Heathers PLAYBILL Luminary Arts - July 2024 : simplebooklet.com

Dear Diary, When the Heathers movie came out in 1989, my Gen X pre-teen heart was smitten. Winona Ryder? Shannen Doherty? Christian Slater???? Swoon.... Was it dark? Obviously. But was it funny? Absolutely. And in the late eighties, we had a more laissez-faire attitude towards a lot of things – including what kids should and should not see. But it’s not 1989 anymore. Our Luminary Arts teens have been clamoring for this show for years, but it is fair to ask, is a show like Heather’s appropriate for the youth of 2024? As we embark on this theatrical journey, I want to share why Heathers resonates so deeply with me and why I believe it is a vital story for today’s audiences. Heathers explores the complexities of high school life through a darkly comedic lens, delving into themes of power, identity, and the search for belonging. At its core, it challenges us to confront the harsh realities of teenage existence while also poking fun at the absurdities of social hierarchy. It’s a story that examines the consequences of peer pressure, the allure of popularity, and the lengths people will go to ﬁt in. Amidst the humor and satire, the show confronts issues of bullying, mental health, violence, and the impact of toxic relationships. What draws me most to Heathers is its unﬂinching honesty. It doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable truths but presents them in a way that invites reﬂection and dialogue. By putting these dynamics center stage, we have an opportunity to engage our audience in conversations about the challenges teenagers face today—whether it’s navigating social pressures, dealing with insecurities, or grappling with their own identities. Through our production, we aim to celebrate the resilience and complexity of youth while highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding. Our talented cast and crew have worked tirelessly to bring this story to life, and I am incredibly proud of the dedication and creativity they have shown. As you watch Heathers: Teen Edition, I encourage you to consider the parallels between the world of Westerburg High and the realities of your own experiences or those of the young people around you. Embrace the laughter and the discomfort alike, knowing that in doing so, we are honoring the spirit of this provocative and thought-provoking musical. As JD would tell you, “The extreme always seems to make an impression.” Enjoy, Amy Throckmorton, MBA Director/Music Director 

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The CastVERONICA…………………………………………JASON “JD” DEAN………………………………...HEATHER CHANDLER…………………………...HEATHER MCNAMARA…………………………..HEATHER DUKE…………………………………..MARTHA……………………………………………KURT……………………………….……………….RAM……………………………….………………...KURT’S DAD……………………………………….RAM’S DAD………………………………………...PRINCIPAL GOWAN………………………………COACH RIPPER…………………………………..MS. FLEMING……………………………………...VERONICA’S MOM………………………………..VERONICA’S DAD………………………………...OFFICER MCCORD………………………………OFFICER MILNER………………………………...BIG BUG DEAN……………………………………PREPPY STUD…………………………………….HIPSTER DORK…………………………………...STONER DORK……………………………………YOUNG REPUBLICANETTE…………………….BELEAGUERED GEEK…………………………...NEW WAVE GIRL………………………………….…………………...Maya Cloud………………..Alex Beneventi…………...Chelsea Mahelona…………………….Erin Wernli…………...Ellie Throckmorton………………….Sophia Willis……………………Alex Gilbert…………Oliver Throckmorton………………………Ty Menor……………….Liam Moynihan…………………….Kaia Norris………………….Jeffrey Silvas………………………Izzy Cruz…………………...Briana Soto……….Greyson Montes Willis………………….Luke Stuhley………………..Connor Barrett………………….Aiden Huynh………...Jonathan McCormick…………………Gillian Shaver…………………..Eavan Cash…………………Hannah Holly…………..Michael Cheesman………………...Keira CardinalTeen Ensemble Adult EnsembleBella RileyMichael CheesmanConnor BarrettAiden HuynhJonathan McCormickGillian ShaverEavan CashHannah HollyKeira CardinalAriana CapriTy MenorLiam MoynihanKaia NorrisJeffrey SilvasIzzy CruzBriana SotoGreyson Montes WillisLuke StuhleyHailey VandersliceElizabeth Tagle-NavaThalia BernsteinKayden StormKendall CrawfordSofia FishmanKayden StormAllie KowalskiKeira CardinalBriana SotoJeydenn Rejda

