotics Team. Favorite past roles for Maddie include: Amaryllis in “The Music Man”, An Ancestor in “Mulan Jr.”,Nellie in “Annie Get Your Gun, and Violet in “The Boxcar Children”.

Margi Wysong (Ensemble, Cosmetologist, Peasant, Aristocrat) – My last experience in a theater was when I was in college—back in the 19th century! Evita is my first time on stage at ZCT. However, my husband and I have enjoyed many of the productions here. All the acting was great! I am anxious to get to know some of these fine people, and learn from them. After all, we did things differently in the 1800s!!!!

Melanie Von Gunten (Hair stylist, Latin Educator) – I have filled many crew positions backstage and directed numerous productions for Zanesville Community Theatre. I enjoy the challenge of re-constructing historical hairstyles, but the iconic look of Eva Perón and the speed necessary to change the look of a historical figure has been a challenge. Previously, I have directed “Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up?”, “The Mousetrap”, “Ten Little Indians”, “Blithe Spirit”, “A Murder is Announced”, “Steel Magnolias”, “Ladies of the Sacred South”, “The Hollow”, and most recently, “Murder on the Nile”. I most recently directed a revival of “Blithe Spirit”. In real life, I have been married to my long-suffering husband Dan for 37 years, and am the mother of a president, as Jillian is the President of ZCT. It is always a delight to have the opportunity to work with her.

Michelle Robison (Director) – You may have seen her onstage in Sherlock Holmes or Chicago as Mary Sunshine or Addams Family the Musical as Alice Bieneke. Previously, she was the Assistant Director for Forgiven at ZCT, and the Director of The Night of January 16th at The Renner. She has enjoyed directing Evita for one of the best casts assembled. Break a leg cast and crew. She hopes you enjoy the show and it get’s “off and rolling”!

Nancy Hynds (Sound Board Operator) – After many years of participating in theatre, in every aspect from directing to cleaning the bathrooms, Nancy has joined us to run the soundboard for “Evita”. Enjoy the music.

Payton Van Nort (Ensemble, Worker, Flamenco Dancer, Children’s Chorus) – Payton is 16 years old and is a sophomore at Bishop Rosecrans High School. She has most recently been in the Wizard of Oz as a Winkie Guard and an Ozian at the Renner, a Fangirl in Bye Bye Birdie at the Renner, and Pepper in Sherlock Holmes at ZCT. Her favorite role has been Lucy in 13 The Musical at ZCT. She is currently on her school’s Quiz Team.

Phil Palmer (Ensemble, Porter, Officer, Aristocrat) – Has been a part of ZCT for several years now. I have been in several shows or at least a part of most of them through some way or the other. Some of my favorites include: Dad in Cheaper by the Dozen, Colonel Henry Blake in MASH, Uncle Charlie in August: Osage County, and Bill in The Ransom of Red Chief. I have co- directed A Bad Year for Tomatoes and have been assistant director for Young Frankenstein, Singing in the Rain, and Tom Sawyer. I have also done many other things such as producer, stage manager, set builder, and usher. I hope to direct again soon. I sincerely hope you enjoy the show.

Richard Tolliver (Eva’s Brother) – Rich has been enjoying Theater since 1976 He is currently President of Zane Trace Players & is actively involved in acting, directing writing, and set design and construction. He assist with productions at PHS his alma mater. His joy in life is his wife Shelley & the Angel tree shows (27 & counting), and is looking forward to Directing Man of LaMancha this summer.

Sarah Gantzer (Stage Manager, Light Board Operator) – Sarah currently serves as a board member at Zanesville Community Theatre, and is the Drama Advisor for Zanesville High School. She has had great fun directing “Oklahoma”, “The Music Man”, and “Puzzle Pieces” at ZHS, “Alice in Wonderland Jr”. at The Renner, and “Mulan Jr” at Secrest Auditorium. At ZCT, in the last few years she has directed “The Little Mermaid Jr”, “13”, “Forgiven”, and “In-laws, Outlaws, and Other People (That Should be Shot)”. She also serves as the ZCT Summer Day Camp Director. Sarah also loves being onstage, and has had the immense pleasure to enjoy many fabulously fun roles onstage, including: Laura in “The Glass Menagerie”, Elivira in “Blithe Spirit”, Nancy Lee in “The Night of January 16th”, Rapunzel in “Into the Woods”, Cookie Cusack in “Rumors”, Marian the Librarian in “The Music Man”, Gerda Christow in “The Hollow”, Elizabeth Proctor in “The Crucible”, Rosa Bud in “The Mystery of Edwin Drood”, Hermia, in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, and Ulla in “The Producers”. When not at one of the theatres, Sarah teaches for Zanesville City Schools, and teaches song and dance at Movement on Main. She is so grateful to have another opportunity to share the stage with people she loves, and she thanks you so much for supporting the arts in our community!

Scott Robison (Scott was forced to drop out due to illness. He was originally Eva’s Brother. Scott, you are in our thoughts and prayers.) Scott was excited when his wife told him she was submitting Evita to direct here at ZCT and is thrilled to be a part of the cast as Evita’s brother because it’s his favorite musical. You may have seen him recently on stage in Sherlock Holmes, Chicago or A Bad Year For Tomato’s or as Harry Rote in Wait Until Dark at The Renner but if you ask him what he loves about theater? He’ll tell you. It’s friendship. Where else can you make such great friends while playing make believe for an audience? “Hope you enjoy the show, break a leg cast, orchestra and crew of Evita.”

Steven Hendershott (Juan Perón) – You may have seen Steve on this stage in various roles over the last few years ranging from the murderous Sweeney Todd to the mild-mannered Leo Bloom and a little of everything in between. This is a bucket list show for Steve and he can’t wait to share this experience with you and the rest of this exceptional cast. When he isn’t on stage or in rehearsal, Steve works at the David Crist State Farm agency www.ycityinsurance.com and has enjoyed his “temporary” position there for the last 12+ years. None of this would be possible without the exceptional support of his AMAZING wife, Jolene, and his loving daughters, Jadyn, Cadence and Alonna, who play their roles as audience participants with aplomb. Jolene has put up with Steve for over 15 years now, and he is so grateful to her for being the real reason for anything that could be called his success! SDG

Tahnee Kay (Mistress, Worker) – Tahnee Kay is excited to be portraying Perón’s Mistress in this production of Evita. Some of Tahnee’s favorite past performances include Doralee in 9 to 5 the Musical, Claire in Proof, Anne in A Little Night Music, Kim in Bye Bye Birdie and a Pierrot in Oh! What a Lovely War, which was performed in The West End. When Tahnee is not on stage, she is a stay-at-home Mom to her beautiful daughter Eleanora. Tahnee would like to thank her husband Alex for all his love and support.

Tyler Tompkins (Ensemble, Military, Porter, Bongos Player) – Tyler is an 18 year old senior at Zanesville High School. At ZHS he is involved in a number of things including: band, swim team, quiz team, and he is also the president of drama club. This is his second appearance at ZCT, the first being The Producers last year. He looks forward to the show and asks that you follow him on Instagram: @Tyjay99