Ragtime
Held on the campus of Lancaster Mennonite School
September 16 - October 2, 2022
Set in the volatile melting pot of New York City, this epic Broadway musical captures the American experience at the turn of the 20th century. Ragtime weaves together the stories of three diverse communities in pursuit of the American dream, in a truly unique and powerful portrait of America.
Fully staged, with beautiful sets, costumes, and a large cast and orchestra, you won’t want to miss this powerful production.
Performances take place in the Performing Arts Center at Lancaster Mennonite School, 2176 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster. All shows are Pay-What-You-Will in keeping with Servant Stage's mission to make exceptional performances accessible to everyone.
Preview
Featured Performances
LANCASTER MENNONITE SCHOOL
2176 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster (click for map)
Friday, September 16 | 7:00pm
Saturday, September 17 | 2:00pm & 7:00pm
Sunday, September 18 | 2:00pm
Friday, September 23 | 7:00pm
Saturday, September 24 | 2:00pm & 7:00pm
Sunday, September 25 | 2:00pm
Friday, September 30 | 7:00pm
Saturday, October 1 | 2:00pm & 7:00pm
Sunday, October 2 | 2:00pm
All performances are pay-what-you-will. You are welcome to donate by cash, check, or credit card at the performance, or online or by mail at any time. Thank you for your support that makes the mission of Servant Stage possible!
Gallery
PARENTAL ADVISORY
Ragtime is based on the novel by E.L. Doctorow and tells the experience of an African-American family, a Jewish immigrant family, and a wealthy white suburban family in turn-of-the-century America, who collide in pursuit of the American dream. Social and racial conflicts rise to the surface as the lives of the characters become intertwined. A full synopsis can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ragtime_(musical)
We believe this is an important historical story that fits well with Servant Stage's goal to present shows that will “inspire, educate, challenge, and entertain.” However, we want our audiences to be aware that there are adult themes and adult language and the show will not be appropriate for all people. If this was a movie it would probably be rated PG-13.
Smoking, drinking, and gambling: Some references
Language: Racial slurs are used in multiple scenes, the words “bastard,” “damn,” “sons o’ bitches” are also used
Sexual Undertones: There is a Vaudeville style performance where Evelyn Nesbit tells the story of the “crime of the century” containing some sexual undertones in the lyrics “ruined at the age of fifteen” and “all for a youthful fling.”
Violence: There is no graphic violence, but there are fights, gunshots, and deaths by beating and gunshot - portrayed in a stylized theatrical manner and without blood.
Meet the Cast
Click on a headshot to view bio.
Sophia Amaya (Ensemble) is thrilled to be a part of the cast of Ragtime! She recently joined the Servant Stage family as a member of Apprentice Company and as teen ensemble in Rock Around the Clock. Originally from Miami, FL, she has performed roles such as Lucy in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe at Actor’s Playhouse, as well as Thea in Pippin at the University of Miami’s Ring Theater. Sophia has been a competitive dancer since she was 6 years old, winning multiple first place awards and Five Star Elite ratings at numerous National Competitions in the styles of Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Latin Jazz, Lyrical, Hip Hop, and Acro. She has performed in Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker with the Orange School of the Performing Arts in VA as a Jester, Snowflake, Russian and Merliton. In addition to performing, she enjoys reading, choreographing, songwriting, sleeping and following Disney blogs. Above all else, Sophia desires to honor God with all her creativity.
Tirzah Byers (Ensemble) is so excited to be a part of this beautiful production with Servant Stage! Tirzah is currently a freshman at LBC majoring in musical theater. Tirzah has taken dance classes at Adagio for 15 years and has studied acting at Cavod for the last two years. She’s also had 11 years of music lessons studying voice, piano, and guitar. You’ve probably seen Tirzah in Servant Stage’s Don’t Rock the Jukebox, 2021-2022 TeenCo/AppCo Showcases, Our Town (Professor Willard), Newsies assisting backstage, and most recently Rock Around the Clock. She’s also been in The Addams Family (Ancestor) at CPS, Little Women (Swing: Beth/Rodrigo 2 and Amy/Troll) at Cavod, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Reuben’s Wife) at Susquehanna Stage Company. Tirzah would like to thank her family, friends, teachers, Wally Calderon, Melissa Edwards, Sydney Norgaard, Tyler Hoover, and Jenny Norgaard for all their kind hearts, guidance, and continuous support. Psalm 46:10
Brandon Cameron (Ensemble, Assistant Choreographer) recently graduated from Shenandoah University Conservatory with a Bachelor of Fine Arts. Throughout his time in college, he continued working and performing with Servant Stage and is thrilled to be 'back home' with them once again. Brandon enjoyed performing Theatrically, as well as in TV and Film, throughout his higher education and looks forward to continuing both in the future. He also enjoyed many opportunities to teach, direct, and choreograph in various educational to professional settings, and is excited to pursue those passions moving forward. Brandon is currently represented by Nicolosi & Co. and you can find more info on his website at BrandonCameron.com "Thank you to the Servant Stage Staff and the Cast and Crew of RAGTIME. And shoutout to all of the SS Campers and Youth Company members!"
