T605 BHP S80 Playbill

TABLE OF CONTENTS

A LETTER FROM THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Dear Friends,

Hello and welcome to the Black Hills Playhouse! This year we are celebrating the 80th season of the Playhouse, and I’m proud to say that I have been a part of thirty of them. Oh, the passage of time. Eighty years, what a legacy! And I have done my best to fulfill the mission of this wonderful organization and to keep the artistic quality high.

Part of my task is to work with the Board of Directors and the other members of our team to pick the season. Now, I’m sure you could tell from this year’s lineup we are going all in on the Semiquincentennial, also called the Bisesquicentennial, the Sestercentennial, or the Quarter Millennium! While all of these are fun to say, none of them roll off the tongue as easily as 250.

All four of the productions this summer celebrate the United States, but each in its own way. For a few years, I have been thinking of 1776 as the cornerstone of this season, because we should do something to acknowledge 250 years. This musical does that with wit and pathos befitting the event. Something this old needs a sense of humor, so we bring you the comedic romp of The Complete History of America (abridged). Along our journey as a country, we have had our share of troubles, and Come From Away is the beautiful story of American resilience in a time of tragedy and how our friends in the world came together to care for each other. Part of the beauty of this nation and 250 years is the brilliance of the Constitution, shared brilliantly by the work What the Constitution Means to Me. I hope you enjoy the broad array brought out by the different points of view in these plays.

Thank you for sharing your time with us. We love having you here and hope to see you again soon.

Sincerely,

Dan Workman

DAN WORKMAN Artistic Director

Dan Workman

LINDA ANDERSON Executive Director

Linda Anderson

A LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Theatre 605 Black Hills Playhouse is South Dakota’s only Regional Theater. While our state has a number of community and academic programs, the Black Hills Playhouse stands alone as the theater it was created to be by Dr. Warren M. Lee–a place where professional artists come to immerse themselves in the work and audiences come to enjoy a good show in glorious Custer State Park. There is simply no other place like it.

Regional theaters offer opportunities for emerging artists to experiment with their craft and push the boundaries of storytelling. Audiences complete the picture by attending this unique art form, which brings people together to experience a sense of community and understand perspectives different from their own. By providing a platform for sharing stories and ideas, regional theaters help ensure that American stories remain dynamic and vibrant.

As we reflect on 80 Seasons of work in Custer State Park and 26 years of statewide education programs like Theatre 605 Tours, Theatre 605 Expanding Stage, and Theatre 605 Jr. Camps, we can be very proud. Our mission of “Telling Stories. Changing Lives.” is literally happening in all corners of our state and continues to thrive in the Black Hills. Against all odds.

Our community of support is our secret weapon to making it against all odds. When you donate, it keeps us strong. Over the past 80 years, we have built a community of people who care about the work we do and give to us in so many ways.

Thanks for being a part of our 80th Celebration, and enjoy your time with us. We sincerely appreciate you. Here’s to the next 80 years!

Warmly,

Linda Anderson

WHAT WE BELIEVE

VISION

Theatre 605 will be the region’s model for professional and educational theatre, championing innovation, inclusivity, and accessibility.

MISSION

Theatre 605: Telling Stories. Changing Lives.

VALUES

• INCLUSION: Theatre is an integral part of the human experience and needs to be accessible to all. We embrace shared humanity, in order to experience transformation through theatre.

• ARTS / COMMUNITY IMPACT: Arts are impactful vehicles for social, civic, cultural, and educational engagement and vital to the growth of dynamic communities.

• RELATIONSHIPS: Strong, deep, and meaningful

• SUSTAINABILITY: Responsible management, strategic planning, and engaged teams are essential to the success of Theatre 605.

DIVERSITY STATEMENT

Theatre 605 is dedicated to creating an inclusive, equitable, and welcoming environment where theatre reflects and amplifies the full spectrum of the human experience.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

Theatre 605 acknowledges that we are on the stolen ancestral lands of the Cheyenne and Oceti Sakowin people. These lands, water, and waterways are the unceded territories and the homeland of the Lakota, the Dakota, and the Nakota Nations. Theatre 605 is committed to reflecting the continued legacy of all of the original peoples of South Dakota. We acknowledge the Lakota people as the traditional custodians of the Black Hills. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present, and emerging. We also pay our respects to the Indigenous men and women who have contributed to the defense of the United States

Gunderson, Palmer, Nelson & Ashmore, LLP has provided a full range of legal services for over 50 years and is one of the largest, most widely known, and highly respected law firms in western South Dakota and a multi-state region.

OUR PROGRAMS

BLACK HILLS PLAYHOUSE

For 80 years, the historic Black Hills Playhouse has been the heart of Theatre 605—and that legacy continues. Thousands of performing artists have trained and shared their talents across 80 seasons. For generations, families have made attending theatre in Custer State Park an annual tradition. In 2025, 14,715 people attended Playhouse performances.

JR. CAMPS

BHP Jr. Camps began in 2016 in the Black Hills to provide a space for performers in 5th-12th grades to learn theatre. In 2026, this program has moved to the University of South Dakota campus in Vermillion! These unique summer performing arts camps provide opportunities for creative youth to discover their voices, build confidence, and form lasting friendships through the magic of theatre.

TOURS

This turnkey program travels to communities large and small with sets, lights, costumes, and sound— transforming any space into a theatre where kids perform for family and friends after a fun-filled week. Theatre 605 Tours sends trained actor-directors to deliver K–12 theatre education, reaching 37,000+ participants and 148,000 audience members since 1999.

EXPANDING STAGE

People with disabilities in Sioux Falls, who participate with DakotAbilities, learn about theatre while improving their communication skills, gaining independence, and experiencing the sense of belonging that comes with rehearsing and performing for their communities.

SEASON AT A GLANCE SCHEDULE KEY –>

History - The Complete History of America (abridged) 1776 - 1776 Away - Come From Away Means - What the Constitution Means to Me

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH DAKOTA

On behalf of the University of South Dakota, welcome to Theatre 605 Black Hills Playhouse, and thank you for your support of the arts. USD is a proud partner of Theatre 605, sharing a vision for celebrating and promoting creativity, community, and artistic growth in South Dakota.

At its humble beginnings, the Black Hills Playhouse was a dream – a USD theatre professor’s vision to offer professional theatre experiences in the rural Midwest while growing opportunities for theatre professionals and students. The organization has since grown into a pillar of the arts in the state; together, the USD College of Fine Arts and Theatre 605 Black Hills Playhouse deliver enriching fine arts experiences and educational opportunities that establish South Dakota as a destination and home for artists.

We are excited that you are here to experience the beauty of South Dakota theatre and hope you enjoy this season at Theatre 605 Black Hills Playhouse.

BRUCE KELLEY, PH.D Dean, College of Fine Arts, USD

Bruce Kelley, Ph.D

FROM THE DEAN OF THE COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH DAKOTA

I want to personally welcome you to the Black Hills Playhouse, the marvelous Warren M. Lee Theatre, and beautiful Custer State Park. This year’s season celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with a series of productions that will make you hope, laugh, marvel, and cry. I deeply appreciate the BHP staff and volunteers who work so hard to create an amazing experience which will enable you to view the best of live theatre with South Dakota’s Black Hills as an exquisite backdrop.

The USD College of Fine Arts is located in Vermillion, SD, once again recognized by USA Today as the Nation’s Best Small Town Arts Scene. Our academic programs prepare students for lifelong engagement in art, music, and theatre. Our vibrant campus is alive with music concerts, theatrical performances, and art gallery exhibitions. Our students are highly successful and find financially rewarding and emotionally fulfilling careers from the smallest of our South Dakota communities to the greatest stages in the world.

The USD College of Fine Arts is a proud partner with the Black Hills Playhouse. Together, we combine creativity and knowledge to make a difference for our world.

It makes you wonder.

T605 BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE

COMMITTEE

The Theatre 605 Board of Directors manages finances, addresses governance issues, and works closely with staff to develop strategies for success. This group is passionate about the T605 Mission: Telling Stories. Changing Lives. They are an essential part of the T605 Team and we are grateful for all they accomplish.

Erin Goetzinger

President, Board Development, Gala Committees

Household Manager & Grandma Extraordinaire, former aide to Senator Tom Daschle Rapid City, SD

Ron Jeffries

President Elect, Board Development (Chair), Legislative / Legal, Physical Plant Committees

General Manager, Central States Fair & BH Stock Show & Rodeo Rapid City, SD

Joe Williams

Secretary Host of 5 Plain Questions Podcast, Bush Leadership Fellow Fargo, ND

Mandie Weinandt

Treasurer, Finance Committee (Chair)

Director of Center for Teaching and Learning, Professor, Beacom School of Business, USD Dakota Dunes, SD

Eric Hagen

Past President, Education Committee

Professor Emeritus of Theatre, University of SD Minneapolis, MN

Corey Brown

Legislative / Legal Committee (Chair)

Vice President

Government Relations, Sanford Health Sioux Falls, SD

Rick Giesel

Finance, Legislative / Legal, Physical Plant (Chair) Committees

Retired, former President, Sanford Health Network Rapid City, SD

Dr. Bruce Kelley

Advisor

Dean, College of Fine Arts, University of SD Vermillion, SD

A LETTER FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT

Welcome to the Black Hills Playhouse in Custer State Park! On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to thank you for joining us for our 80th Season. We are so grateful for our patrons, donors, and funders.

Last year, we added an umbrella brand, Theatre 605, to unify our statewide programs. As we say, the Black Hills Playhouse will always be the Black Hills Playhouse. Now it is connected to a larger family of programs that deliver creative learning and theatre education to kids K-12, work with people with developmental disabilities to increase their independence, and host sleep-away camps for youth in grades 5-12 at the University of South Dakota.

Improvements to the campus since last season include the State of SD installing a new sewer system and a new bridge to the upper camp, financed with federal funds. The Playhouse is

responsible for installing sprinkler systems, 53 new windows in the dorms, handrails, and a new fire suppression system in the kitchen. Unfortunately, storm damage in December necessitated $40,000 in unexpected repairs. We are grateful to those who have already pledged to these efforts–please get in touch if you’d like to help. There is a lot happening at Theatre 605.

