Matt Ankney: Carpenter

Matt happily admits to being involved in theatre for the better half of a decade, both on stage and behind the scenes.  At Kent State, he has been involved in productions both at the Main and Stark Campuses.  Beginning his first summer at Porthouse Theatre, Matt is looking forward to the professional experience.  A fan of improv, Matt is involved with the Portage County Players and Point of No Return Improv and always quick with a joke.  He would love to share a few with his adoptive family at Porthouse this summer.

Brandon Arnold: Young Professional Company & Tommy in The Music Man

Brandon is excited to be making his Porthouse debut this summer in both Anything Goes and The Music Man.  Not necessarily born for the stage, Brandon was forced to audition for a show by his middle school science teacher and has been hooked ever since.  Hailing from Indianapolis and currently attending Ball State University, Brandon admits to loving how much he has grown since beginning college…and the parties aren’t bad either!  Brandon’s major goal following graduation is to survive New York City.  While there, he’ll finally get to see the ocean for the first time!

Adopted by: Richard & Michelle Worthing  Date: April 28, 2008

Eric Arnold: Season Asst. Stage Manager

Eric is returning for his second season on the Stage Management team at Porthouse after a great experience last summer, particularly on Peter Pan.  While working towards his degree at Virginia Commonwealth University, Eric was recently awarded the KCACTF Stage Management Award and spent a week working at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.   Eric hopes to return to Washington upon completing college before possibly heading to New York.  An avid sports fan, Eric can often be found watching any and all baseball teams when not backstage working a show.

Adopted by:Frank Comunale Date: May 3 , 2008

Cara Barker: Stitcher and Dresser Intern

Cara is joining Porthouse after just completing her Freshman year at Kent State University, where she is a proud member of the Dean’s List and recipient of the Trustee Scholarship.  Known throughout the department for her work and dedication, Cara is a welcome addition to the Porthouse family, or any adoptive family. While a student at Dublin Scioto High School near Columbus, Cara worked wardrobe on productions such as Singing in the Rain, The Movie Game, and The Secret Garden.  Along with her interests in sewing and clothing design, Cara is also an accomplished athlete, playing soccer and holding a 1st degree black belt in TaeKwonDo. 

Adopted by: Leigh GerstenbergerDate: June 15 , 2008

Jennelizabeth Bice: Box Office Manager

Jennelizabeth is a junior at Kent State University. Her favorite role includes Miss Hannighan in Annie and performing "Popular" from Wicked for a recital. Jenna first fell in love with theatre at the young age of three, when her mother took her to A Chorus Line. She sat in the front row and was hooked! Her favorite role includes Miss Hannighan in Annie and performing "Popular" from Wicked for a recital. When she is not acting, singing, and dancing, she enjoys scrap booking, cooking, and traveling. An interesting fact about Jenna is she studied the fiddle in Scotland for summer. After graduation Jenna wants to live in either New York City or Chicago. Her fondest memory of Porthouse Theatre is the experience of the opening night party and watching all the families celebrating with their children and friends. Jenna would love to a Porthouse Family with whom she can share her opening nights.

Adopted by: Frank Comunale  Date: May 5, 2008

Jennifer Biehl: Stitcher and Dresser

Jen is a second year MFA Costume Design Student at Kent State University.  When not hard at work in the costume shop, Jen loves attempting to knit, trying to cook, and playing her collection of records.  In her free time, Jen enjoys singing along to the Great Rock Hits of the 80’s in her car.  Originally from Metro Detroit, Jen hopes to one day move to Toronto to further her career in Costume Design.  One of her favorite memories from Porthouse last summer is the great “mouse escape” from the Sweet Charity Band Hats.  She’d love to tell her adoptive family all about it over dinner, possibly Thai or Sushi!

Adopted by: Teri & Gene Kratus  Date: April 28, 2008

Adrienne Broussard:  Box Office Staff

Adrienne is looking forward to completing her degree in Theatre from Kent State this year.  A veteran of Porthouse, Adrienne is returning for her third summer with the theatre and looks forward to gaining experience that will help her in one day running her own theatre. A member of the U.S. Air Force Reserves, Adrienne is no stranger to working under pressure.  A native of Louisiana, Adrienne enjoys exercising and working on documentary films in her spare time.  One of Adrienne’s favorite educational experiences was when she had the opportunity to intern with the National Black Theatre Festival and would love to tell an adoptive family all about it.

Adopted by: Elaine & Scott Jaffe Date:May 30, 2008

Grace Cochran: Asst. Costume Designer, Alice…

Grace is a new graduate of Kent State with a BFA in Design/Technology and is happy to be returning for her third season at Porthouse Theatre.  She is looking forward to assisting Patrick Johnson on Alice… after a great experience working together on last summer’s Peter Pan.  Her most recent work included the costume design for Wonderful Town! at KSU. Grace is a proud mother to 9 month old Eamonn and looks forward to bringing him to his first company picnic at Porthouse.  She is also looking forward to potluck lunches in the Porthouse costume shop.  Grace is known in the company as quite a comedian, and does a  “smashing” impression of Judy Garland.

