Cast:

Erin Biel - Erin has always admired Rocky Horror from afar, but since being a part of this production she gets it. Erin is celebrating a decade of performing on the Riverwalk stage and The Rocky Horror Show will be her tenth production. She was last seen in the ensemble of Kinky Boots this past March. Other favorites throughout the years include “White Christmas” (2013), “Grease” (2016), and “Pippin” (2019). When not in a show, Erin can be found running on the river trail, curled up with a good book, or singing with Sistrum Lansing Women’s Chorus.

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Elena Billard - Elena is thrilled to make her debut at Riverwalk and is honored to work with such a talented and welcoming cast in her first show since high school. She made her acting debut at 8 years old in Okemos High School’s “Seussical.” She participated in shows throughout her youth including “Shrek the Musical”, “Animal Farm”, and “Little Women”, among others. After graduation, she took a six-year hiatus to pursue a Neuroscience degree from Michigan State University and become a laboratory assistant instructor, and is very excited to get back into expanding her artistic pursuits. When not in rehearsals, she can be found spending time with friends and family and collecting wet specimens and animal skulls. Special thanks to her life partner Connor for supporting and loving her throughout this process. Enjoy the show!

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Ny’Kieria Blocker - This is Ny’Kieria Blocker’s fifth show here at Riverwalk Theatre! You may have previously seen her in “Fabulation” playing multiple ensemble roles or in “Big Fish” as The Witch (which she won a Barney Award for Best Featured Actress.) “I want to thank me for believing in me, I want to thank me for doing all this hard work. I wanna thank me for having no days off. I wanna thank me for never quitting. I wanna thank me for always being a giver and trying to give more than I receive. I wanna thank me for trying to do more right than wrong. I wanna thank me for being me at all times. You a bad motherf*****!! “ -Snoop Dogg

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Diego Collazo-Coca (They/Them) - Diego is incredibly excited to be a part of his first Riverwalk musical! Previous shows include “𝘈 𝘔𝘪𝘥𝘴𝘶𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘳 𝘕𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵'𝘴 𝘋𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮”, “𝘔𝘢𝘤𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘩”, “𝘈𝘯𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘎𝘰𝘦𝘴”, and other productions. They are incredibly excited to be returning to the stage after not performing since 2021. Diego would like to thank their family, their friends, and their cat for all their incredible support. Many thanks to the cast and everyone involved in the 𝘙𝘰𝘤𝘬𝘺 𝘏𝘰𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘳 𝘚𝘩𝘰𝘸 for making this experience a wonderful one. Enjoy the show!

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Caila Conklin (She/Her) - Caila is delighted to share this cult classic with audiences. Her most recent Riverwalk Theatre credits include; “Steel Magnolias” (Annelle) and “Bell, Book, and Candle” (Gillian). Thank you Shannon, Erin, and the entire creative team for bringing this brilliant cast and crew together!

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Connor Kelly - Connor is thrilled to return to Riverwalk’s main stage! You may recognize him from Riverwalk’s recent production of “Frog and Toad” as Frog himself! Or from past Riverwalk shows like “One flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest” as Billy Bibbit,  Vince from “Buried Child" and as Jason from “Sweat." You may even have seen him at LCC as the Emcee from their production “Cabaret!” He wants to thank his Mother, his brother Quinn, his Friend Ny'kieria, his roomate Steve and his girlfriend M for all the support they provide! Enjoy the show!

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​David Michael Cooper - David Micheal Cooper is making his on-stage debut as Rocky and is honored to work again with Riverwalk Theatre. David started his career in technical theatre at Okemos High School, graduating as Head of Lighting for the Okemos School District. David made his Lansing theatre debut in 2014 on the production teams of “Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo”, “The Little Dog Laughed”, “Cinderella” ect. David studied lighting design for theatre and architecture at Columbia College in Chicago working as a freelance technician in downtown Chicago, David is nearing his 30th production. After moving to Perth, Australia he continued his studies and worked as a lighting technician for world touring productions such as Taylor Swift, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Eminem, Billy Elilsh etc. It’s been a long time dream for David to be a part of this production. Rocky Horror holds a special place in David's heart, growing up as a gay man this show was fundamental in learning to be comfortable being different from the norm Rocky Rocky Ra Ra Ra.

