Jesus Christ Superstar
Lyrics by Tim Rice | Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber
A thrilling rock opera based on the last week of Jesus’ life, Jesus Christ Superstar has wowed audiences for over 50 years.
What’s the buzz? The first musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice to be produced for the professional stage, Jesus Christ Superstar has wowed audiences for over 50 years. A timeless work, the rock opera is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary and universally known series of events but seen, unusually, through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. Loosely based on the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, Superstar follows the last week of Jesus Christ’s life. The story, told entirely through song, explores the personal relationships and struggles between Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, his disciples, his followers and the Roman Empire.
The iconic 1970s rock score contains such well-known numbers as “Superstar,” “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” and “Gethsemane.” A true global phenomenon and perfect pick for schools, community theaters and professionals alike, Superstar continues to touch new generations of audiences and performers.
MEANT FOR A MATURE AUDIENCE
APPROXIMATE RUN TIME: 2HRS | 15min Intermission
Upcoming Performances
- Thursday, April 10th, 2025 | 7:30 PM | Opening Night Party
- Friday, April 11th, 2025 | 7:30 PM
- Saturday, April 12th, 2025 | 1:00 PM | Theatre For All
- Saturday, April 12th, 2025 | 7:30 PM
- Thursday, April 17th, 2025 | 7:30 PM
- Friday, April 18th, 2025 | 7:30 PM
- Saturday, April 19th, 2025 | 1:00 PM
- Saturday, April 19th, 2025 | 7:30 PM
Ticket Prices
- General public: $25
- NMU Employees, Seniors and Military: $22
- Youth: $15
- NMU Students: $5
- Pay as You May (Theatre for All Shows Only): $0 (Donations Accepted)

Paul Truckey (Co-Director)
Jesus Christ Superstar Co-Director

Keli Crawford-Truckey (Co-Director)
Jesus Christ Superstar Co-Director
Cast Information
Full Cast
Jesus of Nazareth | Asa Naigus |
Judas Iscariot | John Thomson |
Mary Magdalene | Hannah Johnson |
King Herod | Ryan Zepp |
Caiaphas | Don’tae Mitchell |
Peter | Henry Moore |
Pontius Pilate | Mark Simons |
Simon Zealotes | Liam Fisher |
Annas | Alex Harris |
3 Priests | Charlie Orr, Nate Bunker, Angel Rivera |
Ensemble | Joshua Bianca (Dance Captain) |
Ava Britt | |
Kendyl Dahlstrom | |
Alina Damic | |
Ava Fett | |
Liam Fisher | |
Reid Fisher | |
Zoe Hajec | |
Alex Harris | |
Madalyn Hasyn | |
Jordyn Hopfensperger (Dance Captain) | |
Emma Houston | |
Audryn Just | |
Xander Martin | |
Henry Moore | |
Lauren Newell | |
Sara Neva | |
MJ Opulencia | |
Cecilia Pruiett | |
Natalie Ramirez | |
Mark Simons | |
Josie Truckey | |
Clara Usealman | |
Simon Williams | |
Noah Baxter | |
Jaden Giles | |
Sevi Voigt | |
Ryan Zepp |
Cast Headshots
Cast Bios
Noah Baxter (Roman Guard)- Noah Baxter is a fun comedic actor up for any role! Noah is excited to be a part of this production of Jesus Christ Superstar.
Joshua Bianca (Ensemble, King Herod U/S, Dance Captain)- Joshua Bianca is a second year student at NMU who is majoring in musical theater and minoring in dance. He is thrilled to be a part of JCS and get the opportunity to work with such a talented group of people. Joshua has previously been seen in Anything Goes, Cabaret, and Alice in Wonderland. Joshua can’t wait to continue his theater journey at NMU and he is thankful for all of his family, friends, and faculty!
@joshuabianca_
Ava Britt (Ensemble/Soul Girl)- Ava is in her second year as a Musical Theatre BFA at NMU, and loving it! She was previously in Anything Goes, Clybourne Park, The Holiday Soiree, The Wildcat Theatre Follies, Frankenstein, and Cheers to Love. Ava is very excited to be surrounded by such a talented team for JCS. Ava is in awe of her peers and she can’t wait for you to see the show!! It will be one to remember!