This is just the beginning. Our goal is to have an accessible, safe campus that serves the needs of our audiences, educators, and staff for the future. And we will need our community’s continued support to make it happen. I hope you will join us on this journey. It’s going to be an exciting adventure!

Gratefully, Erin Goetzinger, President of the Board

Erin Goetzinger

2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Ronni Calvird Physical Plant Committee American Family Insurance Agent Custer, SD

Tom Geu Legal / Legislative, Finance Committees

Retired Professor, Knudson School of Law, USD Vermillion, SD

Rai Genna Education (Chair) Chair and Associate Professor, USD Theatre, Coordinator of BFA Studies, Director of Graduate Studies Vermillion, SD

Brie Groves Finance Committee

Rapid City Arts Council Business Manager Rapid City, SD

Janet Kahler Finance Committee

Philanthropist & Rotarian Rapid City, SD

Deb Kuehn

Finance, Gala Committees

Certified Neonatal and Family Nurse Practitioner, Monument Rapid City Hospital

Rapid City, SD

Mark Meersman

BHPAA Representative, Finance Committee Compliance and Business Integrity Officer for the VA Black Hills Health Care System

Rapid City, SD

Tyler Micheel

Physical Plant Committee

USD Assistant Professor of Lighting, Sound Design, and Technology Vermillion, SD

Charolyn Mize

Physical Plant, Education Committees

Retired Educator Spearfish, SD

Carrie Moore Gala Committee

Owner, Petals and Pages Custer, SD

Cynthia Robertson

Theatre 605 Gala Co-Chair, Education Committee Homeschool Educator and former Public School Teacher

Rapid City, SD

Stephanie Rissler Board Development Committee

Communication Manager, SD Health Care Association, SD G, F & P Commission Chair Vermillion, SD

Anjelica Sasse

Finance, Gala Committees Compensation Analyst, Black Hills Energy Rapid City, SD

Eric Whitcher Legal / Legislative Committee

Attorney, St. Johns Law, St. Augustine, FL Rapid City, SD

Theatre 605 is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors who champion our mission, steward our vision, and ensure we continue creating meaningful arts experiences for our community. Present AD for $10 OFF Admission to Bear Country Present AD in Bear’s Den Gift Shop for 10% OFF

THE COMPLETE HISTORY OF AMERICA (abridged)

BY ADAM LONG, REED MARTIN, AUSTIN TICHENOR

600 years of history in 6000 seconds … history will never be the same! From Washington to Watergate, yea verily from the Bering Straits to Baghdad, from New World to New World Order – The Complete History of America (abridged) is a ninety-minute rollercoaster ride through the glorious quagmire that is American History, reminding us that it’s not the length of your history that matters — it’s what you’ve done with it!

15 PERFORMANCES. TEENS/ADULTS, ADULT THEMES AND HUMOR. COMEDY.

Show Title Sponsor

RAI GENNA Director,

of America (abridged)

RaiGenna

THE COMPLETE HISTORY OF AMERICA (abridged) DIRECTOR’S NOTE

I am thrilled to open this amazing season with The Complete History of America (abridged) as we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday! I have always been fascinated with history, particularly United States history (specifically The Depression of the 1930s and the post-World War II years and the rise of McCarthyism). As a teenager, many of my friends found history boring, but I was always captivated by what came before and how the events and decisions of the past still resonate in the present and into the future. And as much as I was interested in who did what when, I was—and still am—equally fascinated by how the story of history is told, as it is through stories that we understand and navigate the world.

Which leads us to The Complete History of America (abridged) and its focus on how history is told as much as it is about the history it is telling. Through comedy, TCHAa explores our history—the parts that many of us know, and the parts that some of us might not know. But through it all, it reminds us that history is not necessarily just what happened in times gone by, but it is also the moment we are living in the now, tomorrow’s history. But let’s not get too metaphysical with that kind of existential journey. Rather let’s enjoy this particular production that is inspired—in part—by the nostalgia of School House Rock, which was all the rage around the time we were celebrating our 200th birthday (see, the past influencing the present)!

ARTISTIC TEAM AND PRODUCTION CREW

Director Raimondo Genna

Scenic Designer .................................................................................................................................. Ahna Packard

Costume Designer ............................................................................................................ Scott Matthew Anderson

Lighting Designer ...................................................................................................................................... Ty Micheel

Sound Designer .............................................................................................................................. Rowan V Sullivan

Stage Manager Izzy Paisley

Production Manager Amber Marisa Cook

Technical Director Christopher Haug

Assistant Technical Director Jack Neas

Head Carpenter ................................................................................................................................... Sheridan Kern

Carpenter Interns .......................................................................................... Anabel Gutierrez, Tennessen Laforest

Stagecraft Interns ............................................................................................. Sydney Dallegge, Emma Niswander

Head Electrician Stephen M. Azua

Head of Audio/Sound Engineer Rowan V Sullivan

Electrics Intern Morgan Rhone

Head Properties Libby Shelstad

Properties Intern ..................................................................................................................................... Flynn O’Neill

Charge Artist .................................................................................................................................... Sophia M. Kothe

Scenic Painter ........................................................................................................................................... Ciera Keller

Costume Shop Manager Christina Olson

First Hand/Cutter/Draper Scott Matthew Anderson

Stitchers/ Stitching Interns Velma Brummett, Lauren Cavanah, Kaizley Williams

CAST

Liv Moeller Jason Reuter Skyler Weaver

Adam Long, Reed Martin, Austin Tichenor

BOOK BY PETER STONE; MUSIC AND LYRICS BY SHERMAN EDWARDS

It’s the summer of 1776, and the nation is ready to declare independence … if only our founding fathers can agree to do it! 1776 follows John Adams of Massachusetts, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania, and Thomas Jefferson of Virginia as they attempt to convince the members of the Second Continental Congress to vote for independence from the shackles of the British monarchy.

15 PERFORMANCES. KIDS 9+, SOME SUGGESTIVE HUMOR. MUSICAL.

Show Title Sponsor

Katie Guttman appears through the generosity of Petals & Pages. Fallon Podrazik appears through the generosity of All American Siding and Windows, Inc. Lynne Rothrock appears through the generosity of Mt. Rushmore Brewing Co./Begging Burro.

DAN WORKMAN Director, 1776

Dan Workman

1776

DIRECTOR’S NOTE

It takes a rare blend of courage and stubbornness to break with tradition. When I look at our founding fathers, I don’t see statues; I see flawed, passionate individuals who believed that the fight for independence was right. While their motivations were a complex tapestry of financial independence and altruistic idealism, they were anchored by the radical notion of self-rule.

This musical is a celebration of that pursuit, but it also serves as a mirror. As we look back on 1776, we must acknowledge the inherent contradictions of a revolution for “freedom” that existed alongside the enslavement of 500,000 people. It forces us to ask: What is the “Ideal” America? Is it defined by individual merit, a collective social contract, or the vibrant, pluralistic mosaic of our modern world?

For this production, the answer is in the casting. As we continue our collective journey toward the “Ideal,” I felt it was necessary to break with tradition. By moving beyond the original 1969 requirement of an all-white, male-dominated cast, and incorporating women and people of color into these historical roles, we are not just making a stylistic choice; we are honoring the spirit of the revolution rather than the limitations of the era. This “pluralistic ideal” allows us to see ourselves in these historical figures, proving that the journey toward a more perfect union belongs to all of us.

ARTISTIC TEAM AND PRODUCTION CREW

Director Dan Workman

Music Director ................................................................................................................................... Vonnie Houchin

Choreographer ................................................................................................................................... Katie Gutmann

Scenic Designer ................................................................................................................................. Fallon Podrazik

Costume Designer ..................................................................................................................... Amber Marisa Cook

Lighting Designer Christopher Haug

Sound Designer Rowan V Sullivan

Stage Manager Alejandro Hernandez

Production Manager Amber Marisa Cook

Technical Director .......................................................................................................................... Christopher Haug

Assistant Technical Director ..................................................................................................................... Jack Neas

Head Carpenter .................................................................................................................................... Sheridan Kern

Carpenter Interns Anabel Gutierrez, Tennessen Laforest

Stagecraft Interns Sydney Dallegge, Emma Niswander

Head Electrician Stephen M. Azua

Head of Audio/Sound Engineer Rowan V Sullivan

Electrics Intern .................................................................................................................................... Morgan Rhone

Head Properties .................................................................................................................................. Libby Shelstad

Properties Intern ..................................................................................................................................... Flynn O’Neill

Charge Artist Sophia M. Kothe

Scenic Painter Ciera Keller

Costume Shop Manager Christina Olson

First Hand/Cutter/Draper Scott Matthew Anderson Stitchers/ Stitching Interns .................................................. Velma Brummett, Lauren Cavanah, Kaizley Williams

CAST

John Adams Bryan Curtis

Thomas Jefferson Erik K. Larsen

Benjamin Franklin Dave DeChristopher

Edward Rutledge Romell Johnson III

Abigail Adams / Caesar Rodney ............................................................................................................ Abbie Brown

Martha Jefferson / Dr. Josiah Bartlett...................................................................................................... Liv Moeller

John Hancock .................................................................................................................................... Lisa Wipperling

Charles Thompson / Andrew McNair ............................................................................................... Dakota Morgan

Stephen Hopkins John Kirk

Roger Sherman / Courier Brea Johnson

Lewis Morris / Robert Livingston Maya Lysinger

John Dickinson .................................................................................................................................... Tom Schwans

Judge James Wilson ............................................................................................................................ Nadiya Naehr

George Read ....................................................................................................................................... Lynne Rothrock

Col. Thomas McKean .......................................................................................................................... Zachary Hupp

Richard Henry Lee / Rev. Witherspoon Skyler Weaver

Samuel Chase Kassi Blue-Scates

Joseph Hewes / Painter Ty Roberson

Dr. Lyman Hall / Leather Apron ....................................................................................................... Magdalen Eberle

AMERICA’S PRIZE WINNING MUSICAL MUSIC AND LYRICS BY SHERMAN EDWARDS BOOK BY PETER STONE

BASED ON A CONCEPT BY SHERMAN EDWARDS ORIGINAL PRODUCTION DIRECTED BY PETER HUNT ORIGINALLY PRODUCED ON THE BROADWAY STAGE BY STUART OSTROW 1776 IS PRESENTED THROUGH SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WITH MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL (MTI). ALL AUTHORIZED PERFORMANCE MATERIALS ARE ALSO SUPPLIED BY MTI. WWW.MTISHOWS.COM

ANY VIDEO AND/OR AUDIO RECORDING OF THIS PRODUCTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

PETER STONE : One of the most accomplished Broadway bookwriters, Stone graduated from Bard College and earned an MFA from the Yale School of Drama. He began writing for CBS Radio and soon moved to writing for television, including the shows Studio One, The Defenders (for which he won an Emmy Award); Asphalt Jungle and Espionage. He has written the plays Friend of the Family and Full Circle. In addition to 1776, his Broadway bookwriting credits include the musicals Kean; Skyscraper; Two by Two; Sugar; Woman of the Year (for which he won a 1981 Tony Award); My One and Only; Grand Hotel and The Will Rogers Follies (1991 Tony Award for Best Musical). Stone also wrote the screenplay for the film version of 1776. His other screenplays include Charade; Father Goose (for which he won a 1964 Academy Award); Mirage; Arabesque; Sweet Charity; The Taking of Pelham 1-2-3 and Who Is Killing the Great Chefs of Europe?