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Dinah Dewald - Dinah is excited to be returning to Lansing community theater, for the first time at Riverwalk. Last year she played Mary in Peppermint Creek's “Merrily We Roll Along” (sorry if you saw that and died from heat exhaustion at the Lansing Public Media Center). When not capering about onstage, she is studying to become a personal trainer and somatic movement coach. Thanks to Carmen, TJ and Meghan for holding on to her during a year of karaoke nights. Previously the hardest thing she has done onstage is fall over, so thank you to Shannon, Erin, Nicole and Amanda for somehow trusting her to sing and remember choreography at the same time.

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Lewis C. Elson - Lewis C. Elson is an actor hailing from the UK who is continuing to navigate how American theatre works! You may have seen Lewis recently in LCC's “Tartuffe” or Riverwalk's "Bell, Book and Candle.” His appreciation goes out to Sally, his exceptional partner, Fang & Margaret, his feline progeny, along with his adored friends and family. A special thanks goes out to the cast & crew for their resilience in dealing with Frank in general.

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Brian Farnham - Brian (Riff Raff) is thrilled to be portraying this classic, unique, and incredibly fun character!  A biochemist by day, Brian is also president of the RWT Board and a veteran of local stages (acting and directing).  Most recent directorial credit is RWT’s season closer for 2022-2023, “Peter and the Starcatcher”, and before that he last portrayed Will Bloom in Riverwalk’s “Big Fish” and Nigel Bottom in CSJ’s “Something Rotten”.  Much love to everyone in the Rocky Horror family, and thank you to Erin and Shannon for giving me this great opportunity!  Stay sexy y’all!

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Alan Greenberg - Alan is excited to return to the Riverwalk Theater (in a bucket list show) after his Lansing debut last year in "Art".  After 20 years on stage in MIdland, Alan has recently turned his talents (on-stage as well as off) to the Lansing theater scene also appearing in “12 Angry Men” (Fowlerville). You almost certainly didn’t see him (because he was backstage) working on lights, sets, and crew for many of your other favorite shows at Riverwalk. Alan is grateful for the support and encouragement of his wife, Suzanne, as he appears in the "most bizarre show you've ever done." Let's do the Time Warp again!

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Taylor Haslett - No corset could contain Taylor Haslett’s excitement to be a part of Rocky Horror Show. Previous Riverwalk credits include “Steel Magnolias”, "These Shining Lives", “Hairspray”, "Catch Me if You Can”. Other credits include “Heathers”, “The Wild Party” (PCTC) “Evita” and "Clue” (OCP). Thank you to this amazing cast and Mike, as always. Don’t worry, this phantom is done talking. We know you’re so excited for the show to begin, that you’re shivering with antici… pation.​

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Keara Hayes - This is Keara's first show at Riverwalk, and she is so excited to share a stage with so many wonderful performers. Some of her recent acting credits include “Monsieur d'Eon is a Woman” (Joan of Arc/the Comte de Guerchy) and the short film “Strange Happenings” (Talonneuse), both with the MSU Department of Theatre. She would like to thank Matthew Snell, Abby Tanner, Sarah Hendrickson, and most of all, her family, for their love, kindness, and support. Every day, Keara is glad she found Riverwalk, and she'll never forget her time as a Transylvanian!

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Sally Hecksel - Sally was last seen on stage as Medium Alison in “Fun Home” (PCTC). Other notable roles have been Margo in “Bright Star” (PCTC), Queenie in “The Wild Party” (PCTC), Chana in "Indecent” (PCTC) and Mimi in “Rent” (RWT). In her free time, Sally loves playing Dungeons and Dragons, stage managing burlesque/drag shows, or taking naps. She also loves spending time with her partner, Lewis and their idiot cats, Maggie and Fang. She is thrilled to be able to work with so many of her very favorite people. She is especially grateful to be able to share the stage with Lewis again. A million thank you’s to everyone who had a hand in making this show and a big thank you to YOU for being here!

