Use Preferences to change the theme

Theme:

No. 274

Thank you!

To the generous sponsors of bright star

Bright Star Thank You Sponsors Only NEW

Show Information

Inspired by a true story

Music, Book &  Story By 

Steve Martin

Music, Lyrics, & Story By

Edie Brickell 

Produced By 

Joey Parnes, Sue Wagner, John Johnson, Zebulon LLC, Jay Alix & Una Jackman, Len Blavatnik, James L. Nederlander, Carson & Joseph Gleberman, Balboa Park Productions, The Shubert Organization, Jamie deRoy/Catherine Adler/Cricket Jiranek

In Association with 

Rodger Hess, A.C. Orange International, Broadway Across America, Sally Jacobs & Warren Baker, Diana DiMenna, Exeter Capital, Agnes Gund, True Love Productions And The Old Globe

Directed and Choreographed By

Dave Tinney

BRIGHT STAR is presented through special arrangement with and all authorized performance materials are supplied by Theatrical Rights Worldwide (TRW), 1180 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 640, New York,NY 10036. www.theatricalrights.com

The video or audio recording of this performance by any means is strictly prohibited.

brightstar-MACU ad

Production Team

Producer: Sally Dietlein 

Director /Choreographer: Dave Tinney 

Musical Director: Kelly DeHaan 

Production Stage Manager: Susan Kupferer 

Scenic Design: Jenn Stapley Taylor 

Production Artist: Madeline Ashton 

Lighting Design: Marianne Ohran 

Sound Design: Dan Morgan 

Projections Design: Bobby Gibson 

Properties Design: Michelle Jensen 

Costume Design: Peggy Willis 

Hair & Make-up Design: Krissa Lent 

Stage Manager: Megan Johnson and Jess Edling

Assistant Stage Managers: Alex Bowden, Finn Nottingham 

Lightboard: Renee Fowler, Colin Skip Wilson 

Sound Engineers: Kristen Tenney, Griffin McMullin, Dan Morgan 

Stagehands: Joshua Sheen, Griffin McMullin, Kristen Tenney, Ben Ward, Kyle Hess

Dressers: Carolyn Urban, Heidi Frank, Kyla Johnson, Maggie Sheen 

Hair and Make-up: Cassie Firth, Hope Bird, Tori Valdez

Followspots: Amara Bissonette, Duanne Woodruff, Liz Joyner, Shilo Wilde, Becky Perkins, Emma Elzinga, Sage Nielson

brightstar-rsl ad
brightstar-optum care ad

Director's Notes

The story of William Moses Gould Helms is unbelievable. He was known as the Iron Mountain Baby, and Bright Star is a romantic adaptation of his incredible “lost and found and found again” tale. He became renowned for his remarkable story.

As an adopted child I never knew “my story”. I mean, I knew that I was loved and safe and that I was being very carefully raised by my wonderful adopted parents, but there were gaps in my story that I never thought would be filled. As I grew up, I started to worry about those mysterious empty places in my history and during my teenage years my doubts about myself led to doubts about the way I fit into the fabric of my own life. Luckily, as an adult those holes in my story took a back seat to the new story I was creating with my wife and my sons. But still I wondered about my birth-mother. Would she be proud of me? Would she like the man I had become? I did everything I could do to find her. Nothing worked.

Out of nowhere, a few years ago, I received a phone call from a woman named Nichole. She had found me through a DNA search on Ancestry.com and was wondering if I’d like information about my birth-mother. Not only that, she asked if it would be okay if she gave my birth-mother my information so that she could call me herself. The thought of meeting her and of finally knowing my story made me so nervous and yet thrilled me deeply. I was sitting in my VW Beetle for a few hours waiting for her to call. I was certain she was having second thoughts about reaching out to me. I was sure she would be somehow disappointed in how her baby boy had turned out. Maybe I shouldn’t answer the phone. I should just let those gaps stay gaps. I love my life as it is, I’ll just ignore...*ring*... She might not like me...*ring*...What if this is a terrible mistake...*ring*. “Hello?” “Hello Kelly, This is your birth-mother. My name is Karla. How are you, my boy?” I couldn’t talk. I could barely breathe. This woman, this glorious mystery, this person who knew my story called me “her boy”. The conversation was a wonderful messy love-filled jumble but we came out of it with plans to meet and when we finally did it was pure joy. The pains and anger I had felt at being “given away” disappeared the moment I saw her face. The guilt and worry she had carried with her for over 45 years turned into happiness and relief when she saw that her boy had been cared for and loved perfectly by terrific parents. Our relationship became instantly deep and beautiful and sacred to the both of us. I listened carefully as she finally told me my story. MY story.

I saw Bright Star on Broadway four months before Karla came back into my story. At the end of the first act I sat in my seat (back row, center, orchestra level) and wept for the story I would never know. Later, at the end of the show, I sat in my seat and rejoiced at the hope of finding it. Somehow I knew it would happen. As the music director I have a unique bond with these songs and characters.