Nate Bunker (Priest 3/Ensemble)- Nate Bunker is a freshman here at NMU, so far he's been I Wildcat theatre follies, Frankenstein, Holiday soiree, and now Jesus Christ Superstar. He's lived in the UP his entire life and has never really left, he plans to graduate with a bachelors in theater & entertainment arts and a minor in physical ed- coaching, then earn a teaching license to teach theater to middle or high school kids, to inspire a new generation of performers like his teachers did!
Kendyl Dahlstrom (Pilate(2)/ Ensemble)- Kendyl Dahlstrom is a junior at NMU pursuing her BFA in Musical Theater with a minor in Dance. You may have seen her in previous productions such as Cabaret (Sally Bowles), Anything Goes (Erma), Spamalot (Patsy) or Grease (Jan). She is also a production manager and board member for NMUDOIT, a student organization that produces student directed productions.
Alina Damič (Ensemble)- Alina Damič, a freshman musical theatre major, is thrilled to be a part of Northern Michigan University's production of Jesus Christ Superstar! This is her second show at NMU, following after Home for the Holidays. You might've seen her previously as Belle (Beauty and the Beast), Veronica Sawyer (Heathers), or Betty Rizzo (Grease). She hopes you love this show as much as she's loved working on it!
Liam Fisher (Simon and Jesus u/s)- Liam Fisher is a junior Musical Theatre BFA returning to the FRT stage after appearing in Rocky Horror, Spamalot, Grease, Anything Goes, and more! Liam spent last summer in Warsaw, Indiana working at the Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts. Notable credits include The Beast in Beauty and the Beast and Hercule Poirot in Murder on the Orient Express. Liam is from Grand Rapids, Michigan where he has been involved with many different theatres around the city including the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, and Shadblow Theatre, as well as his high school in Grandville! Liam is excited to share this hilarious show with friends and family from across the state! Enjoy the show! IG: @liam.fisher1
Reid Fisher (Apostle (Judas U/S))- Reid is a sophomore performing in his third show at NMU. His previous performances include Anything Goes as Dippy as well as Riff-Raff in The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Reid is excited to be a part of another show at the Forest Roberts Theater. Reid is currently studying physics and mathematics but plans to continue auditioning for shows in the future.
Jaden Giles (Ensemble)- Jaden Giles is a freshman at NMU and is taking his associate of arts. This is his first production here at NMU, but he has been doing theater for 3 years now. His favorite roles he's gotten to play are Sebastian from The Little Mermaid and Wayne from Puffs. Jaden is incredibly grateful for this opportunity and thanks everyone who has gotten him here.
Zoë Hajec (Ensemble)- Zoë Hajec is a senior at NMU pursuing a BFA in Acting and a minor in Dance. During her time in the program, she has been a part of many productions including Rocky Horror (Phantom), Anything Goes (Ensemble/ Second Cover Mrs. Harcourt), A Christmas Carol (Claire Fezziwig/ Swing), Spamalot (Swing/ Second Cover Patsy and Robin), Grease (Ensemble), Finding Home (Deviser/ Ensemble), The Wolves (#00), Elf the Musical (Charolette Dennon/ Ensemble), and Above the Timberline. This summer she was performing in Ketchikan, Alaska as Little Nell in The Fish Pirates Daughter, as well as an original dance titled “Timelessly Entageled” in the Gigglefeet Dance Festival. Zoë’s first introduction to this show was through a mentor of hers, Ms. Angela Hillman, who truly made her believe that there was a place for her in the world of the arts.
Alexander Harris (Annas)- Alex Harris is a first-year Musical Theatre student at Northern Michigan University. He is thrilled to be working on this production and looks forward to many more opportunities in the future. As a legally blind artist, Alex is dedicated to making theatre more accessible and inclusive for all individuals. He believes in the power of theatre to positively influence lives and hopes to inspire others with disabilities to discover a similar passion for the craft. Through his work, Alex aims to bridge gaps and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the magic of theatre.
