World Premiere Cast
The play introduces actors Antoinette Elias and Jordan Westfall in leading roles as they make their LEGIT theatre debuts with Lancaster's own up and coming new talent Jesse Corbin set to charm crowds as leading man Marcus. Appearing also is Maria Albani-Cook, leading lady of the former Miracle Theatre in Pigeon Forge, TN and Patty Hunt, veteran character actress will be originating the role of Poppy in the show. A stellar ensemble of talented performers from around the country completes the cast.
Donald Braswell
Joe Myering
Paul Jordan Jansen
David Whitley
Jordan Westfall
Jesse Corbin
Jon Rider
Amy Petty
Antoinette Elias
Maria Albani-Cook
Patty Hunt
Lars Haglund
Will Goodwin
Phillip Burke
Joanna Hernandez
Laura Henriquez
Chris Henriquez
Emma Shepard
Nneka Best
Nikki Taylor
Amanda Robles
Joy Sarcewicz
Debora Crabbe
Makayla Robinson
Rob Bigley
Jordanne Brodersen
Tom Miller
Ruth Maragret Shepard
DONALD BRASWELL (Cornelius): An American actor and classical crossover tenor, Braswell was on a fast track as an acclaimed international opera singer when he suffered a car accident in 1995 that made him unable to speak for almost two years. Out of the spotlight until his dramatic appearance on the 2008 season of 'America's Got Talent,' Donald reclaimed his reputation as one of America's most beloved tenors. Since then, he has entertained audiences both internationally as well as throughout the United States in concerts, television appearances, inspirational speaking and radio. He has a fan club with fans from over 25 countries. Mr. Braswell is thrilled to join the cast of this show.
JOE MYERING (Seneca): Mr. Myering’s performance credits throughout the US include: Peachum in both The Three Penny Opera, and The Beggar’s Opera performed in Rep at Wolftrap, Beadle Bamford – Sweeney Todd with Signature Theatre, Ben Franklin – 1776 For Olney Theatre Centre, Marcellus Wasburn – The Music Man with the Fulton Opera House, and Bob in All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarden at Gretna Playhouse. Operatic performances include: Kaspar – Amahl and the Night Visitors for the J.F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Don Ottavio – Don Giovanni with the Orlando Opera, Pedrillio – The Abduction form the Seraglio for New Jersey Opera, First Jew – Solome with the Washington National Opera, Nerone – L’in Coronatzione di Poppea for Opera Washington, and The Witch – Hansel and Gretel with Opera North.
PAUL JORDAN JANSEN (Gaius): Bio coming soon.
DAVID WHITLEY (TAL): David is a native from Washington DC and received his Masters of Music from the Juilliard School of Music and his Bachelors of Music from Manhattan School of Music. David has performed the role of John in Miss Saigon in Stuttgart Germany and in Klagenfurt Austria, in German. David has recorded 6 studio CD's available on iTunes. David is grateful to sing the role of Tal in The Centurion The Musical. David is a member of the AEA.
JORDAN WESTFALL (Crispus): Jordan is beyond excited to join the cast of this amazing new musical! Originally from Syracuse, NY, Jordan has spent the last four years earning his B.F.A. in Acting from Marymount Manhattan College in New York City. Some of his previous credits on the Marymount mainstage have included William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Peter Quince) and As You Like It (Le Beau), as well as J.B. Priestly’s Time and the Conways (Ernest Beevers). Other previous credits include The Wedding Singer (Sammy), Beauty and the Beast (LeFou) and Into the Woods (The Baker). Many thanks from Jordan to the entire creative team at Jubilee! Productions for this amazing opportunity, and to his family and friends for their continual love and support.