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Kayla Henry - Kayla is thrilled to be back at Riverwalk and back in the Castle for another round of The Rocky Horror Show! Last seen in Riverwalk’s “Louder Than Words” Cabaret and “Hairspray” as Tracy Turnblad; Kayla loves to take on fun, quirky roles! You may have also seen her work as a makeup and hair designer for Riverwalk’s “Peter and the Starcatcher” in May. Much love to her family, friends Meg and Emmy for keeping her chill and to the cast and crew of Rocky! Enjoy the show!

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Quinn Kelly - Quinn is geeked to be making his return to Riverwalk Theatre!! Most recently, you may have seen him in his roles at the Lebowsky Center, playing Dennis/Perkins in “The Play That Goes Wrong” or George in “Billy Elliot”. You may have previously seen Quinn on Riverwalk’s stage as Amos Calloway in “Big Fish” or Toad in “A Year with Frog and Toad.” Quinn would like to thank his village of people who support and love him the whole way, as well as professional wrestling for keeping him imaginative and a dreamer. Enjoy the show!

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TJ Kelly - This is TJ’s first show at Riverwalk, and he is very excited for you to see it! You may have seen him as Jerome in “Merrily We Roll Along” at Peppermint Creek Theatre Company, Von Hussler in “Mary Poppins” at Evolve Theatrics, or as Costard, the Clown in “Love’s Labor’s Lost” at LCC. He would like to thank his wife, Carmen, for everything. Listen, audience member, you seem cool so I’m going to level with you — you’re going to see a lot of him, and for that he says, “I’m sorry, but you’re welcome!” You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you might get wet. But that’s why you’re all here, isn’t it? Don't worry, he won’t tell!

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Karrington Kelsey - Karrington here! From the Eastside of Detroit (7 Mile & Van Dyke) living in Lansing since 2013. You'll hear me jokingly say "I provide vibes for a living," that's my imposter syndrome speaking. I'm a Teacher, Community Organizer/Healer, Singer, Poet, Husband, Brother, Uncle, Dog Dad, Home Cook & Host. I use He/They pronouns and I love all the humanities. I try to live by quotes "Why is it the ones we love most are the ones who receive the least of us" - Nikki Giovanni. Much love and stay beautiful.

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Meghan Malusek - Meghan has been having a great time being back at Riverwalk for the first time since 2013! She was last seen in "Merrily We Roll Along" at Peppermint Creek Theater, where she so happened to meet her current partner, James, who has been her absolute rock the past year. Meghan graduated from Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts in 2017 and got the opportunity to perform in the Off West End production of "Women Beware Women" and took "Conversations with Rats" to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. She's thrilled to be able to perform in one of her absolute DREAM shows...so tuck in and get your props ready because “gong” DINNER IS PREPARED!! ​

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Robert Mueller - Robert is beyond excited to be a part of the Rocky Horror Show! You may have previously seen him on stage as Tyler in Peppermint Creek Theatre Company's “Merrily We Roll Along”, or at Riverwalk as Shroeder in “You're A Good Man Charlie Brown”, Lewis in “Pippin”, or Link Larkin in “Hairspray”. Have fun, and enjoy the show!

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Matt Ottinger - Matt Ottinger has been kicking around Riverwalk for 25 years, but aside from the Barney Awards is usually found behind the scenes. The last time he played a character on the Riverwalk stage was in 2007, which should give you some idea about the demand for his talents. He is excited to be working with both casts, and will happily tell you in private which one he likes more. He is an Emmy Award winning television producer, something else he will happily tell you at every opportunity. He lives in Dimondale with a wife he adores and cats he tolerates. He used to be a game show host.

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Michael Palmer - Michael is ecstatic to be back on the Riverwalk main stage this year! Most recently appearing in the Ensemble for “Peter and the Starcatcher” here at Riverwalk, he has also been in productions of “Hello, Dolly!” as well as “Beauty and the Beast.”  He'd like to thank his Mom, Dad, uncle Fred, and those in the cast that were always willing to help with transport. He'd also like to thank Amanda Tollstam, the phenomenal choreographer for this show, for making the show a comfortable experience. Enjoy, and prepare to have your world rose tinted!