Madalyn Hasyn (Ensemble)- Madalyn Hasyn is a junior musical theater major here at Northern Michigan University who is very excited to perform her 7th production with this wonderful department. Some of Madalyn's most notable roles during her time at NMU are Rizzo in Grease, Megan in Puffs, and Fraulein Schneider in Cabaret. She would like to thank her mom and dad for continuously supporting her throughout her theatrical journey. Madalyn is very excited for everyone in the community to see this incredible production and hopes that you enjoy it!
Jordyn Hopfensperger (Ensemble; Dance Captain; Mary u/s)- Jordyn Hopfensperger is thrilled to be in the ensemble of Northern Michigan University's production of Jesus Christ Superstar! Currently, Jordyn is a sophomore double major in Musical Theatre and Dance and is also a proud member of Co/Lab Dance Company. Besides Jesus Christ Superstar, Jordyn has previously been seen in numerous NMU productions including Alice In Wonderland, Cabaret, Anything Goes, and Spamalot! Jordyn would like to thank her friends, family, and the NMU Theatre and Dance faculty for all of their love and support! @jordynhopfensperger
Emma Houston (Ensemble)- Emma Houston is a Senior graduating in May with a degree in Multimedia Journalism and a minor in dance. Emma, in her 18 years of dance, has trained with companies like Joffrey School of Dance and Artistry in Motion and hopes to continue her dancing career professionally after graduation. She is honored to be a part of this production and has enjoyed the whole learning process for this role. Emma would like to thank her father, brothers, and the Department for their endless support.
Hannah Johnson (Mary Magdalene)- Hannah Johnson is a sophomore in the Musical Theatre program here at NMU, and she is thrilled to be in another production! She was recently seen in Home for the Holidays and in Cabaret as Helga. Hannah was also company member in the Co/Lab 2024 showcase and co-choregraphed an original duet with Henry Moore. Outside of school and productions, Hannah enjoys reading, weight lifting, adventuring outside, and singing with the Love Marq worship team. She cannot wait to tell this story for you - she hopes you enjoy it.
Audryn Just (Ensemble)- Audryn is so excited to present Jesus Christ Superstar! She is a sophomore musical theatre major and dance minor. You may have previously seen her on the FRT stage in Home for the Holidays, Anything Goes! (Ensemble), or A Christmas Carol (Ghost of Christmas Past). She hopes you enjoy this new take on a classic story! IG: @audrynjust
Xander Martin (Ensemble)- Appearing in his second musical for NMU, Xander is a Dance Major with interest in all things performing arts. He wants to thank his family, friends, and teachers for getting him where to where he is, and helping him get better as a performer.
Henry Moore (Peter)- Henry Moore is a sophomore Acting major with a Business and Dance minor at NMU and he is super excited for you to see this production. This is his 10th full stage production at NMU. You might have seen him in shows such as Alice, Home for the Holidays, Holiday Soirée, and Spamalot. While he is not performing he's working on film projects, working out, or playing rugby with the Moosemen. He hopes you enjoy the show!
Asa Naigus (Jesus)- Asa Naigus is a junior pursuing his BFA in Musical Theatre here at Northern. Regional credits include Cowboy in Ghost Soldiers, and Franz in Rock of Ages. Recent NMU credits include Rocky in the Rocky Horror Picture Show, Cliff U/S in Cabaret, J Finch in Puffs, and Sonny in Grease. Asa is absolutely ecstatic to be working on such a phenomenal show with such a ridiculously talented team of both students and faculty. NMU THEATRE AND DANCE FOREVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Lauren Newell (Ensemble/Mary Magdalene Girls)- Lauren Newell is a Junior Dance Major at NMU. She is a recent transfer from San Jose, CA, where she has been singing, dancing, and acting since she was 2 years old. She is a competitive dancer for over 10 years and has trained in all styles of dance. She led her High School’s musical theater department and was their choreographer for such shows as Mean Girls(Regina) and 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee (Logainne SchwartzandGrubenierre). She is a member of the Bay Area Panthers Indoor Football League Dance Team for the 2024 season. She is excited to be back on the stage doing what she loves with her new friends.