Dion Castro (Harry Thaw, Ensemble, U/S Tateh) is ecstatic to be a part of Ragtime at Servant Stage! Dion is a recent graduate of Sight and Sound Conservatory where he was featured in the cast of Queen Esther at Sight and Sound Theatres, performed as Mr. Webb in Our Town, and as Telly/Nick in Godspell. He recently appeared in Rock Around the Clock with Servant Stage, The SpongeBob Musical as Plankton with EPAC, and has also been performing with Piercing Word Ministries. Before moving to PA, Dion spent several years working as an actor, musician, and music director in Raleigh, North Carolina. He's grateful for the community he's begun to build here in Lancaster County, and sends much love to his mom, and his siblings and their families!
Nicholas Desiato (Willie Conklin, U/S Father) is excited to make his debut with Servant Stage. Nick is making his second community theatre appearance in Ragtime previously playing the role of Tateh. Other favorite roles have included Billy Flynn in Chicago, and Bert in Mary Poppins. Nick resides in Stevens, Pa with his lovely wife Joy, 4 children, 3 cats, and a dog. Thank you to the Servant Stage crew for welcoming me immediately and treating me as one of your own!
Adina Diehl (Ensemble, U/S Mother), soprano, received her M.M. from the University of North Florida. Following graduation, she joined the voice faculty at UNF School of Music where she taught Applied Voice and Opera Workshop. Adina made her international directorial debut summer 2019 with UNF Opera and the European Music Academy’s performances of The Magic Flute. Other directing credits includes S. Barab’s Little Red Riding Hood, Mozart Scenes and Don Giovanni with the Jacksonville Symphony, Puccini’s La Bohéme, and Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Mikado. In opera, principle role highlights include: The Marriage of Figaro (Susanna), The Magic Flute (Pamina), and Street Scene (Anna Maurrant). Recent musical theatre credits include: Beauty and the Beast (Belle), Why Do Fools Fall in Love? (Sally), 101 Dalmatians (Cruella de Vil), and Quilters (Jenny). Adina was just seen on stage in Servant Stage's Newsies, and is thrilled to perform in Ragtime alongside her husband, David.
David Diehl (Father) is thrilled to be joining the cast of Ragtime in his second production with Servant Stage after having performed in Servant Stage’s Newsies earlier this year. From Lancaster, David grew up performing in the area before earning his musical degree from the Peabody Conservatory of Music in Baltimore, MD. Favorite musical credits over the years include Jean Valjean in Les Miserables, Robert in The Bridges of Madison County, and the title role in Jekyll & Hyde: The Musical. One of ten kids, he enjoys spending time with his family, his dog Gus, and his talented, beautiful wife, Adina. “Thank you, Wally, for this opportunity, and thank you Adina for your incredible support.”
Jonathan Dinkle (Ensemble, U/S Harry Thaw) is a newly returned member to the Lancaster County community, having moved back into the area from Virginia at the turn of 2022. However, he is no stranger to the stage, having played such roles as Tevye in LBC's Fiddler on the Roof and Edgar Bean in Servant Stage's Titanic. Most recently he has been seen on the stage as Karl Lindner in Susquehanna Stage’s A Raisin in the Sun this past June. Jonathan is looking forward to the opportunity to re-enter the Servant Stage team and work with some long time colleagues again after a much too long hiatus.
Andrew “THE SARGE” Dixon (Ensemble, U/S Henson) is a father, a retired veteran, Freshman head football coach for Lancaster Catholic High School. Andrew grew up in Lancaster and as a youngster pursued sports which would later turn into a military career. After multiple deployments and a long career he retired. The Sarge recently played in his first play and as lead as Walter Lee Younger in A Raisin in the Sun as well his first musical Miss You Like Hell. The Sarge is currently a news anchor on a local Morning show called TCP (The Cultured PROFESSIONAL NETWORK).
Julian Ford (Little Boy) will be a 10th Grader at Lampeter-Strasburg. He is excited to make his return to Servant Stage as “Edgar/Little Boy” in Ragtime. Julian has loved being on the stage since his first show, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, in which he played the lead role “Jeremy Potts” in 2018. Since then, Julian has performed in two different Frozen Jr. musicals for Lampeter-Strasburg and Servant Sage as “Duke of Weselton”, The Miracle Worker at Belmont Theater, Anything Goes at Lampeter-Strasburg, and Sherlock Holmes and the Mystery of the Crown Jewel at The Fulton Theater where he played “Pip”, one of three youth leads. Most recently he played the role of “Bruce” in Matilda for Mount Gretna Playhouse. He enjoys playing baseball, basketball, and swimming at the beach. Julian takes piano and vocal lessons with Sally Armstrong. Julian’s wish is to live in Manhattan and pursue his dream of performing on Broadway and acting.