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Meet The CastAlex Beneventi (He/Him) – Jason Dean (JD)Alex is so honored and thrilled to be playing this role in his first show with Luminary Arts! He has been involved in musical theater for 8 years, performing in 14 productions, but the connection and community he found with this cast is truly something special. He would like to thank his friends and family, but most importantly this outstanding cast and production team for making his dream role a reality. He hopes you enjoy the show!Ellie Throckmorton (She/Her) – Heather DukeEllie is 16 years old and has previously been seen in other Luminary productions such as, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Pharaoh), Little Shop Of Horrors (Audrey II u/s), High School Musical (Sharpay u/s) and 13 (Lucy). She would like to thank her parents for introducing her to the thing she loves most, and all of the production Staff for putting together such a great show.Erin Wernli (She/Her) – Heather McNamaraErin Wernli is 15 years old and an incoming sophomore at RBHS. She has played Ms. Honey(Matilda), Kendra (13), and Mayzie (Seussical). She would like to thank her Mom and Dad for supporting her throughout her theatre journey.Meet The CastMaya Cloud (She/Her) – Veronica SawyerMaya has been doing theater since the age of 4 and this is her 2nd show with luminary. Previous roles Maya has enjoyed playing include, Ariel in the little mermaid, Gabriella in High School Musical and Lorraine in All Shook Up. She would like to thank the artistic team for making this show happen, and her parents for supporting her expensive hobbies. She would like to shout out the director, Ms. Amy, for her amazing work and patience throughout the show and always showing up with a smile on her face. It has been a wonderful experience working with luminary and we hope u enjoy the show!Chelsea Mahelona (She/Her) – Heather ChandlerChelsea is ecstatic to perform her second show with Luminary Arts! Some of her favorite past roles include: Dragon (RBHS Bronco Players), Sharpay Evans ( Luminary Arts) and Moana (Moonlight Youth Theatre). In the fall, Chelsea will attend Chapman University to study Psychology and Theatre. She is beyond excited to work with such amazing talent! She would like to thank the Luminary Team for the opportunity to play such a fun character and her voice coach, Brandon Sherman, for pushing her to do her best. Additionally, she is grateful for her parents and their love and unwavering support. “One day we’ll change the world…We’ll make it beautiful” Enjoy the show!Sophia Willis (She/Her) – Martha DunnstockSophia is a 15 year old and seasoned performer, set to soon begin her sophomore year at Mission Vista High School. She’s thrilled to be portraying the emotionally sensitive role of Martha Dunnstock in Luminary Arts’ production of HEATHERS: Teen Edition. This role has challenged Sophia in many ways, but the overwhelming support from her friends and family has given her the security and confidence to let herself be vulnerable on stage and find herself in Martha. Sophia hopes you also achieve a newfound understanding and connection to Martha through her performance. Enjoy the show!

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Meet The CastMeet The CastOliver Throckmorton (He/Him) – RamOliver is an incoming freshmen at RBHS. He’s appeared in Reuben (Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat), Customer (Little Shop of Horrors), Davey (Newsies), and Mayor of Whoville (Seussical). He enjoys playing jazz, biking, and hanging out with his friends. He would like to thank his mom for helping him practice his music, Stuart Holmes for getting him into band (and helping him get better at music in general), and his dad, for driving him around and buying him food.Liam Moynihan (He/Him) – Ram’s DadLiam Moynihan is 17 years old and an incoming senior at San Marcos High School, and he can’t wait for you to see the show! Previous roles include King Triton in The Little Mermaid at San Marcos High as well as Agatha Trunchbull in Matilda: The Musical at Star Theater Company. He would like to thank his family and friends for all the support, and hopes you enjoy the show!Ty Menor (He/Him) – Kurt’s DadTy has been doing theatre since 2019 and has been hooked onto theatre since. Some of his roles include Oliver Warbucks in Annie, and Audrey II in Little Shop of Horrors. Heathers is one of Ty’s favorite shows and cannot wait to be given the chance to tell it’s heartfelt, dark, and funny story.Kaia Norris (They/Them) – Principal GowanKaia has been doing theater for 8 years now (their favorite role being Portia in Something Rotten!) and they’re so grateful for the opportunity to be in Heathers! They want to thank their wonderfully supportive parents for dealing with all their antics, and their friends who have had their back throughout everything. Enjoy the show!Jeffrey Silvas – Coach RipperJeffrey Silvas is very happy to do Heathers, which will be his first show at Luminary Arts. Jeffrey goes to Carlsbad High and would like to shout out his family.Alex Gilbert (He/Him) – KurtAlex is very excited to be playing Kurt Kelly in the Luminary Arts production of Heathers Teen Edition! His previous show credits including, Romeo/Roosevelt (Newsies, BHMS), Oaken/Bishop (Frozen, MYT) Dan/Butler (Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Luminary), Olaf (Frozen Jr, BHMS), Old Simba (Lion King, BHMS). He would like to thank his parents for always encouraging him to strive for his best, his cousin for always being an amazing person, friends for supporting him, and his vocal teacher Amy Throckmorton for making him the singer he is today.

