Newsies
When a ragtag group of newsboys are pushed too far by titans of industry, they band together to challenge the powerful! Set at the turn of the 20th century when workers were often exploited by "captains of industry," Newsies tells the true story of a team of newsboys who form a union to fight the greediness of New York's major newspapers. Based on the 1992 motion picture and inspired by a true story, this exciting musical features high-energy dancing, a Tony-winning score by Alan Menken, and a timeless message to fight for what’s right and seize the day!
Performances take place at the Good Shepherd Chapel of Lancaster Bible College 901 Eden Road, Lancaster. All shows are Pay-What-You-Will in keeping with Servant Stage's mission to make exceptional performances accessible to everyone.
PARENTAL ADVISORY
In this musical version, a few swear words are heard: "damn," "hell," "bastards," "asses." Mild physical struggles occur, all set to music and mostly danced, include fistfighting and pretend hits with batons/clubs. No injuries are sustained. A teen holds an unlit cigar in his mouth during most of his scenes.
Preview
Behind The Scenes
Featured Performances
LANCASTER BIBLE COLLEGE
901 Eden Road, Lancaster (click for map)
Friday, June 3 | 7:00pm
Saturday, June 4 | 2:00pm & 7:00pm
Sunday, June 5 | 2:00pm
Thursday, June 9 | 7:00pm
Friday, June 10 | 7:00pm
Saturday, June 11 | 2:00pm & 7:00pm
Sunday, June 12 | 2:00pm
Thursday, June 16 | 7:00pm
Friday, June 17 | 7:00pm
Saturday, June 18 | 2:00pm & 7:00pm
Sunday, June 19 | 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!
Meet the Cast
Click on a headshot to view bio.
Joshua Ankabrandt (Davey) is ecstatic to be back with Servant Stage for their production of Newsies! Josh was previously in Servant Stage's production of Titanic and Jukebox, while also attending Lancaster Bible College. At LBC, Josh was a musical theatre major and was in their production of Bye Bye Birdie! (Hugo Peabody), Magic Flute (Monostatos), Mary Poppins (Ensemble) and more! Josh hopes you enjoy the show and wants to thank Mr. Feeser, Mr. Wilson, and Dr. Bigley for teaching him everything he knows!
Derek Bigley (Morris Delancey, Davey U/S) graduated from Lancaster Bible College in 2018, where he majored in Communication and earned an additional degree in Biblical Studies. Although he did not pursue theatre as a degree, performing has always been a part of his life, and he is extremely thankful for every opportunity he has to be on stage. Some of Derek’s favorite past roles include John/Ernest in The Importance of Being Earnest, Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice, and two separate Barbershop Quartet appearances in The Music Man - one as the high tenor in high school and the other as the bass in college. He always enjoys collaborating with Servant Stage and is thrilled to finally be getting to perform in one of his favorite shows of all time! Derek would like to thank his wife, Ruthanne, and his family for their constant support of him, both on and off the stage. Soli Deo Gloria.
Ethan Black (Crutchie) is a random, somewhat, ruggedly attractive homeschooler who’s extremely excited to take part in a magical journey of rehearsals, working on acting, singing, and dancing, all to be a part of an amazingly stupendous show called, (drum roll please) Newsies! However, this is not his first shindig, in the past he’s done previous performances including: Don’t Rock the Jukebox! (Servant Stage) and Charlie Bucket in Willy Wonka Jr. (Cavod Theatre), ensemble in Backstage the Musical (BTBD) and 5 years of various shows with Sight & Sound Theatres. Ethan’s extremely excited and honored to be a part of another Servants Stage production, and for live theatre to be thriving again! Now as the great Freddie Mercury once said, or sung “the show must go on!”
Isaiah Byers (Newsies Ensemble) is excited to be making his debut with Servant Stage in Newsies! Isaiah is 13 years old and is a homeschooled 7th grader. He has been taking piano lessons for 6 years, guitar lessons for 4 years and ballet classes at Adagio Dance Academy for 7 years! Isaiah’s favorite productions with Adagio have been Cinderella, Nutcracker, Alice in Wonderland and Giselle. He is thankful for this opportunity to be in his first musical. Some things you can find Isaiah doing is rocking on his guitar, riding his skateboard, acting like a comedian and being creative in woodworking and with his inventions. Isaiah would like to give a big shout out to Wally Calderon, Christine Pizzolo, his gang of 6 siblings and his wonderful parents for all their love and support! “The LORD, who makes a way in the sea and a path through the mighty waters.” Isaiah 43:16.