Adopted by: Linda Colby & Robin Ruth Date:May 30, 2008

Nick DeFrange

Adopted by: Fred DuBois Date:May 30, 2008

Holly Doak: Stitcher

Hali DuBois

Adopted by: Fred DuDois Date:May 30, 2008

Jennifer Farris:  Master Carpenter

Jen will be beginning her third and final year in the MFA Design/Tech program at Kent State University, focusing in Technical Direction.    She is happy to be back for her second summer at Porthouse, which is going to be a challenging one for our scene shop.  While at Kent, Jen has had a chance to work on productions such as Dance 2006, Urinetown, The Diviners, Lysistrata, and most recently The Caucasian Chalk Circle.  When not spending her days in the shop, Jen loves to hit the weekly company bowling night with friends.  Always upbeat and with a smile on her face, Jen’s laughter and fun loving nature will brighten the day of any adoptive family.

Adopted by: Elizabeth Howard Date: June 26 , 2008

Christopher Fornadel: Company Manager

Chris is living the dream as Company Manager for Porthouse Theatre.  Since last year he has been working at “Porthouse Headquarters” to help prepare another rewarding season for patrons and company members alike.  Born and raised in Northeast Ohio, Chris is an ardent Browns fan as well as a local history buff (nothing beats dipping candles at Historic Hale Farm and Village!) When he gets a chance to sneak away from the office, Chris heads to Little Italy to indulge in Fettuccini Fellini from La Dolce Vida and Canolli’s from Corbo’s.  However, he derives the most pleasure from caring for his lawn and gardens or playing Frisbee with his Black Lab, Pablo.  Chris looks forward to beginning his professional career upon completing his degree from Kent State in December.

Adopted by: Roe Green  Date: April 28, 2008

Jillian Layne Forsty:  Ensemble in Alice…/Box Office Staff

Porthouse patrons might recognize Jillian as last summer’s Box Office Manager.  Although she is known for her management experience, Jillian has returned to acting during the past year, appearing in Kent State’s productions of Urinetown and Wonderful Town.  It’s no surprise, since she has been hooked on performing since she appeared in Alice in Wonderland at the age of eight.  Most recently, Jillian enjoyed being a part of the KSU Senior Showcase, which traveled to New York to perform for area talent agents and casting directors.  If she doesn’t find herself in New York after this summer, Jillian wouldn’t mind getting a little closer to “the Mouse”, working and performing in Orlando.  But she’s in no rush. Jillian can’t wait to soak up all the fun of another Porthouse summer, especially the opening nights! 

Adopted by: Ed & Pat Levy  Date: April 28, 2008

Sasha Fuller: Box Office Staff

Sasha is joining the Porthouse family for her first summer.  Originally from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Sasha is currently attending Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina.  As a sophomore at Campbell, Sasha is majoring in Theatre Arts with a technical emphasis while also working towards a minor in Business Administration. After pursuing Graduate School, Sasha hopes to be a theatre manager and one day aspires to own a theatre. Her favorite onstage role has been Officer B.J. Steel in A Piece of My Heart.  Sasha would love to have an Adopted Porthouse Family since she is leaving hers in Alabama all summer.

Adopted by: Frank Comunale Date:May 30, 2008

Justin Gentry:  Billy Crocker in Anything Goes

Justin returns to the Porthouse family after appearing as Peter in the 2006 production of Jesus Christ Superstar.  Having just completed his BFA in Musical Theatre from Kent State this spring, Justin plans to move to New York and take a shot at the city this fall.  While at Kent State, Justin built up an impressive resume with roles in The Caucasian Chalk Circle, Urinetown (Cladwell), Hair (Berger), Cabaret (Cliff), The Winter’s Tale (Polixenes) and The School for Wives.  Last summer Justin had the pleasure of traveling to the Idaho Shakespeare Festival to appear as Orin in Little Shop of Horrors.  A gifted magician, especially with a card trick, Justin looks forward to entertaining his adoptive family while spending another summer under the stars.
 
Adopted by: Mel Mellis & Susan Murphy  Date: April 28, 2008

Adam Greye: Asst. Company Manager & Asst. PR/Marketing

Adam is a recent graduate of the Theatre and Dance program at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana.  Although the majority of his theatre experience has been in Stage Management, Adam is looking forward to branching into different areas of management this summer at Porthouse. One of his favorite stage management experiences was working as the Production Stage Manager for the Ball State Department of Dance on productions such as the 20th Anniversary Dance Concert and the Indiana Choreographers Dance Show.  No stranger to the kitchen, Adam prides himself in making a delicious pie.  Perhaps he will whip one up in appreciation for his adoptive family at Porthouse.

