2025-26 OGHS Musical Playbill - Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Light Light

Dear Friends of O’Gorman HighSchoolTheatre,

Welcome to another remarkable season of theatre at O’Gorman High School! Each year, our students bring stories to life with creativity, passion, and purpose. Their performances reflect not only hours of preparation and teamwork but also the joyful expression of the gifts and talents God has entrusted to them.

Our theatre program continues to be a shining example of excellence within our Catholic school community. Under the leadership of our dedicated directors and staff, our students embrace the opportunity to grow as artists and as people of faith—offering their very best as a reflection of God’s glory. In every scene and every song, they reveal what it means to be part of something greater than themselves.

We are blessed to share in a tradition where faith and artistry come together to inspire, challenge, and delight. Thank you for joining us tonight and for supporting these talented students as they maximize their God-given abilities and shine their light for all to see.

Enjoytheshow!

Kyle L. Groos President

Dreams Filled By Grit

Adam Cantagui’s Journey to Juilliard

For anyone pursuing the arts, acceptance into The Juilliard School in New York City is considered the ultimate achievement — a distinction few ever attain. Yet for OGHS graduate Adam Catangui (’19), that dream has become a reality. He is now living in New York City and studying in one of Juilliard’s most prestigious programs. The Artist Diploma programs at Juilliard are the most advanced non-degree track, and provide focused studies for young artists in the pre-professional stages of their careers. The Juilliard Artist Diploma in Opera Studies only takes four singers a year after a thorough audition process. Auditions are three days long with cuts made at the end of each day. This program is tuition free and includes a stipend. The ideal candidate for the program is an advanced vocalist with a

strong musical personality, intellectual curiosity, a clear sense of artistic mission, and a demonstrable hunger for deep exploration of theatrical craft. Graduate Adam Catangui has achieved an incredible milestone that so many only dream of.

Previously, Adam received a Bachelor’s degree from the Eastman School of Music and a Masters from Rice University. He also is an alumnus of the Gerdine Young Artist Program at Opera Theatre of St. Louis, the Atelier Lyrique at The Verbier Festival, and the Studio Artist Program at Wolf Trap Opera. Now, Adam’s weekly schedule includes 9-11 hours of acting instruction (class and private), a voice lesson with his teacher, a session with Principal Coach Diane Richardson, and an

otherwise elective schedule of coaching with Juilliard’s legendary music, language and movement faculty.

Adam is the perfect example of following your passion and never giving up. “I have always been a firm believer in what’s meant for me will not pass me by. The work is hard, and requires a lot of discipline when things get stressful. My journey has brought me amazing opportunities; however, it has also brought me a lot of rejections and redirections.” In regards to Adam’s future, he is blessed to be part of a program that focuses on career placement at the highest possible level, with regular private auditions for and consultations with top artist managers and general and artistic directors of opera companies, and regular hearings by musical and administrative staff at the Metropolitan Opera.

Adam’s initial year at Juilliard is keeping him busy. The 2025-2026 season started with a Rossini recital in collaboration with Columbia University to celebrate the 200th Anniversary of Italian Opera in New York. He will debut in Alice Tully Hall as a part of their Wednesdays at 1 recital series. Adam will also debut in David Geffen Hall under the baton of Maestro Gustavo Dudamel singing an excerpt from Beethoven’s Fidelio before a screening of his new documentary El Canto de las Manos. Adam also will present Beethoven’s Op. 98, An die ferne Geliebte in recital as part of Juilliard’s Liederabend series. He will also debut the role of “Fenton” in Juilliard Opera’s production of Verdi’s Falstaff.

Finally, we asked Adam to provide some insight and advice for those seeking similar paths in the performing arts. Adam sums it up in one word, grit. “Above all else, an immense level of passion and perseverance is required for a career like this. Even above natural talent, an ability to dig deep

will get you further than you could ever imagine. I auditioned for Juilliard for my undergraduate and my graduate studies and did not get in. After each rejection, I cried, dug deep within myself, and persevered. At each turn, the world directed me to exactly where I was meant to be. When I look back at every stage of my life so far, I firmly believe that every place has taught me a lesson that I was supposed to learn.“

From his humble beginnings on the O’G stage, Adam Catangui has continued to grow, embracing new challenges and opportunities along the way. With the remarkable path he’s already forged, we can only imagine the extraordinary achievements still ahead.