JESSE CORBIN (Marcus): Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Jesse Corbin is a recent graduate of the Musical Theatre program at Lancaster Bible College and is honored to join this cast. Jesse's past credits have included such productions as Fiddler on the Roof (Perchik), Cyrano De Bergerac (Cyrano), Pirates of Penzance (Fredrick), Singin in the Rain (Don Lockwood), and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Adam Pontipee). Jesse would like to express thanks to his family and crazy yet wonderful friends, but mostly he would like to thank his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
JON RIDER (Publicus): Jon’s credits range from the Los Angeles Opera to the Lancaster Symphony Chorus to originating the role of ‘Abraham’ in Sight & Sound’s “Abraham and Sarah” to playing ‘Rooster’ in the Broadway tour of Annie. For the past three Christmas seasons, he played his favorite role for TSS of Lancaster as ‘Scrooge’ in A Christmas Carol. While a member of the Tennessee Repertory Theatre in Nashville, Jon starred in the successful video ‘Faith: the Sunday School Evangelism Strategy’ for Lifeway Christian Services. Jon is the author of several books, including The BIBLE: By The Numbers, and ‘A Journey To Contentment.’ As always, Jon dedicates his work to the Lord, who blesses him every day through his wonderful wife Kristen. Jon is a member of AEA.
AMY PETTY (Carpasia): Amy is a highly sought after vocalist, well-known across the country for her incredible versatility and beautiful, powerful voice. She will be returning to the Carnegie Hall stage for a third time this November and recently made her debut at The Kennedy Center (April 2012). She has also sung with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Michigan Opera Theater, and will be seen in Tim Janis’ new musical “The Night of the Shepherds”, debuting at Carnegie Hall this fall. As a singer/songwriter, Amy is signed to Red Pill Entertainment in St. Louis MO and has released three critically acclaimed folk/pop albums, traveling the country performing her original songs. A native of Detroit, Amy currently resides in New Hampshire with her husband Billy.
ANTOINETTE ELIAS (Julia): A native of Easton, PA, Antoinette Elias is a film, stage, and television actress based out of New York City. NY credits include the play, Twitter This, Facebook That, Text Me Later (Nikki), and the films, Parophelia (Ophelia), Life Goes On (Afina), Pablo on Wheels (Miss Alemeda), and Cairo Stories (Soad). Antoinette has a noteworthy internet presence and following on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. Antoinette would like to thank God for His many blessings, Jubilee! Productions for this opportunity, and her family and friends for their continual support.
MARIA ALBANI-COOK (Priscilla): Maria Albani Cook is a native of Long Island, New York, where she began developing her lifelong love for music in her early childhood years. To pursue her dreams, Maria sought more educational training. She graduated from New York's Crane School of Music (SUNY Potsdam) with a degree in opera/musical theatre. Her performance background includes singing the National Anthem for many professional sporting events. She also has acted, danced and sung in multiple regional theater roles, such as Sally Bowles in Cabaret, and as a dancer/singer in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. In addition, Maria has participated in vocal competitions, and has modeled for multiple agencies. Maria believes that this has all been possible because of her faith and trust in God, along with the support of her loving husband, friends, and family.
PATTY HUNT (Poppy): Patty Hunt is so excited about this project that she has come out of retirement to be part of it. She has played a number of different roles; from a tree in "Peter Pan" and "Mother Abbess" in "The Sound of Music", to " Noah's wife, Emuwanah in Sight & Sound's "NOAH" with many other roles along the way. The Christian life is just full of surprises!
LARS HAGLUND (Choreographer, Dance Captain, Ensemble): Lars is absolutely thrilled to be involved with The Centurion. He is blessed to have performed in shows from LA to NYC. Most recently, Lars was on the national tour of Beauty and the Beast. In the choreography realm, he has set pieces for Miss Michigan 2010 & 2011, and of late he co-choreographed two pieces for a Concert with Tim Janis at The Kennedy Center. Lars will also be making his NYC directorial debut this November at Carnegie Hall with Night of the Shepherds. He would like to thank Debbie for this wonderful opportunity, Nicole his lovely wife, and most of all his Savior Jesus Christ! Mark 12:30
WILL GOODWIN (Ensemble): Will Goodwin hails from Midwest Ohio and is a recent graduate of Shenandoah Conservatory in Winchester, VA with a BFA in Musical Theatre. This is his first professional gig out of school and he is thrilled to be beginning his journey with the Living Waters family! After The Centurion The Musical, Will is moving to NYC. He is excited for what the Lord has in store for him!