Joshua William Green (Coalhouse Walker) is an actor, singer, dancer from Youngstown, Ohio now based in Lancaster, PA. He grew up as a member of the Archangel Dance Theater and toured internationally with the Youngstown Connection. He attended The American Musical Dramatic Academy in New York and Youngstown State University for Musical theater. Most recently, Joshua has been in The national tours of Ragtime (Booker T. Understudy), Finding Neverland (Mr. Henshaw), Children’s Olympics, Sight and Sound Theatres to singing behind Sam Smith on the 2018 Grammy Awards. He loves performing at the amazing theaters in the Lancaster area. “Performing with Servant Stage is like being home again.”
Tori Guhl (Ensemble, U/S Evelyn) is very excited to be performing in this powerful musical. You may have last seen her as a member of the Featured Ensemble in Rock Around the Clock with Servant Stage. She has also enjoyed many other roles in shows such as The Music Man (Marian Paroo), HSM2 Jr (Sharpay Evans), Shrek Jr (Fiona), Shrek (Ugly Duckling/Featured Dancer), and Amazing Grace: The Concert Experience (Ensemble). She is also an active member of TeenCo with Servant Stage, and previously her high school's Production Companies and Show Choir. Tori would like to thank her friends, family, the Servant Stage staff, and her amazing choral director Mrs. Kline-Smith for always supporting her.
Joshua Hess (Ensemble) is ecstatic to be joining the cast of Ragtime! This is Josh’s fourth production with Servant Stage, and he couldn’t be more thankful to be working alongside such a fun and hard-working cast! He would like to thank his family and his loved ones for their unending love and support of his theatre endeavours! Servant Stage Company: Newsies (Ensemble), Popovsky Performing Arts: Lightning Thief, The Percy Jackson Musical (Hades), Steitz City Players: A Coleman Classic Christmas (Murray McGuiness), Servant Stage Company: The Music Man (Ensemble).
Ashlee Heyward (Ensemble, U/S Sarah’s Friend) is from Chesapeake, VA by way of Queens, NY, and is a 2013 graduate of Ferrum College, with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater. She made her way to Lancaster County to work as a cast member at Sight & Sound Theaters. She now works from home and serves her community as a doula and member of Journey Church. Ragtime is Ashlee’s first production with Servant Stage and it’s something she is so excited to be a part of. “Special thanks to Wally and the entire Servant Stage team for this opportunity.”
Tyler Hoover (Younger Brother) is a Lancaster County native with a passion for great stories, "the ones that really [matter]." For the past two decades, Tyler has been blessed to serve as an actor, director, writer, and composer/arranger with a number of local theatre companies including Servant Stage, Piercing Word, Sight & Sound Theatres, and PRiMA. Past Servant Stage shows include this summer’s Rock Around The Clock (performer/arranger/music director), Titanic (Mr. Andrews), and Forever Plaid (Sparky). Additionally, Tyler’s in-development musical Prodigal was given its first staged reading last year. Tyler holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Music Theory & Composition from West Chester University and resides in Lititz with his wife, Sandra, and their four children. Thank you to God for every gift and opportunity; Sandra and our family for your love and unending support; and the Servant Stage staff and community for bringing so much heart and such joy into each project!
Colin Horst (Ensemble) is thrilled to return for another Servant Stage show, Ragtime. Ever since his first performance in Encore Homeschool Production’s Fiddler on the Roof, Theater has reserved a special place in his heart. He went on to preform is Encore’s Newsies, Bye, Bye Birdie, and Disney goes to Broadway cabaret. Aside from the performing arts, Colin enjoys drawing, writing, and almost any other type of creative activity. He is in the process of writing a full-length novel which he intends to have published upon completion. Colin is excited to continue acting, dancing, and singing beyond high school via Servant Stage and hopes the cast’s stellar performance will blow the audience away. It’s time to rewind and experience the musical age of Ragtime!
Bethany Huff (Ensemble) is 22 and a recent graduate of the Sight and Sound Conservatory. She is thrilled to be involved in her first production with Servant Stage! Before graduating in May, Bethany spent two years in Conservatory studying many different aspects of musical theatre through a variety of classes, all while performing multiple times a week in Sight and Sound Theatres’ Queen Esther. After graduating, she had a blast playing Karen in EPAC’s production of The Spongebob Musical. Prior to moving to PA for school, she grew up in California pursuing and adoring theatre since the age of 8. Some of her favorite past roles include Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, Sophie in Mamma Mia, the Stage Manager in Our Town, and Uzo in Godspell. Outside of performing, she is an avid dog lover, a passionate poke bowl enthusiast, and a pursuer of all things kindness.
