BIOS
ZACHARY TODD is proud to be returning to Art Factory this season! Zachary has sung at Carnegie Hall, the National Opera Center in Manhattan, and with multiple featured ensembles at the TMEA Conference in San Antonio. They have served as Music Director and assistant for several productions at Amarillo Little Theatre and their alma mater, West Texas A&M University, where they received a BFA in Musical Theatre and the Branding Iron Theatre Award for Best Supporting Performer. Recent performance credits at Art Factory include SHREK (Shrek), HAIRSPRAY (Sketch/Link Larkin understudy), GUTENBERG! (Foley Sounds/Percussion), and CINDERELLA (Prince Christopher). Other previous credits include RENT (Ensemble), INTO THE WOODS (Baker), SWEENEY TODD (Beadle Bamford), THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE (Chip Tolentino / Jesus Christ), BRIGHT STAR (Jimmy Ray Dobbs), MONSTERSONGS (Paul / The Werewolf), HAIRSPRAY (Wilbur Turnblad), and BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Monsieur D'Arque / Ensemble). Opera credits include COSI FAN TUTTE (Chorus), DIE ZAUBERFLÖTE (Sarastro), POSTCARD FROM MOROCCO (2nd Puppet), GALLANTRY: A SOAP OPERA OPERA (Dr. Gregg), and H.M.S. PINAFORE (Chorus). Zachary is also an award winning composer and arranger. Their acapella vocal arrangements have been performed at ICHSA semifinals, and their renditions of songs for Shakespeare's AS YOU LIKE IT have been performed at several theaters. They are currently a member of the creative teams for multiple upcoming original works that he hopes to bring to Houston audiences soon. Zachary is grateful for another opportunity to share their gifts with audiences and their cast mates, and hopes you enjoy the show!
MADISON BLANTON has previously performed in SHREK THE MUSICAL (Young Shrek/Grumpy),LION KING JR.(Timon), MADAGASCAR JR THE MUSICAL (Marty), BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Salt / Rug), MUSIC MAN (Gracie), and many more. I would like to thank my mom for driving me up here to try this new level and experience of theater, my family for being here for me, and for my family friends who some how get to all my shows and support. It has been such a wonderful time working with all these talented people!
JULIA NOBLE is a proud Savannah, GA native and a graduate of the American Musical and Dramatic Academy, NY. She is truly so excited to celebrate, congratulate, and reminisce with you all on the unbelievable decade of achievements from ArtFactory - and to pay gratitude for all 72 opportunities she’s been given within it! Most recently seen in THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW (Janet), Favorite AF credits include GATSBY The World Premiere Musical (Daisy Buchanan), THE GLASS MENAGERIE (Laura), REEFER MADNESS (Mary Lane), URINETOWN (Little Sally), DRACULA (Mina), HAIR (Jeanie), METAMORPHOSES (Myrrha / Hunger), PIPPIN (Catherine), COMPANY (Susan), NINE (Necrophorus / Claudia alt.), GREASE (Patty Simcox), THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE (Olive), MURDER BALLAD [2018 and 2024] (Sara U/S), DISENCHANTED! (Rapunzel), A NEW BRAIN [2018] (Waitress / Nancy D.) [2022] (Rhoda), and the EaDo Playhouse production of LIZZIE (Alice Russel). Other Art Factory credits include: A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM (Protean / Vibrata), SWEET CHARITY (Rosie), CINDERELLA (Ensemble / Charles puppeteer), RUTHLESS (Eve), STRANGER SINGS! (Robin / Eleven U/S), INTO THE WOODS (Florinda), NINE TO FIVE (Margaret / Doralee U/S), BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Babette), XANADU (Erato), HEAD OVER HEELS (Ensemble), CABARET (Helga), WIZARD OF OZ (Aunt Em / Glinda), ROCKY HORROR SHOW [2019] (Eddie / Dr. Scott) [2018] (Phantom), JASPER IN DEADLAND (Hel), TUCK EVERLASTING (Betsy Foster), HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH (Puppenkiste), I LOVE YOU, YOU'RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE (Woman 1), FUNNY GIRL (Mrs. Strakosh), HEATHERS (Coach Ripper / Ens.), THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME (Ensemble); the AFonline production of MISS FIGGY PUDDING’S HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA (Carol), and the EaDo Playhouse productions of BROOKLYN (Female Narrator), JEKYLL AND HYDE (Nellie / General Glossop / Emma U/S), REEFER MADNESS (Ensemble / Mary Lane), and SWEET CHARITY (Rosie) - plus over 30 AF concerts! Select previous credits include THE FANTASTICKS (Luisa), SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL (Gertrude McFuzz), INTO THE WOODS (Little Red), THE OUTSIDERS (Cherry Valence), and THE DIARY OF ADAM AND EVE (Eve). Julia would like to express her immense gratitude towards the AF Company, Crew and Creative Team for every single amazing opportunity they have given her, for their dedication to presenting some of the most stunning theatre in the city, and for continually re-imagining and re-defining what that looks like! She would also like to thank her English Bulldog, Hattie Pearl, for being the best friend a girl could ever ask for. Follow her on IG: @jewelpop to see her biennial posts.