Brian Harden: Young Professional Company

Brian is proud to proclaim himself a recent graduate of Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois, and is stopping by Porthouse on his way to New York City.  Self-described as both spontaneous and shy, Brian spends his time playing board games, singing karaoke, and snacking on Indian food.  A theatre addict since childhood, Brian saw a production of Showboat at the age of five and was inspired to audition for a local production of Oklahoma!  Although he didn’t get the part, the “Theatre del Brian” really took off…in his foyer!  Originally from Rowlett, Texas, Brian also had the chance to live in England for two years.  With his family so far away, Brian is hoping to find some Porthouse parents to cheer him on when he takes the stage.

Adopted by: Steve Sokany & Greg Hail Date: June 19 , 2008

Gunther Henkel-Moellmann:  Understudy, Anything Goes & The Music Man

Gunther is a 2007 graduate of Anderson High School in Cincinnati and has just completed his freshman year at Kent State University.  While at Kent, he appeared in the University production of Lysistrata.  Last summer, Gunther enjoyed working on The Showboat Majestic in the ensemble of The Pirates of Penzance.  A football fan, Gunther can’t help but cheer for the Cincinnati Bengals.  Gunther is in definite need of an adoptive family, since he will be so far from his family, including his twin sister, Miriam (pictured) who also attends KSU.

Adopted by: John Crawford  Date: April 28, 2008

Aaron Henley:  John in Anything Goes & Ensemble in The Music Man

Aaron is a recent graduate of Capital University in Columbus, Ohio with B.A.'s in both Theatre and Music. Although Aaron grew up in Lakeville, Ohio he  was originally adopted from Seoul, South Korea. It was with his adoptive family that he found his love for theatre, watching one of their few VHS tapes, Peter Pan.  Since then Aaron has been in a number of productions, but his favorite roles have been Tiny Tom in Urinetown, Sonny in Grease, and Feste in Twelfth Night. When not acting, Aaron enjoys writing, traveling and ultimate frisbee. In the near future, he hopes to move to Chicago to get a jump start on his acting career, and as a guilty pleasure...for the Chicago style deep dish pizza.

Adopted by: MaryKay Pieski In Memory of Florence Belovsick Date: June 21 , 2008

Nicole Hicks: Dresser Intern

Nicole may be the newest student to the world of theatre, having just been introduced to it last year by her college roommate.  It was not long before she was hooked and is looking forward to working a professional internship at Porthouse this summer. Originally from Huntsville, Alabama, Nicole is a student at Jacksonville State University, Nicole will be returning for her final year in the fall.  Although the audience may never see her, Nicole can often be found backstage, dancing in the wings during performances.  Nicole can’t wait to see the world, and would love a position with a touring production when after graduation.

Cassandra King:  Assistant Scenic Artist

A local girl, Cassandra hails from Munroe Falls but is a student at Muskingum College.  An avid Beatles fan, Cassandra began in the theatre at age 7 when she played the letter “E” in the runaway hit That’s How You Spell Christmas.  (For you skeptics out there, she reminds us that there is an “E” in Merry)  After finishing at Muskingum, Cassandra hopes to pursue graduate school in Chicago or Boston, focusing on directing or scenic design.  Her favorite directorial moment to date was The Wildflowering of Chastity and she has been known to get a little goofy, playing “Hot Lava” with classmates in the theatre building…she’ll be happy to let her adoptive family in on the rules of the classic childhood game.

Kelli Kurtz:  Young Professional Company

Kelli is a recent graduate of Point Park University with a BA in Musical Theatre and a minor in Dance. Hailing from Pittsburgh, Kelli notes that she attended the same high school as Christina Aguilera.  When Kelli is not performing she is either shopping or eating, a self-proclaimed “typical girly girl.”  After performing at Porthouse she hopes to save up some money and move to an amazing city called New York! Though Kelli’s parents only live an hour and a half away she would adore an Adopted Porthouse family to be there for her!

Adopted by: Leigh Gerstenberger Date: June 15 , 2008

Emily Larger: Young Professional Company

Emily is making her Porthouse Theatre debut.  She hails from Astoria, NY where she received her training at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy.  Some favorite roles include Hedy La Rue in How To Succeed in Business without Really Trying and Cousin Maude in Long Ago and Far Away.  Emily has had extensive dance training including the Dayton Ballet School, Thodas Dance Chicago and Virginia School of the Arts.  Besides being a gifted actor, singer, dancer, Emily has the unique ability to recite the countries of the world to the tune of the “Mexican Hat Dance”.  If you adopt Emily, she will serenade you with the latter!