PHILLIP BURKE (Ensemble): Phillip is thrilled to be making his regional theatre debut! Off-Broadway: O Night Divine. Off-Off Broadway: Massinissa and the Tragedy of the House of Thunder, Harlem On My Mind. Selected UK Theatre: Smoke (Edinburgh Fringe Festival), The Fever Dream: Southside (London Hampstead Theatre, King Lear and Julius Caesar (Glasgow's Shakespeare in the City Festival), Me and Mrs. Jones (The Arches Theatre Company). Television: "One Life to Live"; "Mysteries at the Museum". Film: "Inside Llewyn Davis". Training: MA The Royal Conservatorie of Scotland; BFA Drama & BS Sociology Syracuse University and Shakespeare's Globe Education (London). Follow him on Twitter @PhillipGBurke and "like" his Phillip Burke Entertainer fan page on facebook! He dedicates his performance to the memory of Sally Jones.
MAKAYLA ROBINSON (Ensemble): Makayla is a sophomore in college in Nashville, TN where she majors in musical theatre. She is thrilled to be in her first professional production. Makayla was a part of the Liz Rubino Studios Musical Theatre group which toured in places like Disney, Pittsburgh, and Columbus. She would like to thank the Lord for this wonderful opportunity. She would also like to thank her family, boyfriend, professors, vocal coaches, and dance instructors for their amazing love, instruction, and support.
JOANNA HERNANDEZ (Ensemble): Joanna is thrilled to be performing in this beautiful musical! A B.F.A graduate from Fredonia State University, Joanna has most recently been seen playing Mrs. Pinkerton in the Off-Broadway production of, Pinkalicious, The Musical and on board Regent Seven Seas Cruises as a lead singer. Joanna is beyond grateful for the opportunities God has blessed her with and thanks her family for their neverending support! www.joannahernandez.net
LAURA HENRIQUEZ (Ensemble): Laura Henriquez, originally from Staten Island, New York, is thrilled
to join the cast of JUBILEE!'s The Centurion The Musical, as a member of the Ensemble. She is a graduate of Liberty University with a Bachelors degree in Theatre, Acting. Laura has appeared in many productions at Liberty University, some of which include; Fiddler on the Roof, Jane Eyre, Music Man, My Fair Lady, and West Side Story. Laura is currently preparing to make her professional debut with the Alluvion Stage Company in their production of Peter Pan.
CHRISTOPHER HENRIQUEZ (Ensemble): Christopher Henriquez, originally from Brooklyn, New York, is excited
for his professional debut in the Ensemble of this production. He is a graduate of Liberty University with a Bachelors degree in Multidisciplinary Studies with concentrations in Theatre, Business, and Spanish. Christopher has done work in film/television/print, and has also performed in several productions at Liberty University.
EMMA SHEPARD (Ensemble): Emma is a junior in high school she is proud to be a part of her first professional production. In the past, she interned at a local community theater and played Leslie Bailey in R. Hamilton's Christmas Carol. Emma enjoys taking voice lessons from Catherine K. Brown of West Chester, singing solos at her church, dancing and singing at The Church of the Good Samaritan. She would like to thank Jesus Christ and her parents for loving and guiding her.
NNEKA BEST (Ensemble): Nneka is an independent recording artist, song-writer, arranger and composer with a BA in Music. Amongst her accomplishments Nneka lists her marriage to a wonderful husband, the recording and release of two CDs, and traveling and performing as a member of International recording group Agape (known as New Spirit overseas). Nneka Best is honored to be a part of The Centurion The Musical and blesses God everyday for the gift of music.
NIKKI TAYLOR (Ensemble): Nikki is excited to be blessed with a God given opportunity to be apart of her first professional production. She has been singing all of her life in church for the Lord. She has written, produced, & directed productions for Freedom Tabernacle Ministries in Atkins, Va. She is also the worship leader for Freedom Tabernacle Youth Ministries & Aftershock Youth Conference Ministries. She is amazed by the Lord & the opportunities that he has given her. She would like to thank her Savior Jesus Christ, her family, youth, & friends for their love & support.