MARQUIS EVANS is native Houstonian with a lifelong passion for music and theatre. He is proud to perform in the SHREK THE MUSICAL and has previously performed in SHREK, RENT and CINDERELLA. His real passion is for designing lightshows and working sound. He has recently supported the Art Factory as a lighting tech for LITTLE WOMEN. He is glad to be able to be goofy on stage with this wonderful company.
RAVEN TROUPE is so excited to be back with the Art Factory for this celebration! Previous credits include: Funny Girl, Heathers, Disenchanted, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Spelling Bee, Brooklyn, Lizzie, and Reefer Madness. All the love to Luke and Colton for being my fairy godmothers!
LUKE J. HAMILTON is the Founding Executive Director of Art Factory. Behind the scenes, he also is the Director for many productions at Art Factory, as well as the Resident Choreographer. Luke has appeared across many Houston stages at the Alley Theatre, TUTS, Houston Grand Opera, Masquerade Theatre, The House of Blues, The Landing Theatre Company, SHREK THE MUSICAL, Stages Repertory Theatre, and several other local theaters. Recent Art Factory selected credits include ROCKY HORROR (Rocky), LITTLE WOMEN (Professor Bhaer), HAIRSPRAY (Link Larkin), GUTENBERG THE MUSICAL (Doug), SWEET CHARITY (Oscar), THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW (Brad), THE WILD PARTY (Oscar D'Armano), TRIASSIC PARQ (The Velociraptor of Innocence), SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE (Franz), MURDER BALLAD (Michael), STRANGER SINGS (Mike), INTO THE WOODS (Cinderella's Prince), THE GLASS MENAGERIE (Tom), DRACULA: A COMEDY OF TERRORS (Jonathan Harker), HAIR (Berger / Director), 9 TO 5 (Joe), METAMORPHOSES (Vertumnus and others), PIPPIN (Lewis / Director/ Choreographer), BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Gaston), XANADU (Terpsichore and others), HEAD OVER HEELS (Musidorous), A NEW BRAIN (Roger), SWEENEY TODD (Beadle Bamford), CABARET (Cliff Bradshaw), COMPANY (Peter), MONSTER, GATSBY (Gatsby / Lyricist), PIPPIN (Director / Choreographer), [TITLE OF SHOW] (Jeff), URINETOWN (Hot Blades Harry), THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW (Rocky), GREASE (Eugene / Director), JASPER IN DEADLAND (Loki), TUCK EVERLASTING (Hugo), I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT NOW CHANGE, MURDER BALLAD, HEATHERS (Kurt Kelly), THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE (Leaf Coneybear), THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME (Clopin), JEKYLL AND HYDE (Simon Stride), REEFER MADNESS (Jimmy Harper), and SPRING AWAKENING (Hanschen). Regional Theatre Credits; Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) credits include ALL SHOOK UP (Featured Soloist / Dancer), OLIVER (Assistant Choreographer / Featured Dancer), A CHRISTMAS STORY, and THE MUSIC MAN. Alley Theatre Credits include four years of their annual production of A CHRISTMAS CAROL (Apparition / The Ghost of Christmas Future), HUCK FINN (Tom Sawyer), and A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM. Other favorite credits include TRIASSIC PARQ (Velociraptor of Innocence), NEXT FALL (Luke), OKLAHOMA (Will Parker), THE FANTASTICKS (Matt), GUYS AND DOLLS (Sky Masterson), TARZAN (Tarzan), DOGFIGHT (Boland), METAMORPHOSES, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR (Simon Zealotes), LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS (Dentist), and THE WILD PARTY (Jackie). Luke attended the BFA Musical Theatre program at Texas State University. He is thrilled to see Art Factory closing out its ninth Season, and could not be more proud of the growth this company has made and all of the wonderful, talented, and passionate people involved. Follow him on IG: @lukejhamilton