SHERMAN EDWARDS was born in New York and taught American history at James Monroe High School. After earning an undergraduate degree in history, at New York University, he later did graduate work in history at Cornell University. He appeared as an actor in My Sister Eileen and the Broadway revue Pins and Needles. He began working as a pianist, playing for performers Lisa Kirk, Eddie Fisher and Mindy Carson. Later, he played in the bands of Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman and Louis Armstrong. In the late 1950s, he began writing popular music, including the hit songs “Broken-Hearted Melody” (lyrics by Hal David), “See You in September” (music and lyrics co-written by Sid Wayne) and “Wonderful, Wonderful” (lyrics by Ben Raleigh). 1776 (for which he won a 1969 Tony Award) was his only Broadway score.

COME FROM AWAY

BOOK, MUSIC AND LYRICS

BY IRENE SANKOFF AND DAVID HEIN

Come from Away is based on the true story of the time when the isolated community of Gander, Newfoundland, played host to the world. What started as an average day in a small town turned into an international sleepover when 38 planes, carrying thousands of people from around the globe, were diverted to Gander’s airstrip on September 11, 2001. Undaunted by culture clashes and language barriers, the people of Gander cheered the stranded travelers with music, an open bar, and the recognition that we’re all part of a global family.

15 PERFORMANCES. 10+, LANGUAGE, BRIEF ADULT MOMENTS, AND MATURE TOPICS, INCLUDING DISCUSSION OF EVENTS SURROUNDING 9/11. MUSICAL.

Show Title Sponsor

Megan Gerlach appears through the generosity of Mary Burnett. Erik K. Larsen appears through the generosity of Coca-Cola Bottling Company.

MEGAN GERLACH

Director, Come From Away

Megan Gerlach

COME FROM AWAY DIRECTOR’S NOTE

“A candle’s in the window, and the kettle’s always on.”

The lyric flies past you so fast in the opening song of Come From Away that you can easily miss it, but it is the soul of the show in a simple phrase. Welcome! Here we are in the middle of the 80th season of The Black Hills Playhouse. This season celebrates 250 years since the signing of the United States Declaration of Independence. (Especially if you’re reading ahead and seeing this director’s note while sitting in the audience for the BHP’s production of 1776.) So, why are we doing a show set in Canada? Come From Away, written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, tells the heartwarming true story that happened in the shadow of an American tragedy. A universal story set around 9/11, but not about 9/11.

The small town of Gander, Newfoundland was once known as the “crossroads to the world,” due to its perfectly positioned airport. In the fall of 2001, when 38 planes landed there with almost 7,000 stranded airplane passengers and crew from all over the globe, it became the crossroads of the world again. A little-known event even 10 years after the fact when the show was first in development, the musical weaves together thousands of real stories from that day and resonates with any tragedy that could happen. It is about the power of connection, the relief of compassion and offering what you can to someone in need. Community, not just as a geographical concept, but as a human one. It’s a testament to the net of humanity in the face of a crisis, and reminds us that ordinary people can do extraordinary things simply by choosing to be kind and care for others. If this is your first experience with the show, welcome aboard. If you’ve seen it before, welcome back. Welcome to The Rock.

ARTISTIC TEAM AND PRODUCTION CREW

Director/Choreographer .................................................................................................................... Megan Gerlach

Music Director ................................................................................................................................... Vonnie Houchin

Scenic Designer .................................................................................................................................... Kathy Voecks

Costume Designer ............................................................................................................................. Sara Curran Ice

Lighting Designer Stephen M. Azua

Sound Designer Rowan V Sullivan

Dialect Coach Erik K. Larsen

Stage Manager ......................................................................................................................................... Izzy Paisley

Production Manager .................................................................................................................. Amber Marisa Cook

Technical Director .......................................................................................................................... Christopher Haug

Assistant Technical Director Jack Neas

Head Carpenter Sheridan Kern

Carpenter Interns Anabel Gutierrez, Tennessen Laforest

Stagecraft Interns Sydney Dallegge, Emma Niswander

Head Electrician .............................................................................................................................. Stephen M. Azua

Head of Audio/Sound Engineer ..................................................................................................... Rowan V Sullivan

Electrics Intern .................................................................................................................................... Morgan Rhone

Head Properties Libby Shelstad

Properties Intern Flynn O’Neill

Charge Artist Sophia M. Kothe

Scenic Painter Ciera Keller

Costume Shop Manager .................................................................................................................... Christina Olson

First Hand/Cutter/Draper .................................................................................................. Scott Matthew Anderson

Stitchers/ Stitching Interns .................................................. Velma Brummett, Lauren Cavanah, Kaizley Williams

CAST

Claude .................................................................................................................................................. Jeff Kingsbury

Beulah and Delores Emily Wirkus

Bonnie and Martha Liv Moeller

Oz Erik K. Larsen

Janice and others Magdalen Eberle

Beverly ................................................................................................................................................ Lisa Wipperling

Diane and others ................................................................................................................................ Lynne Rothrock

Nick/Doug and others ................................................................................................................ Dave DeChristopher

Kevin T and Garth Tom Schwans

Kevin J and others Romell Johnson III

Hannah and others Maya Lysinger

Bob and others Ty Roberson

Britney and others ................................................................................................................................... Abbie Brown

Derm, Eddie and others .......................................................................................................................... Bryan Curtis

Annette and others ............................................................................................................................... Brea Johnson

Joey, and others Skyler Weaver

Understudies Nadiya Naehr, Zachary Hupp

BAND

Vonnie Houchin Piano

Alan Temple Drums

Balie Albrecht Percussion

Patrick Knowles Violin

Lon Schnittgrund ...................................................................................................................................... Guitar, Bass

Mike Palmer ....................................................................................................................................................... Guitar

Come From Away was originally co-produced in 2015 by LaJolla Playhouse and Seattle Repertory Theatre and presented in 2016 by Ford’s Theatre.

Come From Away (NAMT Festival 2013) was originally developed at the Canadian Music Theatre Project, Michael Rubinaoff Producer, Sheridan College in Oakville, Ontario, Canada, and was further developed at Goodspeed Musicals’ Festival of New Artists, in East Haddam, Connecticut. The Canada Council for the Arts, The Ontario Arts Council, and The Fifth Avenue Theatre, Seattle, Washington, also provided development support.

COME FROM AWAY

BOOK, MUSIC AND LYRICS BY IRENE SANKOFF AND DAVID HEIN

ORIGINAL BROADWAY PRODUCTION PRODUCED BY JUNKYARD DOG PRODUCTIONS

ORCHESTRATIONS BY AUGUST ERIKSMOEN ARRANGEMENTS BY IAN EISENDRATH

ANY VIDEO AND/OR AUDIO RECORDING OF THIS PRODUCTION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

JUNKYARD DOG PRODUCTIONS

JERRY FRANKEL LATITUDE LINK SMITH & BRANT THEATRICALS

STEVE & PAULA REYNOLDS DAVID MIRVISH MICHAEL RUBINOFF ALHADEFF PRODUCTIONS

MICHAEL ALDEN & NANCY NAGEL GIBBS SAM LEVY RODNEY RIGBY SPENCER ROSS RICHARD WINKLER YONGE STREET THEATRICALS SHERIDAN COLLEGE MICHAEL & ELLISE COIT RONALD FRANKEL SHERI & LES BILLER RICHARD & SHERRY BELKIN GARY & MARLENE COHEN ALLAN DETSKY & RENA MENDELSON LAUREN DOLL BARBARA H. FREITAG WENDY GILLESPIE LAURA LITTLE THEATRICALS CARL & JENNIFER PASBJERG RADIO MOUSE ENTERTAINMENT THE SHUBERT ORGANIZATION CYNTHIA STROUMV TULCHIN BORTNER PRODUCTIONS

GWEN ARMENT/MOLLY MORRIS & TERRY MCNICHOLAS MAUREEN & JOEL BENOLIEL/MARJORIE & RON DANZ PAMELA COOPER/COREY BRUNISH DEMOS BIZAR/SQUARE 1 THEATRICS JOSHUA GOODMAN/LAUREN STEVENS JUST FOR LAUGHS THEATRICALS/JUDITH ANN ABRAMS PRODUCTIONS BILL & LINDA POTTER/ROSEMARY & KENNETH WILLMAN AND LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE AND SEATTLE REPERTORY THEATRE

IRENE SANKOFF & DAVID HEIN .are the Olivier-award winning, Tony and Grammy nominated, Canadian writing team behind the worldwide award-winning hit Musical Come From Away, currently playing to over 100 countries on Apple TV+, and around the world. Their first show, My Mother’s Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding, based on David’s mother’s true story, has won Best Musical awards across North America, with Sankoff and Hein performing in many productions. Together, they have written for Disney, Netflix, Warner Bros., HBO and the CW as well as Marvel Comics and the Canadian government. They are the recipients of the FourFreedoms Good Neighbor Award and the Meritorious Service Cross of Canada which recognizes Canadians’ exceptional accomplishments.