Watching these actors carefully craft these roles has been a humbling journey. Bright Star has become part of my story. Tonight we hope it will become a memorable part of yours.

“You never know what life will bring. Only what you bring to life.”

— Kelly DeHaan, Music Director

brightstar-minky ad
GA Partners Bright Star

Synopsis of Scenes

Act I

Scene 1 – 1945, Limbo

“If You Knew My Story”

Company 

Scene 2 – 1945, Billy’s Home, Outside Hayes Creek

“She’s Gone”

Billy Cane, Daddy Cane, Margo Crawford

Scene 3 – 1945, Margo’s Bookstore, Hayes Creek

"Bright Star"

Billy Cane, Margo Crawford, Max, Florence, Travelers

Scene 4 – 1945, Lobby of the Asheville Southern Journal

“Way Back in the Day”

Alice Murphy, Billy Cane, Daryl Ames, Lucy Grant, Ensemble

Scene 5 – 1923, Zebulon

“Whoa, Mama” 

Alice Murphy, Jimmy Ray Dobbs, Ensemble

Scene 6 – 1923, A Cabin in the Woods, Zebulon

“Firmer Hand/Do Right”

Alice Murphy, Daddy Murphy, Mama Murphy, Ensemble

Scene 7 – 1923, Mayor’s Office, Zebulon

“A Man’s Gotta Do”

Jimmy Ray Dobbs, Mayor Dobbs, Stanford Adams

Scene 8 – 1945, Alice’s Office, Asheville

“Bright Star Underscore”

Alice Murphy, Billy Cane, Daryl Ames, Lucy Grant

Scene 9 – 1945, Margo’s Bookstore, Hayes Creek

“Asheville”

Billy Cane, Margo Crawford, Max, Florence, Edna, Ensemble

Scene 10 – 1923, A Park in Zebulon

“What Could Be Better”

Alice Murphy, Jimmy Ray Dobbs, Daddy Murphy, Mama Murphy, Townsfolk

Scene 11 – 1923, A Doctor’s Office, Zebulon

Alice Murphy, Dr. Norquist

Scene 12 – 1923, Mayor’s House, Zebulon

Jimmy Ray Dobbs, Mayor Dobbs

Scene 13 – 1923, Zebulon

“I Can’t Wait”

Alice Murphy, Jimmy Ray Dobbs, Mayor Dobbs, Daddy Murphy, Dr. Norquist, Stanford Adams, Spirits

Scene 14 – 1945, Alice’s Office, Asheville

“Bright Star Scene Change”

Alice Murphy, Billy Cane, Daryl Ames, Lucy Grant

Scene 15 – 1924, A Shack in the Woods, Zebulon

“Please, Don’t Take Him”

1924, A Shack in the Woods, Zebulon

Scene 16 – 1924, Interior of a Train Car

“A Man’s Gotta Do (Reprise)” 

Mayor Dobbs, Ensemble

Aspire Surgical Bright Star
brightstar-buckner ad

Synopsis of Scenes

Act II

Scene 0 – 1924, Train Depot Outside of Zebulon

“Sun’s Gonna Shine”

Company

Scene 1 – 1924, Mayor’s Office, Zebulon

“Heartbreaker” 

Jimmy Ray Dobbs, Mayor Dobbs

Scene 2 – 1946, Shiny Penny Café and Bar, Asheville

“Another Round” 

Billy Cane, Daryl Ames, Lucy Grant, Bartender, Ensemble

Scene 3 – 1946, Alice’s Office, Asheville

Alice Murphy, Billy Cane, Daryl Ames

Scene 4 – 1946, A Government Office, Raleigh

Alice Murphy, Clerk

Scene 5 – 1946, A Well-Manicured Street, Raleigh

“I Had A Vision”

Alice Murphy, Jimmy Ray Dobbs, Well Dressed Woman

Scene 6 – 1946, Margo’s Bookstore, Hayes Creek

“Always Will”

Billy Cane, Margo Crawford, Max, Edna

Scene 7 – 1946, Alice’s Childhood Cabin, Zebulon

“Sun’s Gonna Shine (Reprise)”

Alice Murphy, Daddy Murphy, Mama Murphy

Scene 8 – 1946, Billy’s Home, Outside Hayes Creek

“So Familiar/At Long Last"

Alice Murphy, Billy Cane, Daddy Cane, Ensemble

Scene 9 – 1946, Lobby of the Asheville Southern Journal

“Finale”