ELIZABETH CHRISMAN SHURTZ (Ensemble /Sheila/Will/Music Supervisor) works as a music and choral director, choreographer, director, performer, and vocal coach in Houston. Favorite music direction credits include: HAIR, STRANGER SINGS!: THE PARODY MUSICAL, SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE, SHREK. With experience as a vocalist, dancer, and actor, favorite performing experiences have included INTO THE WOODS (Witch); RUTHLESS! (Judy Denmark); SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN BROTHERS (Milly u/s); STRANGER SINGS!: THE PARODY MUSICAL (Joyce / Will); SWEET CHARITY (Ponytail Girl); HAIRSPRAY (Velma Von Tussle); JOSH GROBAN ALL THAT ECHOES WORLD TOUR (Alto soloist) Houston, TX; Aaron Copeland’s IN THE BEGINNING (Mezzo Soprano Soloist) with the Houston Symphony Chamber Singers for Bachfest Leipzig; and in the premiere of Son of Man with the Houston Chamber Choir. Shurtz holds a Master of Music Education in choral music education from University of North Texas, Bachelor of Music in choral music education from University of Houston, and Associate of Arts in music from Lone Star College-Montgomery. She is grateful to God for the immeasurable gift of art, allowing all people to express our feelings, exchange ideas, and preserve our stories. She thanks her best friend and husband, Matt, for his steadfast support, and the Art Factory community for the privilege of collaborating to contribute to Houston’s rich artistic legacy.
COLTON BERRY is an East Coast native, but has called Houston home for over a decade. He has been working professionally in theater since childhood and has since performed in hundreds of plays and musicals. As a vocalist, Colton appeared in SHOWTIME! AT THE APOLLO, toured France with the FRENCH-AMERICAN GOSPEL MUSIC WORKSHOP EXCHANGE, sang alongside Thelma Houston and The Temptations, and was a Top 24 Finalist in the Seventh Season of AMERICAN IDOL. In Houston, he has been seen on many stages, including performances with TUTS and The Music Box Theatre. In addition to performing, Colton is an accomplished producer and director and is the Founding Artistic Director of Art Factory Houston. Art Factory credits include SHREK THE MUSICAL (Pinocchio), ROCKY (Dr. Frank’n’Furter), LITTLE WOMEN (Laurie / Rodrigo), RENT (Roger), GUTENBERG (Bud), SWEET CHARITY (Oscar/Vittorio and others), THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW (Dr. Frank’n’Furter), THE WILD PARTY (Burrs), TRIASSIC PARQ (The Velociraptor of Faith), SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE (George), MURDER BALLAD (Tom), RUTHLESS (Sylvia St. Croix), STRANGER SINGS: A PARODY MUSICAL (Jonathan Byers/ Steve Harrington), INTO THE WOODS (The Baker), REEFER MADNESS (Revival: The Lecturer), 9 TO 5 (Mr. Hart), HAIR (Claude), METAMORPHOSES (Midas and others), PIPPIN (Pippin), BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Beast), XANADU (Sonny Malone), IT'S BRITNEY, B*TCH! (Britney), SWEENEY TODD (Anthony), CABARET (Emcee), COMPANY (Robert), MONSTER (Lady Gaga), GATSBY (Nick / Composer), PIPPIN (Pippin), [TITLE OF SHOW] (Hunter), URINETOWN (Bobby Strong), THE LAST FIVE YEARS (Jamie), WIZARD OF OZ (Lion), GREASE (Doody/Teen Angel), TUCK EVERLASTING (Miles Tuck), HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH (Hedwig), FUNNY GIRL (Nick Arnstein), HEATHERS (J.D.), THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE (William Barfeé), THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME (Quasimodo), A NEW BRAIN (Gordon), BROOKLYN (Taylor), JEKYLL & HYDE (Jekyll/Hyde), REEFER MADNESS (Ralph/Jesus), LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS (Seymour), and SPRING AWAKENING (Moritz). Other favorite credits include JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR (Judas), TRIASSIC PARQ (Mime-o-saurus), THE WEDDING SINGER (Robbie), CHICAGO (Mary Sunshine), AIDA (Radames), BIG RIVER (Huckleberry Finn), and BAT BOY (Bat Boy). IG: @colberry
ALLAN MCFARLANE is excited to be a part of Art Factory’s 10th anniversary concert. Some of his previous roles include: SHREK THE MUSICAL (Big Bad Wolf) LITTLE MERMAIN (Sebastian), INTO THE WOODS (Cinderella’s Prince), REEFER MADNESS (Jack Stone / Jesus); HAIR (Hud); BEAUTY IN THE BEAST (The Beast); SISTER ACT (Sweaty Eddie); SEUSSICAL (The Cat in the Hat); and RENT (Collins). When not performing, Allan spends his time with his son Axal, and as a Middle School Math Teacher. Allan would like to thank the Directors, cast, and crew for an incredibly enjoyable experience.