Adopted by: Art Stehlik and Sherri Scott  Date: April 28, 2008

Caroline Lawo:  Ensemble in Alice…

Liz Loar

Adopted by: Roe Green Date: April 27 0, 2008

Jackie Loomis: Stitcher Intern

Jackie is returning to the costume shop for another enjoyable and challenging summer.  After that, she looks forward to moving on to the Utah Shakespearean Festival Costume Shop and her future.  A new graduate of Kent State University’s theatre program, Jackie has been involved in theatre since attending the Newton D. Baker School of the Arts as a child.  Thankful for her entire KSU experience, Jackie cannot narrow it down to one favorite moment.  Known around the department as a constant fighter, Jackie has had seven heart surgeries and received her 8th pacemaker in May of 2007, just before beginning Porthouse last season.  Bubbly and tons of fun, you can always find Jackie enjoying opening nights with friends, and perhaps a new Porthouse family, too.

James Lynch: Young Professional Company

James is a Senior Music Theatre Performance major at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, KY. Originally, he hails from Tell City, IN on the Ohio River in Southern Indiana. The arts have always been his passion, even from the age of 6 when he proudly performed his very first death scene in The Peppermint Kid. Since then, some of his favorite “grown up” roles include Orin the Dentist in Little Shop of Horrors and Snoopy in You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown. On top of theatre, James has also been a successful musician, having played the flute for 13 years. His musical talents have taken him around the country to perform, as well as to Canada, Russia, and Japan. For James,
the perfect night is getting together with good people, a good movie, and good food. To his future Porthouse family he says, “You bring the burgers and fries.  I’ll bring the brownies.  Let’s picnic!”

Adopted By: Dr. John & MaryAnn Black Date: June 15, 2008

Lara Mainier:  Lead Singer in Alice…

Lara is happy to be joining the Porthouse family after just completing her BFA in Musical Theatre from Kent State University this May.  She looks forward to beginning a career surrounded by good friends and creative artists in Chicago or New York this fall.  Her love of the arts began as a child, playing piano, violin and trumpet.  In sixth grade she began the transition to theatre by playing Candy Kane in the musical Wagon Wheels West.  Before beginning college, Lara also received her cosmetology license in Pennsylvania, where she calls Pittsburgh home.  While at Kent, she had an amazing time performing as Crissy in Hair as well as traveling to New York to perform in the BFA Senior Showcase.  She would love an adoptive family to share her time with during her last summer in Kent.

Otto Maurer

Adopted by: Roe Green Date:May 27, 2008

Linda Mementowski: Young Professional Company

Linda will be a junior at Kent State University where she is studying Musical Theatre.  She got hooked on theatre after she played Cinderella in her second grade play and took lessons in tap, jazz, ballet, and lyrical while acting. Her favorite roles are Adelaide in Guys N' Dolls and Chiffon in Little Shop of Horrors, and she someday hopes to play Peggy Sawyer in 42nd Street!  Her favorite foods are honeydew and mashed potatoes--but not together!  When she's not on stage she loves reading her Bible, dancing, and being close to family and friends. 

Adopted by:Steve Odde Date:May 30, 2008

Rayna Middleton:  Asst. Costume Designer, The Music Man

A new member of the Kent State family, Rayna recently transferred into the graduate program from Tulane University in New Orleans.  The oldest of seven children, Rayna loves the chance to put her costuming skills to use creating clothes for her younger sisters.  An actor in high school, Rayna became involved in costuming and makeup while an undergrad at Mount Union College.  However, her favorite moment while at Mount Union was having the chance to lead the Multicultural retreat in both 2003 and 2004.  After completing her Master’s, Rayna hopes to find herself teaching at the collegiate level.

Ryan Milosevich: Carpenter

Ryan is happy to be heading to Ohio for his first summer as a carpenter after having completed his Sophomore year at Ball State University.  At BSU, Ryan enjoys studying History and Computer/Military Sciences along with Theatre.  Fortunate to have gained experience in a variety of technical areas, Ryan has put his skills to use on shows such as The Wild Party, Love’s Labour’s Lost, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Ten Little Indians.  When not working in the theatre, Ryan is an accomplished photographer, holding positions at The Indianapolis Star and Hilite Newsspaper, as well as a skilled percussionist.  He looks forward to a future in the theatre that is as rewarding as his past experiences have been.

Kelly Morgan:  Box Office Staff

Originally from Chardon, Kelly will be beginning her Senior year at Kent State in the fall. She is excited to join the Porthouse Theatre box office staff after working as a student employee in the KSU box office.  Kelly is looking forward to her first chance to work at a professional theatre, and hopes to use the skills she learns while working towards her goal of one day owning her own dinner theatre.  She looks forward to being the friendly voice patrons hear as they call in to order tickets this summer.  When not in the office, Kelly can be found onstage in KSU student productions and she has more than just acting talent up her sleeve: Kelly was a magician’s assistant for over five years!