Aden “AJ” Jackson (Ensemble) is very excited to be part of this amazing show, Ragtime He has performed in several other shows with Servant Stage Company including Amazing Grace, Old Time Gospel Radio Hour, Don’t Rock the Jukebox, Bye Bye Birdie JR, and Godspell JR. While he was at Solanco High School he enjoyed performing the role of Donkey in Shrek the Musical, as Willard in Footloose, and Pirate King in The Pirates of Penzance. Aden plays the violin, and used to sing with his school's elite choral ensemble. He is active in his Boy Scout Troop and is currently working on and is very close to his Eagle Scout. He would like to thank his family for their love and support.
Britt Jarkowsky (Ensemble) is so excited to be part of this amazing show. Britt holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from LBC 21’. Britt has many wonderful private voice students, as well as students from Chester County School of The Arts and Servant Stage Company. Some of her favorite onstage credits include Spongebob The Musical (Sandy U/S, Ensemble) Revival Productions; You’re A Good Man CB (Sally), Ruth (Orpah), Hello Dolly (Minnie Fay), Bye Bye Birdie (Kim U/S, Ursula) LBC; Three Little Pigs (Sui) Red Accordion Studios; Titanic (Ensemble) Servant Stage. Other credits include: Les Miserables (Assi. Music Director/Conductor) Ephrata Performing Arts Center, Bye Bye Birdie, Seussical Jr., Once Upon A Mattress, Moana Jr., Highschool Musical 2, Frozen Jr. (Assi. Music Director/Staff) Servant Stage, Frozen Kids (Director/Music Director) CCSA. Britt would like to thank her family, friends, and Servant Stage for their support. Soli Deo Gloria.
Kayleigh Jarkowsky (Ensemble) is ecstatic to have the opportunity to be a part of Ragtime! Kayleigh is 17 years old and is a senior at Harrisburg Christian School. Kayleigh takes voice with Catherine Walker at CPA and has been in four cabarets there. Some of Kayleigh’s favorite SSC credits include Old Time Gospel Radio Hour, Don’t Rock the Jukebox, Oklahoma JR (Ado Annie), and Frozen JR Anna). Other favorites include Seussical JR (Gertrude McFuzz) with LAPA, A Little Princess (Becky) with Dreamwrights, Pippin (Catherine) with Susquehanna Stage, and Newsies (Katherine) with HCS. When not at rehearsal, Kayleigh enjoys playing with her dog, Maggie, and hanging out with friends. Kayleigh would like to thank her family, friends, and teachers for always supporting her. Psalms 100:2
Rachel Krothe (Ensemble) - For as long as she can remember, Rachel has loved the arts. She started performing at 4 years old and has continued doing so ever since. With roles in shows such as The Music Man, The Wizard of Oz, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and Amish Family Christmas (with Freedom Chapel Dinner Theatre) as well as Old Time Gospel Radio Hour with Servant Stage, she has a well of experience to draw from. Also well-versed in dance, Rachel has a well-rounded knowledge of the performing arts and is always looking to improve her craft. In her time away from the stage, Rachel’s project @Angelica Music finds her writing and performing original music. Bringing joy to others through the stage is one of the driving forces of Rachel’s passion and she is excited to be a part of this show, thanks you for coming, and hopes you enjoy our rendition of Ragtime!
Richard “Dick” Lamborn (Grandfather), husband to Diane for 50 years, is father to 4 grown children, and grandfather to 14 grandchildren. He graduated from Philadelphia College of Bible (now Cairn University) where he was a Pastoral Major, and played basketball, sang in various groups, including two years in a men's quartet representing the college at Churches and Bible conferences. He participated in musical productions and many skits, some serious but most were comedies. After Seminary, he served as a youth Pastor in three different churches. He was a basketball referee for 31 years and played softball. He became an umpire and continues to umpire. For 19 years he sang baritone in a southern gospel style quartet called Harmony Quartet, in which he was MC and the preacher of the group. After being in the audience for many Servant Stage productions, he feels honored to be given a part In one.
Bryce Landers (Matthew Henson, Ensemble) is super excited to be a part of Servant Stage's production of Ragtime. He has always admired the music of Ragtime and is happy to be able to add his voice to the incredible sound. He has found joy playing in marching bands and orchestras but is eager for his debut on stage in this production!
Sarah Landers (Ensemble) is a full-time employee with Sight and Sound Theatres since 2020. Graduating from Liberty University with a BS in Theatre Arts, she has performed in many different shows throughout her college career. Locally, she has been involved behind the scenes with Piercing Word and their productions such as Advent of Christmas, The One Story, as well as Sermon on the Mount: The Musical! Sarah is so excited to be performing alongside her husband for the first time in Ragtime with Servant Stage.
