2025-26 season Disney's Frozen the Broadway Musical
Mar 28 - Apr 26, 2026
McColl Family Theatre
MUSICIANS & SONGS
BEHIND THE SCENES
CAST LIST (ADULTS)
CAST LIST (YOUTH)
CREATIVE TEAM
STAFF LISTING
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OUR SUPPORTERS
Photo by Graham Smith
The Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s Production of
Music and Lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez & Robert Lopez
Book by Jennifer Lee
Originally directed on Broadway by Michael Grandage
Based on the Disney film written by Jennifer Lee and directed by Chris Buck & Jennifer Lee
Originally produced on Broadway by Disney Theatrical Productions
March 28 - April 26, 2026 I McColl Family Theatre
Director Adam Burke
Music Director Matthew Primm
Choreographer Sharlie Duncan
Assistant Director & Projections Designer Caleb Sigmon
Scenic Designer Robin Vest
Lighting Designer Aimee Hanyzewski
Costume Designer Kendra Rai*
Sound Designer Jason Romney
Puppet Designer Kylie Clark
Intimacy Choreographer Laura Rikard
Stage Manager Steven James
*Member United Scenic Artists, Local USA 829
FROZEN is presented in special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com
RUN TIME 2 hours + 15 minute intermission
Videotaping, photography and other recording of this production is prohibited.
Many Thanks
Today’s celebration is supported in part by:
Mitchell Kelling
Bruce & Anita LaRowe
Arrington Mixon
Derek & Iris Wang
Children’s Theatre of Charlotte is supported, in part, by the City of Charlotte, and the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural & Cultural Resources. Additional support is provided by the Shubert Foundation.
Photo by Graham Smith
The 2025-26 Season
For This Production
Stage Manager...........................................................................................Steven James
Ava Buesing...................................Young Anna
PURPLE CAST
Lillian Staub.........................................Young Elsa Blair Carpenter.................................Young Anna
Matilda McDaniel...........................Swing
GOLD CAST SCHEDULE
Thurs, March 26 10 AM
Sat, March 28 11 AM & 5 PM
Tues, March 31 10 AM
Thurs, April 2 10 AM
Sun, Apr 5 1 & 6 PM
Sun, Apr 12 10:30 AM & 4 PM
Wed, Apr 15 10 AM
Fri, Apr 17 10 AM
Sat, Apr 18 11 AM & 4 PM
Wed, Apr 22 10 AM
Fri, Apr 24 10 AM
Sun, Apr 26 1 & 6 PM
Wed, Apr 29 10 AM
PURPLE CAST SCHEDULE
Fri, March 27 10 AM
Sun, March 29 10:30 AM & 4 PM
Wed, Apr 1 10 AM Sat, Apr 4 11 AM & 4 PM
Sat, Apr 11 11 AM & 4 PM
Tues, Apr 14 10 AM
Thurs, Apr 16 10 AM
Sun, Apr 19 1 & 6 PM
Tues, Apr 21 10 AM
Thurs, Apr 23 10 AM
Sat, Apr 25 11 AM & 4 PM
Tues, Apr 28 10 AM
Performance Schedule for Understudies & Swings
Wed, Apr 1 at 10 AM
Sun, April 12 at 10:30 AM
Sun, April 12 at 4 PM
Fri, April 17 at 10 AM
Sun, April 19 at 6 PM
Tues, April 21 at 10 AM
Lindsey Litka-Montes
Lindsey Litka-Montes, Matilda McDaniel
Matilda McDaniel
Matilda McDaniel
Morgan Wakefield, Matilda McDaniel
Lindsey Litka-Montes
b e h i n d t h e s c
Costume Design
by Kendra Rai
Scenic Design
Did you know that scenic elements, costumes, props, and more are all created in house at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte to bring each designer’s vision to life?