WHAT THE CONSTITUTION MEANS TO ME

BY HEIDI SCHRECK

Playwright Heidi Schreck’s boundary-breaking play breathes new life into our Constitution and imagines how it will shape the next generation of Americans. Fifteen-year-old Heidi earned her college tuition by winning Constitutional debate competitions across the United States. In this hilarious, hopeful, and achingly human new play, she resurrects her teenage self in order to trace the profound relationship between four generations of women and the founding document that shaped their lives.

8 PERFORMANCES. 14+, SOME STRONG LANGUAGE AND MATURE THEMES. DOCUDRAMA. PANEL DISCUSSION, LED BY SD NEWS WATCH, AFTER AUGUST 9 SHOW BEFORE MEET & GREET: 250+ YEARS OF AMERICAN CIVICS AND NEWS.

Show Title Sponsor

Jayna Gearhart Fitzsimmons

JAYNA GEARHART FITZSIMMONS Director, What the Constitution Means to Me

Jayna FitzsimmonsGearhart

WHAT THE CONSTITUTION MEANS TO ME DIRECTOR’S NOTE

Thank you for being here for the final Black Hills Playhouse production of the season: What the Constitution Means to Me. How exciting to be presenting such an important and engaging show at this moment in time, with such a dedicated team of artists and friends, and in celebration of both the BHP’s 80th season and the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence!

Milestone anniversaries like these offer opportunities to think about where we’ve been and dream about where we want to be–both personally and collectively. Working on this play has brought to mind a favorite quote from American playwright Lauren Gunderson. Gunderson writes that innovative people and things have the ability to “hold the past, the present, and the future, all at once.” Heidi Schreck’s heartfelt, vivid, and boundary-breaking play proves this point brilliantly. What the Constitution Means to Me empowers us to thoughtfully consider the past and look with hope and care toward the future, all while being present and open to what we can learn with and from one another, right here in this theater.

Whether the perspectives this play explores are familiar or challenging, thank you for accepting the invitation to be part of the conversation. And you will be part of the conversation! This play takes a uniquely interactive approach to discussing America’s democratic ideals, and we hope you’ll join the debate! At a time when meaningful dialogue seems to be in short supply, Heidi Schreck’s play teaches us that curiosity, vulnerability, empathy, and a willingness to see the personal within the political can help us imagine new ways forward, together. As Heidi says, “who we are now may not be who we will become.” What kind of future will we envision tonight? And how might it become a reality tomorrow?

ARTISTIC TEAM AND PRODUCTION CREW

Director Jayna Gearhart Fitzsimmons

Scenic Designer ............................................................................................................................... John Paul Devlin

Costume Designer ............................................................................................................................. Christina Olson

Lighting Designer ............................................................................................................................ Stephen M. Azua

Sound Designer ............................................................................................................................... Rowan V Sullivan

Stage Manager Alejandro Hernandez

Production Manager Amber Marisa Cook

Technical Director Christopher Haug

Assistant Technical Director Jack Neas

Head Carpenter .................................................................................................................................... Sheridan Kern

Carpenter Interns .......................................................................................... Anabel Gutierrez, Tennessen Laforest

Stagecraft Interns ............................................................................................. Sydney Dallegge, Emma Niswander

Head Electrician Stephen M. Azua

Head of Audio/Sound Engineer Rowan V Sullivan

Electrics Intern Morgan Rhone

Head Properties Libby Shelstad

Properties Intern ..................................................................................................................................... Flynn O’Neill

Charge Artist .................................................................................................................................... Sophia M. Kothe

Scenic Painter ........................................................................................................................................... Ciera Keller

Costume Shop Manager Christina Olson

First Hand/Cutter/Draper Scott Matthew Anderson

Stitchers/ Stitching Interns Velma Brummett, Lauren Cavanah, Kaizley Williams

CAST

Heidi Emily Wirkus

Legionnaire ............................................................................................................................................ Erik K. Larsen

Debater .................................................................................................................................................. Finley Nelson

WHAT THE CONSTITUTION MEANS TO ME BY HEIDI SCHRECK

Original Broadway Production Produced by Diana DiMenna Aaron Glick Matt Ross Madeleine Foster Bersin Myla Lerner/ Jon Bierman Jenna Segal/ Catherine Markowitz Jana Shea/ Maley-Stolbun-Sussman Rebecca Gold/ Jose Antonio Vargas Level Forward Cornice Productions Lassen Wyse Balsam Nederlander Productions/ Kate Lear What the Constitution Means to Me was commissioned by True Love Productions. This production originated as part of Summerworks in June and July 2017, produced by Clubbed Thumb in partnership with True Love Productions. West Coast premiere produced by Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Berkeley, CA, Tony Taccone, Artistic Director/Susan Medak, Managing Director.

What the Constitution Means to Me had its Off-Broadway premiere in New York City at New York Theatre Workshop, Jim Nicola, Artistic Director, Jeremy Blocker, Managing Director, 2018

What the Constitution Means to Me is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com

Heidi Schreck is a writer and performer living in Brooklyn. Her critically-acclaimed play What the Constitution Means to Me played an extended, sold-out run on Broadway in 2019 and was nominated for two Tony Awards. A filmed version of the play premiered on Amazon Prime Video and was nominated for a Critics Choice Award, a PGA Award and DGA Award. What the Constitution Means to Me was named Best of the Year by the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, the Chicago Tribune, Time Magazine, The Hollywood Reporter, The New Yorker and more. Schreck’s other plays Grand Concourse, Creature and There Are No More Big Secrets have also been produced in NYC and all over the country. Most recently, she created a new translation of Chekhov’s Uncle Vanya for the Broadway production at Lincoln Center. Screenwriting credits include I Love Dick, Billions, Nurse Jackie and Dispatches from Elsewhere. She is the recipient of three Obie Awards, a Drama Desk Award and a Theatre World Award, as well as the Horton Foote Playwriting Award and the Hull-Warriner Award from the Dramatists Guild. Schreck was awarded Smithsonian Magazine’s 2019 American Ingenuity Award for her work in the Performing Arts.

ACTING COMPANY BIOS

Kassi Blue-Scates

Kassi is delighted to be returning to the BHP stage for this milestone season! Patrons may remember her as Linda Lou in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, or Chutney in last summer’s Legally Blonde. Kassi also serves as the Development Associate for Theatre 605 and loves working alongside her colleagues, especially her husband, Liam, to ensure this little theatre in the woods thrives for another 80 years.

Samuel Chase, 1776

Abbie Brown

A New York-based performer, Abbie is delighted to return to the Hills for a second season!

Abbie holds a BFA in musical theatre from Long Island University. Previous regional credits include Pride and Prejudice at The Peterborough Players, Journey to the Center of the Earth with The REV on Tour, and of course, Legally Blonde, Waitress, and The Book of Will at BHP last summer. To God be the glory! <3

Abigail Adams / Caesar Rodney, 1776 - Britney / Flight Attendant, Come From Away

Bryan

Curtis

Bryan joins BHP for the first time this summer! He is ecstatic to be pursuing his passion. Some recent credits include Dan in Next to Normal, Eddie in The Rocky Horror Show, and Vayna in Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike. He recently completed his Master’s thesis playing Menenius Agrippa in Shakespeare’s Coriolanus and graduated from Western Illinois University with an MFA in Acting. Bryan sends his love and thanks to his family and his mentors for supporting him.

John Adams, 1776 - Derm / Eddie, Come From Away

Dave DeChristopher

After seeing so many wonderful productions at the Playhouse, Dave is thrilled to be performing here for the first time. Before moving to Rapid City in 2018, he lived in New York for 24 years, working as an actor, director, playwright, and prolific artist-in-theschools. Until recently, he was on the staff of Black Hills Community Theatre and acted in several productions there. Dave currently works as a freelance writer and teaching artist. Support the arts in Rapid City!

Benjamin Franklin, 1776 - Nick/Doug & others, Come From Away

Magdalen Eberle

Magdalen couldn’t be happier to be back for her second season at the BHP! She most recently played Corie Bratter in Barefoot In The Park with Brookings Community Theater. She has also made her choreography debut with Disaster! and Urinetown The Musical at her alma mater, Augustana University. Magdalen would like to express her gratitude to her family and friends. Thank you for your unwavering support, no matter how far. Enjoy the show!

Dr. Lyman Hall / Leather Apron, 1776Janice and Others, Come From Away

Zachary Hupp

Zachary Hupp is currently a student at The University of South Dakota where he is studying Musical Theater. He has had roles such as John the Baptist/Judas in USD’s production of Godspell as well as Alton/Garrett in USD’s production of Baby I’ll Turn the Sky Green for You.

Thomas McKean, 1776 - Understudy Male Roles, Come From Away

Brea Johnson

Brea Johnson, a BFA Musical Theatre major at the Southeast Missouri

State University Dobbins Conservatory, is from O’Fallon, Missouri. Her Dobbins Conservatory credits include Little Red in Into the Woods and Frenchy in Grease. She will also perform as Olive Ostrovsky in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee this fall. Her favorite past credits include #14 in The Wolves, Center of Creative Arts, and Ensemble in Timbuktu, The St. Louis Black Rep.

Roger Sherman / Courier, 1776 - Annette / Reporter, Come From Away

Romell (He/Him), a New Orleans native, recently earned his BFA in Musical Theatre from Southeast Missouri State University’s Dobbins Conservatory of Theatre and Dance. He appeared in the Black Hills in 2024 as Sebastian in Disney’s The Little Mermaid and in the ensemble of The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Romell is excited to return this summer. Follow him on Instagram @romell.johnson3.

Edward Rutledge, 1776 - Kevin J and Others, Come From Away

Jeff Kingsbury

Mr. Kingsbury has appeared in over 200 plays and musicals throughout his career. He is a Black Hills Playhouse favorite, having played some of his most cherished roles. At the top of the list, Jeff cites Richard Burbage/ Ben Jonson in The Book of Will, Ed Earl in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Man In Chair in The Drowsy Chaperone (twice), Morrie in Tuesdays With Morrie, Lurch in The Addams Family Musical and Frankie Cavalier in Pageant. Jeff is the Development Director for the BHP. He is extremely passionate about creating prosperity for the Playhouse.