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Meet The CastIzzy Cruz (She/Her) – Ms. FlemingIzzy is thrilled to be in her first production with Luminary Arts, “Heathers: The Musical”. She has trained for 9 years with vocal coach and broadway veteran Susan Wood-Duncan, and her past favourite roles have been Ms. Trunchbull in “Matilda” and Smee in “Peter Pan”. Izzy would like to thank her family, friends, coach, and God for giving her these opportunities to do what she loves.Luke Stuhley (He/Him) – Officer McCordLuke is excited to perform in Heathers, his sixth show with Luminary Arts. Favorite past roles include Lurch (Addams Family), Rabbi/Simon (13! The Musical), and Santa (Elf Jr). Luke would like to thank his parents and the team at Luminary Arts for their support and encouragement. Special thanks to his fellow cast members for their friendship and to the carpool crew for helping him get to rehearsal.Briana Soto (She/Her) – Veronica's MomMy family has been so supportive and patient throughout my theater career, and I can't thank them enough. My most memorable role was 'the witch' in a play called Ranita that my 4th grade class performed, and my first acting role ever. Thank you to Fallbrook High School's drama club for rekindling and fulfilling my childhood dreams these past few years.Meet The CastGreyson Montes Willis (He/Him) – Veronica’s DadGreyson Montes Willis is a 13 year old, soon to be 8th grader at VIDA middle school and is extremely grateful to be able to play the part of Veronica’s Dad in Heathers. He only has one prior musical under his belt through his middle school, but is thrilled to be participating in his first community theatre production with Luminary Arts. Greyson would like to thank his family for their support and encouraging words throughout his theatre journey.Aiden Huynh (He/Him) Big Bud DeanAiden is relatively new to the world of theatre, with this being his second ever musical production. He is especially excited for this musical as Heathers is one of his favorites. Aiden last played Seymour Krelborn (u/s) at Del Norte High School.Connor Barrett (He/They) – Officer MilnerConnor is super excited for his first ever show at Luminary! Some of his favorite past roles include Kevin G. in Mean Girls and Sheldon Potts in Junie B. Jones. He would like to thank the amazing friends he's already made in this incredible theatre company, and of course the wonderful production/directorial team!!

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Meet The CastHannah Holly (She/Her) – Young RepublicanetteHannah Holly is delighted to play Young Republicanette in Heathers! Her most recent roles include Cora in The Ghost of Splinter Cove (2023), Audrey (u/s) in Little Shop of Horrors (2024), and debuting the role of Penny in the one act The Importance of Being Honest by Drew Reed (2024), as well as being a member of the Del Norte Improv Team! Thanks to her family and friends for all of their support!Meet The CastMichael Cheesman (He/Him) – Beleaguered GeekMichael would like to thank his Parents for driving him to rehearsals and he would like to thank his Friends for getting him into Theatre. He has enjoyed playing the past roles of Charlie Brown in you're a good man Charlie Brown and Laurie in Little Women.Jonathan McCormick (He/Him) Preppy studHi my name is Jonathan McCormick, I want to thank my parents for encouraging me in musical theater. My favorite role I’ve played is prince Eric in the little mermaidGillian Shaver (She/Her) Hipster dorkGillian Shaver is thrilled to be performing as the hipster dork in Luminary's production of Heathers! Gillian started theater in 2022 and has been in love with it ever since! She is excited to bring awareness to the difficult topics explored in the show through the comedic lens that Heathers provides. She is very thankful for the cast and crew of Heathers, who provided her with an amazing community and experience.Keira Cardinal (She/Her) – New Wave GirlKeira Cardinal is a recent graduate from Montecito High School in Ramona and this is her first show with Luminary Arts! She usually works a lot with Patio Playhouse and one of her favorites was Maleficent in Princess Whatshername, which she was in while working with this show. She thanks her friends and family for coming and don’t count the casualties.Eavan Cash (She/Her) – Stoner DorkEavan is going into her sophomore year at Del Lago Academy and enjoys writing, drawing, and reading. This is her 14th show and her first at Luminary Arts. Her favorite roles include Anna in Frozen Jr and Winnifred in Once Upon a Mattress. She would like to thank her mom and dad for always being there to help with theater.