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Luka Pawsek - Luka is incredibly honored to finally get to cross off one of the big names on his role bucket list!! This is his fifth Riverwalk Theatre production. Other RWT credits include Wilbur Turnblad in “Hairspray”, Karl the Giant in “Big Fish” and Mrs. Bumbrake in ‘Peter and the Starcatcher.” He is also very fond of his time with Centre Stage Jackson as Nick Bottom in “Something Rotten.” When not dressing up in weird lingerie and fishnets, Luka works hard at juggling his 9-5, keeping his husband, cats and dogs happy (I love you), and playing video games

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Simon Rebeck - Simon Rebeck has dreamt of being in Rocky Horror since he first saw the movie (which quickly became his favorite movie ever) at age 13. He just graduated from Okemos High School and will be attending LCC in January to study theater. Favorite past roles include The Trunchbull in “Matilda Jr”, The Wicked Witch in “The Wizard of Oz”, Lord Farquaad in “Shrek Jr”, Uncle Fester in “The Addams Family”, Snoopy in “You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown”,The Man in The Yellow Suit in “Tuck Everlasting” and most recently, Oaken in “Frozen Jr.”

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Tricia Rogers - Tricia has a Masters in Music Education and is currently a school choir director and theatre teacher. Mom to Riley, 3, and Harper, 1, she also likes to keep quite busy onstage, directing, and choreographing. She is slated to direct and choreograph “Joseph…” at Flint Community Players in 2024. Previously on Riverwalk's stage, she played Lucy in “Charlie Brown'', Fastrada in “Pippin”, and participated in “Holiday Show" as well as the virtual production of "Working.” She directed “All Together Now” as the world opened its doors again to live performance. Previous favorite roles include Percy in “The Spitfire Grill”, Sally Bowles in “Cabaret”, and Val in "A Chorus Line.”

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Ron Meyer - Ron Meyer is a recent transplant to Lansing via Petoskey, Tanzania, and Idaho. Last seen locally as Richard Bailey in Riverwalk's production of “Kinky Boots,” his recent shows include “The Pillowman” (Michal), “August: Osage County” (Steve), “Murder by Poe” (William Wilson), and a handful of Rocky Horror Picture Show shadowcasts in Petoskey as Trixie, Crim, and Frank. Ron keeps bees and raises chickens and snakes with his wife, Katie, on a small farm just outside of Lansing. He is honored to have the opportunity to perform for you tonight, and hopes that you enjoy the show!

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​Travis Leon Williams - Travis is incredibly excited to be back on the Riverwalk stage! His last appearance was in the 2018 production of “Jekyll and Hyde" which earned him a Barney Award for his portrayal of John Utterson. His other credits include Benny in “RENT”, “GREASE”, “Spamalot”, the virtual production of “Working”, and the Holiday Cabarets. Recently, Travis has begun taking on professional opportunities, having performed roles with Opera Las Vegas, Vegas City Opera, and The Dio Dinner Theater. "The Riverwalk has been a second home to me for many years now and I am so excited to be back onstage in such a fun show!”

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Carmen Zavala-Kelly - This is Carmen’s first show at Riverwalk. You may have seen her as Dory and First Girl in “Merrily We Roll Along” at Peppermint Creek Theatre Company or as Mrs. Corry in “Mary Poppins” at Evolve Theatrics. She is thrilled to be tap dancing again, though her downstairs neighbors are not as pleased. She would like to thank Joe and Shelly for watching Francis throughout the run of the show, as well as her handsome, strapping husband, TJ, who actually DOES have too many muscles and who definitely did not write this bio. She assures me you’ll enjoy the show!

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Crew:

Hannah Paff (Stage Manager) - Hannah is thrilled to be working on her first production with Riverwalk! She has worked with Lansing theater for over 10 years, most recently as stage manager for “Daddy Long Legs” with Peppermint Creek. Needless to say, Rocky Horror is a very different beast! Special thank you to Shannon, Erin, and Tessa for their constant support and humor. Thank you all for supporting local theater and enjoy the show! ​

Adam Carlson (Props Design, Set Dressing)- This is at least the umpteenth show Adam has worked on at Riverwalk. He's usually on stage, but has recently enjoyed a transformation into a literal puppet master. You may have seen his Great and Terrible Frog or elephant butts last season, and he is currently working on bugs for “James and the Giant Peach.”