Claude, Come From Away

John Kirk

John joins the company for his fourth consecutive season and couldn’t be happier. John studied

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theatre at SDSU in his youth and then became a coal-miner for 35 years. Now, in retirement John can devote his free time to his favorite avocation—acting or more specifically musical theatre. In John’s estimation musicals combine ALL the elements of theatre and are by far the best way to express oneself.

Stephen Hopkins, 1776

Erik K. Larsen

Erik K. Larsen -- An accomplished actor of stage and screen, Erik is excited to make his debut at the playhouse this summer after finishing his MFA in acting this past year. Originally from Utah, he has performed across the country, notable roles include: Rocky (The Rocky Horror Show), Schott (Bach at Leipzig), and Benedict (Much Ado About Nothing). All the love in the world goes out to my family and friends. www. TheErikLarsen.com

Thomas Jefferson, 1776 - Oz, Come From Away - Legionnaire, What the Constitution Means to Me

Maya Lysinger

Maya is very excited to be making her debut at Black Hills Playhouse this summer! Recent credits include: Inez in Our Lady of 121st ST, Becky in Waitress, and Julie Jordan u/s in Carousel. She’d like to thank her friends, family, and loved ones for their endless support of her artistic journey.

Lewis Morris / Robert Livingston, 1776 - Hannah / Margie / Mickey, Come From Away

Liv Moeller

Liv is overjoyed to be returning to the Playhouse for a second year! She is a theatre major at Augustana University in Sioux Falls, SD, and you may have seen her last summer as Vivienne in Legally Blonde at the Playhouse. Other notable roles include Penelope Pennywise in Urinetown and Lady Macbeth in Macbeth at Augustana University. She owes her success to her incredible professors at Augustana as well as her friends and family.

Liv Moeller, The Complete History of America (abridged) - Josiah Bartlett / Martha Jefferson, 1776 - Bonnie / Martha, Come From Away

Dakota Morgan

While this is his first time performing at the Black Hills Playhouse, he is no stranger to the stage. His recent credits include Jack Kelly in Disney’s Newsies, Jamie in The Last Five Years, Eric Birling in An Inspector Calls, Frank Thorney in Witch, Lucas Beineke in The Addams Family, Arthur de Bourgh in Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley, Noel Gruber in Ride the Cyclone, James Watson in Photograph 51, Gleb Vaganov in Anastasia, and Stine in City of Angels. He would like to thank his friends and family for always supporting his passions.

Charles Thompson & Andrew McNair, 1776

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Nadiya Naehr

Nadiya (Actor Intern) is currently pursuing a BFA in Drama (Musical Theatre) at NYU Tisch. Her previous roles include—Percy Jackson and The Lightning Thief (Silena/Oracle/ others), The Tempest (Gonzalo); NYU. Les Misérables (Ensemble); TUTS. Something Rotten! (Portia), Newsies (Ike); SJS. Choreographer at Dance Houston and Nritya School of Dance. Originally from HTX, she thanks her family for their love and support and is thrilled to spend her summer at Black Hills Playhouse!

James Wilson, 1776 - Understudy Female Roles, Come From Away

Finley Nelson

Debater, What the Constitution Means to Me

Jason Reuter

Jason returns to the Playhouse for his 18th season. After working professionally in the theater around the country and globe as an actor and technician for over 25 years,

Jason is now a full time dad and freelance artist in Rapid City operating under the moniker Against the Grain. He was most recently seen onstage as Hercule Poirot in last season’s Murder on the Orient Express.

Jason Reuter, The Complete History of America (abridged)

Ty Roberson

Ty Roberson (He/Him) is thrilled to be making his Theatre 605 debut. Recent credits include Come From Away (Kevin J/Bob, u/s—performed) and A Christmas Carol (Belle’s Husband) at Milwaukee Repertory Theatre. Additional work includes repertory performances at Scranton Shakespeare Festival and Frozen the Musical at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. He holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Emory & Henry University and is grateful to be continuing his work with new artistic communities. www. tyroberson.com | Instagram: Atdr_42

Joseph Hughes / Painter, 1776 - Bob / Muhumuza / Captain Bristol, Come From Away

Lynne Rothrock

Lynne Rothrock is an Iowa based singer, actress and arts educator. She has performed as a solo artist at a variety of venues around the United States, including Birdland (NYC), The Bluebird Café (Nashville), Davenports Cabaret (Chicago), The Dakota and Crooners (Minneapolis), Crown & Anchor (Cape Cod, MA). She has also worked for a variety of theatre companies around the country as actress and musical director. Some favorite roles include “Diane and others” in Come From Away, “Sugar” in Tiny Beautiful Things, “Rhetta” in Pump Boys and Dinettes and “Aldonza” in Man of La Mancha. Lynne has served on the faculty of Michael Feinstein’s Great American Songbook Academy and currently teaches in the music department at Luther College.

George Read, 1776 - Diane, Crystal, Brenda, Come From Away

Tom Schwans

Tom grew up in Belle Fourche, but he is currently a New York City-based

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CARE CLOSE TO HOME

Our Primary Care Physicians provide comprehensive care for the entire family through all phases of life, from prenatal care to childhood to senior years.

CUSTER CLINIC

HILL CITY CLINIC

Custer Hospital & Clinic

1220 Montgomery St., Custer | 605-673-9400

Primary Care, Same-Day Appointments

Emergency Department and Hospital Care

Rehabilitation Services including Physical Therapy,

Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy

Visiting Specialty Clinics including Endocrinology, Heart and Vascular, Orthopedics and Podiatry

Laboratory Services

Imaging including X-ray, CT, Ultrasound, DEXA, Mammagraphy

HOT SPRINGS CLINIC

Hill City Clinic 238 Elm St., Hill City | 605-574-4470

Primary Care, Same-Day Appointments

Hot Springs Clinic

1100 Highway 71 South, Ste. 101, Hot Springs 605-745-8050

Primary Care, No walk-in services

actor, director, producer, and teacher. He is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of The Guerrilla Shakespeare Project, which was nominated for 4 New York Innovative Theatre Awards. Tom has a BA from Minnesota State University, Moorhead & an MFA from Brown University. Teaching credits include Quinnipiac University, Fairfield University, Stockton University, Southern Connecticut State University, and Brown University.

John Dickinson, 1776 - Kevin T / Garth Bush, Come From Away

Skyler Weaver

Skyler is honored and thrilled to be returning to The Black Hills Playhouse! This will be Skyler’s third year in the Hills for another magical season. You may have seen Skyler as various characters in past seasons, such as Ogie in Waitress, Chef Louie in Disney’s The Little Mermaid, and Max in The Play That Goes Wrong

Skyler Weaver, The Complete History of

America (abridged) - Rev Witherspoon / Richard Henry Lee, 1776 - Joey / Other Roles, Come From Away

Lisa Wipperling

Lisa Wipperling, MFA (She/Hers) loves her summers at BHP and is thrilled to return for a 6th season! Last summer she directed BHP’s Legally Blonde. Previously she has acted in 9 to 5, The Drowsy Chaperone, Curious Incident…, Spamalot, Secret Garden, Shrek, She Loves Me, To Kill a Mockingbird, The Best Man and Sylvia! She hails from Western Illinois University as an Associate Professor of Musical Theatre and Voice. Tours/Equity- And the World Goes Round (Karen Mason), State Fair (Melissa), Calendar Girls (Karin), All Shook Up (Mayor), Airline Highway (Tanya), Arcadia (Lady Croom), NTC’s Christmas Carol Nat. Tour ’14-’15 (Mrs. Cratchit), NYC Fringe Festival’s In The Ebb. Regional FavoritesBlithe Spirit (Ruth), Richard III (Queen Margaret). Thank YOU for supporting the arts! www.lisawipperling.com

John Hancock, 1776 - Beverly, Come From Away

Emily Wirkus

Emily is thrilled to be returning to Theatre 605 for their third season! Emily is an Assistant Professor, Head of the BFA Musical Theatre Program, and Co-Artistic Director at the University of North Dakota in addition to their work as a freelance actor/director/choreographer. Some favorite recent roles of theirs include: Stage Manager (Our Town), Mrs. Lovett (Sweeney Todd), Mrs. Hubbard (Murder on the Orient Express), and Ursula (Disney’s The Little Mermaid).

Beulah and Delores, Come From AwayHeidi, What the Constitution Means to Me

DIRECTORS AND DESIGNERS BIOS

Balie Albrecht

Balie is thrilled to be part of this season at Black Hills Playhouse! She enjoys bringing stories to life and sharing music with students in the classroom. Whether in the pit or onstage, performing and spreading joy is where she feels most at home. Recently, Balie has performed in musicals with BHCT. She is grateful for every opportunity to create, perform, and connect. With heartfelt thanks to her family and friends—enjoy the show.

Percussion, Come From Away

Scott Matthew Anderson

Scott is currently an Assistant Professor of Costume and Wig Design at Southeast Missouri State University. He is also a costume and wig designer with extensive experience in theatre, dance, and opera. As a freelance designer, his work has been showcased at a wide range

of venues, including the Montgomery Theatre of Philadelphia, People’s Light and Theatre, Act II Playhouse, Ogunquit Playhouse, the Utah Shakespeare Festival, Sierra Repertory Theatre. Scott holds an M.F.A. in Costume Design from Indiana University.

Costume Designer, The Complete History of America (abridged)

Stephen M. Azua

Returning for his 20th season, Stephen is thrilled to serve as Head of Electrics. In addition to leading the electrics crew, he is designing lighting for Come From Away and What the Constitution Means to Me. Throughout the year, Stephen teaches technical theater arts at East Los Angeles College, helping students reach their goals as performing arts technicians and designers.