Aaron Michael Muserello:  Young Professional Company

Aaron is a 2008 graduate of SUNY Fredonia's Department of Theatre and Dance. He was born and raised in Norwich, a small city “snuggled in the picturesque hills” of Central New York. His dream roles include J. Pierpont Finch in How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, Mark in RENT and Cornelius Hackle in Hello Dolly.  Aaron likes to think of Porthouse as the first stop on a magical ride entitled “A Professional Theatre Career” and he is very excited to be here. CAUTION-he is known for his extremely goofy personality and his clever ability to make people burst into spontaneous fits of laughter!  On a rainy day he enjoys watching movies, reading, and Chinese food! Aaron loves meeting new people and loves the idea of having family in Ohio! 

Adopted by: Bonnie Barenholtz  Date: April 28, 2008

Noelle Nackino:  Scenic Artist

Noelle is proud to have just completed her first year of graduate school in Scenic Design at Florida State University in Tallahassee.  Not a complete stranger to Ohio, Noelle earned her BA in Theatre from Youngstown State University.  Since beginning her graduate work, Noelle has had the opportunity to work on such FSU productions as Yerma, Flood Story, (0, 0) On Points of Origin, and The Rocky Horror Show.  An accomplished student, Noelle has been named to the Dean’s List at both FSU and YSU, and was Treasurer of the YSU chapter of Alpha Psi Omega, the National Theater Honors Fraternity.  Noelle is welcomed back to Ohio for her first summer with Porthouse.

Laura Nelson:  Box Office Staff

Laura is joining the Porthouse Company while she is working towards her Master’s in Theatre from Kent State University.  She is happy to return to the theatre after taking many years off to work as a paralegal.  Originally from Elmhurst, Illinois, Laura’s first foray into theatre was in a 3rd grade class production of The First Ride of Willow Witch!  It was later that she played her favorite role, Madame Armfeldt in A Little Night Music.  She looks forward to continuing on towards a PhD after completing her Master’s, and enjoys cooking, sewing and reading when not focused on work.  She wouldn’t mind sharing some ice cream (pick a flavor, any flavor!) with an adoptive family on a warm Porthouse evening.

Derric Nolte:  Asst. Master Electrician

Derric is currently a sophomore Theater Design and Production (lighting design) student at the College-Conservatory of Music in Cincinnati, OH. Originally from Tallmadge, OH, Derric saw his first Porthouse show as a child with his Grandmother's senior citizen group and immediately thought "I want to work there someday!" Over the years, Derric has worked locally at the Dynamics Community Theatre, Weathervane Playhouse, and the Bang and the Clatter Theatre Company. After graduating from CCM, Derric hopes to head to New York for a few years before beginning graduate school. He would love to get to know a local family who loves Porthouse just as much as he does! 

Adopted By: Steve Sokany and Greg Hail Date: April 28 , 2008

Zara Ostrander:  Stitcher Intern

Zara is currently a student at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, located in her hometown of Edinboro.  A fan of theatre since she had the chance to play a “Gingerbread Kid” the opera Hansel and Gretal when she was ten, Zara’s interest turned to costuming as she’s grown older.  Sewing is not the only skill she has picked up over the years.  Not only can she quilt and play piano, Zara also loves making pysanke (Ukranian Easter Eggs) before and during Lent.  Zara has loved her college experience, and looks forward to attending graduate school for music or theatre after she has finished at Edinboro.

Barbara Oleksa-Reiss:  House Manager

Returning for her second season as House Manager, Barbara endeared herself to the entire company last summer.  Currently working on a double Master’s in Theatre and History, Barbara credits her interest in theatre to her son, now 19.  When in 4th grade he was bitten by the bug, and Barbara began volunteering to build costumes, work backstage and eventually began directing and stage managing.  A very special moment for Barbara was when she and fellow Kent graduate student Dick Reiss were married between the matinee and evening performances of Miracle on 34th Street, which they co-directed. Together, they use their talents to work with youth performing Shakespeare.   Barbara fondly remembers the Porthouse company coming together last summer during many infamous storms to hold down the rain curtains, and looks forward to clearer skies in 2008!

Adopted by: Mel Mellis & Susan Murphy  Date: April 28, 2008

Courtney Reed:  Young Professional Company

A recent graduate of Wright State University, Courtney joins the company for her first summer from Centreville, Virginia.  Originally a ballerina, Courtney felt drawn to musical theatre, began taking voice lessons and went from there.  While at Wright State, she had the privilege of working as the Associate Choreographer on the University’s production of Urinetown.  In her spare time, Courtney is an admitted Sudoku addict and loves a good book.  She also loves the ocean, and looks forward to an opportunity to perform on a cruise ship before moving on to New York City.