Annika Locke (Ensemble) is thrilled to be performing in Ragtime! Annika has been a part of Servant Stage’s Teen Company and Apprentice Company for the past two years. She has also recently performed in The People Shakespeare Project’s production of Julia Caesar (Lucius) , McCaskey High School’s production of Newsies (Katherine and Newsie), and McCaskey High School’s production of A Midsummer Nights Dream (Demetrius). Annika is a tenth grader at McCaskey High School where she is member of the vocal ensemble and takes dancing and acting classes. She has taken voice lessons with Gianna Miranda for four years. Her interests outside of theater include volleyball, reading, baking, and playing with her dogs.
Renee Markell (Emma Goldman) is excited to be a part of another production with Servant Stage Company after last being seen as Eulalie Shinn in The Music Man. Her favorite role to date was playing Marmee in Servants Stages production of Little Women. She has had the privilege of performing with Sight & Sound Theatres in both Miracle of Christmas and Moses. Off stage Renee runs her own budgeting business and works part time for two local Non-Profits. She is the proud mother of 2 adult daughters and a grandmother to a precious 8 month old granddaughter. Renee is humbled and so thankful to her Savior for His unending faithfulness and His unconditional love. Psalm 62:5-7
Cameron Mast (Admiral Peary, Ensemble) is excited to be back with Servant Stage! He previously was a part of Old-Time Gospel Radio Hour in 2016, and afterwards, he performed in Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up? under the direction of Wally Calderon. Since finishing his music degree at West Chester University in 2017, he enjoys singing with The Brandywine Singers, a chamber choral ensemble in Chester County. He lives in Coatesville, PA, with his wife and two little girls, whom he loves to spend his time with as a stay-at-home-dad.
Candace Mbugua (Ensemble), sixteen years old, is so excited for the opportunity to be a part of Ragtime! Her love of music and dance inspired her to try musical theater, and from her first show, she has known it is something that she would always love and want to do. Some of her favorite roles have included Anna in Frozen, Jr, Stepsister Grace in Cinderella, Mayzie in Seussical, Jr, and Eulalie Shinn in The Music Man, Jr. Locally she has appeared with The Lancaster Academy for the Performing Arts, Piercing Word, Red Accordion Studios, Servant Stage, and Cobblestone Players. Candace also enjoys reading and playing the piano and flute, and her academic interests include history, literature, debate, and economics. She would like to thank everyone involved for making this production such a memorable experience!
Jim Moyer (JP Morgan, Ensemble, U/S Grandfather) was last seen on Servant Stage as Captain Smith in powerful production of Titanic. He has performed at Dutch Apple in Will Rogers Follies, Happy Days, White Christmas, Holiday Inn and The Buddy Holly Story. He has also worked at Allenberry Playhouse in The Man Who Saved Christmas, Elf the Musical and It Should Have Been You. Jim is enjoying his retirement and try’s to spend as much time as possible with his grandkids. He sends his best to all who come to enjoy this wonderful show.
Sierra Naomi (Houdini's Mother, Ensemble, U/S Emma Goldman) is an actor, singer, producer, and designer based in NYC. Last summer she served as the live director and festival co-producer for the Allen and Gray Musical Festival. Shortly after that she produced and hosted a concert series called “New Voices” featuring new musical theatre writers. Prior to the shutdown, Sierra was primarily seen on stage as Mme de la Grande Bouche in Beauty and the Beast, Fantine in Les Miserables, Lucille in Parade and numerous concerts at venues such at Feinstein’s/54 Below. Two of the best roles she plays are wife to Matthew and dog mom to Potter! Thank you for continuing to support the arts! Philippians 4:13. @sierranaomi_nyc
Brady Norgaard (Ensemble), age 16, is ready to share this wonderful story with audiences! Brady loves performing with Servant Stage and was most recently seen with Servant Stage in Rock Around the Clock, Newsies, Once Upon a Mattress, Aladdin Jr., Don’t Rock the Jukebox, Frozen Jr., Music Man, Once on this Island Jr., Jump Jive and Jukebox, A Christmas Carol, Titanic, Jukebox Saturday Night, and Old-Time Gospel Radio Hour. Brady recently performed in the 2021 American Music Theater Christmas Show, as well as playing Curious George in Curious George at Dutch Apple Dinner Theater. Brady has also performed with the Fulton Theatre, Creative Works Lancaster, Piercing Word, Prima Theatre, Theater Harrisburg, and Lancaster Bible College. Brady would like to thank Servant Stage Company, his family, and teachers for this great opportunity.