NICOLE ERCAN is thrilled to be part of the magic of Art Factory's anniversary concert! She was excited to be seen in Art Factory Houston’s concert series featuring songs from the one and only Adele. Nicole has participated in shows with AF since 2019, debuting with NINE as part of the ensemble. Since then, she has participated in a number of showcases, JASPER IN DEADLAND, COMPANY (April), SWEENEY TODD (Beggar Woman), A NEW BRAIN (Mimi), and RUTHLESS (Judy/Ginger), TRIASSIC PARQ (Velociraptor of Science), THE WILD PARTY (Ensemble), THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW (Eddie / Dr. Scott), and SWEET CHARITY (Ensemble). Nicole is thrilled to share an evening with cast and audience members for an unforgettable experience at the AF Houston!
ROBBY BLACK is thrilled to be back on stage with Art Factory. His passion for music was first nurtured in school choirs and barbershop quartets. In 2015, he helped found Space City Sound — an internationally-ranked barbershop chorus — and served as the bass section leader for seven years. He then began to pursue musical theater — first performing in musical revues paying tribute to trailblazing composers like IRVING BERLIN, RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN, and more. His theatrical credits include COMPANY (Paul), SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE (Soldier 1/Photographer), THE WILD PARTY (Eddie), ASSASSINS (The Proprietor/u.s. John Wilkes Booth), and SWEET CHARITY (Doorman & others/u.s. Vittorio Vidal), HAIRSPRAY (Corny Collins), and Little Women (John Brooke/Braxton). Robby currently sings baritone in a chamber choir called Cantare.
SARAH BETH SIMS is a native Houstonian and has been performing in theatre since she was eight years old. She attended the AMERICAN MUSIC & DRAMATIC ACADEMY in New York City and Los Angeles, where she received a Professional Conservatory Certificate in Integrated Theatre and a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre. She most recently appeared as Dustin Henderson in Art Factories' production of Stranger Sings. Some of her favorite roles she’s played are Judy Bernly in 9 TO 5, Cinderella in INTO THE WOODS, and Audrey in LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS.
DALLIS WILLIAMS is a born and raised Houstonian and an HSPVA alumni who is ecstatic to be in this Art Factory production of SHREK The Musical! Her background in theater started in Tampa, Florida where she started as Celie (THE COLOR PURPLE) at Stageworks, while battling being a full time student and chamber music organizer. She then moved back home to Houston and continued her journey in theater with Moore Vision’s NUNSENSE (Sister Hubert), ONCE ON THIS ISLAND (Mama Euralie), ORDINARY DAYS (Deb Cast B), RENT (Ensemble - soloist). She has also worked with other companies such as, Playhouse 1960’s COMPANY (Marta), The Garden Theater (ASSASSINS - Soloist), and Class Act Productions (Medda Larkin), and Playhouse 1960’s PARADE (Minnie McKnight/Angela). She is happy to continue to grow as a performer and to share the stage with an incredible cast!
CARRIGAN MOON is excited to be back on the Art Factory stage with this amazing cast. Other Art Factory credits include SHREK THE MUSICAL, RUTHLESS! (Tina Denmark), SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE (Ensemble), and SOMEONE LIKE YOU: THE MUSIC OF ADELE. Carrigan is a 12 year old, 6th grader who fell in love with musical theatre when she was 5 years old and has been singing and dancing on stage ever since. Favorite credits include MATILDA (Matilda), JOSEPH & THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT (Ensemble/Featured Dancer), GYPSY (Balloon Girl/Newsboy), GUYS & DOLLS JR. (Sarah Brown), and ANNIE JR. (Annie). When not onstage, Carrigan enjoys studying art, drawing and spending time with her four dogs. She would like to thank Colton, Luke, Elizabeth and her family for all of their love and support.