by Robin Vest
b e h i n d t h e s c e n e s
Photos by Graham Smith
cast bios Adult Cast
NONYE OBICHERE (Elsa) is thrilled to be back at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte! Favorite credits include Luttibelle (PURLIE VICTORIOUS) at North Carolina Black Repertory Company, Mary Jane (MARY JANE) and Sara, Queen City Nerve 2024 Critic’s Pick Best Actress , (CONFEDERATES) at Three Bone Theatre, Judy Bernly (9 TO 5) at Davidson Community Players, Maureen Johnson (RENT) and Sarah (RAGTIME) with Queen City Concerts, Grace Farrell (ANNIE) at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, Kaya (IF PRETTY HURTS…), Yitzhak (HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH), Titania/Hippolyta (A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM), and Whatsername (AMERICAN IDIOT), Heather Duke (HEATHERS: THE MUSICAL) at Queen City Theatre Company, Tina Turner (VEGAS! THE SHOW) on Norwegian Cruise Lines, and June (CHICAGO) and Alice’s Daughter/Violin (BIG RIVER) at Weathervane Playhouse. BFA Elon MT.
CLAIRE HILTON (Anna) is elated to return to the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte in FROZEN as Anna. Other favorite CTC credits include THE INVISIBLE BOY, GRACE FOR PRESIDENT, HARE AND TORTOISE, and touring the Carolinas as Nina in THE IMAGINATORS. When she isn’t onstage, Claire spends her time directing and teaching students. Claire previously served as the Director of Theatre at Charlotte Christian School, and as the Director of Shows and Experiences at Sigmon Theatrical. Claire dedicates her work in FROZEN to her twin sister, Polly, who is her creative inspiration, and
who ALWAYS wants to build a snowman. You can follow Claire on Instagram @firstclairelast.
ROBERT SHARKEY (Hans) is ecstatic to be returning to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte from his first national tour as Santa with A CHRISTMAS STORY THE MUSICAL. Past regional credits include Amos Hart (CHICAGO), Buster (ARTHUR AND FRIENDS MAKE A MUSICAL), Rowley (DIARY OF A WIMPY KID, THE MUSICAL), Ned (SCHOOL OF ROCK), Lt. Ward/ Bert Healy (ANNIE), ensemble (Pirelli u/s, Beadle u/s) (SWEENEY TODD),and Winnie (A WINNIE THE POOH CHRISTMAS STORY). A graduate of Western Kentucky University with a B.F.A in Performing Arts, he has performed variety shows across the U.S. at Holiday World, California’s Great America, Kings Island and abroad on the Oceania Nautica.
JEREMY DECARLOS (Kristoff) is an actor, writer and musician. Though born in Florence, South Carolina he was raised across the state, in the rural areas of Florence and Marion County, as well as Myrtle Beach and Columbia. After earning his BA from Winthrop University, he moved to Charlotte, North Carolina where he has been frequently involved with Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte. He has become a notable figure in the artistic community, having earned the honor of Charlotte Magazine’s Best Actor in Charlotte Award in 2012, 2013 and 2015. Jeremy is honored to return to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte for DISNEY’S FROZEN. Audiences may remember Jeremy from BESSIE COLEMAN: FEARLESS AND FREE earlier this season.
cast bios
Adult Cast
CHESTER SHEPHERD (Sven) feels positively circumpolar to be in FROZEN. Chester is the co-founder of Shepherd Shakespeare Company, which tours Shakespeare plays for young audiences, produces a free Shakespeare in the Park style show every fall--Bard at the Barn--and provides educational experiences, including the Shakespeare Summer Repertory Company for teens in association with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. Other Children’s Theatre of Charlotte shows include JACKIE AND ME, A SICK DAY FOR AMOS MCGEE, and DR. SEUSS’ THE CAT IN THE HAT (Twice!). Other plays include THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT TIME and HAND TO GOD at Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte. TV includes WILL TRENT and various commercials. Chester holds an MFA in Acting from Western Illinois University, and is represented for film/TV by JTA Talent. Chester would like to thank the absolute joys of his life, Katy and Perbear (Hi Perry!). He dedicates this show to Grandma Hornbeck, a beloved lighthouse of inspiration. Love you, Grandma.