Sara Neva (Ensemble)- Sara Neva is a first-year student at NMU, majoring in elementary education. She spent the past 6 years training at Superior School of Dance in Hancock, Michigan. She also has attended multiple intensives with Eisenhower Dance Detroit and The Guthrie Theatre. Sara is a member of the Co/Lab Dance Company, and Jesus Christ Superstar marks her third NMU Theatre and Dance production, following Home for the Holidays and Alice in Wonderland: An Immersive Experience.
Mary Jehms Opulencia (Ensemble)- Mary Jehms Opulencia, also known as MJ, started dancing at the age of 7 performing in ballet productions such as Swan Lake and Coppelia. She has also been involved in theatre productions by the Philippine Educational Theatre Association called Mga Kwentong Asyano (Folk Tales of Asia), and Sing Liwanag (The Light) which are originally Filipino-written musicals. MJ is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Sciences with a concentration in Medical Laboratory. She is excited to be in this year’s production in her senior year and last on-stage performance, and hopes everyone enjoys the show.
Charlie Orr (Priest)- Charlie Orr is a freshman Musical Theatre BFA at NMU and is excited to be in his first full-scale musical on the FRT stage. This is his second production at NMU, playing Felix in Frankenstein at the Panowski Blackbox Theatre in November 2023. Charlie has had a challenging, hilarious, exhausting time in rehearsals, and hopes that the audience enjoys the fruits of the cast and crew's labor. He would like to thank his family and partner for their unwavering support.
Cecilia Pruiett (Angel/Ensemble)- This is Cecilia’s first year here at NMU, wrapping up a great season with Jesus Christ Superstar. You maybe have also seen her as a phantom in Rocky Horror! She is super excited to be on stage again to perform this spectacular show. Cecilia wants to give a big shout out to her family and friends for always supporting her through her journey in college :)
Natalie Ramirez (Ensemble)- Natalie is super excited to be in her third show of the season. She previously was Columbia in Rocky Horror Picture Show, She had featured songs in Holiday Soirée, and is now super static to be in Jesus Christ Superstar. She wants to thank her directors, cast, and crew for making her time here special. She hopes you all enjoy the show!
Angel Rivera (Priest)- Angel is in her 3rd year Musical Theatre BFA at Northern Michigan University. She feels incredibly grateful to be part of her 5th show with Northern Michigan University Theatre and Dance. She is excited to be doing this show for a 2nd time (Once in the community). Angel can’t wait for the community to experience the passion and talent that every amazing cast member is bringing to the stage. It's been such a pleasure in rehearsals to work with Paul and Kelly Truckey, and she is thrilled to show the community the hard work they have put into it.
Mark Simons (Pilate)- Mark is a first-year Sophomore here at NMU Theater and Dance. You might have seen them previously as Victor Frankenstein in "Frankenstein" or playing the Violin in "Home for the Holidays." He looks forward to performing at the Woodstock Playhouse this summer in New York. Mark would like to thank the NMU community for being so welcoming in his first year here.
John Thomson (Judas Iscariot)- John is very excited to be finishing his college career as the role of Judas at Northern Michigan University. He will be graduating this May and would like to thank the NMU T&D Faculty, all of his fellow students he has met along the way, and the Marquette community for always showing endless support during his five years here at NMU.
Josie Truckey (Ensemble)- Josie Truckey is a second-year dance major at NMU. She has danced for 13 years with a foundation in ballet. Josie joined Co/Lab Dance Company as a full company member for their 2024/25 season and performed in Home for the Holidays and Alice in Wonderland. Jesus Christ Superstar is the first musical Josie has performed in and she is incredibly grateful for this experience. Josie wants to personally thank Paul and Keli Truckey for not only being amazing directors', but for being lifelong role models who inspire and encourage her every day.
Sevi Voigt (Roman Guard/Ensemble)- Sevi Voigt has been acting for many years in Marquette and away from home. Along with theatrical pursuits, he also enjoys writing, traveling, and drumming. Sevi hopes to continue his creative endeavors both theatrically and on the written page. He shall start by joining the NMU theater program in the fall after graduation from Marquette Senior High School.