LAURA H. R. NEWMAN is thrilled to be back on the Art Factory stage! She was last seen as Magenta in ROCKY HORROR. Originally from Jackson, MS, Laura has been a proud Houstonian for over a decade! She has been singing since the age of two, when she also recorded her first album of children’s songs, but it was a limited release for family only. She made her stage debut at age 3 and has been performing for audiences ever since! Laura is a vocal performance/theatre graduate of Millsaps College and was a member of New Stage Theatre’s Professional Actor Training Program. She has proudly worked with many theatre companies across the southeast including New Stage Theatre, Carey Dinner Theatre, Mill Mountain Theatre, Orlando Repertory Theatre, and Stageworks Theatre here in Houston. Laura made her Art Factory debut in the world premiere of GATSBY (Mrs. Michaelis). Other Art Factory credits include A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM (Pseudolus), SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE (Mrs./Harriet), 9 TO 5 (Violet Newstead), REEFER MADNESS (Mae), INTO THE WOODS (Jack’s Mother), COMPANY (Joanne), CABARET (Fritzie/Fraulein Kost), SWEENEY TODD (Ensemble), HEAD OVER HEELS (Gynecia), and BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Madame). Other favorite credits include THE DROWSY CHAPERONE (Drowsy), BEEHIVE (Laura), NUNSENSE (Sr. Amnesia), SPELLING BEE (Rona Lisa Peretti), 1776 (Martha Jefferson), ROCKY HORROR (Janet), FIVE WOMEN WEARING THE SAME DRESS (Georgeanne), NOISES OFF (Poppy), DON’T DRESS FOR DINNER (Suzette), and ALEXANDER AND THE TERRIBLE… (Mother). When not on stage, Laura works as Customer Relationship Manager for All In Food (www.all in food.com), a delicious snack food company that gives back to help end food insecurity. Special thanks to Gill, J & L, her family, and her amazing friends for all their love and support. IG: @ladylalabeth
EMMA AFABLE (Young Fiona/Baby Bear) is thrilled to make her debut at the Art Factory and is grateful for the opportunity to perform alongside such a talented cast. Emma has previously appeared in theater summer camps, including ALADDIN JR. (Rajah) and PETER PAN (Toodles). She is a member of her elementary school’s student council and choir, and holds a yellow belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. She's currently obsessed with Harry Potter and has lots of Shrek items.
CHLOE RIDOLFO (Phantom) is originally from Los Angeles but recently moved to Houston last year after receiving her Master’s in Vocal Performance and Bachelor’s in Musical Theatre at West Texas A&M University. Chloe has been training in dance, acting, and singing since the age of 3, and performing for just as long. Some of her favorite performance credits include LITTLE WOMEN (Aunt March), SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD (Woman 2), and SWEENEY TODD (Pirelli). Opera credits include HMS PINAFORE (Buttercup), SUOR ANGELICA (La Badessa), COSI FAN TUTTE (Dorabella), THE GONDOLIERS (The Duchess), DIE ZAUBERFLÖTE (Second Lady), and LA NAVARRAISE (Anita). In addition to performing, Chloe also served as the Adjunct Professor of Voice at WTAMU and has music directed many shows, including THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE and SHE LOVES ME. She recently made her Carnegie Hall debut in 2023, performing arias, trios, and ensemble pieces from across the opera canon. This is Chloe's fourth show with Art Factory and she is so excited to be back on the stage with her new theater family. Chloe would like to thank Colton and Luke for giving her this opportunity, as well as her husband for their love and support.
DIEGO COTTE is very excited to be apart of this year's anniversary concert! He was most recently seen at Art Factory is Rocky Horror Picture Show (BRAD). Past Art Factory credits also include Sweet Charity (WAITER/FEATURED DANCER) and The Wild Party (PHIL). IG: @dmcotty.