Company

Brightstar-moreton&co ad
Ads Zions Bank Mary Poppins

Cast in Order of Appearance

Mon · Wed · Fri
Tues · Thurs · Sat
Alice
Bre Welch
Megan Heaps
Jimmy Ray Dobbs
Keith McKay Evans
Adam Dietlein
Bill Cane
Carter Walker
Dallin Suman
Daddy Cane/Bartender
Josh Richardson
Patrick Kintz
Mayor Dobbs
Ric Starnes
Michael Hohl
Margo Crawford
Brianna Meikle
Morgan Western
Daddy Murphy
David Marsden
Zac Zumbrunnen
Mama Murphy
Tamari Dunbar
Julie Waite
Daryl Ames
Jeffery Whitlock
Dustin Bolt
Lucy Grant
Kelly Coombs
Camille Evans
Man 1/Max
Nathanael Abbott
Nathan Kremin
Man 2/Dr. Norquist/Stationmaster
Carson Davies
Carson Davies
Man 3/Stanford Adams
Jason Baldwin
Abram Yarbro
Woman 1/Florence/Well Dressed Woman
MaKenna Tinney
Becca Ashton
Woman 2/Edna
Haley Wawro
Rebecca Kremin
Woman 3/Clerk
Brooke Holladay
Amelia Rose Moore
Banjo
Craig Miner
Kelin Gibbons
Cello
Nicole Pinnell
Josh Ogden
Violin
Becca Moench
Becca Moench
Piano
Tanner DeHaan
Kelly DeHaan
Ads RC Willey Mary Poppins
Ads Challenger Mary Poppins

Cast Biographies

Alice Murphy

Bre Welch

Bre Welch

MON · WED · FRI

Bre is thrilled to be back on the Hale Centre Theatre stage! HCT Credits include: Matilda (Miss Honey), Newsies (Katherine Plumber), The Pirate Queen (Grace O’Malley), Disney’s The Little Mermaid (Ariel), Catch Me If You Can (Brenda Strong), and in Sister Act (Sister Mary Robert). Other favorite credits include: WSU-Xanadu (Kira), The Light in the Piazza (Clara); CPT South Pacific (Nellie). 

Bre has worked as a character performer at Walt Disney World. Bre has a Musical Theatre Degree from WSU and is owner and photographer of Pepperfox Photo. “All my love to Addison, Alfie, and Poppy.”

Megan Heaps

Megan Lynn Heaps

TUES · THURS · SAT

Megan Lynn Heaps is honored to be joining the cast of Bright Star in the role of Alice Murphy. Notable performing credits include Donna in Mamma Mia (LyricRep) as well performing with Holland America Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. 

Megan holds a BS in Psychology from BYU and currently works as a Producer on the Video Team at Malouf. “To my family, friends, cast, crew, and directing team, I love you dearly. Mom & Nate: this one’s for you. Thank you for always believing in and supporting my performing career! God is Good!”

Billy Cane

Carter Walker

Carter Walker

MON · WED · FRI

Carter is excited to be returning to the HCT Stage. Previous stage credits include Newsies (Hale Centre Theatre), Tuck Everlasting(HCTO), Edward II, and A Doll’s House (An Other Theatre Company). Carter recently graduated from UVU with a BFA in Acting.

Dallin Suman

Dallin Suman

TUES · THURS · SAT

Making his HCT debut! Dallin is thrilled to be performing on the Hale Centre stage. Credits include: HCTO-Tuck Everlasting (Jesse Tuck) and A Christmas Carol (Topper); UVU- Urinetown; Renaissance Now Theatre and Film-As You Like It (Silvius); Brigham’s Playhouse-Anne of Green Gables (Gilbert Blythe), The Scarlet Pimpernel (Farleigh), Mary Poppins, and Freedom First. Dallin is currently a sophomore at Utah Valley University, pursuing his BFA in Musical Theatre.

Jimmy Ray Dobbs

Keith Evans

Keith Mckay Evans

MON · WED · FRI

A familiar face to Hale Centre audiences, Keith is thrilled to be back on the Jewel Box stage. Favorite HCT credits include - Percy Blakeney (The Scarlet Pimpernel), Harold Hill (The Music Man), Sam Wheat (Ghost: The Musical), and Frank Abegnal, Jr. (Catch Me If You Can) as well as Benny (In The Heights) at Hale Center Theatre Orem. 

Keith earned his BA and MA from BYU and works as the Choir Director at West Jordan High School. “Many thanks to my wife, son, and this production family for letting me join them in telling this story”.

Adam Dietlein

Adam Dietlein

Adam is excited to be back on the HCT stage. Other HCT roles: An American In Paris (Henri Baurel), A Christmas Carol (Dickens, Young Scrooge, Tiny Tim, Ensemble), Beauty and the Beast (Gaston), Oklahoma! (Curly), Les Miseràbles (Javert), Brigadoon (Tommy), Tarzan (Kerchek). 

He is fresh from the Broadway stage where he played Nick in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. Off-Broadway: Interview (Eugene Harper). 1st International Tour: Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (Gaston). NYMF: Shelter (Joshua). Film: Ephraim’s Rescue, Jackie & Ryan. TV: Bull (CBS). Adam has a BS in Exercise Physiology from the University of Utah. Love to Callie and BookItScott.

Daddy Cane

Josh Richardson

Josh Richardson

MON · WED · FRI

Josh is a familiar face to our HCT audiences. HCT credits include: The Addams Family (Gomez Addams), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Dom Claude Frollo), The Scarlet Pimpernel (Elton), The Heart of Robin Hood (Robert Summers), To Kill A Mockingbird (Bob Ewell), Les Miserables (Thernardier) plus many more. 