Simon Williams (Apostle)- Simon is a freshman BFA Musical Theatre major and this is his third show at NMU. He was most recently Brad in The Rocky Horror Show.
Pit Orchestra
Production Team Information
Designers and Crew Members
Director | Keli Crawford-Truckey & Paul Truckey |
Music Director | Donna Porier |
Choreographer | Karina Johnson |
Scenic Designer | Bill Digneit |
Lighting Designer | David Pierce |
Costume Designer | Em Rossi |
Hair and Makeup Designer | Ash Baker |
Properties Designer | Emily Rusmisel |
Production Stage Manager | Carley Bishop |
Technical Director | Rachel Wells |
Projection Design | Brayden Smith, Elise Wilcox, Ian Hotellng, Jaren Valot, Rachel Martin |
Assistant Lighting Designer | Rachel Martin (Herod's Song) & Ambrose Meteyer (Temple Song) |
Assistant Costume Designer | Finn Hafner |
Assistant Music Director | Dawson Del Preto |
Light Board Operator | Ambrose Meteyer |
Media Engineer | Ryan Tschirhart |
Audio 1 | Dane Krusick |
Audio 2 | Val Mycyk |
Audio 3 | Bee Mercer |
Dance Captains | Jordyn Hopfensperger and Joshua Bianca |
Head Electrician | Magdalena Berger |
Follow Spot Operator | Olivia Mayer |
Flight Operator | Hudson Leach |
Light Board Operator | Ambrose Meteyer |
Laser Designer | Haven Seckinger |
Stage Manager(s) | Alyson Macias & Nate Borel |
Wardrobe Crew | Zephyrus Choberka, Finn Tolenon |
Rehearsal Assistant | Kayleigh Clark |
Chorus Master | Bo Marcum |
Laser Designer | Haven Seckinger |
Media Integrator/Busker for Rave Scene | Brayden Smith |
Specialty Dance Assistant | Emily Fitzpatrick |
Rain Technician | Sam Jessen |
Production Team Bios
Magdalena Berger (Head Electrician)- Magdalena Berger is excited to be a part of this production. She is a sophomore studying theatre technology. Recently she has been a part of Rocky horror show and Alice in Wonderland. She is so excited to be a part of this production and can’t wait for everyone to see it!
Carley Bishop (Production Stage Manager)- Carley is a senior studying Theatre Technology and Design with a focus in stage management as well as a minor in math. Recently, Carley has been a part of Frankenstein, Anything Goes, and Puffs. She has loved working on such a massive production and so appreciative of the great people she has been able to work with.
Nate Borel (Stage Manager)- Nate is a freshman in NMU Theatre's B.F.A. Theatre Technology and Design program. In his first year here, he has been involved in three productions: Deckhand/run crew for Cabaret, Assistant Lighting Designer and Light Board Operator for Home for the Holidays, and is now a Stage Manager for Jesus Christ Superstar. He is grateful to be a part of the wonderful SM team alongside Carley and Ally who have made this show a great experience. He hopes you enjoy this very special show.
Dawson Del Preto (Assistant Music Director, Keyboards 1 and 2)- Dawson has had a rockin’ good time playing rehearsal piano for the cast (and two keyboards at once in the pit) in this production! He initially wasn’t familiar with this show, but it quickly became his favorite Andrew Lloyd Webber musical. JCS stands out to Dawson with its music, writing, and how they combine to present a unique interpretation of The Passion. Dawson would like to kindly thank Dr. Donna Poirier for the opportunity to work with her and learn so much from her excellent music direction; as well as his Mom, Dad, and Noelle for their love and support.