Adopted By: Dave & Sherry Joy Date: June 18 , 2008

Beau Reinker:  Facilities/Concessions Staff

Beau has the esteemed title of being the baby (and we use the term lovingly) of the Porthouse family.  He plans to enter Kent State’s BFA Musical Theatre program as a freshman this fall.  However, he is no stranger to the KSU stage, recently performing in the University’s production of The Caucasian Chalk Circle while completing his senior year at Roosevelt High School. While at Roosevelt, Beau had the chance to play Sky Masterson in the school’s production of Guys and Dolls. Off the stage, he likes participating in archaeological digs and performing in local open mic nights. This is Beau's first summer working at Porthouse and looks forward to a great season.

Adopted By: Brian and Sue Johnson Date: July 1, 2008

Dick Reiss: Captain in Anything Goes & Constable Locke in The Music Man

Dick returns for his second summer at Porthouse after appearing in last summer’s Peter Pan.  A member of the KSU graduate class of 2009, Dick returned to school after 30 years and has been loving every minute of it.  Involved in theatre for years, Dick admits to selecting acting after a high school career interest test indicated he should pursue the arts.  At the time, he felt all actors had to do was “memorize lines”, but over the years his opinions have changed.  Throughout his career, Dick has found himself in Tennessee, New York, Texas and The Virgin Islands.  He now shares his home in Kent with his lovely wife, Barbara, who is also a member of the graduate program and Porthouse Company.  After completing his Master’s, Dick looks forward to teaching at the collegiate level as well as continuing his work with The Ohio Youth Shakespeare Festival, where he is co-founder and co-artistic director.

Adopted by: Roe Green  Date: April 28, 2008

Gabriel Riazi: Ensemble in Alice…

Gabriel is looking forward  to another exhilarating summer at Porthouse after having an amazing time as Tootles in last summer’s Peter Pan.  A native of Akron, he finds sanity, values, morality and revolution in the theatre.  While attending Kent State, Gabriel has lit up the stage as The Emcee in Cabaret, Florizel in The Winter’s Tale, and Azdak in The Caucasian Chalk Circle.  He could eat pizza everyday and can make a very mean martini.  Now that he has graduated from KSU, Gabriel plans to begin practicing the suspension of disbelief, creating life, spreading love, and inspiring change in this society he calls home.

Adopted by: Roe Green  Date: April 28, 2008

Christopher Richards

Adopted by: Bob Mast Date: June 21 , 2008

Elizabeth Robinson: Stage Management Intern

Liz is a Senior at Westminster College in Utah, and plans continue on towards a Master's in Stage Management after graduation. Her first theatre experience was running two microphones for You're A Good Man Charlie Brown! in 9th grade, and she's been hooked ever since. She has loved every opportunity to get backstage and help make a show a success. When she isn't wearing all black, Lizzie loves running and spending time outdoors. Two of her dreams are to stage manage a show on Broadway and run a marathon—but not on the same day!

Rachel Robinson: Young Professional Company

Rachel will be a senior this fall at Baldwin Wallace College-Conservatory of Music where she studies musical theater. Her favorite roles include Maria in West Side Story and Rumpleteazer in CATS!  Originally from North Huntingdon, PA, a small suburb outside of Pittsburgh, this girl is a proud Steeler's fan, but won’t mind if her Adoptive family roots for the Browns!  Rachel's favorite food is pasta (a true Italian girl). In her spare time, she enjoys writing, and would like to be a novelist someday. Her favorite theater experience through BW occurred last summer when she traveled to Big Sky Country, Montana, for a unique adventure she will never forget.  She would love to share the story with her adoptive family, perhaps over a picnic dinner at Porthouse?

Adopted By: Dave & Sherry Joy Date: June 18 , 2008

Samantha Rosentrater:  Ensemble in Alice…

Samantha joins the Porthouse family after having just graduated with her Theatre degree from Kent State University. At KSU, Samantha was seen as Norma Henshaw in The Diviners, The Leader of the Women's Chorus in Lysistrata, and an Ensemble member of The Caucasian Chalk Circle. Samantha loves reading (especially Harry Potter!), drinking coffee with friends, and shopping for purses she undeniably can't afford. Originally from UCLA (The Unknown Corner of Lower Alabama), Samantha would treat any prospective family with a batch of homemade fried chicken and a lesson in Southern euphemisms!

Sarah Russell: Costume Designer for Anything Goes

Sarah is a delightful second year Graduate Student at Kent State University, focusing on Costume Design. She is originally from Delaware, Ohio and has a degree in Music Education from Bowling Green State University.  At BGSU, Sarah became very involved in the theatre department, and that’s where she found her love of putting clothes on people. It is also where she found her other half, KSU actor Bob Russell. Sarah's recent design experiences include The Caucasian Chalk Circle at KSU and Pump Boys and Dinettes last season at Porthouse. She is very excited to be designing Anything Goes for a second time, since the last time she both designed and acted in it! In her very little free time Sarah likes to play the piano and collects antique hats and LEGOS.