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Designs by Dexter

Spotlight on our Costume Director: Kendra Dexter

Kendra (Liesinger) Dexter (OG ’96), owner of Designs By Dexter , has spent 25 years designing and building everything from wedding gowns to pro wrestling costumes. In addition to alterations and tailoring, she recently designed the Miss South Dakota 2025 state costume. Working from her home studio near O’Gorman, she’s a go-to for prom and choir alterations. Over the years, she’s created gowns, bridesmaid dresses, and costumes for films, commercials, and theater productions.

Kendra’s O’Gorman connection began in 1986 when her family moved to Sioux Falls and her mother, Janet Liesinger, joined the OG science faculty. Growing up backstage as her mom

sewed for school productions sparked her love for theater. She performed throughout school and college before stepping into costume design during her senior year at the University of Sioux Falls. Her first major project, The Spell of Sleeping Beauty (2000), directed by lifelong friend Scott Nelson (OG alum), launched her professional career — and Designs By Dexter soon followed.

Since then, Kendra has served as Costume Director for multiple high schools, including 19 years at Brandon Valley, and later as Costume Director and Associate Professor at the University of Sioux Falls (2014–2023). She earned her M.A. in Theatre from Regent University (2021) and received

a Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival commendation for her Much Ado About Nothing design (2016).

A pioneer in her field, Kendra has designed for more than 200 productions and countless specialty projects — from Shriner clowns and Lincoln High drum majors to the Cygnets synchronized swim team. Her work also includes costuming for Hutterite (2017), Tis the Season with the South Dakota Symphony (2018), and the film His Name is Michael (2023) with fellow OG alum Joseph Bezenek. Each December, her costumes appear in The Premier Playhouse’s A Christmas Carol , and many of her designs are rented across the Midwest.

Kendra’s design philosophy centers on dramaturgy — exploring the who, what, when, and why of each production to inform every costume. Collaboration, attention to detail, and creativity guide her process, from conceptual sketches to hundreds of completed costumes in just six weeks. She treasures the teamwork behind the scenes — sewing

with students, parents, and colleagues — and loves watching performers light up when their costumes help them find their characters. She has also found great joy in teaching people of all ages how to sew.

Deeply grateful for her “village,” Kendra credits her success to the support of her parents, husband Eric, children Lillian (OG ’22), Auburn (OG ’24), Eldon (OG junior), and Nolan (OG freshman), as well as her extended O’Gorman family. “There are people from O’Gorman I will never forget. They’ve shaped my life and supported me through everything. I’m forever grateful — here’s to another year!”

If you are looking for an experienced seamstress, look no further than Designs By Dexter . We know through experience that she will get the job done and her designs do not disappoint.

We live for finding our

voice.

No matter your role, you contribute to the beautiful rhythm and spirit of life. You’re essential at your job and in your family.

Stay well with Avera, who proudly partners with Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools, where teachers and staff encourage students to find their own rhythm that will encourage generations to come.

APRIL 23-24 · 7PM APRIL 25 · 1PM & 7PM APRIL 23-24 · 7PM APRIL 25 · 1PM & 7PM

Bookby DAVID GREIG Music by MARC SHAIMAN

ORDER OF SHOW

ACT ONE

SCENE 1 Outside the factory

“The Candy Man”

SCENE 2 A Candy Shop

“Willy Wonka! Willy Wonka!”