Dan Deal (Joseph Pulitzer) is delighted to join the talented cast of Newsies! He returns to Servant Stage where he has performed in several productions; The Importance of Being Ernest, Around the World In 80 Days, and Sherlock Holmes (Best Actor, Broadway World). Dan has been an active part of the thriving Lancaster theatre community for the past 25 years. Dan is a longtime member of the fantastic team at Sight & Sight Theatres where he has produced and directed numerous productions. "I'm grateful to be onstage with this wonderful cast, grateful to be a part of this community, and thrilled to be working under the artful guidance of my friend Wally".
Christen Demnitz (Nun, Bowery Beauty) is extremely thankful to be joining Servant Stage for a second time, following last year's premiere of Prodigal the Musical. In addition to currently participating backstage with Sight & Sound Theater's David, Christen has performed with several Pennsylvania and New Jersey based theaters including Piercing Word (One Story -Eve/Woman), Brundage Park PlayHouse (Fiddler on the Roof-Fruma Sarah), Pax Amicus Theater (The Laughing Princess-Princess), Livingston Theater Company (How to Succeed-Rosemary), Centenary Stage Company (Give a Mouse a Cookie-Boy), The Cabaret Theater (Director's Showcase-Narrator) and College Ave Players (Fuddy Meers-Claire). She is especially grateful for Servant Stage's unique emphasis on the eternal truths of life both on and off the stage. A deeply appreciative thank you to Wally and Servant Stage for this exceptional opportunity and a hello and I love you to all family and loved ones. God bless!
Adina Diehl (Nun, Bowery Beauty), soprano, received her M.M. from the University of North Florida. Following graduation, she joined the voice faculty at UNF School of Music in 2017 where she taught Applied Voice and Opera through 2020. Adina made her international directorial debut summer 2019 with UNF Opera and the European Music Academy’s performances of The Magic Flute. Other directing experience includes Seymour Barab’s Little Red Riding Hood, Mozart Scenes as well as Don Giovanni with the Jacksonville Symphony, Puccini’s La Bohéme, and Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Mikado. In opera, Adina has performed principle roles in 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, a recent transplant to PA, is excited to perform with Servant Stage alongside her husband, David.
David Diehl (Accountant Bunsen, Goon, Pulitzer U/S) is thrilled to be joining the cast of Newsies in his first production with Servant Stage. 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. After returning to Lancaster from many years in Florida, David began work this year with Murray Insurance in downtown Lancaster. 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.
Michael DiSciullo (Newsies Ensemble) is thrilled to be returning to Servant Stage. While mostly seen as a stage manager, he’s back for his first show on stage in 10 years. Most recently he was the stage manager for Songs for a New World with Servant Stage and is looking forward to another incredible year. Favorite Servant Stage credits include Daddy Long Legs (SM), Once on this Island Jr (SM) and Titanic (A2). Many thanks to his family, and so much gratitude to Wally, Jenny, Syd, Catherine, Becca and Grace for their support.
Hayley England-Yawney (Nun, Bowery Beauty, Secretary Hannah U/S) is thrilled to be joining the cast of NEWSIES, which is her first production with Servant Stage! Hayley is a native of Cecil County, Maryland, but recently moved to Lancaster in fall of 2021 with her husband, Brian. She's been involved with many different theatres and performance troupes since early high school, and went on to graduate from the Sight & Sound Conservatory in 2019. Since then, Hayley has continued to work for Sight & Sound in the customer relations department. Her favorite performance credits include Mary Poppins (Dance Ensemble; Milburn Stone Theatre), The Little Mermaid (Swing; Cecil Dance Theatre), and Miracle of Christmas (Ensemble/Swing; Sight & Sound Theatres). She would like to thank the creative team at Servant Stage for this wonderful opportunity, as well as her husband, her parents, and her co-workers at Sight & Sound for their unwavering support.“
Brennen Eshleman (Newsies Ensemble) is thrilled to be a part of Newsies at his own college where he is entering his junior year. Brennen has been in multiple Servant Stage productions including The Music Man (Ensemble), Old Time Gospel Radio Hour (Jubilee Singer), Don't Rock the Jukebox (Ensemble), and many more. Brennen would like to thank the cast and crew, his family, and of course God for this opportunity.
