Sister Act

Kara Holt

Kara Holt is a rising senior who has spent her past years at Cabarrus Kannapolis Early College, but will be taking her studies to University of North Carolina School of the Arts this fall. She is so excited to be making her debut at Little Theater of Gastonia. Kara has done theatre for almost 10 years! Some of her recent productions include MEAN GIRLS JR. (Regina), THE SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS MUSICAL (Spongebob), SUESSICAL (Gertrude Mcfuzz), MARY POPPINS JR. (Mary Poppins) and LEGALLY BLONDE (Pilar). Kara thanks her family and friends for their everlasting support. She can’t wait to bring this show to life!

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Kathryn Pell

Kathryn W. Pell  is a bit shocked to have this fantastic opportunity to be performing again. Since this is her maiden voyage with Little Theater of Gastonia, she is very grateful for their “leap of faith” and the encouragement of Jennifer Stepp to get involved. She timidly auditioned after unsuccessfully trying to talk ALL her pickleball friends into auditioning with her for roles as nuns. Kathryn was last on an official stage over 45 years ago (before marrying her spouse and parenting/homeschooling seven children) in THE WIZARD OF OZ (Glenda) and FIDDLER ON THE ROOF (Company). Those who know her best might say Kathryn’s best asset is her amazing husband! And her mom, age 88, is one of her best friends. Kathryn has the most awesome kids and 13 wonderful grandchildren. She loves Jesus, her family, and still works with a terrific team at her church. Kathryn routinely embarrasses herself trying to play pickleball.

Alyssa White

Alyssa White is thrilled to be back on stage again at the Little Theater of Gastonia! She was last seen in HEATHERS (Heather MacNamara), BYE BYE BIRDIE (Margie), MATILDA (Miss Honey), and SOMETHING ROTTEN (Portia). Following Sister Act, Alyssa looks forward to stepping into the role of Director for LTG's opening show of the 75th season: ANNIE.

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Sydney Hayes

Sydney Hayes is excited for her first time performing at Little Theater of Gastonia. Sydney was last on stage in college in MANY MOONS (The Queen) and COSI FAN TUTTE (Jess). After graduating college with a Bachelor's in Music Education, Sydney has spent her time teaching choir and working behind the scenes and conducting for Shelby High School's theater program. When not working with her students, coaching tennis, or selling pastries at the Charlotte Farmer's Market, Sydney enjoys reading fantasy novels, watching Lord of the Rings, and taking day adventures with her husband Caleb.

Becky Layman

Becky Layman is so excited to be performing again at LTG! Becky was last seen on the LTG stage in THE LION, THE WITCH, & THE WARDROBE (Aslan), HEATHERS (Mrs. Fleming & Mrs. Sawyer), BYE BYE BIRDIE (Mrs. MacAfee). Becky was also seen in THE WINTER WONDERETTES (Suzy) at Davidson Community Players, and other shows in her earlier years. In her spare time Becky enjoys cooking and cake decorating, and pretty much anything else crafty.

Synthia Kearney

Synthia Kearney is excited to be performing again on the LTG stage. She was most recently seen in THE ODD COUPLE: FEMALE VERSION ( Mickey the Cop), SWEENEY TODD ( The Beggar Woman), SOMETHING ROTTEN (The Minstrel), MIDLIFE THE CRISIS ( One of the Women) and ALWAYS A BRIDESMAID (Sedalia). In “real life “ Synthia is a Battalion Chief with the Gastonia Fire Department and in her spare time she enjoys reading, playing with her grandchildren and pickleball not necessarily in that order.

MJ Sadler

MJ Sadler attends Gaston Early College and is studying Social Work. Since 2016, MJ has had a passion for theater after playing in THE JUNGLE BOOK JR. (Bagheera). MJ plans to continue acting both as a college student and as an adult in the future. Outside of acting, MJ loves writing, listening to music, and eating ice cream. MJ’s mom is definitely the biggest inspiration in all things. Not only has she been supportive throughout MJ’s entire acting career, but she has also been a rock outside of theater. Without her mother, MJ would not feel comfortable enough to get out on stage and perform.