Ashley Hampton (Assistant Costumer/Dresser) - Ashley is happy to be back at the Riverwalk! She has assisted in many Riverwalk shows and has led the costuming teams for Riverwalk’s “Jekyll And Hyde”, “Bud Not Buddy”, “Hairspray”, “The Revolutionists” and “Fabulation.” She is thrilled to return to her theatre home for this production surrounded by her theatre family once again by assisting with The Rocky Horror Show.

Samantha Hall-Leonhardt (Assistant Costumer/Dresser) - Samantha Hall-Leonhardt (she/her) is excited to be on the working crew for The Rocky Horror Show and to be helping costume the amazing casts of actors. This is her second time working behind-the-scenes at Riverwalk after doing makeup for last season's “Peter and the Starcatcher.” Samantha is grateful to have the opportunity to be a part of the wonderful community at Riverwalk and hopes to do many more shows here.

Code J. Skalmowski (Light Design) - Code is excited to be back at Riverwalk Theatre as a Lighting Designer, his last design being “A Piece of My Heart”, fall 2020. Previously he has been working primarily with All of Us Express Children's Theatre as a technical crew head.  Some of Code's favorite pastimes include audiobooks, board games, and ice cream. Code is very glad you came out tonight to support a classic, and hopes you keep enjoying Theatre in Lansing!

Frank Malusek III (Light Crew) - It's been awhile since Frank (brother of the amazing Meghan Malusek) has been a part of a production at Riverwalk and couldn't be more excited. He mostly works on lighting design and in the past has designed for “White Christmas” (RWT), “Lord of the Flies” and “Merrily We Roll Along” (PCTC). Frank is glad to have the opportunity to run lights for such an iconic show under the awesome lighting design of Code - so come check out the lights at the Frankenstein place!

David Micheal Cooper (Light Crew)  David studied lighting design for theatre and architecture at Columbia College in Chicago working as a freelance technician in downtown Chicago, David is nearing his 30th production. After moving to Perth, Australia he continued his studies and worked as a lighting technician for world touring productions such as Taylor swift, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Eminem, Billy Elilsh etc. It’s been a long time dream for David to be a part of this production. Rocky Horror holds a special place in David's heart, growing up as a gay man this show was fundamental in learning to be comfortable being different from the norm Rocky Rocky Ra Ra Ra

Elisha Smith (Sceneographer) - Elisha is the secretary of Riverwalk’s Board of Directors and is excited to be participating in her second RWT production. Her work was last seen in the scenography and stage management of “Peter and the Starcatcher.” She began performing in her hometown of Cody, Wyoming, in 2009 and prefers doing behind the scenes work. She is completing her
Masters degree in Social Work, and is thankful for Shannon and Erin’s willingness to work around her student responsibilities! Elisha is thrilled to be a part of the Riverwalk family, and hopes you enjoy the show. “A special shout-out to my PCYG students who always support me on my new adventures!”

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Emma Heedum (Scenography Assistant) - This is Emma’s first experience working in the theatre world and is so excited to be working in a show at Riverwalk Theatre! Emma is a graduate from MSU with a bachelors in education and is currently a 4th grade teacher in Lansing schools. She was looking for something to take her out of her comfort zone and painting sets and running crew for Rocky Horror Show did just that! She is very thankful to be a part of such a fun and welcoming  community!

Susie Perazza (Horror Makeup Designer) - Susie Perazza is a local freelance makeup artist. She has worked over the past 12 years with Riverwalk Theatre since 2011, where she won her first pulsar for the play “Terra Nova”. Susie is a special ed paraprofessional in the East Lansing school district, where she lives with her three children and her black cat Nazzboo. She is excited to once again be working on an amazing show, with an outstanding cast and crew!