AMANDA ROBLES (Ensemble): Miss. Robles feels truly blessed to be given the opportunity to use her talent for God's glory. She is studying Musical Theater at the university of the Arts and will be graduating in 2013. She has had the opportunity to perform in Philadelphia and in her home state, Connecticut. Credits include:High Fidelity (Philly), Adding Machine (Philly) and RENT (CT). She would like to thank her parents for the never ending support and love and her family for the instillment of faith. Tened fe.
JOY SARCEWICZ (Ensemble): Joy, originally from the Philadelphia area (PA), is excited to be performing in her first professional production. A graduate from Palm Beach Atlantic University with a B.A in Theater, she has more recently directed and choreographed productions for local schools. Joy would like to thank Debbie and Teresa for giving her this incredible opportunity, her supportive friends and family who have prayed her through this, her Boyfriend Tom, and most importantly Jesus Christ who has provided and carried her all her life. To Him be the Glory!
ROB BIGLEY (Ensemble): Robert is blessed with a varied career as a singer, actor, teacher, and conductor. He is currently a professor at Lancaster Bible College where he serves as the Director of the Music Performance program. Lancaster audiences will remember him as Walter de Courcey in PRiMA Theatre Company’s 2011 production of CHESS. Before moving to Lancaster in 2007, Robert appeared in several productions at Taproot Theatre in Seattle, most recently as Schroeder in You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown. He has conducted orchestras, choirs and musicals in the United States and abroad, has appeared in television and radio ads, sings in two local jazz bands, and has even played bass for a Russian rock band. Robert holds degrees from University of Washington (DMA), the Eastman School of Music (MM) and the University of Miami (BM). He lives in Lancaster city with his beautiful wife and their three talented kids. SDG
DEBORA CRABBE (Ensemble): Debora Crabbe is a recent graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia with a BFA in Theatre Performance. She is thrilled for this to be her first performance outside of university. Recently, Debora put up her own solo performance show titled, Beads of Me at Richmond Triangle Players. Debora would like to thank God, her parents, family, and support system both far and wide for always being there for her. When in doubt, Proverbs 3:5-6!
TOM MILLER (Bagpiper): Tom is a native of Lancaster, PA, having graduated from Penn Manor High School in 1998, as well as receiving a B.S.E. in Elementary Education from Millersville University in 2008. His interests include fly fishing, hunting, golf, writing, and playing the Great Highland Bagpipes. Tom has a book of poetry to his credit, River Mists of Memories, which can be found at www.lulu.com. His true passion is for playing the bagpipes, which he has been doing for 18 years, having competed in both solo and band competitions all over the Eastern United States, Canada, and Scotland, taking prizes and enjoying the individuals he meets along the way.
CHILD ACTORS
The Centurion The Musical is pleased to welcome: Jordanne Brodersen, Mervin Stoltzfus, Marvin King and Ruth Margaret Shepard to the cast!
RUTH MARGARET SHEPARD
Ruth is thrilled to be in her first professional production and serve her Lord in this work. She enjoys Sunday School, dancing at The Church of the Good Samaritan, and playing in the mud.
JOE MYERING (Seneca): Mr. Myering’s performance credits throughout the US include: Peachum in both The Three Penny Opera, and The Beggar’s Opera performed in Rep at Wolftrap, Beadle Bamford – Sweeney Todd with Signature Theatre, Ben Franklin – 1776 For Olney Theatre Centre, Marcellus Wasburn – The Music Man with the Fulton Opera House, and Bob in All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarden at Gretna Playhouse. Operatic performances include: Kaspar – Amahl and the Night Visitors for the J.F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Don Ottavio – Don Giovanni with the Orlando Opera, Pedrillio – The Abduction form the Seraglio for New Jersey Opera, First Jew – Solome with the Washington National Opera, Nerone – L’in Coronatzione di Poppea for Opera Washington, and The Witch – Hansel and Gretel with Opera North.
PAUL JORDAN JANSEN (Gaius): Bio coming soon.
DAVID WHITLEY (TAL): David is a native from Washington DC and received his Masters of Music from the Juilliard School of Music and his Bachelors of Music from Manhattan School of Music. David has performed the role of John in Miss Saigon in Stuttgart Germany and in Klagenfurt Austria, in German. David has recorded 6 studio CD's available on iTunes. David is grateful to sing the role of Tal in The Centurion The Musical. David is a member of the AEA.