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KAYDANCE YOUNG is a soprano performer from Bakersfield, CA, currently studying Nursing with a minor in Music and Theatre at Prairie View A&M University. Recent works include THE LITTLE MERMAID (Ariel), LES MISERABLES (Cosette), IN THE HEIGHTS (Vanessa), and THE COLOR PURPLE (Shug Avery). She recently appeared in WICKED (Elphaba) and A GENTLEMAN'S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER (Phoebe). She is a proud member of PVAMU’s Concert Chorale, PV Singers, and a member of the Charles Gilpin Players. She gives all glory to God for the gift of storytelling through theatre, and is honored to help bring a new story to the stage!
JARED CADORE is excited to return to the Art Factory stage for this special night! Some of Jared’s favorite past roles include (Will) in OKLAHOMA ( Coneybear)in 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE, and, Dupree in CRYBABY and of course (Seaweed) in HAIRSPRAY right here at Art Factory. Jared is honored to perform with so many gifted performers and sends his thanks to all involved.
DWAYNE LEE-Dwayne Lee is a native of Harrisburg, PA, now based in Houston, TX. He has appeared on Houston-area stages in The Color Purple (Grady) at MATCH Theater, Sister Act (TJ) with Art Park Players Theatre, and Rent (Benny) and Hairspray (Gilbert) at The Art Factory. Dwayne is thrilled to be returning for the new season and is excited to continue sharing his love of theater with audiences.
KYLE ANTHONY (Donkey ) is a Houston-born actor seen in Half Baked 2, the All Screwed Up DJ Screw biopic, Sicko Mode, and national commercials for State Farm/ESPN and Dell Technologies. His theatre credits include A Motown Christmas (The Ensemble Theatre), Soulful Sounds of Christmas (The Ensemble Theatre), Life X3 (Dirt Dogs Theatre Co.), and A Christmas Carol (The Alley Theatre). He can be found on his Instagram at @kyleanthonymosley.
CHRISTINE MOMPOINT is a Miami native. Mompoint started with Art Factory in September of 2022. She has performed in SHEK THE MUSICAL (Humpty Dumpty / Dragon Understudy), HAIRSRAY (Dynamite/Motormouth Understudy) , A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM (Marcus Lycus) ,SWEET CHARITY (Helene) ,ROGER AND HAMMERSTEIN'S CINDERELLA (Fairy God Mother) ROCKY HORROR SHOW (Usherette / Swing*), THE WILD PARTY (Delores / Kate Understudy), MURDER BALLAD (Sara and Narrator Understudy), SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE (Understudy / Solider #1 Understudy*), STRANGER SINGS (Lucas), INTO THE WOODS (Granny/Giant), HAIR (Dionne), 9 TO 5 (Swing*), METAMORPHOSES (Aphrodite and others), PIPPIN (Leading Player), DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Enchantress/ Silly Girl #2/ Napkin/ Belle Understudy), HOLD ME CLOSER BY CANDLELIGHT (Featured Vocalist), and IT’S BRITNEY B*TCH (Featured Vocalist). During AF’s production of XANADU (October 2022), Mompoint took on the role of Front House Manager. She continued this role during DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, while performing all of her acting roles, and assisted Artistic Director Colton Berry as a Production Assistant. Outside of Art Factory, Mompoint is a previous member of the Houston Show Choir (4 seasons) and a karaoke enthusiast in the community. This year she is building her technical theater credits as the sound engineer for GUTENBERG THE MUSICAL and Stage Manager for LITTLE WOMEN.
TERRY JONES is excited to be a part of this performance at the Art Factory. Previous credits include ROCK OF AGES (Drew Boley), GUTENBERG! THE MUSICAL! (Doug Simon), BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Gaston), TWISTED: THE UNTOLD STORY OF A ROYAL VIZIER (Aladdin), HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL (Troy Bolton), THE FANTASTICKS (El Gallo), and FOOTLOOSE (Chuck Cranston).