CPT credits: Shrek The Musical (Shrek), Harvey (Elwood P. Dowd). He received his Associates Degree in Theatre Arts from Ricks College and his Bachelor’s Degree in Acting and Directing from Southern Utah University. He works as an account manager for Holistic Web Presence. “As an adopted child, this story is incredibly personal to me. Special thanks to Dave, Kelly, and the whole team for letting me be a part of such a beautiful show.” 

Patrick Kintz

Patrick Kintz

TUES · THURS · SAT

Patrick is glad to be back after last being seen in Phantom as Alain Cholet. Recent credits include: HCTO: Tarzan (Kerchak), Jane Eyre (Richard Mason), Big Fish (Don Price and u/s Edward Bloom), Damn Yankees (Mr. Applegate), and The Man of La Mancha (Duke/Dr. Carrasco); Sundance Theatre: The Music Man (Charlie Cowell); 

Salt Lake Acting Co.: Venus in Fur (Thomas) and Bloody, Bloody Andrew Jackson (John Calhoun); Pygmalian-Sweetheart Come (Michael); Pioneer Theatre Company-Oslo (Trond); The Grand-The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 (Ken). Patrick is a graduate of BYU in Theatre Studies and has also studied at UVU and Steppenwolf Classes West. “Thank you to Lara, Kate, Jack and Lizzie for all your endless support and love!”

Margo Crawford

Brianna Meikle

Brianna Meikle

MON · WED · FRI

Excited to be back on the HCT stage, Brianna was last seen in our production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. UVU Credits include Julius Caesar, 9 to 5: The Musical, The Children’s Hour, and Jumpers. Brianna also served a performing mission in Nauvoo, IL. 

She received her BFA in Musical Theatre from UVU and currently works as vocalist for Changing Lanes Entertain- ment Group, plus teaches voice lessons at the SCERA. “I’m so grateful to be a part of this powerful story. This is a dream come true! Thank you to my teachers, friends, and family for believing in me and helping me grow.”

Morgan Western

Morgan Western

TUES · THURS · SAT

Morgan was recently seen in our productions of Seusscial, Cinderella, and as Marie in The Scarlet Pimpernel. Favorite credits include: CPT: Crazy for You (Polly), The Addams Family (Wednesday Addams), 1776 (Martha Jefferson); Hopebox Theatre: Catch Me if You Can (Brenda Strong). 

She attended the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music and graduated from Utah Valley University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre with an Acting Emphasis. “Special thanks to my personal Prince Charming, Zackery, Larissa, Mikey and to my family who have always supported me playing pretend.” Podcast: Adventure is out there!

Daryl Ames

Jeffrey Whitlock

Jeffery Whitlock

MON · WED · FRI

Jeffrey was most recently seen in our production of Matilda. Other HCT credits include The Scarlet Pimpernel (The Prince of Wales/Robespierre), My Son Pinocchio (Buonragazzo), The Nerd (Axel Hammond), Peter and the Starcatcher (Smee), Oliver! (Fagin), and The Hasty Heart (Lachlen). 

Jeffrey has also performed at Jackson Hole Playhouse and HCTO. Jeffrey has a BA in Film from the U of U. “Thanks to my entire family for their love and support.’’

Dustin Bolt

Dustin Bolt

TUES · THURS · SAT

Dustin’s last appearance at HCT was as Horton the Elephant in Seussical. Some of his favorite roles include the Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz (HCT), Terk in Tarzan (HCT), Henry Allerdyce in Betty Blue Eyes (HCTO), and Amos Hart in Chicago (MMST). Dustin has also performed with Pioneer Theatre Company, Salt Lake Acting Company, and Good Company Theatre. 

He graduated from Weber State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Musical Theatre. Dustin owns his own photography business and loves his cats: Sister, Brother, Peanut, and Kevin. “Thank you to Dave, Kelly, Susan, Mark, and Sally. And a HUGE thank you to our dressers and techies! We couldn’t do this show without you!” 

Lucy Grant

Kelly Coombs

Kelly Coombs

MON · WED · FRI

Kelly was last seen on our stage as Gertrude McFuzz in Seussical. Other favorite credits include: Jerusha Abbott (Daddy Long Legs) and Katherine (Newsies) at Hale Center Theatre Orem and Gabrielle (Cinderella) here at HCT. She graduated from UVU in performing arts and loves working in the education department at HCTO. “Enjoy the show!” 