SCENE 3 The Bucket Shack

“Charlie, You & I”

Lyrics by SCOTT WITTMAN MARC SHAIMAN

Based on the novel byROALD DAHL Songs from the Motion Picture by LESLIE BRICUSSE and ANTHONY NEWLEY

FOR TICKETS ($10) VISIT

WWW.GOBOUND.COM/SD/SCHOOLS/OGORMAN/TICKETS

ACT TWO

SCENE 9 Wonka’s Office

“Strike That Reverse It”

SCENE 10 The Chocolate Room “Pure Imagination” “Auf Weidersehen Augustus”

“A Letter from Charlie Bucket” “Headline Scene”

SCENE 4 The Next Day

SCENE 5 Street/ The Candy Shop “More of Him to Love” “When Veruca Says” “Queen of Pop”

The Bucket Shack/Street “That Little Man of Mine”

SCENE 6 The Bucket Shack

SCENE 7 The Candy Shop/The Bucket Shack

“I’ve Got A Golden Ticket”

SCENE 8 The Factory Gates

“It Must Be Believed To Be Seen” - Wonka

SCENE 11 The Mixing Room “You Got Watcha Want”

SCENE 12 The Invisible Corridors

SCENE 13 The Nut Room “Veruca’s Nutcracker: Sweet!”

SCENE 14 The SS Wonka/ The TV Room. “Vidiots”

SCENE 15 The Imagining Room

SCENE 16 The Elevator “The View From Here”

CAST

Willy Wonka ...................................................... Garvey Mueller

Charlie Bucket ...................................................... Sachi Santos

Grandpa Joe ...................................................... Owen Tschetter

Mrs. Bucket ......................................................... Audrey Arend

Augustus Gloop .................................................... Luke Solomon

Mrs. Gloop......................................................... Molly Johnson

Veruca Salt ............................................................. Lisa Glatt

Mr. Salt ............................................................ Beckett Moffitt

Violet Beauregarde ................................................ Camryn Mages

Mr. Beauregarde ..................................................... John Kovash

Mike Teavee ..................................................... Micah Benjamin

Mrs. Teavee .......................................................... Lucy Baloun

Grandma Georgina ..................................................... Lillian Kerr

Grandma Josephine ............................................ Sarina Ellenbecker

Grandpa George ...................................................... Quinn Buus

Jerry ................................................................ Mitch Skuza

Cherry................................................................. Adud Arop

Mrs. Green ........................................................ Alexa Robbins

ORCHESTRA

Bass ........................................................

Edwar Arteaga-Cruz

Cello .............................................................. Norah Barnett

Ella Adamiak

Fuller Fitzpatrick

Guitar ...............................................................Reilly Meylor

Keyboard 1 ............................................................ Yujin Choi

Keyboard 2 ........................................................Amelia Mueller

Keyboard 3 ...................................................... Nathan Reckling

Percussion ........................................................... Blake Allex

Reed 1 ............................................................ Adilyn McIntyre

Reed 2 ............................................................... Lander Bell

Robbie Miller

Sam Reckling

Trombone ......................................................... Lucas Helsper

Trumpet

Landon Sohre

Violin ............................................................ Oliver Van Ruler

TECHNICAL CREW

Julie Shuck

Gabriella Picconi

Ave Stanek

Fanyun Sun

Owen McElroy

Kennedy Brown

Leah Nielsen

Natalie Ulin

Elizabeth Lindell

Joe Kunz

Madison Brown

Evan Ernst

Flynn McElroy

Elijah Anderson

Nathaniel Christen

COSTUME CREW

Sasha Anel

Brenna Kestel

Sarah Jamous

Shya Stencil

Eva Henning

Raina Labi

Jonathon Billion

Isaac Millette

Lily Reed

Oompa-Loompas / Town Ensembles

You Got Whatcha Want, Vidiots

Adud Arop

Alaina Frankman

Alexa Robbins

Alexi Burgwald

Audrey Arend

Brooklyn Bailey

David Livermont

Ellie Nichols

Fanyun Sun

Gianna Geraets

Grace Godshall

Grace Johnson

Karyne Zdorovtsov

Keaton Raasch

Libby Ernst

Lillian Kerr

Lydia Elmen

Madelyn Nekvinda

Mitch Skuza

Nway Thai

Payton Thomas

Quinn Buus

Qynn Hight

Rip Siemonsma

Sarina Ellenbecker

Sophie Mallmann

Tessa Trudeau

Zach Greble

Gianna Geraets

Nway Thai

Auf Wiedersehen, Veruca’s Nutcracker: Sweet!