Josiah Evans (Elmer), a high school sophomore, is excited to perform as Elmer in Newsies with Servant Stage Company! Josiah’s love of theater and music has led to roles with Lancaster Academy for the Performing Arts, Reji Woods Productions, and more. He was last seen as Sebastian in The Little Mermaid with Encore! Homeschool Productions, George in Our Town with Servant Stage, and LeFou in Beauty and the Beast with the Lancaster Academy. Other theater roles include Samuel in The Pirates of Penzance JR., the Munchkin Mayor in The Wizard of Oz and Peter Pan in Peter Pan JR. Josiah studies piano and violin; he’s also participated in orchestra and choral groups with Lancaster Academy and Susquehanna Youth Chorale. In his spare time, he likes to read, hang out with his family, and write, record and produce his own music. Josiah extends a huge thanks to the cast, his family, and the production team for their support!
Chris Faith (Barber Nunzio, Stage Manager, Mr. Jacobi, Cameraman, Teddy Roosevelt) is thrilled and honored to be performing with Servant Stage! Chris was last seen at Servant Stage in The Music Man in the role of Marcellus Washburn. He has done 2 shows for Piercing Word since that time. Chris is a former Equity actor who has performed Off-Broadway (The Secret Garden). Other credits include leading and supporting roles for The Wilma Theatre, Arden Theatre Company and the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival in Philadelphia. Favorite roles include Huck Finn in Big River (Tulane Summer Lyric Theatre), the Fool in King Lear (PSF), and Gaza in Samson (Sight & Sound Theatres). Most memorable stage moments include performing opposite Linda Eder in The Seduction of Sheila Valentine. Chris holds an MFA in Acting from Brandeis University and currently serves as the Casting Director for Sight & Sound Theatres. "Thank you to Wally and Servant Stage for this marvelous opportunity!"
Silas Frank (Tommy Boy), he/him is thrilled to join the cast of Newsies with Servant Stage. He recently performed as Kurt VonTrapp (U/S) in the Fulton Theatre’s production of The Sound of Music. A Lancaster County native and a 6th grader at Eshleman Elementary School, Silas loves to play the violin and piano. Silas would like to thank his family, his friends, and Servant Stage for this opportunity!
Lindsey Grimble-Adams (Medda Larkin) reigned onstage last fall in Servant Stage’s Amazing Grace as Princess Peyai. Lindsey’s favorite role is being a New Mama to Copper Warrior. Credits: Studied at The American Musical & Dramatic Academy, Nycc in Broadway’s Rocktopia, Equity Reading/Workshop of Off-Bways Disenchanted, Sojourner Truth for the FLDC Gala at the National Constitution Center, Sight & Sound Jesus, Dutch Apple Beehive, HCFTA Show Boat, The Barn The Civil War, TIP Once on this Island, STC Dreamgirls, The Gretna Timbers, & Piercing Word. Film/TV: ESPN: Silver Bullet, Chicco Baby Products, Stanley Black & Decker DIYZ, RTO, Rutter's Super Bowl and Carry Me Home on Amazon Prime. Love to God always. Jeremiah 29:11. www.LindseyGrimble.com
Jared Groff (Henry, Scab #2) is in 10th grade at McCaskey High School where he just finished doing a production of Newsies. He loved singing and dancing in the cast so much...that he wanted to have the chance to perform the musical again. Jared has had roles in the musicals Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, and Annie. He wants to thank his supportive family who has been such a help as he learns and grows on this journey!
Derek Harris (Newsies Ensemble, Scab #3) is thrilled to be a part of Newsies! He is currently 12 years old and just finished 6th grade at Rohrerstown Elementary. He previously played the role of Chip in the Hempfield High School production of Beauty and the Beast. He has also been involved in a variety of short plays with Rainbow Theater in Reading, Pennsylvania. Most recently, Derek played Harry Finfer in Dutch Apple’s Main Stage production of Miracle on 34th Street and enjoyed the role of Nigel in the Servant Stage production of Matilda, Jr. Outside of acting, Derek enjoys kayaking, playing soccer and supporting the Philadelphia Union soccer team!