Chris Smeltzer

Chris Smeltzer is thrilled to bring Officer Eddie Souther to life in Little Theater of Gastonia's production of SISTER ACT. This will be Chris' fifth show with LTG and second under director Shane Elks. Chris was last seen in SWEENEY TODD: THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET (Sweeney Todd). He hopes you will enjoy this fantastic show and the wonderful performances from this talented cast and crew.

Blake M. Lundy

Blake is back and eager to play a good guy after making his debut at Little Theater of Gastonia in SWEENEY TODD (Beadle Bamford). He was drawn to this musical due to the uplifting disco/gospel vibes. Blake relocated from Ohio in 2016 and now resides in the Belmont area with his wife and two daughters. Past roles include FOOTLOOSE (Chuck Cranston), A HAUNTING WE WILL GO (Sutton), and more. When not on stage, Blake enjoys smoking meat for family and friends and any opportunity to be in a swimming pool or outdoors. By day, he manages strategic accounts for Amazon. Blake hopes to continue making his wife and daughters proud through his passion for theater and is immensely grateful for their support and patience during the long hours required to produce these shows. He is thrilled to be part of this production, thanks the entire cast and crew for their dedication and talent and looks forward to the opportunity to return in future productions.

Noemi Rabinowitz

Noemi Rabinowitz is thrilled to be back on the LTG stage! Their most recent credits include SWEENEY TODD (Adolfo Pirelli), BYE BYE BIRDIE (Rose Alvarez), (THE VAGINA MONOLOGUES), SOMETHING ROTTEN (Bea Bottom), THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW (Eddie/Dr. Scott), MADAGASCAR THE MUSICAL ADVENTURE (Melman), and CABARET (Sally Bowles).

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Jake Nicks

Jake Nicks is happy to be back on stage at LTG once again! He works in Global Human Resources for Bank of America but, in his spare time, likes to travel, see shows on Broadway, and spend time with his favorite people. His favorite roles on stage include SUESSICAL (Horton), MAMMA MIA (Bill), SOMETHING ROTTEN! (Nostradamus) and BRIGHT STAR (Daddy Murphy). He would like to thank all of his friends and chosen family for their constant love and support!

Erica Taylor

Erica Taylor is a 42 year old Gastonia native, wife, and mother of 3. She has 2 teen daughters and a 6 year old son and they all keep her very busy. She has been happily married to her husband, Jarrett, for 18 years. Her oldest daughter, Gabbie, shares her love for musical theater and has been in several productions at the Little Theater of Gastonia. Her younger children Gigi and Lincoln love singing and sharing their talents as well. Erica has been singing since she was a small child and comes from a musical family. Erica’s uncle, T. Oliver Reid, has been on Broadway for over 20 years and has been in numerous productions. Erica travels to New York faithfully to see all of his performances. Erica’s love for musical theater began when she traveled to Chicago to see her uncle perform in the national tour of “Once on This Island” at the age of 12. Erica’s mother, Tammy, performed at the Little Theater of Gastonia in the 90s. Her father, Rob, is a musician and has been playing the saxophone and other instruments for almost 50 years. Her other uncle, Tony, is a long time member of the Image Band. Singing and performing is in her blood! Erica has performed at Carnegie Hall and has had the privilege of singing in European Cathedrals. Erica performed with a capella group Harmonyx while in college and has been known to sing at weddings, funerals, and direct choirs. Erica graduated from UNC Chapel and proudly works as a psychotherapist. Erica loves working in her community and helping to heal one person at a time. This is Erica’s very first performance in musical theater and she is so excited to be apart of this amazing cast!

Melcina Martin

Melcina is new to the theater community but is excited for her first performance. She has a background in conference management and is a certified creative writer. She is looking forward to help making the script and music come to life in a brand new way for her.