Adalyn Harskamp

Andrea Dvoracek

Ari Jacobs

Ave Meyer

Claire Sorenson

Della Smith

Ella Bain

Finley Olson

Gardenya Simon Esteban

Hazel Warner

Isaiah Johnke

Jimin Lee

Kolbe Jarding

Lucy Winter

Maggie Solomon

Mara Havard

Nicholas Morrow

Noelle Miller

Olivia Abbott

Penelope Swier

Philomena Gallagher

Piper Luke

Riley Breckenridge

Sarah Castle

Shay Boetel

Sydney Eide

Teresa Spader

More of Him To Love Dancers

Piper Luke

Keaton Raasch

Gum Chompin’ Divas

Alaina Frankman

Brooklyn Bailey

Ellie Nichols

Alexa Robbins

Grace Godshall

Rip Siemonsma

David Livermont

Keaton Raasch

Piper Luke

Sophie Mallmann

Grace Johnson

Jimin Lee

Karyne Zdorovtsov

Qynn Hight

Libby Ernst

Reporters

Zach Greble

Karyne Zdorovtsov

Grace Godshall

Squirrel Dancers

Karyne Zdorovtsov

Gianna Geraets

Zach Greble

David Livermont

Shay Boetel

Tessa Trudeau

Gianna Geraets

Nway Thai

Brooklyn Bailey

Sarina Ellenbecker

Libby Ernst

Jimin Lee

Alexa Robbins

PRODUCTION CREW

Director ........................................................

Ms. Teresa Fester

Vocal Director .................................................. Mr. Nick Engbers

Technical Director ............................................

Ms. Kimberly Schulte

Stage Designer ....................................................

Mr. Jeff Rhone

Orchestra Conductor ............................................... Mr. Ben Koch

Costume Director

Asst. Costume Director ........................................

Mrs. Kendra Dexter

Mrs. Janet Liesinger

Choreographer .............................................Ms. Meredith Molseed

Student Directors ......................................................Adud Arop

Audrey Arend

John Kovash

Student Choreographers .......................................... Camryn Mages

Lucy Baloun Garvey Mueller

John Kovash

Theatre Manager .................................................

Activities Assistant .........................................

Playbill Photos ..............................................

Playbill Coordinator .......................................

Box Office ..................................................

Mr. Aaron Strand

Mrs. Chelsea Gannon

Mrs. Jeannie Johnson

Mrs. Summer Wagner

Mrs. Chelsea Gannon

SENIORS

SENIORS

Acknowledgements

Ann Henkhaus

Box Office Volunteers

Costuming Volunteers

Flower & Favors Volunteers

Jeannie Johnson & Yellow Bug Photography

Mr. Aaron Strand

Mr. Alex Anderson

Mr. Neil Hoogendoorn

Mr. Steve Kueter

Mrs. Chelsea Gannon

Mrs. Joan Mahoney

Mrs. Jodi Rysavy

Mrs. Tara VanDenBos

Parents of Cast, Orchestra, Costumes, & Technical Crew Dawn Thomas

TECHNICAL CREW

Front Row: Gabriella Picconi, Eva Henning, Kennedy Brown, Madison Brown, Fanyun Sun, Ave Stanek, Elijah Anderson, Evan Ernst, Raina Labi

Back Row: Nathaniel Christen, Julie Shuck, Shya Stencil, Isaac Millette, Flynn McElroy, Owen McElroy, Joe Kunz, Jonathan Billion

Not Pictured: Isaac Millette

ORCHESTRA

Front Row: Landon Sohre, Adilyn McIntyre, Ella Adamiak Lander Bell, Amelia Mueller, Norah Barnett, Yujin Choi

Back Row: Oliver Van Ruler, Edwar Arteaga-Cruz, Blake Allex, Sam Reckling, Nathan Reckling, Reilly Meylor, Lucas Helsper