Joshua Hess (Newsies Ensemble) is ecstatic to be joining the cast of Newsies! Newsies has been a bucket list show for Joshua ever since he first learned about the show when he was fifteen years old. It feels like a dream come true to have the opportunity to perform this show alongside such wonderful cast mates and with such a supportive crew. Joshua would like to thank his family and friends for believing in him and being supportive! Servant Stage Company: Don’t Rock The Jukebox (Ensemble), Popovsky Performing Arts: Halloween Cabaret (Featured Vocalist), Steitz City Players: A Coleman Classic Christmas (Murray McGuiness), Servant Stage Company: The Music Man (Ensemble).
Colin Horst (Newsies Ensemble) is excited to make his debut with Servant Stage in their production of Newsies! 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 perform 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. Another unique thing about Colin is that he assembled his own desktop computer when he was seventeen. Colin is thrilled for the chance Servant Stage has given him to continue acting, dancing, and singing beyond high school, and hopes the cast’s stellar performance will blow the audience away. Seize the day!
Landon Hunsicker (Finch), a rising homeschooled sophomore, is thrilled to be performing in Newsies with Servant Stage! He has performed previously with Servant Stage in Aladdin Jr (Aladdin) and in Our Town (Sam Craig, Howie Newsom). Other credits include Davey in Newsies (HCPAC), and several performances with Encore! Homeschool Productions, where he most recently played Prince Eric in The Little Mermaid! In his free time, Landon enjoys watching movies and spending time with good friends. He would like to thank his friends and family for their unending support and encouragement. Landon is truly grateful for the awesome friendships he has formed during his theatrical endeavors!
Kristin Hurdleston (Katherine Plumber) is beyond ecstatic to be playing her dream role! Kristin is a recent graduate of LBC with degrees in musical theatre and communication, and, much like Katherine, works as a professional writer. She teaches tap, strengthening and stretching, and lyrical at Balance Dance, where she passes on knowledge from various dance companies she has performed with in Lancaster County. Previous roles onstage include Lina Lamont (Singin’ In The Rain), Ruth (Ruth), Ensemble (Amazing Grace- Servant Stage), Dance Captain/Ensemble (Follies- Susquehanna Stage), Dance Captain/Featured Dancer (Bye Bye Birdie). She would like to thank the cast and crew for telling this amazing story, and her fiancé Adam for being her support and number one fan! All glory to God!
Brodie Kennedy (Les) is 10 years old in 5th grade and lives in Lancaster, PA. In his younger years, Brodie had roles in television episodes on Discovery ID and Lifetime Movie Network. He attended Broadway Bound classes and most recently, played the role of “Bruce” in Servant Stage’s Matilda Jr. Brodie loves being on stage, and performing allows his normally quiet self to shine bright!
Avery William Klees (Oscar Delancey) is a performer from Towanda, PA and is so thankful to be part of the Lancaster Theater Community. Avery has been in many other productions and involved with various companies such as Servant Stage, Susquehanna Stage Co. and Sight & Sound. Avery is overjoyed to be working with Servant Stage again and has been involved with several of their shows such as Don’t Rock the Jukebox, Old Time Gospel, and Amazing Grace (Performer) and The Civil War and Moana Jr (Videographer and Editor). He would like to give a huge thank you to Servant Stage for the opportunity to be involved with this company.
Nate Lentz (Mr. Wiesel) has been increasingly involved with theatre over the last several years, mainly behind the scenes on the technical side, as well as serving on the board of directors for a local theatre/conservatory in Chester County (Revival Productions, Coatesville, PA). During the day, he can be found working in product management for a software company based in Malvern, PA. Outside of work and theatre, he enjoys travel, with a highlight being a visit to the amazing country of Turkey last year and experiencing its rich culture and history. He also enjoys flying small aircraft as a private pilot. He is excited and thankful to the great people at Servant Stage for this opportunity to step out from behind the stage, and especially for this role, which essentially requires that he torment and get annoyed at the actor portraying Jack Kelly, which, given their 18-year history, should not really require much acting at all.