JORDAN WESTFALL (Crispus): Jordan is beyond excited to join the cast of this amazing new musical! Originally from Syracuse, NY, Jordan has spent the last four years earning his B.F.A. in Acting from Marymount Manhattan College in New York City. Some of his previous credits on the Marymount mainstage have included William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Peter Quince) and As You Like It (Le Beau), as well as J.B. Priestly’s Time and the Conways (Ernest Beevers). Other previous credits include The Wedding Singer (Sammy), Beauty and the Beast (LeFou) and Into the Woods (The Baker). Many thanks from Jordan to the entire creative team at Jubilee! Productions for this amazing opportunity, and to his family and friends for their continual love and support.
JESSE CORBIN (Marcus): Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Jesse Corbin is a recent graduate of the Musical Theatre program at Lancaster Bible College and is honored to join this cast. Jesse's past credits have included such productions as Fiddler on the Roof (Perchik), Cyrano De Bergerac (Cyrano), Pirates of Penzance (Fredrick), Singin in the Rain (Don Lockwood), and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Adam Pontipee). Jesse would like to express thanks to his family and crazy yet wonderful friends, but mostly he would like to thank his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
JON RIDER (Publicus): Jon’s credits range from the Los Angeles Opera to the Lancaster Symphony Chorus to originating the role of ‘Abraham’ in Sight & Sound’s “Abraham and Sarah” to playing ‘Rooster’ in the Broadway tour of Annie. For the past three Christmas seasons, he played his favorite role for TSS of Lancaster as ‘Scrooge’ in A Christmas Carol. While a member of the Tennessee Repertory Theatre in Nashville, Jon starred in the successful video ‘Faith: the Sunday School Evangelism Strategy’ for Lifeway Christian Services. Jon is the author of several books, including The BIBLE: By The Numbers, and ‘A Journey To Contentment.’ As always, Jon dedicates his work to the Lord, who blesses him every day through his wonderful wife Kristen. Jon is a member of AEA.
AMY PETTY (Carpasia): Amy is a highly sought after vocalist, well-known across the country for her incredible versatility and beautiful, powerful voice. She will be returning to the Carnegie Hall stage for a third time this November and recently made her debut at The Kennedy Center (April 2012). She has also sung with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Michigan Opera Theater, and will be seen in Tim Janis’ new musical “The Night of the Shepherds”, debuting at Carnegie Hall this fall. As a singer/songwriter, Amy is signed to Red Pill Entertainment in St. Louis MO and has released three critically acclaimed folk/pop albums, traveling the country performing her original songs. A native of Detroit, Amy currently resides in New Hampshire with her husband Billy.
ANTOINETTE ELIAS (Julia): A native of Easton, PA, Antoinette Elias is a film, stage, and television actress based out of New York City. NY credits include the play, Twitter This, Facebook That, Text Me Later (Nikki), and the films, Parophelia (Ophelia), Life Goes On (Afina), Pablo on Wheels (Miss Alemeda), and Cairo Stories (Soad). Antoinette has a noteworthy internet presence and following on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. Antoinette would like to thank God for His many blessings, Jubilee! Productions for this opportunity, and her family and friends for their continual support.
MARIA ALBANI-COOK (Priscilla): Maria Albani Cook is a native of Long Island, New York, where she began developing her lifelong love for music in her early childhood years. To pursue her dreams, Maria sought more educational training. She graduated from New York's Crane School of Music (SUNY Potsdam) with a degree in opera/musical theatre. Her performance background includes singing the National Anthem for many professional sporting events. She also has acted, danced and sung in multiple regional theater roles, such as Sally Bowles in Cabaret, and as a dancer/singer in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. In addition, Maria has participated in vocal competitions, and has modeled for multiple agencies. Maria believes that this has all been possible because of her faith and trust in God, along with the support of her loving husband, friends, and family.
PATTY HUNT (Poppy): Patty Hunt is so excited about this project that she has come out of retirement to be part of it. She has played a number of different roles; from a tree in "Peter Pan" and "Mother Abbess" in "The Sound of Music", to " Noah's wife, Emuwanah in Sight & Sound's "NOAH" with many other roles along the way. The Christian life is just full of surprises!