BRANDON J. JOHNS (Olaf) is so excited to be the snowman of the season here at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte! Brandon is an actor, music director, and educator with 15+ years of professional experience. He was last seen as Sam the Snowman (RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER). Other roles at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte include Elephant (ELEPHANT AND PIGGIE’S: “WE ARE IN A PLAY!”), Oliver Warbucks (ANNIE), and Big Bad Wolf (SHREK THE MUSICAL). Bran-
don is also a musician, arranger, and composer. Some of his original music and arrangements have been featured at Firehouse Theatre in Richmond, Va and the Six Flags theme park, King’s Dominion. You can also hear some of his work in Children’s Theater of Charlotte’s tour of TOPSY-TURVY CINDERELLA. Brandon sends endless thanks and warm hugs to his mother and brother for their constant support and love. For DLJ.
STUART RANSON (Weselton) studied improvisation after graduating from The College of William and Mary. After completing the Chicago training centers of iO, The Annoyance Theater, and Second City, he began a tour of duty with the Second City National Touring Company. At Second City, he also performed with the ETC cast in the Jeff Award Winning HOLY WAR, BATMAN!, as well as on the NCL Epic, Breakaway, Dawn and Gem with The Second City Theatricals. In New York, Stuart performed with the Magnet and PIT Theaters, and he is a founding member of the international music improv troupe Baby Wants Candy. Since moving to Charlotte, he has performed at CATCh theater with his music improv group, Swell, with Blume Studios and Queen City Comedy, and teaches at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte and Acting Out Studios.
MARVIN KING (King Agnarr/ Ensemble) is thrilled to return for his second Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s main stage production. A Birmingham Alabama native, Marvin studied Business and Theatre at UAB and lived in Orlan-
cast bios Adult Cast
do, Huntsville and Nashville before making Charlotte his creative home for the past 15 years. He has performed on several local stages including Three Bone Theatre, Theatre Charlotte, Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte, CPCC, Matthews Playhouse, Parkway Playhouse, Piedmont Players (Board of Governors). Favorite roles include Ken (AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’), Gordon/Ensemble (RENT), Maxwell (WHAT THE END WILL BE), and of course the Reverend (THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL). Offstage, Marvin works as a Mortgage Loan Officer, is a devoted dog dad to Samson, proud uncle (love you Jaxon, AJ and Wolfe!), and loyal Alabama football fan (don’t hate, Rolltide).
JULIE WEIR (Queen Iduna/ Ensemble) is proud to wear many hats (sometimes quite literally) at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, where she serves as an actor, OnStage director, and teaching artist. She holds a BA in Musical Theatre from James Madison University and an MFA in Classical Acting from the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Academy for Classical Acting. Select local and regional credits include THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER and PIGS IS PIGS at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte; OLIVER and A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM at Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre); GYPSY and MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre); KINGS at Studio Theatre; and more than 20 productions with The Barter Theatre. Love to Madelyn and Sadie—and to Tim, who supports a home where FROZEN dress-up knows no age limit.
ERICKA ROSS (Bulda/ Ensemble) is excited to be part of the 2025-26 season at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. Ericka has performed with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte for over 10 years. Ericka has recently graced different stages of Charlotte, NC in August Wilson’s JOE TURNER’S COME AND GONE, SCHOOL OF ROCK, and I AM QUEEN CHARLOTTE. Ericka also had the opportunity to perform in Nashville, TN in I AM QUEEN NASHVILLE. Ericka gives all credit for her gifts to God and gratitude for the support from family and friends.
RICHARD EDWARD III (Oaken/ Ensemble) (BFA Illinois) made his debut last season with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte in SCHOOL OF ROCK, and this year he is thrilled to return in DISNEY’S FROZEN THE BROADWAY MUSICAL. Earlier in the season, Richard was cast in THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR and as Coach Comet and Yukon Cornelius (RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER). Richard recently appeared as Lucius (TITUS ANDRONICUS) with South Carolina Shakespeare Company. Richard has built a dynamic career spanning classical drama to contemporary family theatre. As an advocate for dyslexia awareness, he is passionate about using storytelling to empower people to see their unique strengths as superpowers. Based in Columbia, South Carolina, he lives with his wife and two daughters.