William Lentz (Jack Kelly) has been doing theater for 8 years, and is ecstatic to reprise his dream role of Jack Kelly in his debut at Servant Stage! Outside of theater, he enjoys software development, volunteering as an EMT with Uwchlan Ambulance, and flying small aircraft out of Chester County Airport. He is incredibly excited to rally together with this amazing cast in this production of Newsies, a powerful story of standing up and speaking out against tyranny. Some of his favorite roles that he has taken on have been Javert in Les Miserables, once with the Barley Sheaf Players, and once at his high school (Collegium Charter School), Jack Kelly in Newsies and Sweeney Todd in Sweeney Todd with Revival Productions, and Billy Flynn in Chicago at the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur. He apologizes to Notre Dame for their broken table.
Chadman Martin (Mush) is very excited to be back working with Servant Stage after previously being involved in Jump, Jive, and Jukebox, and The Music Man. Some of his other productions include Wizard of Oz (Uncle Henry/The Guard of Emerald City), Bye Bye Birdie (Hugo Peabody), and Beauty and the Beast (Gaston). Some of Chadman's other interests include animals, cooking, and swimming.
Hannah Messerschmidt (Nun, Bowery Beauty, Woman) is excited to be making her Servant Stage debut onstage as a performer. A graduate of Houghton College, she is grateful for professors who pushed her to keep singing, acting, and dancing, despite being a piano major! Hannah can usually be found behind a piano at Lancaster Bible College… or any piano within reach, really. She has played for Let Freedom Ring! (Servant Stage) and music directed a number of Jr. theater productions (Aladdin Jr, Moana Jr, Oklahoma Jr, Matilda Jr). Past credits include Into the Woods, Oklahoma, and She Loves Me. In her spare time, Hannah can be found instigating spontaneous adventures with friends, laughing, pretending she likes the outdoors, and sitting. She would like to thank friends and family for their unconditional love and support, onstage and off.
Conner Moodie (Buttons), age 14, is thrilled to once again be performing with Servant Stage Company! Conner is an eighth-grader at Hershey Middle School, and has performed with numerous theatre companies in the area. Favorite roles include Matilda: The Musical (Dance Captain), Shrek (Lord Farquaad), and A Christmas Carol (Tiny Tim). When not on stage, Conner can be found in the dance studio at One Broadway Dance Academy, where he started at the age of 7 and is now a member of their award-winning competition team, Star Company. He is honored to work with this amazing cast, and grateful to the Servant Stage production team for giving him this opportunity!
Brady Norgaard (Newsies Ensemble), age 16, is ready to share this amazing story with the Servant Stage audiences! Brady loves performing with Servant Stage and was most recently seen with Servant Stage in 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.
Will Noll (Newsies Ensemble) is excited to be a part of Newsies. He is thankful for Servant Stage and all the support, encouragement, and learning experiences he has had with each director he’s been fortunate to work with. Will’s favorite roles have been Timon (Lion King) and Troy (High School Musical 2). Will plays guitar and leads worship for his youth group at Calvary Bible Fellowship Church where he and his family attend. Will also enjoys sports and volunteers in the kids’ ministry at his church. Will would like to thank his family for supporting him and Servant Stage for the opportunity. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
Jack Packer (Splasher) is so excited to be a Newsie! He is returning to Servant Stage after appearing in Prodigal as Young Diggory Cooper, in Servant Stage’s Living Room Concert Series, and in the 2019 production of Let Freedom Ring. Most recently, Jack was seen as Friedrich (Sound of Music, Fulton Theater). Past credits include: Christian Bechdel (Fun Home, Fulton Theater), Jack/Peter (Finding Neverland National Tour, Prather Productions), Young Jesus (Jesus, Sight & Sound Theaters), and roles at Dutch Apple Dinner Theater including Chip (Beauty & the Beast), Nayib/Young Emilio (On Your Feet), Michael Hobbs (Elf the Musical), Charlie Winslow (Holiday Inn), and Tiny Tim (A Christmas Carol). Jack has performed with EPAC, MPACT, and Creative Pursuits Studio. Jack studies voice with Reji Woods and dance with Amy Meehan. He thanks Wally and Servant Stage for this opportunity and his family for their support. ◆ Isaiah 25:1 ◆ Instagram @jackryanpacker
Devin Palmieri (Snyder, Mayor) is very excited to be working with Servant Stage in their production of Newsies. Devin graduated from Albright College with a major in Theatre. He had the chance to experience and perform in every genre of plays while there. With shows from all different styles ranging from classics like Pirates of Penzance to more contemporary work such as Norway.Today. He was also involved heavily in the Domino Players and Less Than Or Equal Too improv troupes. After college, he was also trained in voice over work with Edge Studio in New York.