Lighting Designer, Come From Away & What the Constitution Means to Me

Amber Marisa Cook

Amber Marisa Cook is delighted to return to the BHP for her 12th season, along with her husband Chris and cats Lady and Sam. Previous costume and scenic designs at the BHP are numerous and usually include a bit of whimsy. Her work has been seen at various academic and professional institutions around the country and she is the Coordinator of Design and Technology and Professor of Costume Design for the Dobbins Conservatory. Her book on digital textiles is available through Focal Press.

Costume Designer, 1776

Sara Curran Ice

Sara Curran Ice is an Assistant Professor of Costume Design at the University of New Mexico. She holds a BA from Illinois State University and an MFA from the University of California, Irvine. A member of IATSE Locals 705 and 480, she has designed

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and worked in film, television, and theatre with companies including The Pasadena Playhouse, Black Hills Playhouse, and Illinois Shakespeare Festival. She is an active member of USITT, serving as National Co-Chair of Posters.

Costume Designer, Come From Away

John Paul Devlin

John Paul Devlin is a Professor Emeritus from Saint Michael’s College in Vermont, transitioning to full-time free-lance design work. He is happy to be returning to the BHP for his 16th season after designing the scenery for last season’s The Book of Will. John has also designed for Lost Nation Theater, Middlebury Acting Company, Slow Shapes Dance, Lines Vermont, Saint Michael’s Playhouse, Moonbox Productions, Vermont Stage, Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, Northern Stage, and The Rep among others. He lives in Bolton, VT with his wife Carol (also a BHP alum)—her continuing support makes his career in the arts possible.

Scenic Designer, What the Constitution Means to Me

Jayna Gearhart Fitzsimmons

Jayna Gearhart Fitzsimmons is a director, dramaturg, and theatre educator from Sioux Falls, SD, and she is thrilled to be joining the BHP family this summer! Jayna received her PhD in English literature and MA in theatre from the University of South Dakota and her BA in theatre from Southwest Minnesota State University. For the past 15 years, Jayna has taught in the theatre department at Augustana University, and she is the artistic director of Bare Bodkins Theatre Company.

Rai has been a practicing theatre director for over 35 years and received his BA and MA at San Diego State (the other SDSU). He earned his PhD from the University of California, San Diego. His dissertation, Empty Sky: 9/11 and Performing Regenerative Violence, examines theatrical, cinematic, and mediatized representations of 9/11 and

its aftermath. He has been working at the University of South Dakota’s Theatre Department since 2010 and became chair in 2014. Outside of USD, Rai is an amateur photographer, an ardent reader of sequential art narratives, and is thrilled to return to the BHP this summer!!!

Director, The Complete History of America (abridged)

Megan Gerlach

Megan Gerlach is a director and choreographer based in NYC and a graduate of the University of Minnesota/Twin Cities with degrees in Dance and Theatre. Directing/ Choreography credits include Waitress, BHP; Hair, LIMTF; and Best of Broadway, Adelphi University. Choreography credits include The Little Mermaid, 9-5, Cinderella, The Addams Family, Shrek, Spamalot, BHP; Funny Girl, Forestburgh Playhouse; Sweeney Todd, NYFA; Pippin, and Spring Awakening, LIMTF. She worked with both Nathan Brewer and Marcia Milgrom Dodge performing in and as associate Choreographer for Seussical the Musical, Theatreworks USA, from 2007-12. She is so delighted to be a part of the 80th

season here at the Playhouse, and is celebrating her 10th season coming out to the Hills in the summer to make art.

Director/Choreographer, Come From Away

Katie Gutmann

Katie is a dance artist and educator with more than twenty years of training in a variety of dance styles. She holds an MFA in Dance from Texas Woman’s University and a BA in Interdisciplinary Fine Arts—Dance Arts from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP). Katie currently serves as Dance Minor Program Coordinator and Assistant Professor of Dance at the University of South Dakota. She is excited for her first time working with the Black Hills Playhouse this summer!

Choreographer, 1776

Christopher Haug

Christopher is grateful to have the opportunity to be the technical director for the 80th Season, and to celebrate the country’s semiquincentennial with a lighting design for 1776. It is a privilege to work, create, and play in Custer State Park. Christopher is an Associate Professor of Design & Technology for the Dobbins Conservatory of Theatre & Dance at Southeast Missouri State University.

Lighting Designer, 1776

Vonnie Houchin

Loving the opportunity to again make theater magic, Vonnie is ecstatic to be part of the 80th season! As a veteran classroom middle school teacher, and music director at church, Dynamix A cappella chorus, and local theaters, Vonnie gets to work with some of the best musicians around. Recent productions include Black Hills Community Theater—SpongeBob the Musical, City of Angels, Seraphim Theater—Grease, BH Playhouse (2025)— Legally Blonde, Waitress. Thank you for supporting the arts—enjoy the shows!

Music Director, 1776 and Come From Away - Pianist, Come From Away

Patrick Knowles

Patrick Knowles is an educator and violinist in Rapid City. He currently teaches middle and elementary school orchestra in RCAS. When he’s not teaching, Patrick enjoys performing on his violin, hiking, reading, and spending time with loved ones. Patrick has previously performed in pit orchestras for productions by the Black Hills Community Theater and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Violin, Come From Away

Ty Micheel

Ty is excited to return to the Playhouse once again! Currently, he is an Assistant Professor at the University of South Dakota in Theatre Design and Technology specializing in Lighting and Sound. Previous Playhouse credits include The Play that Goes Wrong and The Book of Will. He’s eternally grateful for his wife Ash’s support in his artistic pursuits.

Lighting Designer, The Complete History of America (abridged)

Christina Olson

Returning for her 12th season, Christina is delighted to take on another summer managing the costume shop and designing costumes for What the Constitution Means to Me. Previous costume designs at the BHP include Legally Blonde, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime, The Lifespan of a Fact, The Odd Couple, Sherwood, and Tokens of Affection. Christina lives in Los Angeles freelancing as a costume technician in theatre, film/TV, and dance productions.

Costume Designer, What the Constitution Means to Me

Ahna Packard

(Associate ProfessorInterior & Product Design- University of Nebraska at Kearney, Production Scenic Designer, Local 800 Set Designer) – is a Scenic Designer, Senior

Set Designer, and Scenic Artist for theatre, television, and film. Her set designer credits include Monk, Star Trek: Enterprise, Castle Rock, and Star Trek: Nemesis as well as many other studio productions. As a theatrical designer, Ahna has designed for Cortland Repertory Theatre, Nebraska Repertory Theater, Black Hills Playhouse, and several universities.

Scenic Designer, The Complete History of America (abridged)

Mike Palmer

Mike Palmer is a 2024 SD Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee as the guitarist for Toadstool Jamboree.

He also is a founding member of the indie rock band, Corduroy Vinyl. As a longtime participant and patron of the theater and performing arts, he is humbled to be a part of a Black Hills Playhouse production.

Guitar, Come From Away

Fallon Podrazik

Fallon Podrazik is a recent graduate from University of Illinois Urbana Champaign with an MFA in Scenic Design. Fallon has always been passionate about scenic design and scenic painting. Her most recent work includes The Play That Goes Wrong and Little Women at UIUC; along with Come From Away at Little Theater on the Square. Fallon intends to grow her career as a designer and would like to thank all of her loved ones for the support throughout the years.

Scenic Designer, 1776

Lon Schnittgrund

Happy to be returning for a sixth season, and to be playing music with such a great group is such a thrill! Lon has played several musicals in the area as well as playing with the band, Corduroy Vinyl and also works for City of Rapid City. Previous productions he’s played at the Playhouse include Waitress, Something Rotten, 9 to 5 and Marvelous Wonderettes

Guitar, Bass, Come from Away

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Rowan V Sullivan

Rowan is excited to be back in the woods for a second summer at BHP! Previous designs heard at BHP include Murder on the Orient Express and Waitress. Other credits include The Night Witches and Chicago at The University of Memphis. She has mixed sound for BHP’s Legally Blonde and Waitress, Utah Festival Opera’s CATS, and University of Memphis’ Ride the Cyclone Rowan recently completed their MFA in Sound Design and Technology, and is excited to see where life takes them next!

Sound Designer, The Complete History of America (abridged), 1776, Come From Away, What the Constitution Means to Me

Alan Temple

Alan is thrilled to return to the Black Hills Playhouse for his seventh season and always enjoys being part of the music that brings each

production to life. He is currently in his 25th season as a percussionist with the Black Hills Symphony Orchestra and also performs with his church praise team. His previous Playhouse credits include Side Show, The Marvelous Wonderettes, Cinderella, Something Rotten!, 9 to 5, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, and Waitress. Alan retired in 2019 from Ellsworth Air Force Base, where he spent 35 years in project management within the engineering division.

Drums, Come From Away

Kathy Voecks

Kathy Voecks has been a scenic designer for over 30 years for theatres including The Black Hills Playhouse, The White Theatre at the J in Kansas City, The Blue Barn Theatre, Circa ’21 Dinner Playhouse, The Omaha Theatre Company, and The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center Theatre. She is a faculty member at the Dobbins Conservatory of Theatre and Dance at Southeast Missouri State University. She’s also a scenic artist,

props artisan and sometime projection designer. Kathy holds an MFA in scenic design from the University of Missouri, Kansas City.

Scenic Designer, Come From Away

Dan Workman

Dan Workman is excited to be a part of another summer in the beautiful Black Hills at the BHP.

In previous summers the shows Dan directed include The Drowsy Chaperone, and The Lifespan of a Fact. Dan has also acted in many shows, most recently The Book of Will. Dan is a faculty member and the Chair of the Theatre Department at Augustana University in Sioux Falls. Dan is grateful for the love and support of his family especially his wonderful wife of 33 years, Debra.

Director, 1776

PRODUCTION STAFF BIOS

Scott Matthew Anderson First Hand Cutter/Draper

See bio in Directors/ Designers

Stephen M. Azua Head Electrician

See bio in Directors/ Designers

Velma Brummett Stitcher

Hello my name is Velma (yes like Scooby doo) and I’m a sewing intern here at the Black Hills Playhouse. I have been sewing for over 6 years in my craft of cosplay, and I am currently working on my degree in costume design for theater at the University of New Mexico!