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Kendall Crawford (Any) – Adult EnsembleI'm Kendall and I am very grateful to be performing with Luminary Arts. I have been in Luminary Arts productions including, the Lion King (Ensemble), Shrek (Peter Pan), Seussical The Musical (Thing 2), and Aladdin (Guard 1). Lastly, I would like to thank my mom for supporting me through this journey and the director Mrs. Amy for giving me another chance to be in another production.Meet The CastAriana Capri (She/Her) – Teen EnsembleCap is 16 years old, a junior at Mission Hills High School, and member of the Cardinal Alliance. She would like to remind the audience that following the law is awesome and kindly advises to not try this at home.Allie Kowalskie (She/her) – Adult EnsembleThis is Allie’s first show with Luminary Arts. She has previously been ensemble in two shows with her school, Frozen and Newsies. She is thrilled to be a part of Heathers and hopes to continue doing shows with Luminary Arts.Jeydenn Rejda (She/Her) – Adult EnsembleThis is Jeydenn's debut show with Luminary Arts. She has been in many other shows including (but not limited to): Beauty and the Beast (soloist & featured dancer), Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief (ensemble), Mama Mia (ensemble). Jeydenn is excited to be in Heather's as her ninth show in her acting career. Thanks to everyone who helped put on this production. Enjoy the show!Bella Riley (She/They) – Teen EnsembleBella is a senior at Del Norte High School, she was a part of the “Rock of Ages” and “Big Fish” Ensemble and played Mrs. Luce in “Little Shop of Horrors.” Bella is beyond excited to be part of her first production outside of Del Norte, as teen ensemble in this production of “Heathers,” and she is super eager to put on a show for all of you!Elizabeth Tagle-Nava (She/Her) – Adult Ensemble, TechElizabeth is extremely grateful for her family, who has supported her in her love for theatre since elementary school. They have helped her through a multitude of shows with FHS Drama Club and she couldn't be more thankful. She also wants to thank Fallbrook High School Drama Club for allowing her to experience her first musical, Little Shop of Horrors, and solidifying her dream of teaching musical theatre.

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Meet The CastTHE VIDEOTAPING OR MAKING OF ELECTRONIC OR OTHER AUDIO AND/OR VISUAL RECORDINGS OF THIS PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTING RECORDINGS OR STREAMS IN ANY MEDIUM, INCLUDING THE INTERNET, IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED, A VIOLATION OF THE AUTHOR(S)’S RIGHTS AND ACTIONABLE UNDER UNITED STATES COPYRIGHT LAW. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT: https://concordtheatricals.com/resources/protecting-artistsThalia Bernstein (She/Her) – Adult EnsembleThis is Thalia's first show with Luminary Arts, and she's excited to work with them again in the future. She wants to thank her family for their support and for fostering her love of musical theater. When not recreating Broadway numbers (often and with varying levels of success), Thalia enjoys reading, being outdoors, studying Portuguese, and practicing the bass clarinet and baritone sax.Hailey Vanderslice (She/Her) – Adult EnsembleA dedicated lover of the stage, Hailey thrives in the world of theater. She has been in productions at Star including “Aladdin”, “The Little Mermaid” and “Matilda.” When not captivating audiences, Hailey enjoys the company of her feathered friend Marz and looks forward to starting Coastal High School in the fall.Kayden Storm (She/Her) - Adult EnsembleI want to thank my friends and family, who have supported my interest in theater. A favorite past role of mine was as an ensemble member in Beauty & The Beast. Theater, despite being a newer interest of mine, has become something I really enjoy and have a lot of fun with.Sofia Fishman (She/Her) – Adult EnsembleSofia would like to thank all of her family for being supportive throughout the show, even when topics in it were tough. Her favorite role in a past show was as a wolf in Beauty and the Beast, although in the mask she may have face planted or fallen down the stairs a few times. She is overall excited to see how the show turns out and spend more time with this amazing cast.