cast bios
Adult Cast
STEPHAN JOQUAN WILSON (Pabbie/Ensemble) is excited to be returning to the Children Theatre of Charlotte stage, last seen as Harold (CATCHING THE MOON: THE STORY OF A YOUNG GIRL’S BASEBALL DREAM). He’s a proud product of Flint, Michigan with a BFA in Musical Theatre from Central Michigan University, Fire Up Chips! His regional credits include: Drifter (BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL) at Aurora Theatre, Adam (THE COLOR PURPLE) at City Springs Theatre Company, Ziggy (BOB MARLEY’S THREE LITTLE BIRDS) at Synchronicity Theatre, Frog (A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD) at Cardinal Stage, and Sky Square (POLKADOTS: THE COOL KIDS MUSICAL) at Festival 56. He would like to thank his mentors, friends, and family for their love and support as he continues to follow his dreams. Follow his journey on instagram @stephanw921
JENNIFER POARCH (Female
Ensemble) is delighted to return to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte in FROZEN. You may have spotted her as a tap-dancing chimney sweep, various faces in THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL, a cute penguin, a grumpy toad, an ogre, a bear, a wolf, a farmer, a librarian, a mom, and a birdseed dispenser in previous productions at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte! Some favorite regional performance credits include Alice Murphy (BRIGHT STAR), Natalie/ Ed (ALL SHOOK UP), Kala (TARZAN), Mary Poppins (MARY POPPINS), Lilli/Kate (KISS ME KATE), Cassie
(A CHORUS LINE), Guinevere (CAMELOT), Mrs. Anna (THE KING AND I), Barbara (SHEAR MADNESS), Shelby (STEEL MAGNOLIAS), and Julie (PIZZA MAN). Jennifer gives thanks to her family, friends and God for all their love and support.
TY ROBERSON Male Ensemble, Hans u/s) (he/him) is thrilled to be making his debut with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte! He is a proud graduate of Emory & Henry University, where he earned a BFA in Musical Theatre. His favorite credits include Samuel (ALL THE NATALIE PORTMANS), Timon (TIMON OF ATHENS), Ernst (SPRING AWAKENING), and Flick (VIOLET), Dick (9 TO 5), and Man 1 (SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD). Ty is passionate about storytelling that uplifts community, joy, and self-discovery. Endless love and gratitude to his family, friends, and mentors for their unwavering support. @Atdr_42/www.tyroberson.com.
HANNAH GREY ELROSE (Female Ensemble) is thrilled to be making her Children’s Theatre of Charlotte debut! A Charlotte native, Hannah attended Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Summer Camps as a child and feels really grateful to be making this full circle return as an adult. Hannah has spent the majority of her career traveling the world as a performer on cruise ships. Favorite roles include in ROCK OF AGES (Sherrie) and JERSEY
cast bios Adult Cast
BOYS (Mary Delgado/Dance Captain). Hannah also spent a season cheering on Charlotte’s own Carolina Panthers as an NFL Cheerleader. Married to a fellow triple-threat, Hannah co-hosts the Shmoe Morning Show with her husband Joey each weekday morning, spreading positive vibes & joyful entertainment. IG: @shmoemorningshow
ANDRE BRAZA
(Male Ensemble, Weselton/Olaf u/s) Mabuhey! Andre is a proud Filipino-American performer and is excited for his second season at the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte! Some of his favorite roles include Chirag Gupta (DIARY OF A WIMPY KID THE MUSICAL) at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte; Artist/Chen (THE MAGIC PAINTBRUSH) at The REV Theater Company; Swing/Ens (KINKY BOOTS), Duke of Bedford U/S Dauphin (HENRY V), Radio Announcer/Ens (A BIG DAY FOR BASEBALL, A MAGIC TREE HOUSE ADVENTURE) at the Orlando Shakes; and Ens/Accordion (INDECENT), and Zachary Briddling (THE GRUMPIEST BOY IN THE WORLD) at Theater UCF. He graduated from Appalachian State University with a BA in Theater and the University of Central Florida with an MFA in Acting. In his free time, he loves to game.