Camille Evans

Camille Evans

TUES · THURS · SAT

Camilie is excited to be returning the Jewel Box Stage. She has appeared in The Addams Family, The Wizard of Oz, Sister Act, and The Pirate Queen at HCT. Favorite credits include: HCT-Sister Act (Mary Martin-of- Tours); University of Utah-Spring Awakening (Illse). She has a BFA in Musical Theatre from the University of Utah. “Thank you to Brad, family and friends. ‘Reality is something you rise above.’’’ - Liza Minnelli

Mama Murphy

Tamari Dunbar

Tamari Dunbar

MON · WED · FRI

Returning to our stage after last being seen in Steel Magnolias as M’Lynn Eatenton. She has performed with Riot Act, Pioneer Theatre Company, Pinnacle Acting Company, The Grand Theatre, Lyric Repertory Company, The Classical Greek Theatre Festival, and Sting and Honey. 

Some of her favorite roles include: Dancing at Lughnasa (Agnes), The Proposal (Natasha), Grey Gardens (Edith/Little Edie), ION (Creusa), and Picnic (Flo). Originally from the Bay area in California, she studied at Utah State University and resides in Salt Lake with her husband Roger and their three children.

Julie Waite

Julie Silvestro Waite

TUES · THURS · SAT

On the HCT stage: Tuck Everlasting (Besty Foster), A Christmas Carol (Mrs. Cratchit), The Heart of Robin Hood (Lady Falconbury), Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Mrs. Hoallum), Big Fish (Mrs. Baskin), Fiddler on the Roof (Shaindel), The Scarlet Pimpernel, and The Pirate Queen; Salt Lake Acting Company: Saturday’s Voyeur 2019

Grand Theatre Credits: Into the Woods (Witch), Our Town (Mrs. Gibbs), and The Full Monty (Georgie); CPT Credits: Anything Goes (Reno Sweeney), The Secret Garden (Rose), and The King and I (Lady Thiang). Julie holds a BA in Musical Theatre from Weber State University is currently a pianist for the Theatre Department at the U of U.

4 78x3 78 Living Space

Daddy Murphy

David Marsden

David Marsden

MON · WED · FRI

Recent HCT credits include Seussical (General Gengus Khan Schmitz), The Wizard of Oz (Professor Marvel/ Wizard of Oz), Cash on Delivery (Dr. Chapman). CenterPoint Legacy Theatre: in The Pirates of Penzance (The Major General), Mary Poppins (Mr. Banks), Curtains (Lt. Cioffi), Guys and Dolls (Nathan Detroit), and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (Lawrence Jamison). He also appeared at the Egyptian Theatre in Park City in Noises Off (Lloyd). “The Dude abides.”

Zac Zumbrunnen

Zac Zumbrunnen

TUES · THURS · SAT

Zac was last seen in Seussical as General Gengus Khan Schmitz on our Centre Stage. Favorite HCT credits include Wait Until Dark (Sargent Carlino), The Music Man (Mayor Shinn), Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (Cogsworth), Peter and the Starcatcher (Alf), She Loves Me (Mr. Marachek), Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (Goran the Spy), and Born Yesterday (Harry Brock). 

Zac holds a BFA in Theatre Education from the University of Utah and teaches Drama at Evergreen Junior High School. Zac would like to thank his amazing and supportive family for “letting him play.”

Mayor Dobbs

Ric Starnes

Ric Starnes

MON · WED · FRI

A familiar face to the Utah theatre audience. Hale Centre Theatre credits include Newsies, Tuck Everlasting, To Kill A Mockingbird, Beau Jest, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, and, most recently, A Christmas Carol 2019. HCTO: Newsies, Joseph.. Dreamcoat, Big Fish. PTC: Newsies. 

“I am grateful for the opportunity to tell this story. I hope each of you will feel a connection to family, faith, and reconciliation in the music and the message. Thanks to Dave, Kelly, Sally, Mark, and the entire production team for entrusting me with this complex character. Love to my awesome wife, who continues to support me and the theatre habit.”

Mike Hohl

Michael Hohl

TUES · THURS · SAT

Michael is excited to be returning to the HCT stage. Previous credits with us include To Kill A Mockingbird (Heck Tate), Big River (Pap), Big Fish (Amos Calloway), Joseph...Dreamcoat (Jacob), Catch Me If You Can (Roger Strong), and The Three Musketeers (Athos). 

CPT Credits: To Kill A Mockingbird (Atticus Finch), Lend Me A Tenor (Saunders). Utah Children’s Theatre: Busy Town. “Thanks to my fabulous family who happens to be the most fascinating people in the world.”

Man 1/Max

Nathanael Abbott

Nathanael Abbott

MON · WED · FRI

Nathanael was previously in our production of The Addams Family as Lucas Beineke. Nathanael is Director/Co-Founder of Panscape Pictures, an independent film company. “To have faith is to have wings.” Peter and the Starcatcher.

Nathan Kremin

Nathan Kremin

TUES · THURS · SAT

A familiar face to HCT audiences. Previous credits include: The Addams Family (Lucas Beineke), The Scarlet Pimpernel (Armand St. Just), Matilda, and The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Other favorite credits include Juanito Bandito (Grimm) at Pickleville Playhouse. Thank you to my beautiful wife, Becca. “All that we see or seem is but a dream within a dream.” -Edgar Allan Poe

Man 2/Dr. Norquist

Carson Davies

Carson Davies

Both Casts

Carson was recently seen in our production of Cinderella as the Fox/Footman. Other credits include: Hale Centre Theatre-Les Miserables (Courfeyrac), The Hunchback of Notre Dame; BYU-The Count of Monte Cristo (Mr. Morrell) a US Premier! Carson studied in the MDT Program at BYU with additional studies at BYU. “Thank you to Mark, Sally, Dave, Kelly and everyone at HCT! Shoutout to Brodee & McKelle for helping me get here!”