Keli Crawford-Truckey (Director)- Selected NMU directing credits include The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, The Wolves, The Full Monty, Proof, Sweeney Todd, Bears, Doubt, Harvey, and Into the Woods. She has worked as a stage manager/staff member on the Broadway and national touring productions of Les Miserables’ and off-Broadway productions including And Miss Reardon Drinks a Little at the Producers Club, and Cloud Nine at the Bank Street Theatre in NYC. Keli holds a degree in Directing and Performance from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
Karina Johnson (Choreographer)- Karina Johnson started ballet at the age of four in Irvine, California, and was trained by such accomplished teachers as Charles Maple, Amanda McKerrow, and John Gardner from American Ballet Theatre, as well as Evelyn Cisneros from San Francisco Ballet. She attended ABT, Boston Ballet, and American Academy of Ballet summer intensives throughout her years of training, as well as competed in the Youth of America Grand Prix competition for five consecutive years. Starting in 2007, Karina worked on a degree at The University of Utah as well as guesting with Aspen Santa Fe Ballet’s The Nutcracker for three years. In her senior year of college she became a trainee with Ballet West, performing as a supplemental corps de ballet dancer. Karina graduated in 2010 with a BFA in Ballet, and afterwards spent a year as an apprentice at Smuin Ballet in San Francisco before moving to join the Sacramento Ballet. There she had the privilege of performing in such renowned ballets as Ron Cunningham’s The Great Gatsby, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Carmina Burana, Rite of Spring, Cinderella, and The Firebird, as well as Trey McIntyre’s Wild Sweet Love, and George Balanchine’s Western Symphony, Who Cares?, Rubies, and the First Regiment Lead in Stars and Stripes. One of the highlights of Karina’s career was performing the first act Pas de Trois, and Cygnettes in Swan Lake, one of the hardest and most rewarding ballets to perform. After retiring from her career with the Sacramento Ballet in 2015, Karina helped found the dancer-run company Capital Dance Project, choreographing, performing, and organizing their summer performance series. After eight years of dancing professionally, and 5 more of helping run a project-based company, she decided it was time to pass on her love and knowledge of dance to the next generation... bringing her to NMU! Karina and her husband Iver, who was also a professional dancer with the Sacramento Ballet, moved to Marquette in May 2020 to pursue new career paths, be close to family, and start a family of their own. While not teaching ballet, Karina spends her time with her baby girl Juniper, and on the side painting and selling large abstract paintings at art festivals and shows.
Meara Kronsperger (Sound Designer)- Meara is a junior from Ann Arbor, Michigan studying Theatre Technology and Design and Pre-Veterinary Medicine. She is very excited for another show at NMU! Some of her recent projects include Clybourne Park (Sound Design), Anything Goes (A1), and Rock of Ages (A2). Additionally, over the summer she worked as an AV Apprentice at the Santa Fe Opera where she won a James Irven Stanley Memorial Award. She is very grateful for the constant support from her friends and family and hopes everyone enjoys the show!
Dane Krusick (Audio 1)- Dane Krusick is a graduating BFA Tech and Design student with a focus on sound and media design. This will be his last musical at NMU before moving to Boston to pursue his MFA in Sound Design at Boston University. Recent credits include, The Wizard of Oz (Sound Designer), Alice in Wonderland ( Sound System Designer), The Last Five Years (Sound Designer), Rocky Horror Show (Co-Sound Designer/A1), Cabaret (Sound Designer), Ghost Soldiers (Assistant Sound Designer), Anything Goes (Sound Designer), A Christmas Carol (Co-Media Designer), Grease (A1/Assistant Sound Designer), and Salome (Associate Sound Designer).
Hudson Leach (Rail/Flight Operator)- Hudson Leach is excited to be a rail and flight operator for Jesus Christ Superstar! They are a senior double majoring in Biology and Theatre and Entertainment Arts. In the past they have worked as production stage manager for Alice in Wonderland: An Immersive Experience, properties designer for Cabaret, and stage manager for A Christmas Carol. They hope everyone enjoys the show!
Allyson Macias (Stage Manager)- Allyson is a sophomore at NMU working toward her BFA in Theatre Design and Technology. This is her third time stage managing at Northern. She is excited to be a part of Jesus Christ Superstar and hopes you enjoy the show.