Callaghan Petrosky (Specs, Spot Conlon) is overjoyed to be in Servant Stage Company’s Newsies. He is enthusiastic about performing in Newsies a 2nd time with his brother Nolen and can’t wait to give the “nod from Brooklyn.” Callaghan joined the Servant Stage family in 2019 for Let Freedom Ring. A couple of his favorite past roles include George in Finding Neverland at The Dutch Apple and The Stage Manager in Our Town with Servant Stage. He is grateful for this opportunity and to God for his many blessings. Callaghan thanks Wally, Jen, Mike, and Sydney for all their support for this show. Much love to his lady in the second row, his radical brother Nolen, and his parents for their enduring love and support.- “Delicious Pancakes!”
Nolen Petrosky (Race, Jack Kelly U/S) is stoked to be back at Servant Stage for this, his all-time favorite musical. Nolen has been a part of several Servant Stage productions, including Joy to the World, Amazing Grace, and Old Time Gospel Radio Hour. He had the opportunity of doing this show before several years ago, previously portraying the role of Crutchie, for which he was awarded the Hershey Theatre Apollo Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor. A few other favorites include The Buddy Holly Story (Buddy), Little Women (John Brooke), and All is Calm (Ensemble). Nolen would like to extend a sincere thank you to the entire Servant Stage family, his parents for their endless support, and all the other fantastic Newsies, especially his brother, Callaghan. “Glory to God for all the blessings, and best wishes.”
Jonathan Schaeffer (Darcy, Passerby, Policeman, Guard) just moved to Lancaster from Texas and is excited to be a part of this production with Servant Stage. He has played a variety of roles from Shakespeare's Benedick in Much Ado About Nothing to the Cat in the Hat in Seussical the Musical. Some other shows he has done have been Tarzan the Musical (Clayton) and Madagascar the Musical (King Julien), both with the Wichita Theatre in Texas, and Sermon on the Mount and Passion the Musical with Piercing Word in Lancaster, PA. Jonathan has completed his bachelor's degree in Aviation through Liberty University, along with his Private, Instrument, and Commercial Pilot License and plans to become a commercial airline pilot. He also helps his dad run a business, and if he ever has any spare time, he loves to play volleyball and participate in anything outdoors.
Korri Slamans (Secretary Hannah, Medda Larkin U/S) is a senior musical theater major at Lancaster Bible College. She most recently performed in LBC’s production of Radium Girls at LBC. She also performed in LBC’s production of Singin’ in the Rain, and Servant Stage’s Amazing Grace the Experience at LBC. In high school, Korri appeared as “Miss Medda Larkin” in Newsies! with Encore! Homeschool Productions, and “Miss Shields” in A Christmas Story at HCPAC. She has also modeled for Los Angeles based brand Tboy Chiq, and the North Carolina based brand, Opportunities Co. Korri is extremely proud of her progress at Lancaster Bible College so far. She is thankful for her second opportunity to work with Servant Stage. To God be the Glory. 2 Timothy 1:7.
Seth Snyder (Newsies Ensemble), a high school junior, is excited to be performing in his first musical with Servant Stage as a Newsies ensemble member. It is one of his favorite shows! You may recognize Seth as Mr. Webb from his performance of Our Town by Servant Stage. Seth has also participated in two of their summer camps where he played Jafar from Aladdin, Jr. and Chad from High School Musical 2. Seth recently played King Triton in Disney’s The Little Mermaid with Encore! Homeschool Productions, where he has been performing for the last 10 years. This past fall, he also played the role of Inspector Craddock in A Murder is Announced with Encore. In his free time, Seth takes voice, jazz and tap lessons. Seth would like to thank Wally, and the rest of the production staff, for this wonderful opportunity and their willingness to teach and share their knowledge.