Michelle Smith (Set/Run Crew) - This is Michelle's fourth time working on a show at Riverwalk.  She previously worked as stage crew for “Elephant Man” and “Misery” and also served as stage manager for “Noises Off.” She thoroughly enjoys working backstage and is excited to help in any way she can.  Enjoy the show!

​Tracy Smith - This is Tracy's fourth show at Riverwalk being backstage. He previously worked on “Noises Off”, “Elephant Man” and “Misery.”  He enjoys being on stage and backstage as well. Hope everyone loves the show.

Taylor Smith (Set/Run Crew)

Auora Marin (Makeup Assistant)

Kayla Henry (Glam Makeup Designer)

CREW NOT PICTURED

Tessa Norman (Assistant Stage Manager) - Tessa was born and raised near Kansas City, MO and moved up to Michigan in 2019 after graduation with her BS in Civil Engineering and minor in Theatre from Missouri S&T. While in university, she was active in the theatre, Ballet & Dance Club, and S&T Cheer. Since moving to Michigan and earning her professional engineering license, her first show with Riverwalk was “Revolutionists.” Her second show is Rocky Horror, and while having stage managed multiple plays, she is excited because this is her first time stage managing a musical, two casts, and a midnight showing! ​

Lori Bailey-Smith (Hair)- Lori is excited to help with The Rocky Horror Show. After nearly 4 decades in the hair business, she is pleased to be able to use her passion in such a unique way. Thank you Shannon and Erin for trusting me with your dream.

Riley Myers (Prop Crew)- This is Riley’s first production with Riverwalk Theatre. After a 3 year hiatus, she is thrilled to jump into her first show since last being on the stage as Alice Beineke in her High School Theatre Company’s production of “The Addams Family.” As a newbie on the tech team, Riley has enjoyed learning about all the backstage aspects and thanks everyone who has helped teach her. Enjoy the show and be sure to catch her on the stage next month in Peppermint Creek’s production of “The Prom.”

Ann Carlson  (Set Design/Set Dressing​) - Ann has performed all manner of backstage jobs for Lansing area theaters (sound, lights, stage managing, props, set design, directing, you name it. But don’t name makeup, she doesn’t do that.) Her most recent endeavors include set dressing for Kinky Boots (Riverwalk) and props for Songs About Stuff (Over The Ledge). Thanks to Adam for just being the best and to Eulalia and Bixby for being also the best, only smaller.

Joseph Dickson (Sound Design) - Joseph is an active local actor and designer, and is always thrilled to be working at Riverwalk Theatre.  Recent sound credits include:  “Peter and the Starcatcher”, “Songs About Stuff”, "Great American Trailer Park Musical", and “Louder Than Words”.  Joseph is also the Executive Director of Over the Ledge Theatre Co.  Special thanks to Aunt Alice for having supported him in all things, and to you for supporting the arts.

Dale Wayne Williams(Sound Crew) - (they/them) is excited to venture into sound work for the first time. They have taken on numerous on-stage roles, most recently as Dewey Finn in “School of Rock” (AECT). Backstage, they have directed “Big Fish” - Riverwalk, designed and built sets (various - AECT), and choreographed stage combat “Misery” - Riverwalk. Here's to learning new things and working with wonderful people!

Rachel Daugherty (Resident Artist) - Rachel has done many productions on the Riverwalk stage and behind the scenes, but this is her first time being able to showcase her other passion, art. It has been so much fun for her to create pieces for a show full of so many talented and wonderful people. She wants to thank Shannon and Erin for thinking of her to work on this project and her wonderful husband, Ian for always believing in her and hyping her up.

Morgan Bowen - Costumes
Arbor Fletcher - Sound Crew
Matt Ottinger - Digital Design/Sound Effects
Tracy Smith - Set/Run Crew
Leroy Cupp - Set Construction
Bob Nees - Set Construction
Leon Green - Set Construction
Alan Greenberg ​- Set Construction

MUSICIANS

Lauren Spadafora - Keyboard
Yoshi Fukagawa -Guitar
Charles Slocum - Bass
Ty Schalter - Drums
Nicole Martin - Synth