Amber Marisa Cook Production Manager

See bio in Directors/ Designers

Lauren Cavanah Stitching Intern

Lauren Cavanah graduated in May from Truman State University with her BA in Theatre. She is passionate about both performance and costuming duties. Some of her costuming experience at Truman State includes Associate Costume Design for She Kills Monsters, Costume Design for The 39 Steps, Makeup Design for Medea, Wig Stylist for Little Shop of Horrors and stitcher/first hand/cutter/draper for several shows, including all listed projects above. Lauren is ecstatic to spend her summer with Theatre 605!

Sydney Dallegge Stagecraft Intern

Sydney Dallegge is excited to join the Black Hills Playhouse for its 80th season after previously working as

a scenic artist for Godspell and Bright Star at the University of South Dakota, as well as working as charge artist for Pride and Prejudice at the University of South Dakota.

Anabel Gutierrez Carpenter Intern

Anabel is a carpentry intern for the Black Hills Playhouse. She is a rising senior at Western Carolina University where she is majoring in Entertainment Design & Technology with a concentration in scenic carpentry and stage management.

Christopher Haug Technical Director

See bio in Directors/ Designers

Alejandro Hernandez Stage Manager, 1776 & What the Constitution Means to Me

Alejandro Hernandez is excited to be making his debut at Black Hills Playhouse! Stage Management

Credits: No Suicide in Spring, The SpongeBob Musical, Twelfth Night, or What You Will, A Christmas Carol, The Country Wife (East Los Angeles College). Thank you to all my mentors at East Los Angeles College who continue to look out for me, my family and friends who are supporting me miles away, and Black Hills Playhouse for welcoming me to their amazing company! Shoutout to my Los Angeles Theater home, Geffen Playhouse!

Ciera Keller

Scenic Artist Intern

Ciera Keller is a scenic artist and designer known for her creative eye and attention to detail. She has contributed to a variety of productions, ranging from imaginative musicals to Shakespearean plays. Ciera excels at bringing design concepts to life on stage, often drawing inspiration from symbolism and deeper meaning. She enjoys collaborating with directors and fellow designers to develop

artistic visions. Ciera is currently studying for her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Scenic Design at the University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign.

Sheridan Kern Head Carpenter

Sheridan Kern is delighted to be a part of her first season with Black Hills Playhouse. She is a Scenic Design major at Weber State, and has designed for shows such as Ushuaia Blue and Mystic Pizza. Some of her scenic building credits include Twelfth Night, Brigadoon, and Cabaret. She has been building scenery for eight years and has built a passion for storytelling in the community. She is excited to use this passion to help support theatre in the Black Hills.

Sophia M. Kothe Charge Artist

Sophia, originally from Southwestern Colorado, is a Scenic Artist currently finishing up school. Being a lover of the arts AND the outdoors, she’s happy to be returning for her second year at the Playhouse.

Tennessen Laforest Carpenter Intern

Tennessen is super excited to be working at The Black Hills Playhouse as a carpenter for her first season! She is currently studying Technical Direction and Scenic Design at the Sargent Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster University. When she’s not working on a show, Tennessen loves to be outside, whether it’s rollerblading down a hill, riding her bike, or sailing. Any opportunity to be outside is an opportunity well spent!

Jack Neas

Assistant Technical Director

Jack, a rising senior at Northwest Missouri State University, is excited to join the Black Hills Playhouse team for the summer 2026 season. At Northwest, he has held a variety of roles including scene shop

Continued on page 46...

supervisor, Northwest Stage Technician, and various production assignments focusing on carpentry and technical direction. Outside of the theatre, Jack enjoys being outside, camping, and stargazing. He is thankful to everyone who has supported him on his theatrical journey and is excited for what is next.

Emma Niswander Stagecraft Intern

Emma is a current senior at Augustana University in Sioux Falls, SD. They are a Theatre major with a minor in Art. They’re a theatre generalist but feel most at home with a paint brush in their hand. Emma has designed Scenic, Costumes, Props and most recently, puppets. When Emma isn’t in the theatre, they enjoy being outdoors, going hiking and fishing as well as working with textile arts and crafts.

Christina Olson

Costume Shop Manager

See bio in Designers/ Directors

Flynn O’Neill Properties Intern

Flynn O’Neill is a rising third year undergraduate student at UNCSA. They have an interest in history and how to tell stories through prop making. They have aims to work internationally.

Izzy Paisley Stage Manager, The Complete History of America (abridged) & Come From Away

Izzy is super excited for their first season at the Black Hills Playhouse! They would like to thank their friends and family for all their endless support.

Morgan Rhone Electrics Intern

A Theatrical Technician who currently attends East Los Angeles College, his primary focus is lighting; however, he also engages in sound, scenic, and more. He’s designed for CTG and has worked as an electrician and carpenter on many productions. He has been a lighting assistant at the LA Opera on shows including Madama Butterfly, Cosi Fan Tutte, and Rigoletto. He has worked professionally in theater for seven years and looks forward to many years of discovery and creativity.

Libby Shelstad Head Properties

Libby Shelstad is a costume and scenic designer from Loveland, CO. She lived most of her life in Rapid City, and has worked with Black Hills Community Theater, Rapid City Central High School and St. Thomas More High School. She left a career as a Physical Therapist in 2022 to return to college for Theatre Design, graduating from Colorado State University in 2025. She is excited to join the Black Hills Playhouse as Head of Properties this season.

Rowan V Sullivan Sound Designer - Head of Audio/Sound Engineer

See bio in Designers/ Directors

Kaizley Williams Stitching Intern

Theater and costuming has been a love of Kaizley Williams since she performed in her first show at the age of 9. She started learning to sew at age 7 and quickly was drawn to the cosplay community. She followed that love into her schooling and Kaizley graduated from Stephens College in Columbia, MO with her degree in Costume Design and Construction. Since then, she has been expanding her dream and constructing costumes for shows of all types, across many states. She is excited to be a part of Theatre 605 this season and helping create the magic of the theater.

SPECIAL THANKS

Special thanks to Jason Reuter, Against the Grain, for our 80th Season Logo.

Special thanks to Custer Mile High Garden Club for maintaining the courtyard flowers.

Special thanks to the thousands of artists, technicians, and staff who have graced us with their talents over eight decades. And to our community of supporters who make it possible to do the work we do.

SUPPORT STAFF BIOS

Brad Anderson

Internet and Phone

Specialist

Brad has been a part of the Playhouse family for 15 years as a volunteer, and most recently in the past 4 years, providing support for the BHP’s wifi, fiber, and phone systems. Brad spent most of his career in broadcasting, but took a turn during COVID as a Build Dakota scholar, training as an IT specialist through Western Dakota Tech. He is now employed by Golden West Technologies as a Small Business Tech.

Grace Hill

Customer Service Intern

Grace Hill is currently a sophomore at Morningside University in Sioux City, Iowa, and is double-majoring in Musical Theatre and Music Education. Although this is her first time working behind the scenes, she’s acted in 39 plays and musicals. Her credits include Maria in Sound of Music, Elsa in Frozen, Donkey in Shrek, and Tara in Tara Shaped by the Figures. Grace grew up attending shows at Playhouse every summer and is thrilled to be a part of the team!

Scout Lacey

Customer Service Lead

Scout Lacey is a rising senior at LIU Post, majoring in Musical Theater. They are incredibly grateful

to spend their first summer with The Black Hills Playhouse! They would like to thank the entire Black Hills Team for the amazing opportunity and their wonderful family for their never-ending support!

Cam Parrack

Customer Service Intern

Cam is so excited to spend her first summer in the Black Hills! A B.F.A. Musical Theatre student at the University of South Dakota, she spends most of her time around the arts. Outside of the theatre, Cam likes to play board games and sing in the car with her friends. Glory be to God!

Derek

Phelps

Head Chef

Derek Phelps is blessed to cook for all the cast and crew at the BHP. Local to the Black Hills, he is excited to be the excuse for his amazing wife and daughter to spend even more time at the BHP than they already do. He enjoys all possible outdoor activities he can manage, when he’s not cooking, with his mini-dachshund Pinto. He is also available for private caterings after the season. Text or call (970) 584-6995. Thanks in advance, God bless.

Charlie Wood

Customer Service Intern

Charlie Wood is elated to be starting at the Black Hills Playhouse!

This fall they’ll be starting their Junior year at University of Sioux Falls double majoring in Communication Studies and Theater, and Media Studies. Their love of theater, and storytelling has aided them in various productions, whether performance or technical; school, community, or professional. When not in a show, Charlie can be found reading a good book, or crafting something. Thanks for coming to the show!

MARKETING

The actors take the spotlight. We help fill the seats. Proud marketing partner of Theatre 605. Bringing more people through the doors and into the magic of live theatre.

Vela Creative Co. a creative marketing agency who works with purpose driven nonprofits and small businesses.

Special playbill thanks to Erin Carney and Kelsey Stine.

www.velacreativeco.com

YEAR ROUND STAFF BIOS

Linda Anderson Executive Director

Believes that art is an economic driver for vibrant communities.

Fixer and builder. Musician. Always ready for a challenge - the bigger, the better. Knows theatre transforms lives and the importance of access for all.

Kassi Blue-Scates

Development Associate

A dreamer and selfmotivated individual who embraces the journey of life and cherishes family. She puts her heart into celebrating the people around her. For her, the theatre is the ultimate passion!

Liam Blue-Scates

Operations Director

Enjoys working with spreadsheets and solving puzzles. Participates in local theater productions and shares a deep passion for the arts with his lovely wife, Kassi.

Jeff Kingsbury Director of Development

Has a strong track record of fundraising for the Playhouse, fostering creativity, and connecting with diverse audiences to build lasting relationships that support the organization’s growth and sustainability. He blends outstanding acting abilities with a love for gardening with the heart of a child.

Gretchen Lindenberg Operations Assistant

A creative, outgoing soul with a big passion for bringing storytelling and the arts to communities all around. An avid performer both theatrically and vocally in the Black Hills area. Her grand organizational skills and bubbly personality bring an added spark to the behind the scenes of what Theatre 605 is all about!

Jen Luke Education Artistic Director

A theatre artist who loves the prairie and is passionate about creating performance opportunities for all people. She believes theatre helps individuals rehearse the lives they want to live, building connection, confidence, and community onstage and beyond.