Rachel Martin (Assistant Lighting Designer)- Rachel Martin is so excited to be a part of another NMU theatre production. She is a junior studying technical theatre and design. Some of her recent shows she has been a part of include Cabaret, Rock of Ages, Spamalot, Puffs, and Anything Goes. She is so excited to be a part of this amazing show and can’t wait for everyone to see it!
Olivia Mayer (Spotlight Op)- Olivia is a first year biology major. Throughout high school she was very involved in the music program and in her senior year she had the opportunity to play in the pit orchestra and help out backstage in their production of Alice by Heart. As she begins her involvement with the theater at NMU she has been a part of Home for the Holidays, Alice in Wonder, and is excited to be part of Jesus Christ Superstar.
Bo Marcum (Chorus Master)- Bo has worked on various Northern shows including acting in the Wildcat Theatre Follies and the Holiday Soiree, assistant music directing the Rocky Horror Picture Show, and now chorus master for Jesus Christ Superstar. They are thrilled to work with this wonderful cast and is very proud of the work the cast has done.
Bee Mercer (Audio 3)- Bee Mercer is thrilled to be the A3 for Jesus Christ Superstar. Currently a sophomore pursuing a degree in Theater Technology and Design, they have previously worked as the assistant lighting designer for The Rocky Horror Show and A Christmas Carol. Additionally, Bee has been head electrician for Much Ado About Nothing and has contributed to productions such as Cabaret and Anything Goes. Bee is excited to take on this new role and hopes you enjoy the show!
Ambrose Meteyer (Assistant Lighting Designer/Light Board Operator)- Ambrose is a sophomore in the BFA Theatre Technology & Design program and is ecstatic to be assistant designing one of his favorite musicals ever! He hopes you enjoy this brilliant new take on the story. Favorite credits include PSM of Home for the Holidays (NMU), ASM for Predictor (Williamston Theatre), The Professor/Sheriff in Ghost Soldiers (North Coast Theatre Festival), u/s Oliver, Cedric, and Narrator in Puffs (NMU), and Stage Manager for Spamalot (NMU). In addition to theatre, Ambrose enjoys playing the cello, biking, and writing, and is currently writing and workshopping an original musical. IG: ambrosem_
Val Mycyk (Audio 2)- Val Mycyk is beyond excited to be a part of this production of Jesus Christ Superstar. This will be her fourth show as she wraps up her first year as a BFA Theatre Technology & Design major with a focus on sound production. Recent show credits from this school year include Cabaret (Deck Crew), Home for the Holidays (Spotlight Operator), and Much Ado About Nothing (A1). She hopes you enjoy the show :)
Donna Poirier (Music Director)- Donna Poirier is currently serving as Assistant Professor and Head of Voice in the Department of Theatre and Dance at Northern Michigan University. Prior to this appointment she served as Choir Director at Ishpeming Public Schools, Director of Choral Activities at Allen University in Columbia, SC, Director of Choral Activities and Vocal Instructor at Alcorn State University in Lorman, MS, a lecturer in voice at the University of Connecticut, and Music Director for the Shreveport Opera among other positions. Ms. Schaffer holds fast to the simple teaching philosophy of Nelson Mandela. This proverb states, “each one teach one”. Donna holds a Bachelor of Music from the University of Michigan, a Master of Music from the University of Connecticut, and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in choral conducting at USC under the tutelage of Dr. Larry Wyatt.
Brayden Smith (Onstage Busker/Media Engineer & Programmer/Associate Media Designer)- Brayden is a sophomore at Northern Michigan University pursuing a degree in Theater Technology and Design with concentration in Audio and Lighting design. Brayden has many collegiate and professional credits, including Northern Michigan University's Ghost Soldiers (Lighting Designer), Northern Michigan University's Spamalot (Head Electrician), North Coast Theatre and Dance Festival (Head Electrician), National Cherry Festival 2023-2024 (Audio Technician), LDI (Production Assistant), Northern Michigan University's Frankenstein (Sound Designer), SAYT's Finding Nemo (Sound Designer), Northern Michigan Universitys Alice in Wonderland (Lighting Designer) and many more. With his degree, Brayden hopes to pursue a career in theatrical and concert lighting and audio design. This production is another step towards that goal.