COLEMAN DAVID CAMPBELL (Male Ensemble, King Agnarr/Oaken u/s) is excited to be a part of this production. Born into a theatrical family, he has been onstage and backstage his whole life. His favorite roles include: Colin (THE SECRET GARDEN), Anthony (SWEENEY TODD), Demitrius (A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM), Malvolio (TWELFTH NIGHT),
Chadd (ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE), and Javert (LES MISÉRABLES: IN CONCERT). In the Charlotte area, he has recently performed as Richard Henry Lee (1776), Algernon (THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST), Tom Jenkins (SCROOGE: THE MUSICAL), Louis the Baker (SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE), Gabe/British Rocker (FIRST DATE), David (THE FOREIGNER), and Larsen (OSLO). He holds a master’s degree in musical theatre from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and a BFA in Acting from Shenandoah Conservatory. For Uncle Jason.
BROOKE MCCARTHY Female Ensemble, Queen Iduna u/s) is thrilled to return to the stage at the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. Recent credits: THE INVISIBLE BOY (Mrs. Carlotti, Trina), SCHOOL OF ROCK (Mrs. Travis/ Gordon), DR. SEUSS’ THE CAT IN THE HAT (Swing: Cat [performed], Girl). Other credits: COMING OF AGE - Host (One Voice Chorus), THE WILD PARTY - Kate (Queen City Concerts), MISS BENNET: CHRISTMAS AT PEMBERLEY - Mr. Darcy (Davidson Community Players). Her one-woman musical comedy HOW TO BE AN ETHICAL SL*T has earned numerous awards, including recent Critic’s Pick for Best One-Person Show (Queen City Nerve). Her current solo show in development GASLIGHTING: THE MUSICAL! goes into preview performances May 15-16 at Charlotte’s Off-Broadway. Brooke holds her MFA in Acting from the University of Georgia, has taught at Virginia Tech, and teaches adult acting classes and private lessons across Charlotte. www.brookemccarthy.com
cast bios
Adult Cast
AMANDA BECKER (Female Ensemble) is excited to be back at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte as part of the ensemble of FROZEN. She has previously performed with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte in SCHOOL OF ROCK, ELEPHANT & PIGGIE’S: “WE ARE IN A PLAY!”, and MADAGASCAR, and is always happy to return to a space where she can get her “play” on! Other credits include AMERICAN IDIOT with Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte, BOEING BOEING with Central Piedmont Summer Theatre, and CELTIC ANGELS: CHRISTMAS TOUR with CMI Entertainment. Amanda is thrilled to help bring a little magic to Charlotte.
MORGAN WAKEFIELD
(Female Ensemble, Anna u/s)
Feeling ice-solutely ecstatic to be in the cast of Frozen! From musical theatre, straight plays, TV, film, radio, video games, ballet, parades, and more, if there’s performing involved, Morgan has professionally done it! Some of her theatre highlights include shows such as NARNIA, THE MUSICAL, SHREK, ANNIE, and THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL, at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. She also originated the role of Eva (ALLIE KAZAN AND THE MAGIC MANSION). Other credits include (Mark Antony(JULIUS CAESAR), Judy (A CHORUS LINE), and Hodel (FIDDLER ON THE ROOF). Psalm 149:3.
LINDSEY LITKA-MONTES (Elsa Standby) is thrilled to make her Children’s Theatre of Charlotte debut covering for the role of Elsa! Other recent credits include Maureen in RENT (Lee Street Theatre) and Sally Bowles in CABARET (Old Courthouse Theatre). She’d like to thank her incredibly supportive husband, Matty Montes, as well as her DDLM family for their love through this process.
TOMMY
FOSTER (Swing) is a professional actor, director, and educator who has appeared in regional theatres across the East Coast, in national commercials for Nickelodeon, McDonald’s, and Food Lion, and is the recipient of a coveted Bistro Award for his cabaret work. Local audiences have frequently seen Tommy onstage at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte in productions including ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA THE MUSICAL (Miss Trunchbull) and THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE(Aslan), where he also serves as a teaching artist and director. His directing credits include LIARS, CHICAGO, EVITA, THE TEMPEST, and SWEENEY TODD. Tommy earned his MFA in Classical Acting from the Shakespeare Theatre Company Academy at GWU and his BFA in Musical Theatre from the University of Michigan, and creates educational content focusing on positivity through his digital platform, Fostering365. www.tommyfosternyc.com
cast bios Youth Cast
AVA BUESING (Young Anna) is 9 years old living in Cornelius, NC. She is thrilled to be making her debut at the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte as Young Anna. National credits include: North American Tour of LES MISERABLES (Little Cosette). Local credits include: FINDING NEMO JR. (Nemo), SEUSSICAL JR. (JoJo) & FROZEN JR. (Ensemble). Thank you to the entire cast and crew of FROZEN and to her friends and family for their endless support.