Caleb Steindel (Romeo, Crutchie U/S) is thrilled to be performing in his first Servant Stage show and his second Newsies production. Previously, he portrayed Davey in Encore! Home School Productions’ Newsies and was nominated for a Hershey Theatre Apollo Award. Another favorite role was Perchik in Encore’s Fiddler on the Roof, for which he was also nominated for an Apollo Award. Other favorite roles include Gaston in Encore’s Beauty and the Beast, Simon Stride in HCPAC’s 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 Award’s 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.
Jamen Steindel (Newsies Ensemble, Morris Delancey U/S) is thrilled for the opportunity to be performing in Servant Stage's production of Newsies. He is a sophomore whose past theater shows include The Wizard of Oz, Peter Pan (Michael Darling), Beauty and the Beast, Fiddler on the Roof, Newsies (Specs), Bye Bye Birdie (Fred), and Disney Cabaret. Each of these shows were done by Encore! Home School Productions which he's been a part of for 9 years. He also has participated in Teens: What Are They Thinking? Monologues and Scenes in 2020 with Encore. In addition to Encore, back in 2017 he took part in Mind Steward's Dinosaurs Before Dark where he played the role of Jack. Some of his interests include playing club indoor soccer, actively following and playing sports, and listening to music. Lastly, he would like to thank his brother Caleb for driving him to nearly every rehearsal.
Tyler Swope (Editor Seitz, Goon) is so excited to be making his Servant Stage debut! Previously, Tyler has performed in DCP Theatre’s Enchanted Bookshop (Sherlock Holmes) and Sherlock Holmes: The Baker’s Street Irregulars (Tiny) as well as Cairn Community Arts Academy’s A Christmas Carol (Bob Cratchit) and The Hiding Place (Caspar Ten Boom) and many many more! A special thanks to Wally Calderon and the production team for this amazing opportunity!
Emily Wick (Nun, Bowery Beauty, Katherine Plumber U/S) is excited to be a part of Newsies! She was last seen at Servant Stage in Joy to the World and Amazing Grace. Emily has performed with The Magic & Wonder Show, Bird-in-Hand Stage, and Tecumseh! Outdoor Drama. A few of her favorite roles have been Esther in Meet Me in St. Louis, Hodel in Fiddler on the Roof, and Sister Mary Amnesia in Nunsense. She toured with Missoula Children’s Theatre and currently works with the children’s theatre program in her hometown. When she isn’t performing Emily likes to practice aerial arts and learn folk songs to play on guitar. Emily has a BFA from Rockford University. So much love to Mom, Dad, Josh, Matt, and Gabe.
Meet the Production Team
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Wally Calderon (Director, Choreographer) Originally from Green Bay, WI, Wally Calderon earned his BFA in Music Theatre Performance and Direction from Ohio Northern University. For over 15 years, Wally traveled the country as a freelance performer, director, and choreographer. Notable stays include the Miracle Theatre in Pigeon Forge, TN, The Palace Theatre in Manchester, NH, Hershey Park, and the highly credited Stagedoor Manor in upstate New York. Wally moved to Lancaster in 2012 where he spent five amazing years holding multiple positions at Sight & Sound Theatres. He considers it an honor and a blessing to be in his sixth year as Artistic Director of Servant Stage Company, and to be a part of a community that is so supportive of the arts in Lancaster. “Special thanks to my wonderful wife Andrea and my two sweetest daughters, Joyanna and Juliet. All the glory to God for the amazing gifts and opportunities He has given me!” Psalms 149:3
A. Scott Williams (Music Director) started playing piano when he was seven years old and hasn’t stopped since. He’s a freelance musician who has music directed/conducted and performed at theaters all over Lancaster County including The Fulton Theatre, The Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre, Gretna Theatre and EPAC. Mr. Williams has also music directed/conducted and played piano all over the country, including the national tours of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Memphis and Fiddler on the Roof. You may have seen him on your computer screen during 2020 while playing piano for Servant Stage's "Living Room Concerts" as well as music directing and playing piano for multiple shows with Servant Stage throughout the years. Mr. Williams is thrilled to be back. Originally from Chicago, he earned his BA in piano performance, and his MM in choral conducting. Mr. Williams was nominated twice for a Jeff Citation for best musical direction and received an After Dark Award for Best Music Director. He would like to give God the glory for his talent and passion for music.