Ashley Sonderegger (Hair/Makeup Design)- Ashley is thrilled to return to NMU, embracing both her role as Hair and Makeup Designer and her journey as a returning student. A licensed cosmetologist with a decade of experience, she is passionate about bringing characters to life through hair and makeup design. This opportunity allows her to merge her professional expertise with her love for theatre as she continues to grow in her craft. She hopes you enjoy NMU’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar and the all of the creative visions behind it.
Paul Truckey (Director)- Paul Truckey has been a member of the NMU Theatre faculty since 2003. While at NMU, he has directed numerous productions including Romeo and Juliet, Cats, Noises Off, Building Madness, Into the Woods, A Paper Tiger in the Rain – 2014 Panowski Playwriting Award (PPA) winner, The Comedy of Errors, 1776, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, A Flea in Her Ear, The Mousetrap, ACTletes, The Foreigner, The Full Monty, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Tell-Tale – 2006 PPA winner, Closer Than Ever, Burning Mona Lisa in the Reptile House – 2004 PPA winner, and Our Town. Among his acting credits are leading roles in Les Miserables (Broadway and national touring companies, over 2,600 performances), A Little Night Music, Rockland, The Fantasticks, The Problem, Utah! The Musical (Original Company), Sunday in the Park with George, Guys and Dolls, Romeo and Juliet, Nine, Three Sisters, The Mikado, and She Stoops to Conquer. His TV credits include The Rosie O’Donnell Show, The Today Show, and the 1998 NBA All-Star Game Halftime show. He has served as a respondent for numerous productions entered in the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival, and in 2011 was presented KCACTF Service Award for the state of Michigan. Paul teaches a broad range of theatre classes including Acting, Intermediate Acting, The Theatre Experience, Modern Drama, Audition, Theatre Careers, Musical Theatre Performance, Shakespeare’s Plays, and Directing Theory. He has also led multiple study abroad trips with NMU students to London and Scotland, and leads the biennial New York City field studies experience. Paul is a member of Actor’s Equity Association.
NMU Theatre & Dance Staff
Professional Staff
Producer | Bill Digneit |
Artistic Director | Jill Grundstrom |
Director of Production | David Pierce |
Costume Shop Supervisor | Em Rossi |
Assistant Costume Shop Supervisor | Suzanne Shahbazi |
Lighting Supervisor | David Pierce |
Properties Supervisor | Emily Rusmisel |
Scene Shop Supervisor | Rachell Wells |
Associate Scene Shop Supervisor | Emily Kendall |
Scenic/Paint Supervisor | Lex van Blommestein |
Props/Paint Manager | Emily Rusmisel |
Sound and Media Supervisor | Dominic Mrakovcich |
Sound and Media Crew Lead | Dane Krusick |
eShop Crew Lead | Rachel Martin |
Stage Management Supervisor | Jalina McClain |
Box Office Manager | Kaitlyn Frotton |
Marketing and Social Media Manager | Eden Langlois |
Student Staff
Scene Shop Technicians | *+Bryson Krieger, Emily Iszler, Emma Carr, Laura Hinz, Isabella Fontaine, Maggie Brew, Moss Schrock, Zoey Miller, Sam Jessen, Jamie Downing |
Electrics/Sound Technicians | *Rachel Martin, Peytyn Kier, Magdalena Berger, Brayden Smith, Bee Mercer, Dane Krusick, Meara Kronsperger |
Costume Shop Staff | Elise Wilcox, Zephyrus Choberka, +Charlotte Somerville, +Fen Torenvliet, Rhiannyn McCauley |
Production Management | Carley Bishop, Molly Sobiechowski, Grace Terwilliger |
Marketing/Box Office Staff | *+Bryson Krieger, Zoë Hajec, Gianna Daprai, Moss Schrock, Aly Vega, Chloe Collins |
Wildcat Performing Arts Academy Office | Don'Tae Mitchell, Grace Terwilliger |
*denotes supervisor position
+denotes member of Alpha Psi Omega