Adopted by: Elizabeth and Ken Rhodes  Date: April 28, 2008

Aaron Schoonover:  Ensemble in Alice…

Aaron is a sophomore musical theater major at Kent State University. Aaron made his Kent State debut as a freshman in Urinetown as Robby the Stockfish and in the Ensemble of Wonderful Town. He enjoys being with friends, jumping on trampolines, swimming, a good belly laugh, photography, and Moose Tracks ice-cream. He is the oldest of five children and loves his family, especially his siblings Conner, Jared, Laney, and his baby brother Kellen who just turned four! However, Aaron would love to have a second family at Porthouse and would be ecstatic if adopted!

Adopted By: Georgena Austin & Ruth Hummel Date: June 3 , 2008

Nicole Sciria:  Stitcher Intern

Nicole is a sophomore Fashion Design major and Theatre minor at Kent State University. As one might expect, her hobbies include sewing and drawing, in addition to scrap booking. Nicole first discovered her love for theatre when she joined Drama Club as a freshman in high school. She quickly became heavily involved, often working on wardrobe crew  (she was even called a “Costumes Goddess” by directors and crew members!) With Costume Design as the focus of her theatre minor, Nicole plans on moving from her home town of Brecksville, Ohio, to New York City to pursue a career in Costume or Fashion Design after she graduates.

La’Nette Searcy: Ensemble in Alice…

La’Nette is a senior Musical Theatre major at Kent State University.  Her love for theatre started in middle school where she was in her first show, Challenges.  After graduation, La’Nette hopes to move to either New York City or Chicago to pursue her dream of becoming a Broadway actress.  Her favorite roles include Dionne in Hair, and The Singer in The Caucasian Chalk Circle.  When not on stage, La’Nette enjoys watching movies and spending time with friends.  La’Nette would love an adopted Pothouse family since her parents live in Cincinnati!

Adopted by: Sheila McHale  Date: April 28, 2008

Liz Shinkle:  Season Asst. Stage Manager

Liz joins Porthouse for her first summer on the Stage Management team.   A recent graduate of Shaker Heights High School, Liz interned with the Cleveland Play House as a Senior, working on CPH productions of The Clean House and Lincolnesque.  Introduced to theatre as a Freshman in high school, Liz had the opportunity to stage manage Shaker Heights productions of Into the Woods and Twelfth Night.  However, her favorite experience was when she had the opportunity to assist her mentor on a local playwriting festival.  A fan of all kinds of pasta, Liz can often be found spending downtime backstage with a cup of coffee and the daily crossword puzzle.

Nick Smith:  Lead Carpenter

Nick is returning for his second summer at Porthouse Theatre as Lead Carpenter.  Currently, he lives a stone’s throw from the theatre in Cuyahoga Falls but is originally from Pittsburgh where he learned the art of fine woodworking from his father.  Nick has a great sense of humor and is never seen without his Steelers cap.  His mischievous smile and sandy blonde hair hint at the warmth underneath his macho and matter-of-fact exterior.   Nick will warm his way into your heart make a wonderful new addition to your Porthouse family.

Ben Starett: Master Electrician

No stranger to a thrill, Ben is excited to be back at Porthouse for another “electrifying” season.  Ben will be returning to Kent State University this fall as a senior in the BFA Design/Tech program.  Some of his favorite experiences include his time as the Asst. Master Electrician at Porthouse Theatre and as Technical Director of the Lorain Palace Theatre.  In his spare time, Ben enjoys rock climbing, playing his guitar, and fine woodworking.  Ben is looking forward to next year and hopes to tour with a show for a few years after graduation.

Rebecca Struch: Props Master

Rebecca will be a junior at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities where she is studying Theatre Arts with an emphasis on Design/Technology.  Although she is originally from Greenville, South Carolina, Rebecca is calling Porthouse  home for her fourth summer.  The idea of finally having family to share her work with is very appealing! She will be spending the upcoming year in Kenya and India studying theatre for social development and she can't wait to bring this experience to her design work in the future. Her favorite Porthouse memories include Thursday bowling nights, opening night parties, and getting to work with amazing people in the shops. She loves having picnics before shows at the theatre and hopes to do so soon with her adopted Porthouse family! 

Amanda Swing:  Stitcher and Dresser Intern

Mandy is a sophomore Theatre Arts major at Kent State University, with a focus in costume design.  She loves any chance she gets to help out in the costume shop, and had a blast working as a dresser for Porthouse last summer.  Her favorite theatre moment was the challenge of working backstage during the intense run of Peter Pan. She hopes that after graduation she will be able to spend the rest of her life playing around with costumes! When she's not working, Mandy loves to watch classic movies and spend time with her very large family.  However, she always has room for an adoptive family as well.