Nolen Petrosky (Houdini, U/S Younger Brother) is so glad to be back with Servant Stage for this powerful production of Ragtime. Nolen has had the pleasure of being in several shows with this wonderful group, including Old Time Gospel Radio Hour, Amazing Grace, Joy to the World and most recently Newsies (Race, U/S Jack Kelly). A few other favorite credits include The Buddy Holly Story (Buddy), The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson) and Newsies (Crutchie) for which he was awarded the Hershey Theatre Apollo Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Musical. A sincere thank you to the cast and crew of this show, and to Nolen’s best supporter, his brother Callaghan. As always, a good, good beverage.
Terron Quailes (Booker T. Washington, U/S Coalhouse) made his musical theater debut 17 yrs ago in Ragtime as Coalhouse Walker Jr. and has been a very active performer and vocalist ever since then. He is excited to be returning to Servant Stage this year for a show that is so near and dear to him. Terron has supported and performed for a variety of non-profit organizations in the Eastern Shore region throughout the years prior to moving to Lancaster, Pa in 2017 to work at Sight and Sound Theater where he was in the casts of: Jonah, Miracle of Christmas, Jesus; Queen Esther. Favorite roles include Preacher Oedipus in The Gospel of Colonus, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in The Meeting, Curtis Taylor in Dreamgirls, and the voice of Audrey II in The Little Shop of Horrors. “Thank you to Wally for this opportunity and my family and friends who travel near and far to support me.”
Shaun Ressler (Ensemble, U/S JP Morgan) is thrilled to join the cast of this powerful show! He is certainly no stranger to Servant Stage, appearing both on stage and behind the sound board regularly. Some of Shaun’s favorite performances with Servant Stage include Rock Around the Clock (featured ensemble), Joy to the World (featured ensemble), Old Time Gospel Radio Hour (Gospel Quartets, 3 times), Titanic (Guggenheim/Major), and Forever Plaid (Smudge). He holds a BA in Music Business/Technology (Voice) and a BS in Computer Science from Millersville University and currently works as a Software Engineer for Cargas Systems. Shaun has a passion for theater, sound design, and singing, and has worked and acted with many area production companies. Many thanks to the entire Servant Stage team and to Kayla for their constant support and encouragement!
Kelli Robinson (Ensemble, U/S Houdini's Mother) is delighted to return to Servant’s Stage for Ragtime having previously performed as Miss Prism in The Importance of Being Earnest the emerging artist cast. Other favorite productions include Fiddler on the Roof (Golde) and Smoke on the Mountain (Vera Sanders) both with Lancaster Bible College and Ruth (Naomi) with Piercing Word. She graduated from Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Performing Arts majoring in vocal music. She then attended Lancaster Bible College and received a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Pedagogy. She has had the privilege of directing several shows including Beauty and the Beast, The Sound of Music, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Charlotte’s Web, Aesop’s Fables and The Importance of Being Earnest at Mount Calvary Christian School. She also music directed for The Lion King Jr also at Mount Calvary and Tarzan at Harrisburg Christian Performing Arts Center. Soli Deo Gloria.
Jennifer Ruth is joining the Servant Stage cast for the first time! Jennifer has loved musical theater ever since she watched Fred Astaire as a girl. As a child, she played the piano and competed in jazz for ten years. She has been a singer since high school. She toured with Northpoint Bible College’s Choir and Courier teams. She worked at Sight & Sound Theaters in Noah, The Miracle of Christmas, Behold the Lamb and Abraham and Sarah. Hagar was her favorite role to play there! She has taken tap and modern at Cavod Performing Arts. She is a worship leader at Victory Church. Singing praise music is the true love of her heart. Being a mom has been her dream role! She is grateful to her parents for a lifetime of supporting and investing in her. She performs in Ragtime in honor of Stan Deen who encouraged her!
Joy Schaeffer (Kathleen, Ensemble) a recent transplant to Lancaster all the way from Texas is happy to be performing with Servant Stage again after joining them last year in Prodigal: A Musical Allegory and Amazing Grace the Musical. Joy has been singing, acting, music directing and directing with her community theaters and churches for over 25 years. Some of her favorite roles have been, Narnia the Musical (White Witch), The Sound of Music (Maria), Little Women the Musical (Marmee), Mary Poppins (Mrs. Banks), and Tarzan the Musical (Kala), and most recently several scripture performances with the local company Piercing Word. Joy has had the privilege of sharing the stage many times over the years with her wonderful husband, James, and her four fantastic kids who love the theater too. You could say it has truly been a family affair, and she is always so grateful for all their encouragement & support.
Riley Shroyer (Ensemble) is so excited to be a part of Ragtime. They have previously performed with Servant Stage in numerous youth camps, Rock Around The Clock, Don’t Rock The Jukebox, Amazing Grace, and Teen/Apprentice Company. They have always enjoyed performing and have been seen at the Dutch Apple Dinner Theater, American Music Theater, Popovsky Performing Arts Studio, Lancaster Academy, Lancaster Bible College, and EPAC. They have been dancing for ten years including three years on a competitive dance team. They have taken voice lessons with Joanne Abrom for seven years. This fall, they will be attending The American Musical and Dramatic Academy. Riley is so grateful for all the support from their family and friends.