LARS HAGLUND (Choreographer, Dance Captain, Ensemble): Lars is absolutely thrilled to be involved with The Centurion. He is blessed to have performed in shows from LA to NYC. Most recently, Lars was on the national tour of Beauty and the Beast. In the choreography realm, he has set pieces for Miss Michigan 2010 & 2011, and of late he co-choreographed two pieces for a Concert with Tim Janis at The Kennedy Center. Lars will also be making his NYC directorial debut this November at Carnegie Hall with Night of the Shepherds. He would like to thank Debbie for this wonderful opportunity, Nicole his lovely wife, and most of all his Savior Jesus Christ! Mark 12:30
WILL GOODWIN (Ensemble): Will Goodwin hails from Midwest Ohio and is a recent graduate of Shenandoah Conservatory in Winchester, VA with a BFA in Musical Theatre. This is his first professional gig out of school and he is thrilled to be beginning his journey with the Living Waters family! After The Centurion The Musical, Will is moving to NYC. He is excited for what the Lord has in store for him!
PHILLIP BURKE (Ensemble): Phillip is thrilled to be making his regional theatre debut! Off-Broadway: O Night Divine. Off-Off Broadway: Massinissa and the Tragedy of the House of Thunder, Harlem On My Mind. Selected UK Theatre: Smoke (Edinburgh Fringe Festival), The Fever Dream: Southside (London Hampstead Theatre, King Lear and Julius Caesar (Glasgow's Shakespeare in the City Festival), Me and Mrs. Jones (The Arches Theatre Company). Television: "One Life to Live"; "Mysteries at the Museum". Film: "Inside Llewyn Davis". Training: MA The Royal Conservatorie of Scotland; BFA Drama & BS Sociology Syracuse University and Shakespeare's Globe Education (London). Follow him on Twitter @PhillipGBurke and "like" his Phillip Burke Entertainer fan page on facebook! He dedicates his performance to the memory of Sally Jones.
MAKAYLA ROBINSON (Ensemble): Makayla is a sophomore in college in Nashville, TN where she majors in musical theatre. She is thrilled to be in her first professional production. Makayla was a part of the Liz Rubino Studios Musical Theatre group which toured in places like Disney, Pittsburgh, and Columbus. She would like to thank the Lord for this wonderful opportunity. She would also like to thank her family, boyfriend, professors, vocal coaches, and dance instructors for their amazing love, instruction, and support.
JOANNA HERNANDEZ (Ensemble): Joanna is thrilled to be performing in this beautiful musical! A B.F.A graduate from Fredonia State University, Joanna has most recently been seen playing Mrs. Pinkerton in the Off-Broadway production of, Pinkalicious, The Musical and on board Regent Seven Seas Cruises as a lead singer. Joanna is beyond grateful for the opportunities God has blessed her with and thanks her family for their neverending support! www.joannahernandez.net
LAURA HENRIQUEZ (Ensemble): Laura Henriquez, originally from Staten Island, New York, is thrilled
to join the cast of JUBILEE!'s The Centurion The Musical, as a member of the Ensemble. She is a graduate of Liberty University with a Bachelors degree in Theatre, Acting. Laura has appeared in many productions at Liberty University, some of which include; Fiddler on the Roof, Jane Eyre, Music Man, My Fair Lady, and West Side Story. Laura is currently preparing to make her professional debut with the Alluvion Stage Company in their production of Peter Pan.
CHRISTOPHER HENRIQUEZ (Ensemble): Christopher Henriquez, originally from Brooklyn, New York, is excited
for his professional debut in the Ensemble of this production. He is a graduate of Liberty University with a Bachelors degree in Multidisciplinary Studies with concentrations in Theatre, Business, and Spanish. Christopher has done work in film/television/print, and has also performed in several productions at Liberty University.
EMMA SHEPARD (Ensemble): Emma is a junior in high school she is proud to be a part of her first professional production. In the past, she interned at a local community theater and played Leslie Bailey in R. Hamilton's Christmas Carol. Emma enjoys taking voice lessons from Catherine K. Brown of West Chester, singing solos at her church, dancing and singing at The Church of the Good Samaritan. She would like to thank Jesus Christ and her parents for loving and guiding her.