BLAIR CARPENTER (Young Anna), age 10, is thrilled to be making her professional theatre debut with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte in FROZEN. She is grateful to her Lumi School of Musical Theatre family for fostering her love of performing, where she first began appearing in musical theatre productions. Blair has trained with Broadway Artists Alliance in New York City and had the unforgettable opportunity to open for the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall with Spotlight Kidz. She was recently cast as Alice in KOTA Productions’ MATILDA in New York City. Blair is deeply honored for this opportunity and thanks her teachers, friends, and family for their constant encouragement and support. Most importantly, she thanks God for guiding every step. Follow Blair on social media @BlairACarpenter.
MERRITT BUNNER (Young Elsa) is pleased to return to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte as Young Elsa after making her debut on their stage last year as Gladys in THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER. A born performer, she first appeared as Elsa at age 10; this production marks
her 3rd time in the role. Her previous theater credits include CINDERELLA (Wicked Stepsister), ANNIE (Annie), and SISTER ACT (Mary Patrick). She recently began her film career with the short film Poachers, set for release this summer. The youngest of four, Merritt is grateful for the support of her family, especially her grandmother, and appreciates the continued support and encouragement of the teachers and community at Charlotte Country Day School.
LILLIAN STAUB (Young Elsa) is delighted to make her debut with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. Her previous credits include Jojo in SEUSSICAL, Ladybug in JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH JR, and Flotsam in THE LITTLE MERMAID with The Lotus Project; Crush in FINDING NEMO JR with Theatre Charlotte; and one of the Three Little Pigs in SHREK with Northwest School of the Arts. She has also performed in multiple productions through Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s OnStage program over the past four years. Lillian is a seventh grader at First Ward Creative Arts Academy and a long-time student of the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte School of Theatre Training. She is grateful to the educators, family, and friends who continue to support her passion.
MATILDA MCDANIEL (Swing), also known as Tilly, is ecstatic to be working on DISNEY’S FROZEN at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. Tilly is a senior at Gaston Day school and hopes to go to college for musical theater in the fall of 2026. You may recognize her from Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s production of THE BEST CHRISTMAS
cast bios Youth Cast
PAGEANT EVER as Beth, as Rudolph in RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER, or as Eponine in the Summer Stage production of LES MISÉRABLES. Tilly was a Top Six Best Actress in the 2024 Blumey Awards for her role as Lucy in YOU’RE A GOOD MAN CHARLIE BROWN. She would like to thank her friends, parents, cast and crew for supporting her through this next level educational experience. She would like to give a special thanks to her mom for making it possible to take part in this show.
Photos by Graham Smith
CREATIVE TEAM Makers of Magic
Adam Burke (Director) is overjoyed to be in his thirteenth season as the Artistic Director at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, where he gets to come every day and do what he loves. Prior to this, Adam was the artistic director of the Scioto Society, which produces the outdoor drama Tecumseh. Before that, Adam was the artistic director of the Chicago Theatre for Young Audiences, an artistic associate at Childsplay Theatre in Tempe, Arizona under the Theatre Communication Group’s New Generations fellowship program and the director of theatre programs at the Jewish Community Center in San Antonio, Texas. Adam earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in acting/directing at the University of Arizona and his Master of Fine Arts in directing at Northwestern University. During his tenure in Chicago, Adam worked at the Goodman, Steppenwolf, Chicago Shakespeare and Northlight Theatres and as the resident director at Open Eye Productions. Adam participated in the International Directing Symposium, hosted by LaMama Theatre, in Umbria, Italy; the National Advanced Stage Combat Workshop, hosted by the Society of American Fight Directors, ASSITEJ’s (International Association of Theatre for Children and Young People) One Theatre World, and the ASSITEJ International Directing Symposium in Stuttgart, Germany. Adam is a past recipient of the ASSITEJ/USA Ann
Shaw Fellowship and of the Chicago Drama League International Research Grant. Selected directing credits include: MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET, RENT, THE RELUCTANT DRAGON, INTO THE WOODS, SHREK THE MUSICAL, A FLEA IN HER EAR, THE MIRACULOUS JOURNEY OF EDWARD TULANE, CHARLOTTE’S WEB, MATILDA THE MUSICAL, SCHOOL OF ROCK, and ELLA’S BIG CHANCE: A JAZZ AGE CINDERELLA. Adam thanks the production team, who worked brilliantly and tirelessly to bring Disney’s FROZEN to life, and he sends much love to his amazing children and wonderful wife.