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Vance Riley

Vance Riley  is thrilled to be in his first show at Little Theater of Gastonia. Vance was last seen in FREAKY FRIDAY (Adam) and CINDERELLA (Jean-Michell). Vance also recently was stage manager for ANNIE JR. at Gaston School of the Arts. When not performing Vance likes to write stories, play D&D, and be with his friends.

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Logan Watkins

Logan Watkins is thrilled to be returning to the Little Theater to perform in SISTER ACT. He is seventeen years old and attends school at Stuart W Cramer High. Logan last appeared onstage in Little Theater of Gastonia’s production of THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE (Peter), and spent the past few years participating in various school productions. He has also appeared in Stuart Cramer’s annual Cemetery Walk, leads the Stuart Cramer Spanish Club, and avidly involves himself in his community. Aside from acting, he also enjoys playing bassoon and working with reptiles, as well as studying languages, writing, art, and exploring the outdoors. Logan would like to thank his parents, sister, friends and family for their continued encouragement, Mr. Stowe and Mr. Jeff for their guidance, and fellow actor Ashleigh Parra for undying support.

Abby Wiley

Abby Wiley is happy to be performing once more at Little Theater of Gastonia. Abby was last seen on stage in THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE (Susan), BYE BYE BIRDIE (Reporter), and A CHRISTMAS CAROL (Fran). When not on stage, Abby enjoys listening to music and reading.

Guy Winker

Guy Winker is very excited for this opportunity. He was previously involved in numerous productions with Tryon Little Theater, Spartanburg Little Theater and Rutherford County Arts Guild before retiring to Belmont 2 years ago. After 32 years practicing medicine as a Family Physician in Rutherford County, he and his wife Nancy are enjoying lake life and being nearer their grandkids.

Brooke Robinson

Brooke Robinson is a senior at Piedmont Charter and is excited to be in her 2nd LTG performance. Some of her favorite past roles have been TITANTIC (Madeleine Astor), SENSE AND SENSIBILITY (Anne Steele) and THE THREE MUSKETEERS (Adele). When not acting, she is likely singing, playing the piano or at a local theater enjoying all the shows. She eats, sleeps, and breathes all things theater. She would like to thank her friends and family for their continued support. She also wishes for the cast and crew to break a leg during this run.

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Ashleigh Parra

Ashleigh Parra is honored to make her first appearance at LTG in SISTER ACT. She is eighteen years old and has recently graduated from Stuart W. Cramer High School. Ashleigh last appeared on stage in her school productions of SEUSSICAL (Gertrude McFuzz), ALADINO (Genie of the Ring), DONE TO DEATH (Mildred Z. Maxwell), and ALL TOGETHER NOW (Ensemble). Off stage, Ashleigh enjoys spending time with her family and friends, writing stories, and involving herself in various organizations throughout the community, including Blumenthal Arts in Charlotte. Ashleigh would like to thank her parents, sister, friends, her StageStruck family, and Logan Watkins for being her biggest cheerleaders and always supporting her in everything she puts herself out for.

Isabelle Knockenhauer

Isabella Knockenhauer is 14 years old and is going into 9th Grade. During her years of middle school she has been presented the Citizenship Award all 3 years in a row. She has also been in chorus, and has participated in All County and All State. This is Isabella's first show at Little Theater of Gastonia, and her first show ever on stage. She is more than excited, and greatly appreciates this opportunity to perform in SISTER ACT!

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Dottie Kramer

Dottie Kramer is very excited to be back onstage at LTG. Some of her past performances at LTG include SWEENEY TODD (Company), LEGALLY BLONDE JR. (Elle Woods), BYE BYE BIRDIE (Penelope Ann), and A CHRISTMAS CAROL (The Ghost of Christmas Present). Dottie is 13 years old and just finished her 8th grade year. When she’s not onstage, she enjoys shopping, hanging out with friends, and listening to music by the pool. Dottie would like to thank her parents and older sister for always supporting her and coming to her shows, her voice teacher for always helping her prepare for her auditions, and, of course, everyone at LTG for giving her this opportunity, and always working so hard to make a show everyone can enjoy!