Brian Silva (Ensemble, U/S Admiral Peary) is ecstatic to be making his Servant Stage debut in Ragtime. Born and raised in Carlisle PA, Brian enjoys being involved with many community theaters across Central PA and lending his voice to the Canate Carlisle Chorus for the past 2 years, as well leading his weekly trivia team to victory! Some of his favorite Past Performances include playing Tom Collins in Rent (Bare Bones Theatre Ensemble), Wayne Hopkins in Puffs (Keystone Theatrics), Mungojerrie in Cats (Susquehanna Stage Company), and Perch Perkins in The Spongebob Musical (Whitaker Center). He would like to thank his friends, family and out there for their love, inspiration, and supporting the arts all across Pennsylvania.
Isaiah Smith (Young Coalhouse) is excited to make his debut with Servant Stage as Coalhouse Walker III! He is grateful for his new friends. Isaiah was born in Lititz, lived in Kansas for a while, and has enjoyed moving back to the east coast with his family. Isaiah enjoys music, reading, and pizza, and dedicates his performance to his little sister, Rebekah.
Kylie Jo Smith (Sarah) - A Wichita, Kansas native, Kylie Jo is grateful to be part of the SS family! Kylie Jo began building a career of performing on stage and screen more than 20 years ago. She is also the co-host of the NixMyth Podcast, with her husband, Nick (NixMythPodcast.com). When she and Nick are not homeschooling their two little ones & house-parenting twelve middle school girls, Kylie Jo travels to Nashville to record & perform music that is literally changing the lives of families in poverty all over the world. Learn more & join the mission at kyliejomusic.com — Be blessed!
Caleb Steindel (Ensemble) is thrilled to perform in his second Servant Stage production in this beautiful dream show. He was last seen as Romeo in Servant Stage's Newsies in June, and he's excited to check this show off his bucket list. :) Caleb has been performing for a decade and was nominated for a Hershey Theatre Apollo Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Musical for his portrayals of Davey in Newsies and Perchik in Fiddler on the Roof - both with Encore! Home School Productions. Other favorite roles include Gaston in Encore’s Beauty and the Beast, Simon Stride in HCPACs Jekyll & Hyde, ensemble in Theatre Harrisburg’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Jesus in Piercing Word’s The Advent of Christmas. Caleb has performed twice at the Hershey Theatre Apollo Awards annual cabaret, Beyond the Footlights. When he isn’t on stage, he can be found managing his fantasy football teams, playing Ultimate Frisbee, reading, writing, and listening to podcasts. Shout-out to the cast & crew, especially to his fellow Encore! peeps. Romans 8:28
Max Stiner (Ensemble, U/S Houdini) is thrilled to be making his Servant Stage debut in such a breathtaking and relevant piece. This past May, he graduated from the Sight & Sound Conservatory’s training/apprenticeship program. Some of his previous regional and educational roles include: Queen Esther (Baby Elephant/Ensemble), Godspell (Judas/John the Baptist), SpongeBob (Perch Perkins/Ensemble), Newsies (Race), Tuck Everlasting (Jessie), Curtains (Bobby Pepper) and Brigadoon (Harry Beaton). Insta: @max.stiner
Luke Stone (Little Boy) is excited to join his first Servant Stage production! Though his stage experience is limited, he is no stranger to singing. He got his start on stage at Discover Your Voice Camp at age 8 with a feature of “One Jump” from Aladdin and has attended the last 3 years. He has also performed in school musicals and choir at Dayspring Christian Academy and has had featured solos in many productions. Luke is a well-rounded guy who also is learning to play the piano and ukulele, loves to play baseball and basketball and creates with legos!
Adam Tornielli (Ensemble) is overjoyed to be taking part in his first Servant Stage Production! Some of his favorite past credits include Christopher in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime (EHS), Bert in Mary Poppins Jr (EPAC), and the Favorite Son in American Idiot (BTG). He'd like to thank his family and everyone who has helped him along the way!
Pamela Urbanavage (Ensemble) is thrilled to be a part of her first Servant Stage production! Pamela is a homeschool mom who has had the joy of watching her daughters perform with Servant Stage in Honk Jr., Old Time Gospel Radio Christmas, and Amazing Grace. Her son has also performed alongside one of his sisters in Servant Stage's production of Moana Jr. In addition to picking out school curriculum and having deep philosophical conversations with her children, Pamela loves to watch and sing along to musicals; making sure to catch as many Servant Stage performances as time allows. It is common – at home – for Pamela to respond to a question or statement with snippets of song lyrics (sung instead of spoken, of course!). Pamela serves on her church’s choir and worship team and is studying to become a pastor. She would like to thank God, her wonderful family, and Wally Calderon for the opportunity to be a part of this production.