Matthew Primm (Music Director) is thrilled to be returning to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s Mainstage season with this production of FROZEN. He most recently music directed RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER. He has been a Teaching Artist at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte since 2019 and previous OnStage music direction credits in the School of Theatre include GUYS AND DOLLS, BYE BYE BIRDIE, and 42ND STREET. Matt holds degrees in music from UNC Charlotte and the Hartt School in Connecticut. He is the director of orchestras at Northwest School of the Arts in Charlotte. In addition to his work as a music director and educator, Matt is a freelance violist and performs with the Charlotte Strings Collective. He would like to thank Adam, Sharlie, and the absolute best cast and crew for this wonderful collaboration.
CREATIVE TEAM Makers of Magic
Sharlie Duncan (Choreographer) is an accomplished performer and choreographer with an extensive international career. As a professional dancer, she has toured Europe, Asia, and the United States in a wide range of productions. Select credits include FAME (International Tour) and La TRAVIATA (Royal Opera House, London and Japan). She also toured the UK, US, and Asia with Spirit of The Dance, performing many of their shows worldwide. Closer to home, Sharlie has performed with The Carolina Opry, Kinetic Dance and Sarah Council Dance Projects. As a choreographer and teacher, she has created original work for numerous theaters and schools in the Charlotte area, most recently with Theatre Charlotte and Post Mortem Players. She currently serves as a Teaching Artist at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte and is passionate about developing young performers and using movement to deepen storytelling. Sharlie is thrilled to be part of the creative team for FROZEN, helping bring this magical story to life through movement.
Caleb Sigmon (Assistant Director & Projections Designer) is a producer, director, and performer, with credits ranging from national tours (JOURNEY TO OZ) to directing for television (Life in the Carolinas) and teaching in the classroom (UNC School of the Arts). Alongside his wife, Katy, he operates SIGMON THEATRICAL, an in-
teractive and immersive production company, collaborating with nationally recognized theatre companies, partnering with communities, and empowering students in the classroom. Projects include touring shows (DRAGON QUEST, DINO ROAR LIVE!!), immersive productions (The Wonderland Experience, The Sleepy Hollow Adventure, DreamWorks Adventure to Santa), and festivals (Carolina Pumpkin Spelltacular, Winterfest), along with dozens of educational touring productions. Sigmon Theatrical designs and produces bespoke stage shows and live entertainment for large-scale festivals, parades, and events across the Southeast, with credits such as performing annually at The Vision Awards and producing the televised opening number for the Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade. Caleb and Katy also presented a series of workshops and masterclasses in conjunction with the North American Tour of DISNEY’S THE LION KING. Together, Caleb and Katy are proud to call the Carolinas home, where they live in a house jam-packed with magic tricks, costumes, puppets, and their two sons, Levi and Charlie. @ calebsigmonlive | @sigmontheatrical
Robin Vest (Scenic Designer) At Children’s Theatre of Charlotte: PETER PAN, ANNIE, and NARNIA THE MUSICAL. In
CREATIVE TEAM Makers of Magic
addition Robin has designed in North Carolina with Triad Stage, Playmaker’s Rep, UNCG, Cape Fear Regional Theatre, and Brevard Music Center. Outside of North Carolina Robin’s work has been seen at Tulsa Performing Arts Center, Profile Theatre Company, Theatre Squared, The Goodman, The Old Globe, Washington National Opera, Utah Opera, Vancouver Opera, Fort Worth Opera, Cleveland Playhouse, Merrimack Rep, Barrington Stage, Williamstown Theater Festival, Alpine Stage, and Opera House Arts. In New York she has worked with Manhattan Theater Club, Lincoln Center, Manhattan Class Company, Playwright’s Horizons, Second Stage, The Cherry Lane and many others. Robin currently teaches at the University of Central Oklahoma and holds an MFA from Yale School of Drama. www.robindvest.com
Aimee Hanyzewski (Lighting Designer) is glad to be back working with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte (CTC) for her tenth year on DISNEY’S FROZEN THE BROADWAY MUSICAL. She has designed such hits for Children’s Theatre of Charlotte CTC as PINOCCHIO, NARNIA THE MUSICAL, DON’T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS!, SHREK THE MUSICAL, PETER PAN, ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA THE MUSICAL, GRACE FOR PRESIDENT and DISNEY AND CAM-
ERON MACKINTOSH’S MARY POPPINS. Other regional theaters Aimee has designed for are Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, Capital City Theatre, Media Theatre, Forward Theater, Merrimack Repertory Theatre, and Actors Theatre of Louisville.