Molly Gaston

Molly is excited to be able to be apart of a play at Little Theater of Gastonia. Previous productions Molly has participated in include BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Narrator), SHREK (Mama Ogre), and THE LITTLE MERMAID (Ensemble/Costuming). When Molly isn't involved in a production, she loves to sing and read. She also taught herself how to sew to be able to help make costumes for her previous shows.

Maddie Knockenhauer

Maddie Knockenhauer is so excited to be a part of another show at Little Theater of Gastonia! She last performed in THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE (Ensemble), alongside her youngest daughter, Riley. She grew up in Long Island, NY, where she performed in shows such as CINDERELLA (Stepmother), BYE BYE BIRDIE ( Mayor's Wife), SINBAD (Princess) , and more. When not on stage, Maddie enjoys scary movie Saturdays with her family, jigsaw puzzles and making bracelets for her small business 'Positive Tyes'. She is excited to join her eldest daughter in her first show and continue her childhood dream of performing on stage.

Sara Montreuil

Sara Montreuil is so excited to make her LTG debut in this production! Sara is going into her second year at Winthrop University where she studies musical theatre. Some of her past credits include: ROMEO AND JULIET (Abraham/Servingman), BRIGHT STAR (Alice), and TITANIC: THE MUSICAL (Kate McGowan).

Olivia Calaway

Olivia Calaway is excited to perform in her first Little Theater production. Olivia is a Music Therapy Major at Appalachian State University. She has been seen on stage in LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS (Audrey), Roger and Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA (Featured Dancer), and OKLAHOMA! (Featured Dancer). She’s also been on the opera stage, performing in DIDO AND AENEAS (Sailor). She enjoys thrifting, coaching gymnastics, and spending time with her family and friends when off the stage. She is thrilled to be on the Little Theater stage this summer!

Zachary Ray

Zachary Ray is so happy to be back performing onstage at little theater of Gastonia! He was last seen onstage in BRIGHTSTAR (Max). He would like to dedicate this show and performance to all of his family and friends and is grateful for all of their love and support but he especially wants to dedicate this show and his performance to his mom because it is one of her favorite movies! When not on stage he enjoys spending time with his family and friends and singing karaoke! He wound like to thank Shane Elks for the amazing opportunity to be apart of this show! He hopes you all enjoy this show!

Savannah Garrigan

Savannah Garrigan is so excited to perform in her first show at Little Theater of Gastonia. Savannah was last seen in THE SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS MUSICAL (Miss Puff) and BARNUM (Jenny Lind). After taking a theatre hiatus, she is ready to get back into the swing of things. When not performing, Savannah enjoys doing wedding and event makeup and being with her family.

Jude Novak

Jude Novak is returning to the LTG stage for his third mainstage performance. He was previously seen in THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE (Dwarf) and SWEENEY TODD (Company/Dead Guy). Jude spends his time when he isn't acting, painting, traveling, and taking long walks when the sun isn't scorching. The scorching sun is an improvement from where he grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, where instead of the infernal summers, he had no summers. Some of his favorite places he has traveled to are London, New York City, Boston, and Cork, Ireland. Jude Novak hopes SISTER ACT sends you on a trip to Philadelphia with tons of laughter along the way.

Shannon Cooper

Shannon Cooper is thrilled to be back on stage for this fun filled musical. Shannon was last seen on stage in THE ODD COUPLE: FEMALE VERSION (Sylvie) and BYE BYE BIRDIE (Ensemble). When not on stage or in the production crew at LTG Shannon enjoys reading and spending time in the sun.

Jenni Slininger

Jenni Slininger is so excited to be performing once more at Little Theater of Gastonia. Jenni was last seen on stage in BYE BYE BIRDIE (Ensemble). When not on stage, Jenni enjoys going on adventures with her husband and 2 kids, cooking, baking, gardening and traveling.