Not Pictured: Robbie Miller, Fuller Fitzpatrick

COSTUME CREW

Not Pictured: Lily Reed

JUNIORS

Not

SOPHOMORES

Front Row: Alaina Frankman, Jimin Lee, Gardenya Simon Esteban, Sydney Eide, Hazel Warner

Middle Row: Teresa Spader, Claire Sorenson, Shay Boetel, Adalyn Harskamp, Lucy Winter, Mara Havard

Back Row: Ave Meyer, Luke Solomon, Beckett Moffitt, Riley Breckenridge, Alexa Robbins, Penelope Swier, Sarah Castle

FRESHMEN

Front Row: Piper

Back Row: Kolbe Jarding, Isaiah Johnke, Nicholas Morrow, Philomena Gallagher, Olivia Abbott

Not Pictured: Ari Jacobs, Finley Olson

DIRECTOR

Ms. Teresa Fester

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

Ms. Kimberly Schulte

VOCAL DIRECTOR

Mr. Nick Engbers & Family

STAGE DESIGNER

Mr. Jeff Rhone

ORCHESTRA CONDUCTOR

CHOREOGRAPHER

STUDENT DIRECTORS

STUDENT CHOREOGRAPHERS

KNIGHT NOTES

Gianna, It has been a JOY to watch your perform over the years! It is bittersweet to see you in your last OG Musical. We are so excited where life takes you next. Love you bunches and bunches. Mom, Dad and all

Karyne, We love watching you perform and seeing your hard work pay off! Proud of you, Love, Mom, Dad, Ella & Brie

Norah, We are so proud of you and can’t wait to see the show! I am sure it will sound “sweet”! Love you, Mom and Dad

Adud, You’re a show stealer and we love watching you! Break a leg! Love, The Mueller Family

Lucy, We love watching you light up the stage! Break legs in your last O’G musical. We are so proud of you! Love, Mom, Dad, Maggie, Anna, and Luna

Norah, Congratulations on making “the pit” in this year’s musical! We wish we could be there in person, but we look forward to hearing all about it! All our love, The Swartzers

To our favorite Mike Teavee, Less screen time...more stage time! Break those legs! God bless you, Micah. Love, Mom & Dad

Rock out Norah! We love you, the LaCroixes

Break a Leg, Shay! We love watching you on stage! Have fun and enjoy the moment! Love, Mom & Dad

Joseph, We are so proud of you! All the time and hard work you and all of tech have done to make this set look delicious! Love, Mom and Dad

You got this Norah! Love Grandma and Grandpa Barnett

GARVEY from that very first audition, the one you refused to do, and we calmly drove home, I knew right then there was something special in you. Watching you now, in your senior year, as you step into your final musical… is something I will hold onto forever. From Sioux Falls to New York, every late night, every audition, every laugh, and every tear, we’ve shared it all, and I will carry those moments with me always. You shine in ways that go far beyond the stage, and I could not be prouder of you! Break a leg kid, you were always meant for this! Love, Mom

For all your sweat, pain and hard work. Onwards and upwards pushing through the struggles. GARVEY the stage is yours, Vive Hodie! Love ya son, Dad

GARV the countless hours of practice and dedication you have put into your talents never fail to show. No matter the role, the stage or size of the spotlight you always put your full heart into your performance and it shows. Your gift and ability to morph yourself into endless characters with ease brings joy and entertainment to every person who is lucky enough to see it. Love, Logan

GARVEY I am so proud of you! It feels like yesterday we were in our first show as a tentacle and a little fish. Since then you've grown into the funniest, most talented person I know. From your OG debut seven years ago as Les in Newsies to your final bow as Willy Wonka. As you head into your next phase of life, know that I will always be your biggest cheerleader. Cheers to my favorite human! XOXO, I’ll be the one bawling in the audience! Your big sister, Halie

GARVEY I’m so proud of the talented young man you’ve become and I couldn’t be more proud to call you my little brother. I wish I was there to see you shine on stage! You might be playing a genius chocolatier, but keep the chocolate rivers under control! See you in Florida soon! Love, Millie