Man 3/Stanford Adams

Jason Baldwin

Jason Baldwin

MON · WED · FRI

Recent credits include: Freaky Friday (Mike), The Scarlet Pimpernel (Ozzy), and The Music Man (Jacey Squires) at Hale Centre Theatre. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (William Barfee) and Damn Yankees (Joe Hardy) at Weber State University. 

Jason holds a BA in Musical Theatre from Weber State University and works for HCT as our Set Shop Manager. “Thanks to my sweet wife and my two “P’s” in a pod for putting up with me and always cheering me on. Love you all.”

Abram Yarbro

Abram Yarbro

TUES · THURS · SAT

Abram was recently seen in Phantom as Inspector Ledoux on our Centre Stage. Previous credits: Hale Centre Theatre- The Scarlet Pimpernel (St. Cyr) and Joseph...Dreamcoat (Issachar); HCTO- Newsies (Davey) and Peter and the Starcatcher (Peter). 

He received his Associate’s Degree from Eastern Arizona College and graduated from BYU with a Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre Arts with an emphasis in Dramaturgy and Critical Studies. “I feel privileged and grateful to perform with this incredible cast and at this wonderful theater. I am thrilled to share the story of Bright Star with you; a story about family. And to my own family, thank you for your unfailing love and support!” 

Woman 1/Florence

Ma Kenna Tinney

Makenna Tinney

MON · WED · FRI

MaKenna has previously been seen on the HCT stage in The Addams Family (Wednesday Addams), Matilda, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Sarah), and Sister Act. Other credits include: Peter Pan (Wendy) and Joseph... Dreamcoat at HCTO. 

She is currently a Senior at UVU, pursuing a BFA in acting, and recently returned from Orlando where she was working for Walt Disney World. “Enjoy the show! Or don’t.”

Becca Ashton

Becca Ashton

TUES · THURS · SAT

Becca made her Hale Centre Theatre debut in our recent production of The Addams Family. Other credits: HCTO-The Odd Couple (Cecily Pigeon), Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Annie, and Anything Goes. She earned her BFA in Acting from Utah Valley University and works as Master Carpenter and Scenic Charge for the UVU School of the Arts. “Thank you Dave and Kelly for letting me be part of this beautiful story!”

Woman 2/Edna

Haley Wawro

Haley E. Wawro

MON · WED · FRI

Haley is excited to be back on the HCT Stage. Favorite credits include Hunchback of Notre Dame (Florika), The Last Five Years (Cathy), West Side Story (Maria), and Les Miserables (Eponine). Haley graduated with a BFA in Music Dance Theater from Brigham Young University and currently works as a voice teacher for HCTO. “Thanks for all the love and support from my friends and family! Love you all!”

Rebecca Burroughs Kremin

Rebecca Kremin

TUES · THURS · SAT

HCT audiences will recognize Rebecca from her recent performance in The Addams Family as Wednesday Addams. HCT credits include: The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Esmeralda), Aida (Nehebkah), Matilda (Acrobat). Other roles on the HCT stage include An American in Paris, Sister Act and Mary Poppins

HCTO Credits: In the Heights (Vanessa) and South Pacific (Liat). She studying at UVU, working towards her Bachelor of Science degree in Humanities and Art History. “Thank you to my friends and family for always supporting me. And a special thanks to my husband, Nathan.” 

Woman 3/Clerk

Brooke Holladay

Brooke Holladay

MON · WED · FRI

Making her Hale Centre Theatre Debut! Favorite stage credits include- Million Dollar Quartet (Dyanne) at HCTO; Little Shop of Horrors (Audry), The Drowsy Chaperone (The Chaperone), Les Miserables (Eponine), Seussical (Mayzie LaBird). “I want to thank my amazing family for always cheering me on and supporting me.”

Amelia Rose Moore

Amelia Rose Moore

TUES · THURS · SAT

Amelia was most recently seen as Morticia Addams in our production of The Addams Family. Other favorite HCT credits include: Mrs. Wormwood (Matilda), Dorcus (Seven Brides for Seven Brothers), Belle (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast), as well as The Scarlet Pimpernel and AIDA. Other favorite roles: Grizette in The Merry Widow (Utah Opera), Narrator (Joseph...Dreamcoat) with HCTO; she also appeared in A Year with Frog and Toad at SLAC. 