Liz Talaba:  Asst. to the Artistic Director & Stage Manager, Alice…

Liz is a familiar face to Porthouse, returning for her third summer after just completing a BA in Theatre Studies from Kent State University.  As a child, Liz’s parents often took her to performances at Playhouse Square, sparking her interest in the theatre.  Originally a performer herself, Liz was a member of Cleveland’s Singing Angels for five years.  After starting at Kent, though, her interests were drawn to technical theatre before settling in stage management.  Her favorite Stage Management credit was for last fall’s production of Urinetown.  While at Porthouse, Liz has valued the experiences she has had and education she has received, but holds the friends she has made most dear. Next, Liz would love to find herself working at Disney World, which she considers her second home.

Adopted by: Cindy Stillings & Terri Kent  Date: April 28, 2008

Morgan Thomas-Mills: Ensemble/Bassist for Alice…

Morgan has just completed a fabulous freshman year as a member of the BFA Musical Theatre program at Kent State University.  He looks forward to returning to Porthouse after the fun and education he received last year as Curly in Peter Pan.  One day, Morgan would love a chance to play Pilate in Jesus Christ Superstar. When he is not acting, Morgan likes to practice martial arts (specifically Chinese kung fu), practice with his rock band, and share some New York style pizza with friends.  Morgan needs an adopted family because his Step-Mom is Terri Kent and she doesn’t have time to take care of him this summer!

Adopted By: Frank Comunale Date:May 30, 2008

Matthew Troillett: Ensemble in Alice…

Who could forget Matthew’s endearing charm as the impish Michael Darling in last summer’s Peter Pan?  From the moment his face popped through the metal bucket unleashing the magic of the play, the audience was hooked.  And Matthew happily returns for an equally magical summer in this season’s Alice…   Matthew also holds the unique title of having the LARGEST adoptive family of 2007.  That is correct.  Last summer, Matthew was in attendance at the June 21st performance of Pump Boys and Dinettes when he was called onstage by Artistic Director Terri Kent.  Terri passed the hat (literally!) and the entire audience chipped in to adopt him.  Although he loved the support, Matthew wouldn’t mind having only one family this summer to give his attention to.  A student in Wright State University’s Professional Actor Training Program, Matthew is originally from the Columbus area.

The Barbershop Quartet

Adopted by: Skip and Susan Sommerville  Date: April 28, 2008

Brian Thomas Wagner:  Young Professional Company

Brian will be starting his first of several senior years at Ball State University where he is studying Musical Theatre. He has been on the stage since a young age and plans on doing so until an old age. His favorite roles include Dr. Neville Craven in The Secret Garden, Rolf Gruber in The Sound of Music, and Mullins in Peter Pan. Other than theatre, Brian likes spending time with his friends. He is also a tour guide at Ball State, so if you’re interested in the university, he’s your “go to guy”. The little bit of spare time that Brian finds is spent reading. He loves diving into a new novel or script when he gets the chance. Brian doesn’t always eat healthy, but one of his favorite foods is hummus. Brian can’t wait to be adopted by a loving Porthouse family. He is going to need a warm heart while away from his family and friends.

Adopted By: Ken & Katherine Martin Date:May 30, 2008

Jaclyn Wallace:  Men’s Wardrobe Supervisor

Abigail Wells:  Electrician Intern

Abby joins us from Morgantown, Indiana where she is a Junior at Ball State University. The oldest of four girls, Abby is a lover of Star Wars, Indiana Jones and science fiction.  Although she started out in theatre as an actor (playing the Star of Bethlehem in her church Nativity Pageant), Abby became involved in technical theatre during high school.  Focusing on Lighting Design, Abby looks forward to working as a designer following graduation.  She especially enjoys working on dance shows, and is proud of her most recent design piece, “How Beautiful it Might Be”.  She appreciates that her college experience has given her the opportunity to follow her dreams and carve out a path for the future. 

Zach Wiita:  Facilities/Concessions Staff

Katie Zurecki:  Young Professional Company

Originally from Worthington, OH Jackie joins Porthouse after finishing up the school year at Wright State University.  This is a girl that loves fun in the sun, looking forward to moving to California after graduation.  She’s an easy going performer who loves chicken tenders, playing piano, writing music and playing with her dog, but she’s no stranger to excitement.  In 2004 Jackie lost her car in the Marietta, Ohio flood.  A singer and a dancer, Jackie’s favorite role has been as Annie Oakley in Annie Get Your Gun.  She also loves to make people laugh and looks forward to being a light hearted addition to any local family.

Adopted By: Ken & Katherine Martin Date:May 30, 2008