There is only one GARVEY! Watching you on stage fills my heart with joy. I Love You, Grandson! Go light up the stage! Love you, Gram

GARVEY we’re so proud of you and so excited to see you step into Willy Wonka’s world. This is your golden ticket moment and you’ve absolutely earned it! Love, Finley, Mags, Laci & Uncle Jake

GARVEY watching you in your element over the years has been nothing short of incredible! I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you. I know it will be just as bright as you are on stage. Keep being you, young man, I love you! Now go out there and shine, I`ll be cheering you on every step of the way. Love, Uncle Chaw

Hey GARVEY your acting is phenomenal. I know if you work hard enough you will be on the big screen. Just keep pushing yourself and keep getting the lead roles. Just remember the family and I believe and love you very much. Do your thing! Love, Cal

GARVEY it’s been so fun watching you take the stage year after year. Your confidence and passion have grown so much, and we’re excited to see what you do next. Wishing you the best for an unforgettable senior show! Love, Nina and Easton

GARVEY you’re my favorite leading man. You’ve worked so hard for this. Take a bow, you deserve it!

Love you, Grandma Wanda

GARVEY I knew from early on you had a special talent. I didn’t know what it was but as I watched you grow, you blossomed into a great actor! Knock ‘em dead! Love you, Grandpa

GARVEY this is the final act of your high school career, but it`s only the beginning of great things to come. Shine bright and enjoy every second. I couldn`t be prouder of you. Love, Aunt Lisa

2025 .................. Mike and Dawn Thomas

2024 .................. Tom and Linda Penisten

2023 ...................................... Ann Henkhaus

2022 ..........Mark and Jeanie Conzemius

2021 ............ Mike and Brenda Dinsmore

2020 ..... Brad and Teresa Schoenfelder

2019 ...................... Steve and Jill Sudenga

2018 ................... Casey and Dawn Tomac

2017 .......................... John and Katy Billion

2016 .......................................... Meg Johnson

2015 ...................... John and Molly Heisler

2014 ......................Jon and Nancy Schulte

2013. ................ Ron and Shelley Johnson

2012.................Barry and Carol Solomon

2011. ......................... Jim and Sharon Brink

2010. ..................................... Janet Liesinger 2009. ................... Rich and Barb Hennies 2008 .. Michael and Sandy Fitzgibbons 2007 ....................... Jane and Tim Kinsella 2006. ............ Tom and Kristi Weisbecker 2005. ....................................... Judy Pastrano 2004. .......................... Art and Cathy Hagg 2003 .................................... Marcella Effertz 2002. ..................Kevin and Linda Moehn 2001.............. Ron and Diane Bannwarth 2000. ........................ Rich and Mary Garry 1999 ................ Larry and Bonnie Schafer 1998. .............................Jim and Pam Burke 1997 ................................................ Gay Haber 1996 ................ Greg and Kaye LaFollette

The O’Gorman Performing Arts Department wishes to thank the following for their patron support

ACTOR:

John and Katy Billion

Mark and Jeanie Conzemius

Michael and Sandy Fitzgibbons

Keith and Anna Gauer

James and Lynn Josten

Kathleen Kunkel

Mark and Aleta Lindell

Tom and Kerry Boetel

DIRECTOR:

Lee and Whitney Bumgarner

Tom and Kareen Dougherty

Steven and Brigetta Klein

Michelle McElroy

Thomas & Leslie Morrow

Interested in becoming a patron? Scan QR Code to learn more!

PRODUCER:

Brett Baloun and Jennifer White

Michael and Carri Bornitz

Fr Chuck Cimpl

Shawn and Julie Cleary

Nick Earley

Wallace and Pamela Fritz

Dave Geiver

Quintin and Mary Honerman

Matthew and Annette Johnson

Gregory and Kaye LaFollette

Jacqueline Lampert

Prairie Acres Investment & Development

Keith and Ann Schaefbauer

Jon and Nancy Schulte

Ben and Tricia Solomon

Richard and Kathleen Sweetman

The Duncan Law Firm, LLP

Mike and Dawn Thomas

Daryl and Anita Thuringer

Stuart and Pamela Tiede

Matthew and Annette Tschetter

SPOTLIGHT ON JACOB THOMAS

2024-2025 Thespian Award Recipient

Last year’s Thespian Award winner, now attending Creighton University and majoring in Business, looks back fondly on his time in O’Gorman Theatre—a place he describes as “the most welcoming” of all the many activities he participated in during high school.