She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Musical Theater from Weber State University. “Thanks to Dave, Kelly, Mark and Sally for this wonderful opportunity! This show is dedicated to my Grandpa Dale who still is my number one fan. Have a terrible time and enjoy the show!”

brightstar-rocky mountain ad
Ads Legacy Village Mary Poppins
Ads Carvers Mary Poppins
Ad Listen Technologies

Production Team Biographies

Director/Choreographer

Dave Tinney

Dave Tinney

For Hale Centre Theatre, Dave has previously directed Seussical, The Addams Family, Cinderella, Matilda, An American in Paris, The Wizard of Oz, Wait Until Dark, Newsies, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Aida, The Heart of Robin Hood, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Sister Act, The Pirate Queen, Peter and the Starcatcher, She Loves Me, Tarzan, Hello, Dolly!, The Drowsy Chaperone, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Zorro the Musical, Oliver!, and Les Misérables. 

He most recently appeared on stage as Carl Hanratty in HCT’s production of Catch Me If You Can. He has also directed for BYU, UVU, Tuacahn Center for the Performing Arts, ASCAP Musical Theatre workshop in NY, Sundance Summer Theatre, and, one of his favorites, 110 in the Shade for HCT Orem starring Audra McDonald and Will Swenson. He received the national Outstanding Director of a Musical award from the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival. He works for HCT full-time as the Associate Artistic Director and Director of Education after being Artist in Residence in Theatre Arts Department at Utah Valley University for nine years. “Thanks to Sally, Mark, Rob, Dallin, Kacey, Joy, Marianne, Skyler, Bobby, Michelle, Charlisa and an awesome cast and crew...all brilliant! Also a special thanks to my family.”

Music Director

Kelly De Haan

Kelly DeHaan

Kelly is one of the most sought after Music Directors along the Wasatch Front. His talent and skills have been instrumental in the success of many of our productions, with the most recent being Seussical, Freaky Friday, An American in Paris, Aida, Forever Plaid, Sister Act, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Peter and the Starcatcher, Big Fish, The Little Mermaid, GHOST the Musical, Catch Me If You Can, Mary Poppins, and Les Misérables. 

Kelly is currently directing the inaugural season of HCT’s children’s choir, Stars and On Stage. A few of Kelly’s stage roles at HCT include Carl Hanratty in Catch Me if You Can, Goran in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Colonel Pickering in My Fair Lady, Sancho Panza in Man of La Mancha, and Tateh in Ragtime. His extensive background makes him a highly-prized vocal teacher and coach. Kelly is a devoted teacher at Mountain Ridge High School. He is a recipient of the Music Educator of the Year Award from the Utah High School Activities Association, WorldStrides Music Teacher of the Year 2016, and is the 2017 recipient of the Huntsman Award for Excellence in Education. Kelly was also the BroadwayWorld.com winner for best music direction for HCT’s The Little Mermaid. Kelly has lent his talents to various groups as a musical director for over 60 productions at local theatres, served as a soloist, clinician, and accompanist, and is a former member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Kelly holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Utah, where he was the singing coach for the Actor Training Program for four years. Kelly is the proud father of four boys and husband to one goddess wife.

Production Stage Manager

Susan Kupferer

Susan Kupferer

Susan was born and raised in Irvine, California and holds a BA in stage management from Brigham Young University. She is thrilled to be the Production Stage Manager of Bright Star. Her recent credits include: Production Assistant of Into the Woods at the Hollywood Bowl, Production Stage Manager of BYU’s Wonderland, Single Wide, Christmas Around the World, The Barber of Seville, and The Importance of Being Earnest, Utah Vocal Arts Academy’s Don Giovanni, and Assistant Stage Manager of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street at the Noorda Center for the Arts, Sundance Summer Theatre’s Okla- homa! and of the BYU Spectacular tour to China this past May. 

She also has toured with BYU’s International Folk Dance Ensemble and Ballroom Dance Company as their Stage Manager and been a swing stage manager for HCT in both the Centre Stage and the Jewel Box Stage since June of 2019. Susan received the National Stage Management Fellow award from the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival in 2019. 

Scenic Design

Jenn Taylor

Jenn Stapley Taylor

Jenn’s work was most recently seen as the Scenic Designer for The Addams Family, Freaky Friday, and Steel Magnolias. Recent costume design credits for HCT: The Wizard of Oz and Aida. Other Scenic Designs for HCT include The Nerd, A Bundle of Trouble, Big River, Beau Jest, Over the River and Through the Woods, Is He Dead?, The Foreigner, The 39 Steps, and The Game’s Afoot. 

Jenn has also done scenic design for Utah State Theater’s Lincoln Center’s KCACT award-winning design for Sweeney Todd, Mad Woman of Chailott, and lighting designer for Love’s Labour’s Lost, Utah Lyric’s The Foreigner, Sandy City’s Hairspray, and Park City’s Jesus Christ Superstar, My Fair Lady, Trailer Park, and many more. Jenn has a BFA from the U of U in Theatre Design and an MFA from Utah State in Scenic Design. Jenn has been with HCT for ‘nigh on 21 years.’ “A special thanks to my family, who help me every day to continue my passion in theatre design. A special thanks to Isaac, who thinks I’m the best designer in the world...you’re sweet."