Alex Newcomb Weiland Education Program Associate

Alex is someone who thrives in a lifestyle filled with collaboration and shared creative experiences. She loves to celebrate others’ artistic growth and promote individual discovery through theatrical endeavors. She believes theatre expands our minds and promotes a world of empowerment, empathy and inclusion.

Caitlyn Nordeen Education Production Coordinator

Caty joined the Education Dept. after stage managing at The Black Hills Playhouse Summer Stock in 2024. She’s found an

amazing community working alongside incredible artists in Sioux Falls - and is thrilled to continue bringing quality theatre to communities across the 605 Area.

Erin I. Wegleitner Education Program Associate

Calendaring wizard and designer who thrives on the intersection of education and the arts, ensuring that communities have access to transformative theatre experiences. A

firm believer in making art accessible for everyone.

Darryn

Witt Physical Plant Manager

Recently returned after a 30-year career with the National Park Service and has a passion for the forest. His skills and enthusiasm ensure that the BHP Company and its audiences can rely on him to maintain buildings, grounds, and equipment effectively.

Dan Workman

Artistic Director - Living Legend

Leads the artistic vision of the T605 and is the co-founder of Dakota Players, alongside his wife Debra, with whom he has shared over 30 years. He casts the season by scouting talent from across the nation to highlight in the Black Hills. His passion for T605 goes beyond words.

ACROSS

2. Precise, planned movement of actors on stage

6. Responsible for all the physical and auditory aspects of the production

8. Responsible for telling the story through dance

9. A long speech by one actor

12. “The Scottish Play”. Is believed to bring bad luck when uttered in a theatre

14. A division of a play, may be further broken down into “scenes”

15. What the Constitution Means to Me was a finalist in drama for this major award

17. A local Newfoundland phrase for anyone not born on the island

18. The most traditional stage set-up, where the stage is removed from the audience and is framed by an arch that separates it from the crowd

19. The space behind the stage where actors prepare

20. An invisible barrier between the actors and audience, often broken in The Complete History of America (abridged)

DOWN

1. The “captain of the ship,” ultimately responsible for all creative and artistic decisions in the production

3. A production with singing and dancing

4. German word that describes the first time the performers sit and run through the full score with the orchestra

5. Sometimes called “the chorus,” they are called upon to sing, dance, and play various roles in a musical

7. The written text of a play

10. The area where actors perform

11. 1776 was the first Broadway show to perform its entire production at this famous location

13. Superstitious way to wish an actor “good luck”

16. A single bulb left on stage when the theatre is empty

Helping your wealth plan perform a curtain call

Every great performance depends on planning, preparation and commitment. The same is true when managing your finances. The Hillard Williams Group can provide guidance to help your wealth plan deliver a memorable performance. Call today for a complimentary consultation.

Hillard Williams Group 243 Founders Park Drive, Suite 101 | Rapid City, SD 57701 Office: (605) 343-7720 | Toll free: (800) 658-5544 www.hillardwilliams.com

University of South Dakota

South Dakota Arts Council / National Endowment for the Arts EXECUTIVE PRODUCER $100,000+

John F. & Ruth D. Cannon Fund of South Dakota

Community Foundation

Fred & Luella Cozad Fund of the South Dakota

Community Foundation

Bob and Rita Elmen Family Foundation

Oswald Family Foundation (Pay-What-You-Can Sponsor)

Sheldon F. Reese Foundation

Mt Rushmore Brewing Co/Begging Burro (Guest Artist Sponsor)

Richard D. Wagner & Madeline/Lina F. Wagner Fund

Aspen + Pine Realty (Season Sponsor)

BankWest (Kids Go Free Sponsor)

Black Hills Energy (Season Sponsor)

Black Hills Pioneer (Media Sponsor)

Loyd & Meg Garrison Donor Advised Fund

Gilchrist Foundation

Hillard Williams Group (Season Sponsor)

Homeslice (Media Sponsor)

KOTA (Media Sponsor)

Massa Dental (Education Sponsor)

Powder House Lodge (Season Sponsor)

RCS Construction (Snack Bar Sponsor)

Sanford Health (Season Sponsor)

605 Magazine (Show Title Sponsor) Against the Grain

All American Siding and Windows & USA Roofing

(Guest Artist Sponsor)

ARC International

ATM Ventures

Carson Family Fund

Coca-Cola Bottling Company High Country (Guest Artist Sponsor)

Custer Wolf (Champagne Toast Sponsor)

Dacotah Bank (Guest Artist Sponsor)

Edward Jones of the Black Hills (Reception Sponsor)

First Premier Bank (Education Sponsor)

Flooring America

KASL (Media Sponsor)

Midco (Media Sponsor)

Mount Rushmore Society (Show Title Sponsor)

Petals & Pages (Guest Artist Sponsor)

The Plantsmyth (Grounds Sponsor)

Ronni Calvird American Family Insurance (Show Title Sponsor)

Sage Studios (Guest Artist Sponsor)

Shell Oil Company

South Dakota News Watch (Show Title Sponsor)

Uplifted Winery (Wine Sponsor)

For Individual Guardian Donors, please check the insert in the playbill or the website: www.theatre605.org/guardians/

LEGACY GIFTS

Including Theatre 605 in your estate planning is a powerful way to create a lasting legacy. The following donors have included us as part of their final wishes. If you want to include us in your estate planning, please contact Jeff Kingsbury at 605-255-4910 or by email at jeff@theatre605.org, or Linda Anderson at 605-939-5271 or by email at linda@theatre605.org.

Dr. Reuben Bareis

Jack & Ruth Cannon

Fred & Luella Cozad

Donna Fjelstad

Ardis & James Johnson

Jeff Kingsbury

Deborah Kuehn

Toni Martin

Cheryl & Bill Schreier

Perry & Lila Van Wie

DEB KUEHN

PHILANTHROPIST OF THE YEAR

Deb and her family have long supported Theatre 605. She is a tireless advocate for the organizations that she supports. Deb goes the extra mile by offering to be a matching donor for the Day of Giving. These campaigns raised over $65,000 in 2024 and another $60,000 in 2025, thanks in part to Deb’s generosity and her inspiration to other donors. Deb is also a board member for Theatre 605.

For the past several years, Deb has developed a “dog and pony” show for us, and she and Jeff Kingsbury have shared the history of the theatre and her personal experiences going to the Playhouse as a child! She continues to serve our organization and the community as a strong leader. Our sincere thanks to Deb Kuehn!

BANKWEST CORPORATE PHILANTHROPIST OF THE YEAR

Pierre National Bank (now BankWest) opened its doors on September 2, 1889. For more than 135 years, BankWest SD has earned long-term customer relationships by helping its customers and communities succeed while retaining hometown values and roots. BankWest has been a capital and program sponsor for decades, and we are grateful for all they do to preserve and promote the arts through support of Theatre 605.

BankWest continues to grow its physical footprint and expand both its menu of services as well as how those services are delivered. With its latest addition of offices in Madison and Spearfish, BankWest locations now span the state from east to west and north to south. Much more than a bank, the company offers full-service insurance, brokerage and trust services, along with abstract, title, and appraisal services.

Charles Burke, II, was instrumental in identifying Custer State Park as the site for the Playhouse and a Board Member and Honorary Board Member. Today, BankWest is a thriving community bank under the management of his son, Charles H. Burke III. “C3,” as he’s known to friends and coworkers, served on the BHP Board and continues the legacy support of the Playhouse and all of Theatre 605’s programs and initiatives!

THE LEADERSHIP CIRCLE

(AS

OF 5.13.2026)

In 2022, we launched our new initiative, “The Leadership Circle.” This special group commits to a minimum contribution of $1500 or more per year. This year, our Leadership Circle has grown to over 80 members (includes corporate sponsors, listed on pg.54). For more information, contact Jeff Kingsbury at 605-255-4910, or jeff@theatre605.org.

Anonymous

Anonymous

Christy Chamberlin & Bob Reich

Betsy Groves

Mary & Scot Hoscheid (Season Sponsor)

Deonne Kahler

Janet Kahler

Julie Oswald

Eileen Rossow

Scott M. Ton

Anonymous

Frances & Tim Becker (Season Sponsor)

Charles Blasdell

Cherril Brown

David Lee & Lisa Brown

Barbara & Harry Christianson

Jon & Wanda Dahlstrom

Meg & Loyd Garrison

Dave & Bonnie Guerre

Eric & Pris Hagen

Judy & Craig Hodson

Yildiz Lee

Peg Seljeskog

Larry & Pat Thomas

Shelli Vallis

Anonymous

Karen & Gerald Baldwin

Julie & Todd Brink

Cherril Brown

Janet Brown

Marci & John Burdick

Mary Burnett (Guest Artist Sponsor)

Carol Curran

Linda & Gene Fennell

Erin & Pat Goetzinger

Marnie & Mike Gould

Lia & Dick Green

Brie Groves

David Gwinn & Gina Nania

Dennyce & Carroll Korb

Mark & Meredith Meersman

Jennifer & Mark Radulovich

Elizabeth Bryan & Bill Rhode

Cynthia Robertson & Kyle Wiese

Andrea Ronning

Janet Serino

Barbara & Streeter Shining

Ann D & Lin Thompson

Anonymous

Linda & Brad Anderson

Nancy Barker

Julie & Todd Brink

Karen & Corey Brown

Mary Burns & Dale Christensen

LaVaughn & Jan Busse

Lisa Ficek

Carol & Tom Geu

Susan & Rick Giesel

Bruce & Michelle Harmon

Katie & Jim Hood

Laurence Johnson

Bruce & Carol Kelley

Lori Lange

Dean Mogle

Lois Ann & Charles Rose

Sybil & Chuck Rounds

Eliza & Joseph Raney

Mary Jane & Gary Rath

Jennifer Rollins

Alison & Troy Schmidt

Cheryl & Bill Schreier

Kelsey & Trevor Stine

Shari West-Twitero & George

Twitero

Eric Whitcher & Jessica Olson

Judy Vidal & Brent Cogswell

Mandie Weinandt

Mary & Todd Williams

Jan & Robert Woodruff