When asked about his favorite role, he immediately recalled playing “Lieutenant Frank Cioffi,” a character he brought to life with enthusiasm and charm. His favorite production, however, was The Pirates of Penzance, a show that combined humor, energy, and teamwork in a way that left a lasting impression.

Beyond the bright lights of the stage, his memories shine just as brightly. From cast meals and elementary school tours to one-act festivals and show warmups, he says there wasn’t a single part of the process he didn’t enjoy. “The cast parties and pre-show warmups will always be my

favorites,” he shared.

He believes that O’Gorman Theatre serves the community by creating a space for students to build friendships and showcase their talents. “There is truly a spot for everyone to have a good time,” he said. “Very rarely does someone only do one show.” That sense of belonging, he explained, is what makes OG Theatre so special.

When reflecting on what he’s learned, his advice for current students is heartfelt and practical: “Having fun, making friends, and new experiences are just as important as your grades (so long as you graduate). Now, in college, I truly see how far ahead the average O’Gorman student is compared to others. You don’t have to be the smartest or highest academic achiever at O’Gorman. Having memories to look back on is worth more than being perfect academically.”

He says he has no regrets about his time at OG or in theatre. “I always felt like OG theatre was a place where I could be authentically myself—probably too authentic sometimes,” he added.

As for his favorite Broadway show? Dear Evan Hansen tops the list for its emotional storytelling and relatable themes.

When recalling his favorite part of the rehearsal process, he joked, “Memorizing lines! (Just kidding lol).” But in truth, auditions were his favorite part. “If you can put your social anxiety aside for a bit and go in with complete confidence, it makes for a very good time.”

From his first audition to his final curtain call, this Thespian Award winner’s journey embodies the spirit of O’Gorman Theatre—friendship, growth, courage, and joy in every performance.

LOCAL EXPERTS & O’G ALUM

Sioux Falls is our home, and we’re invested in putting your interests first.

Whether you want to save for a rainy day, take the vacation of a lifetime, support the charitable causes that mean the most to you, or provide a legacy for your family, our team of wealth management professionals is prepared to guide you.

Give us a call, and you can start a conversation with one of these O’Gorman alumni today.

o†gorman thespian award

presented to the Best aLL-aroUnd drama stUdent in memory of Jeff donneLLy

2024-2025............................................. Jacob Thomas

2023-2024.............................................. Olivia Duncan

2022-2023................................................ Aiden Geiver

2021-2022 .................................................. Jacob Olson

2020-2021 .................................................. Maria Evans

2019-2020 ............................................ Elli Richardson

2018-2019 .................................................Nick Maxwell

2017-2018.................................................. Miles Cowan

2016-2017 .............................................. Samuel Billion

2015-2016 ................................................ Kelly Maxwell

2014-2015 .......................................... Samuel Maxwell

2013-2014 .................................................... Clara Bentz

2012-2013 ...................................... Alexander Shields

2011-2012 ........................................Joseph J. Bezenek

2010-2011 .............................................Steve Schaeffer

2009-2010 .......................................... Emily Hoffmann

2008-2009 .................................... Andrew Thuringer

2007-2008 ............................................ Chloe Goldade

2006-2007 .............................................. Kate Hennies

2005-2006 ............................................... John Michels

2004-2005 ...................................... Mary Fitzgibbons

2003-2004 ..........................................Xavier Pastrano

2002-2003 ....................................................... Jeff Miller 2001-2002 Kate Orlando

John Boe

1999-2000 Bryan Hagg & Whitney Burkey

1998-1999 ................................................ Ben Solomon

...................................................... Ruth Lyons

1996-1997 ................................................... Tony Kutayli 1995-1996 ................................................... Jackie Garry 1994-1995 ...........................................Andrew Schafer