Production Artist

Madeline Ashton

Madeline Ashton

As an accomplished artist, Madeline’s work was recently seen in our productions of Seussical, Matilda and Cinderella. Other scenic design credits include credits include Oklahoma! (Sundance), Distance of the Moon (Sackerson), Let The Right One In and Angels in America (An Other Theatre). Madeline earned Bachelor Of Fine Arts in Scenic Design from Utah Valley University.

Lighting Design

Marianne Ohran

Marianne Ohran

Marianne is thrilled to be back at HCT, after designing lights for The Addams Family last season. She works as the Assistant Lighting Designer for BYU Arts Production. Marianne holds her Bachelor’s Degree from Brigham Young University and her Master’s from University of Idaho. Other credits include BYU - BYU Spectacular, Wonderland, Anne of Green Gables. Utah Metropolitan Ballet - Snow White

Sound Design

Dan Morgan

Dan Morgan

Dan loves the challenge of theatrical sound and is very excited for the opportunity to work in such a marvelous place. Some of his favorite sound designs have been The Three Musketeers, The Wedding Singer, and A Tale of Two Cities. He feels blessed to have worked on a variety of other projects, which include The Savior of the World, The Nauvoo Pageant, A Brand New Year and various concerts and television programs for the LDS Church.

In addition, Dan has also worked as a sound designer/engineer for several local theaters and professional groups over the last 16 years, including large corporate events, TV broadcasts, and national/ international tours. “Thanks to my own pack of Morgans for all their love and support!”

Projection Design

Bobby Gibson

Bobby Gibson

Previous HCT credits include Projection Designer for Seussical, The Addams Family, Cinderella, Freaky Friday, Matilda and video content for A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder. Bobby studied video production at Utah Valley University. He owns and operates In Blue Productions, where he specializes in aerial video, time-lapse and motion graphics. 

He is a huge theatre nerd and co-hosts the “We Are Here, Broadway” YouTube channel about all things theatre. “Don’t be in such a rush to have everything figured out. Embrace the unknown and let life surprise you.”

Properties Design

Michelle Jensen

Michelle Jensen

Michelle is extremely passionate about details, research, beautiful and interesting “things,” anything to do with flowers, and opening packages. She recently designed her 63rd show with Cinderella; some of her other favorite designs have included The Drowsy Chaperone, Over The River..., Les Miserables, Tarzan, Tuck Everlasting, My Fair Lady, Aida, and She Loves Me

She retired from teaching first grade after 32 years. Michelle is thrilled to be part of the HCT production team and is grateful for the encouragement and support of her 3 beautiful daughters, two charming sons- in-law, and her amazing husband, Steve.

Costume Design

Peggy Willis

Peggy Willis

Peggy has designed & sewn for HCT since 2005. She lists as some of her favorite designs as Heart of Robin Hood, Peter and the Starcatcher, Big Fish, Tarzan, Les Miserables, The Civil War, The Three Musketeers, Treasure Island, Aida (2006), Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Matilda. 

Peggy enjoys the design process but also loves stepping back to be a “sewing/crafting gremlin” in the costume shop. Peggy holds a BFA in Costume Design for Theatre from USU and currently works full-time in HCT’s Costume Shop. “Love and thanks to my family for their enthusiasm and support when my theatre world engulfs the real one!”

Hair & Make Up Design

Krissa Lent

Krissa Lent

Krissa has been with HCT for a number of years, and has designed hair and make-up for Aida, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, She Loves Me, Peter and the Starcatcher and Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

Krissa holds a BFA in Theater Tech/Design from Millikin University, an MFA in Wig and Make-up Design from the University of Cincinnati CCM and is also a licensed cosmetologist in the state of Utah. Krissa previously worked for Utah Shakespeare Festival for six seasons, Sarasota Opera for 3 seasons, and Chicago Opera Theater for 2 seasons. “Thanks to Trisha for being the best “double” in the biz. Thanks to HCT for giving me the opportunity to do what I love. Enjoy the show!!”

Author Biographies

Steve Martin

Stephen Martin is one of the most well-known and pervasive talents in entertainment. His work has earned him an Academy Award, five Grammy Awards (two for comedy, three for music), an Emmy, the Mark Twain Award and the Kennedy Center Honor. 

As an author, Martin’s work includes the plays Picasso at the Lapin Agile, The Underpants, and Meteor Shower. Also an accomplished banjoist, Martin created the Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass, an award established to reward artistry and bring greater visibility to bluegrass performers.

Edie Brickell

Edie Brickell released the debut multiplatinum album Shooting Rubber Bands at the Stars with New Bohemians in 1988. Her recent works include a 13-track collaboration with Steve Martin titled Love Has Come for You. The album won a Grammy for Best American Roots Song and inspired the musical Bright Star. Their second album, So Familiar, is out now.

Ads Park City Center Mary Poppins
Brightstar greatharvest