Kendra Rai (Costume Designer) is extremely excited to be working at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte for the first time. Kendra is the Head of Design and Costumes at Virginia Commonwealth University, but has done most of her design work in her theatrical home of Washington, D.C. Kendra received the Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Costume Design in 2012, 2015, 2018, and 2025, and has been a nominee for the award nine times. Kendra’s work has been seen at Olney Theatre Center, Signature Theatre, Round House Theatre, Adventure Theatre, Opera Lafayette, Synetic Theater, Constellation Theatre, New Victory Theater (NYC), Theater J, 1st Stage, Virginia Repertory Theatre, and Imagination Stage. Kendra is a Princess Grace Honorarium recipient and holds an MFA from Pennsylvania State University. Kendra adores teaching costume design and has held teaching posts at Howard University, University of Pittsburgh, and Gallaudet University. Many thanks to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte for the invitation to work on FROZEN; it has been a magical experience.
CREATIVE TEAM Makers of Magic
Jason Romney (Sound Designer) is excited to return to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte as the sound designer for DISNEY’S FROZEN THE BROADWAY MUSICAL. Jason’s first professional sound design job was in 1996 the Unicorn Pillow Theatre. Since then he has designed sound for over 100 productions with theatre companies across the country including Alliance Theatre Company, Playmakers Repertory Company, Weston Playhouse Theatre Company, Florida Studio Theatre, Triad Stage, Piedmont Opera, and Utah Festival Opera.. Some favorite projects with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte are THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT THE MUSICAL, ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA THE MUSICAL, DR. SEUSS’ THE CAT IN THE HAT, THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE and GRIMMZ FAIRY TALES. Jason is a Professor and Director of Sound Design at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts where he has trained hundreds of students who work around the world in all areas of the entertainment industry.
Staff
Leadership
Artistic Director - Adam Burke
Managing Director - Nao Tsurumaki
Administration
Human Resources Manager Carolyn Lugo-Allred
Business Manager Alex Doxey
Senior Accountant Crystal Johnson
ImaginOn Partnership Coordinator Maryann O’Keeffe
ImaginOn Administrative Support Casey Kaufmann
Artistic & Production
Director of Production Steven Levine
Costume Shop Manager Anna Klinger
Cutter-Draper Emily Heilig
Crafts Specialist Elizabeth Swanson
Technical Director Shane Burgett
Resident Stage Manager Steven James
Charge Scenic Artist Tim Parati
Master Carpenter John Slechta
Head Electrician Lawrence Csernik
AV Supervisor Michael Russo
Assistant Technical Director Sterling Lett
Assistant Electrician Amber Bidwell
Scenic Carpenter Maddie Anthony
Sound Assistant Maddi Penn
Properties Master Bekah Achuff
Production Assistant/Associate Artist Claire Hilton
Education
Director of Education EG Engle
Development
Director of Development Courtney Hurd
Grants and Partnership Manager Jean Edwards
Donor Relations Specialist Emily Swanzy
Operations Coordinator Ava Jessup
Marketing and Communications
Director of Marketing & Communications Cindy Taylor