Melissa Edwards (Stage Manager) is excited to be stage managing her second show with Servant Stage. After earning her Bachelor's degree in Theatre from the University of Central Arkansas, Melissa worked behind the scenes in theatres in Kentucky, Nebraska, Virginia, New Jersey, and Connecticut before landing in Pennsylvania. She was the Associate Lighting Designer at Sight & Sound Theatres for 10 years, where she met her husband and biggest supporter, Curt. Since then Melissa has kept her hands in the theatre, working with Franklin & Marshall College, Reverie, and Servant Stage while maintaining her "real job" working for The Hershey Company.
Sydney Norgaard (Assistant Stage Manager), is excited to help share this amazing story! Sydney served as Assistant Stage Manager in Old Time Gospel, Amazing Grace, Joy to the World, and Songs for a New World. She most recently performed in Servant Stage’s Aladdin Jr., Don’t Rock the Jukebox, Frozen Jr., Music Man, Once on this Island Jr., Jump Jive and Jukebox, A Christmas Carol, Old Time Gospel Radio Hour, and Sherlock Holmes. Recent credits include American Music Theater’s Songs of the Silver Screen and the 2011-2017 Christmas Shows. Sydney has performed with The Fulton Theatre, Sight & Sound Theatre, Prima Theatre, Creative Works Lancaster, Ephrata Performing Arts Center, Piercing Word, and Lancaster Bible College as well. Many thanks to Servant Stage, her family, and wonderful teachers for this great opportunity.
Glen Brodersen (Technical Director, Set Designer) has been serving the theatre community for almost 30 years. He has had the privilege of using his diverse production talents at numerous churches and theatres across the US and in Europe. Currently, he serves as the Technical Director at Sight & Sound Theatres where over the past 16 years he has had the opportunity to support the company in a number of different production related roles. Glen has enjoyed designing and building sets for Servant Stage for many years. His most recent collaboration was Daddy Long Legs and he is now excited to be working with the Servant Stage team on Newsies.
Sarah Watson (Costume Coordinator), originally from the Washington, DC metro area, now lives in York, PA. She earned her BA in Visual Arts from UMBC. She was a member of the Army National Guard and worked for the Department of Defense before pursuing her MFA in Costume Design at UC Davis. Sarah has worked on costumes for theater and film. Sarah is passionate about theater for youth and spent seven years teaching technical theater at a private high school near Baltimore before leaving to be at home with her kids. Sarah now works from home for an awesome company, as well as for herself as a freelance costumer, and sewist. She is thrilled to be back working with Servant Stage again. Sarah lives with her husband, three kids, a dog, a cat, a fabulous mother-in-law, and a partridge in a pear tree.
Shaun Ressler (Audio Designer) is no stranger to Servant Stage Company, having designed sound for nearly a dozen of Servant Stage’s past productions and acted in several as well. He has a passion for theater, sound design, and singing, and has also worked with Ephrata Performing Arts Center, PPAS, OperaLancaster, and Cavod Theatre, to name a few. Shaun graduated from Millersville University with a BA in Music (Voice) and a BS in Computer Science, and works as a Software Engineer for Cargas Systems. Many thanks to Kayla and the SSC team for all their support and encouragement!
Tim Moser (Lighting Designer) has a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Technical Theatre from Indiana University of PA. He is currently the Production Designer of stage sets and lighting design for all 21 campuses of Lives Changed By Christ Church (LCBC) where he has been on staff for 17 years. Before that, Tim was a lighting and stage technician and Master Electrician at Sight & Sound Theatres for 10 years. He is the resident lighting designer for PRiMA Arts, a boutique theatre in Lancaster that creates a variety of theatrical experiences and has a year-round season. Tim also serves the community by designing and programming lighting for a variety of churches, schools, businesses, and theatres. Previously for Servant Stage, he was the lighting designer for Titanic: The Musical. Tim lives in Manheim with his stage manager wife Katie and their 3 sons. Tim and Katie met as college students working at the Ephrata Performing Arts Center and they both have been working in Lancaster Theatre ever since.
NEWSIES is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com.