1993-1994 .................................... Amanda LaFollette

1992-1993 ......................................................... Matt Pehl

1991-1992 .......................................................Jean Gross

1990-1991 ....................................... Nancy Bannwarth

1989-1990 ................................................... Jon Clausen

1988-1989 ............................................ Sharon Picasso

1987-1988.................................................... Mollie Krum

1986-1987 ..................................... Jennifer Waggoner 1985-1986 ................................................... Mark Curley

1984-1985 ........................................... Mary McGreevy 1983-1984 ........................................ Kevin McCluskey

1982-1983 ......................................... Mary Ellen Doyle

1981-1982 ............................................... Kathryn Lyons

1980-1981 .................................................. Mark Bechtel

1979-1980 ........................................... Michael Randall

1978-1979................................................. Dave Dedrick

1977-1978 ...................................... Barbara Rossmeisl

1976-1977 ................................................ Paul Donnelly

1975-1976 ....................................................... Kathi Brick

1974-1975 .................................................. Teresa Lyons

1973-1974 Gerry Kreitzer

1972-1973 Theresa Donley

1971-1972 Richard Zimmer

1970-1971 ........................................... Marybeth Billion

The Tree of Life

Honoring the Legacy of Frank and Cathy Maxwell

The Tree of Life has long stood as a symbol of wisdom, strength, protection, growth, beauty, and abundance. Its many leaves remind us of our uniqueness—each one a different shape and color—yet all part of the same tree. Together, they represent harmony in diversity, a beautiful reminder that we can coexist peacefully. The tree’s branches, reaching outward and upward, symbolize our human drive for expression, growth, and understanding in the arts, sciences, and spirit. Most importantly, they represent our potential to improve the human condition through compassion and connection.

In the spirit of this symbolism, the O’Gorman Theatre Department proudly embraces the Tree of Life as a representation of who we are and what we strive to be. Each year, we will honor an outstanding parent who has given exceptional service to our department and our students. This award now carries an

even deeper meaning, as it is presented in memory of Frank and Cathy Maxwell.

In 2016, Frank passed away suddenly, and on September 5, 2025, Cathy passed away after bravely battling cancer. Together, Frank and Cathy raised five wonderful children—Frankie, Haley, Samuel, Kelly, and Nick—all of whom were deeply involved in O’Gorman’s theatre and oral interpretation programs. For over a decade, the Maxwell family was a constant presence in our theatre community. Their children brought life to our stage, while Frank and Cathy worked tirelessly behind the scenes—helping wherever needed and cheering on every performer, not just their own.

Those who have been part of O’Gorman Theatre know that our program is more than just a collection of students and shows—it is a family. We spend countless hours together throughout

the year, and the bonds that form on stage and behind the curtain often last a lifetime. One of the most profound testaments to this family spirit can be seen in how our theatre community continues to show up for one another— long after the curtains close and the graduates have moved on.

I have personally attended both Frank’s and Cathy’s funerals, and each time my heart was filled with the same thought: the students who pass through our program don’t just learn about performance—they learn about connection, empathy, and love. The friendships and relationships formed here extend beyond the stage, creating a network of support that endures through both joy and sorrow. The Maxwells embodied that spirit in every possible way.

After Cathy’s passing, I sat with the Maxwell siblings in their home and reminded them that their parents’ legacy

would live on. Through the Outstanding Supporters of the Performing Arts Award, we will continue to honor their memory by celebrating those who give selflessly to our program—just as Frank and Cathy did for so many years. Their example of love, dedication, and community will forever be rooted in the heart of O’Gorman Theatre.

Ms. Teresa Fester

Clients are the most motivating part of my work. Many come to us scared or stressed, and helping them through those moments—giving them peace of mind—is incredibly rewarding."

Melanie Carpenter / Shareholder

We’re proud to support Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools, where creativity, dedication, and community values take center stage. Whether you’re in the spotlight or behind the scenes, Woods Fuller is here to support your success. Together, let’s inspire a brighter future.

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