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The Production TeamGeorge Gonzalez (He/Him)– Scenic DesignerA graduate of Palomar College and San Diego State, George has performed all over San Diego County but calls Vista home. Currently George is an associate music director at St. Marks Church but has been a pastoral musician at various parishes throughout the years as well as a diocesan cantor. His design credits include Center Theatricals, North Coast Rep, CYC at the Lyceum and schools such as Coronado School for the Arts, Mission Hills High School and Palomar College's Dance and Theatre Departments where he designed props, costumes, makeup/wigs and scenery. In addition to being Luminary Art's technical director and scenic designer, George is a music teacher for our in-school programs.Car Thometz (She/Her) – Stage ManagerThis is Car's third show with Luminary Arts and has enjoyed her time working with everyone in this company. She has spent the last 15 years working, performing and directing in theaters around San Diego. Some credits include: Evil Dead The Musical, First Date, Title of Show, and Murder Ballad. In addition to working in theater, she has been a High School Math Teacher for the past 8 years. Special thanks to Everett for his forever support ❤Lexi Cruz (She/Her) – Assistant Stage ManagerLexi is an incoming junior at USC getting a BFA in Technical Theater with an emphasis in Stage Management. Having stage-managed productions at USC like Into the Woods, The Last Days of Judas Iscariot, and Chavez Ravine: An LA Ghost Story, Lexi is proud to assist Car for Heathers. She'd like to thank her parents for all their support in her career, her brother for being her brother, and her dog, Bear, for always welcoming her home with a big smile and wagging tail.Amy Throckmorton(She/Her) – Director/Vocal DirectorAmy has performed, produced, and taught music and theater for over 30 years. After graduating with the academic distinction of Magna Cum Laude from USC earning degrees in theater and music, Amy began a professional singing career that took her around the globe. She has performed on stage from New York to Los Angeles, in Tokyo, and on the high seas with Holland America and Disney cruise lines. In addition to private voice instruction, Amy directs our youth and adult performances at Luminary Arts. Amy would like to thank the Heathers production team and cast for their hard work making this fever dream come true. And, as always, love and thanks to her husband Brandon and kiddos for their patience and support. Darleen Schlarmann (She/Her) – Costume DesignThis is Darleen's second show with Luminary Arts as a costumer. Her first was Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. She is excited to take on another show. Darleen has been sewing since she was a kid which she learned from her mother and grandmother. In her spare time, she builds costumes for cosplay and also performs on stage as well. You can catch her in Luminary Arts Ruthless! next month. Love to my husband and kiddos for supportBruce Blackwell (He/Him)– Producer/Technical DirectorFor the past 30 years, Bruce has been involved in all aspects of theatre. He has worked with performers of all ages, as an actor, musician, director, designer, and producer. He has made his mark in theaters varying from local high schools and colleges to community theaters and professional venues. It is his vision to help create a high quality theatrical experience for both artists and audience members. Bruce sets high standards for himself and others in a cooperative learning environment. He currently works as the Operations Manager for a local industrial theater and special events company.Candace Carbajal (She/Her) – ChoreographerMs. Carbajal is an accomplished dancer and choreographer whose work has been performed by theater companies throughout Southern California and Arizona. Choreographer credits include: Much Ado About Nothing (Coronado Playhouse), Beauty and the Beast (Patio Playhouse), Sheila (Grand Facade Theatre Prod.), Willy Wonka (Pickwick Players), and Great American Trailer Park (Luminary Arts). Favorite acting credits include: Extraordinary Girl in American Idiot, Mimi in Rent, Rosie in Bye Bye Birdie, Anita in West Side Story, and Pickles in GATPM. Ms. Carbajal currently choreographs and instructs dance throughout San Diego. She is a teaching artist for Luminary Arts in San Marcos and the Resident Choreographer for Grand Facade Theatre Productions. Thank you so much to the entire cast and crew for their hard work! Enjoy the show!

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The CrewDirector/Vocal Director……… …………………………….……Amy ThrockmortonProducer…………………………………………………….…...…..Bruce BlackwellChoreographer………………. ……………………………....…..Candace CarbajalStage Managers…………….. ………………….Alexis Cruz and Carlyn ThometzScenic Design……………… …………………………………...George GonzalezLead Carpenter……………… ……………………………………………...Ian BoydSet Construction…………….. ………….George Gonzalez, Ian Boyd, Tyler JilesCostume Design…………….. ………………………………..Darleen SchlarmannCostume Assistant………….. ………………………………………..Miley RomeroLight Design…………………. ………………………………………..Eric MontierthLight Board Operator……….. ……………………………………Scott McCormickSound+Microphones………... ………………………………………Rose DevesonPlayback……………………… …………………………………Harper GottfredsonProps…………………………. …………………Rebecca Noland and Alexis CruzSpot Operators……………… …Brooke Rosenberg and Brandon ThrockmortonLobby+Concessions Lead…. ……………………………………..Annalisa BarrettShift Crew……………………. .Elizabeth Tagle-Nava, Brianna Soto, Kaia NorrisPalomar Theatre Technical Direction Specialist…………. …………………………………….Tony CucuzzellaSpecial ThanksPalomar College Performing Arts Patio PlayhouseShowTec, IncRob Dellorfano - Mission Hills High Drama DepartmentTony ArellanoParent Volunteers/Donations: Annalisa Barrett, Kristin Cruz Jackson, Ginger Cardinal, Tracey Crawford, Courtney and Brian Willis, Erin and Paul Gilbert, Janna Wernli, Jeff and Kate Bernstein, Grace Mahelona, Eric Cash, Ann Cheesman,

Heathers PLAYBILL Luminary Arts - July 2024

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