Briana VanVleet (Sarah's Friend, Ensemble, U/S Sarah) is so excited to be back in Lancaster and back on stage! You may have seen her in The Civil War (2017), Old Time Gospel Radio Christmas (2017), or the Living Room Concert Series (2020). Briana is so thankful that she is able to find time to perform again despite being a new Mom with barely any "me time." She looks forward to continually putting smiles on people’s faces both on and off stage. Enjoy the show!
Lauren Watts (Little Girl) is thrilled to be a part of Ragtime with Servant Stage! She is 10 years old and currently a 5th grader at Spring Ridge Elementary. Lauren previously in Dutch Apple's Dinner Theatre's production of Miracle on 34th Street, Popovsky's Performing Arts Mixed-Up Cabaret and in Matilda with Steel River Playhouse. In her free time, Lauren likes to spend time with her 3 pets, draw, sing, read, write poems, go horseback riding, and play tennis. She also enjoys playing the piano, violin, ukulele, and French horn. Lauren gives all her love and thanks to God, her family and friends, and everyone at Servant Stage!
Emily Wick (Evelyn Nesbit, Ensemble) is so excited to be a part of Ragtime! She was last seen at Servant Stage in Newsies and Joy to the World. Emily has performed with the Magic & Wonder Show, Bird-in-Hand Stage, and Tecumseh! Outdoor Drama. She toured with Missoula Children’s Theatre and currently manages the children’s theatre program in her hometown of Beloit, Wisconsin. When she isn’t performing, Emily likes to do aerial arts and write notes app poetry. Emily has a BFA from Rockford University. So much love to Mom, Dad, Josh, Matt, and Gabe.
Christian Wolf (Ensemble) is glad to be performing with Servant Stage again. He has done multiple camps here such as Once Upon a Mattress, High School Musical 2, Oklahoma, and Our Town. Some of his favorite roles are Oaken from Frozen Jr (EPAC), Simon Stimson from Our Town, and the King from Once Upon a Mattress. His first show was The Wizard of Oz at the Fulton Theater when he was eight. He is currently a student at Warwick H.S.. Ragtime is his favorite musical and he is excited to be a part of it.
Reji Woods (Assistant Director, U/S Booker T. Washington) is thrilled to work again with Servant Stage Company on this production of RAGTIME. He has performed throughout the United States as well as in Paris, Amsterdam, and India! Reji is the co-founder/owner Bending Threads Cabaret Company based in New York, NY, and the founder of Reji Woods Productions based in Lancaster, PA. Broadway: Rocktopia. New York/Off-Broadway: THE WIZ, BLACK NATIVITY, ROMEO & JULIET, and ARCHBISHOP SUPREME TARTUFFE, AIN’T SUPPOSED TO DIE A NATURAL DEATH. Tour/Regional: TITANIC, BIG RIVER, SMOKEY JOE’S CAFE, DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, SEUSSICAL: THE MUSICAL, JAMAICA, GUYS & DOLLS, WEST SIDE STORY, CHESS, JONAH, MOSES, IS THERE LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?, and LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS. A lover of the stage and screen, Reji is thrilled to have had featured roles in Orange Is The New Black and the Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and was recently featured on Season 16 of America’s Got Talent as a member of JW’s Inspirational Singers. Thanks to Wally for this amazing opportunity to work alongside him!
Andrew Zahn (Tateh) is exceedingly grateful to tell this timeless and relevant story with this wonderful cast and crew. Previously at Servant Stage: 80 Days, Little Women and Sherlock Holmes. Fulton Theatre: Jersey Boys, Little Mermaid, Rags. Gretna Theatre: I Love a Piano, She Loves Me, Hank Williams: Lost Highway and Man of La Mancha. Sight and Sound, Dutch Apple, Reverie Actor's Company. "Brimming with gratitude to share this experience with wonderful Kate and dearest Sarah!"
Kate Zahn (Little Girl) has been looking forward to Ragtime for many months now and hopes you enjoy the show! She's had the pleasure of performing at the Hershey Theater and a few productions at school and church. Kate's favorite things include spending time with friends, making toys for her cat Nigel, kawaii, anime pokemon, swimming, macaroni and cheese, candy and petting any animal that will let her pet it.
Sarah Zahn (Mother) is so grateful you’re here to see this gorgeous and incredibly timely show. You may have seen Sarah in Servant Stage’s productions of Titanic, The Civil War, and A Rhapsody in Gershwin. She loves to curate and perform concerts celebrating soprano music and enjoys owning and operating a lively voice studio. Love to her dear family and friends. Journey on! www.sarahzahn.net
Meet the Production Team
RAGTIME is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com.