NNEKA BEST (Ensemble): Nneka is an independent recording artist, song-writer, arranger and composer with a BA in Music. Amongst her accomplishments Nneka lists her marriage to a wonderful husband, the recording and release of two CDs, and traveling and performing as a member of International recording group Agape (known as New Spirit overseas). Nneka Best is honored to be a part of The Centurion The Musical and blesses God everyday for the gift of music.
NIKKI TAYLOR (Ensemble): Nikki is excited to be blessed with a God given opportunity to be apart of her first professional production. She has been singing all of her life in church for the Lord. She has written, produced, & directed productions for Freedom Tabernacle Ministries in Atkins, Va. She is also the worship leader for Freedom Tabernacle Youth Ministries & Aftershock Youth Conference Ministries. She is amazed by the Lord & the opportunities that he has given her. She would like to thank her Savior Jesus Christ, her family, youth, & friends for their love & support.
AMANDA ROBLES (Ensemble): Miss. Robles feels truly blessed to be given the opportunity to use her talent for God's glory. She is studying Musical Theater at the university of the Arts and will be graduating in 2013. She has had the opportunity to perform in Philadelphia and in her home state, Connecticut. Credits include:High Fidelity (Philly), Adding Machine (Philly) and RENT (CT). She would like to thank her parents for the never ending support and love and her family for the instillment of faith. Tened fe.
JOY SARCEWICZ (Ensemble): Joy, originally from the Philadelphia area (PA), is excited to be performing in her first professional production. A graduate from Palm Beach Atlantic University with a B.A in Theater, she has more recently directed and choreographed productions for local schools. Joy would like to thank Debbie and Teresa for giving her this incredible opportunity, her supportive friends and family who have prayed her through this, her Boyfriend Tom, and most importantly Jesus Christ who has provided and carried her all her life. To Him be the Glory!
ROB BIGLEY (Ensemble): Robert is blessed with a varied career as a singer, actor, teacher, and conductor. He is currently a professor at Lancaster Bible College where he serves as the Director of the Music Performance program. Lancaster audiences will remember him as Walter de Courcey in PRiMA Theatre Company’s 2011 production of CHESS. Before moving to Lancaster in 2007, Robert appeared in several productions at Taproot Theatre in Seattle, most recently as Schroeder in You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown. He has conducted orchestras, choirs and musicals in the United States and abroad, has appeared in television and radio ads, sings in two local jazz bands, and has even played bass for a Russian rock band. Robert holds degrees from University of Washington (DMA), the Eastman School of Music (MM) and the University of Miami (BM). He lives in Lancaster city with his beautiful wife and their three talented kids. SDG
DEBORA CRABBE (Ensemble): Debora Crabbe is a recent graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia with a BFA in Theatre Performance. She is thrilled for this to be her first performance outside of university. Recently, Debora put up her own solo performance show titled, Beads of Me at Richmond Triangle Players. Debora would like to thank God, her parents, family, and support system both far and wide for always being there for her. When in doubt, Proverbs 3:5-6!
TOM MILLER (Bagpiper): Tom is a native of Lancaster, PA, having graduated from Penn Manor High School in 1998, as well as receiving a B.S.E. in Elementary Education from Millersville University in 2008. His interests include fly fishing, hunting, golf, writing, and playing the Great Highland Bagpipes. Tom has a book of poetry to his credit, River Mists of Memories, which can be found at www.lulu.com. His true passion is for playing the bagpipes, which he has been doing for 18 years, having competed in both solo and band competitions all over the Eastern United States, Canada, and Scotland, taking prizes and enjoying the individuals he meets along the way.
CHILD ACTORS
The Centurion The Musical is pleased to welcome: Jordanne Brodersen, Mervin Stoltzfus, Marvin King and Ruth Margaret Shepard to the cast!
RUTH MARGARET SHEPARD
Ruth is thrilled to be in her first professional production and serve her Lord in this work. She enjoys Sunday School, dancing at The Church of the Good Samaritan, and playing in the mud.