VICTORIA RITCHIE is honored to be returning to the Art Factory stage to celebrate the 10th anniversary! Victoria is a Houston native, but spent 6 years studying in New York City. She holds a BA in Classics (Classical Languages) and a BFA in Creative Writing (Poetry/Playwriting) from Brooklyn College. While in New York, she studied acting with Brad Fleischer and at Stella Adler Studio of Acting with Jon Korkes. She has studied vocal technique with Chris Dilley, Colton Berry, and Shelley Auer. Art Factory credits include LITTLE WOMEN (Jo), HAIRSPRAY (Penny), A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM (Philia), SWEET CHARITY [2025] (Charity), CINDERELLA (Ensemble, Female Swing), THE WILD PARTY (Kate), SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE (Dot/Marie), PIPPIN [2020] (Leading Player), GREASE (Marty), JASPER IN DEADLAND (Eurydice), HEATHERS: THE MUSICAL (Veronica), DISENCHANTED! (Snow White), 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE (Logainne), THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME (Ensemble), A NEW BRAIN [2016, 2018] (Lisa), BROOKLYN (Brooklyn), LIZZIE (Emma), JEKYLL AND HYDE (Lucy), SWEET CHARITY (Charity), REEFER MADNESS [2017] (Lecturer), LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS (Audrey II), and SPRING AWAKENING (Ilse). Other favorite credits include BAT BOY: THE MUSICAL (Shelley), INTO THE WOODS (Rapunzel), TRIASSIC PARQ (Kaitlyn), URINETOWN (Soupy Sue), JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR (Mary), THE DROWSY CHAPERONE (Janet), and ONCE UPON A MATTRESS (Winnifred). Victoria is beyond grateful for the opportunity to collaborate and create with the most brilliant artists in Houston. She would like to extend her deepest thanks to the Art Factory creative team and the wonderful anniversary concert cast.
NICOLE PEACH is thrilled to be back on stage with Art Factory! She holds a Music Education degree from Webster University and teaches voice and piano lessons. Favorite past shows include THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE (Olive), THE ADDAMS FAMILY MUSICAL (Morticia Addams), and BABY THE MUSICAL (Nicki Hall). She’s also performed with Six Flags St. Louis and the Houston Show Choir. When she’s not rehearsing, she’s in her newest role: mom to baby Rhys. Huge thanks to her husband, Doug, and her friends for all the love and support.
AVERY BALLARD is a native Houstonian with over 20 years of theatre experience and recently returned to the stage after a 3-year hiatus. She currently works as the Production Manager, Casting Director, and Stylist for Ashkan Studios, producing editorial and commercial campaigns for clients including Weissman. Creative team credits include co-director/choreographer for SIX and CABARET, co-choreographer for XANADU, and Dance Captain on productions including BYE BYE BIRDIE (choreographer Dontee Kiehn), URINETOWN, MUSIC MAN, SEUSSICAL (choreographer Rosie Curtis), A CHORUS LINE, and BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS (choreographer Heather Steele).
Select performance credits include HAIRSPRAY (Tracy Turnblad, Penny), THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW (Columbia), XANADU (Calliope), SHREK (Fiona), SEUSSICAL (Gertrude), URINETOWN (Principal Swing, Ensemble), and ensemble in ANNIE GET YOUR GUN and SPAMALOT. Avery trained in dance at Royal Academy of Fine Arts (2003–2016) and Tapestry Dance Company (2016–2018), and has taught tap, contemporary, and musical theatre for over 12 years at RAFA, The JET-PAC, Star Steppers, and Divine Dance Arts. She also served as a Marketing/Front of House Intern at The Long Center in 2017.
PARIGRYNNE ZANGARA Originally from Portales, New Mexico, she has called Houston home for the last six years. Pari’s favorite roles thus far have been Kira in XANADU and Belle in BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. Other previous roles include TWISTED (Princess), A GENTLEMEN’S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER (Sibella), THE LITTLE MERMAID (Ursula), CINDERELLA (Ensemble), SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE (Celeste #2), RUTHLESS! (Eve/Betty Lerman), STRANGER SINGS (Scientist/Joyce U/S), INTO THE WOODS (Little Red Ridinghood), REEFER MADNESS (Sally), THE GREAT AMERICAN TRAILER PARK MUSICAL (Pickles), 9 TO 5 (Doralee Rhodes), PIPPIN! (Company Player), HEAD OVER HEELS (Philoclea), NEW BRAIN (Waitress/Nancy D.), SISTER ACT (Sister Mary Robert), NEWSIES (Specs/Katherine Cover), COMPANY (Vocal Minority/Wedding Singer), GATSBY (Ensemble), TARZAN (Mother/Dance), FOOTLOOSE (Urleen), THE EFFECT OF GAMMA RAYS ON MAN-IN-THE-MOON- MARIGOLDS (Tillie Hunsdorfer), THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD (Rosa Bud/Deirdre Peregrine), and ALMOST, MAINE (Hope). Pari would like to thank God, family, and friends for their continued support, both in person and in heart, with special thanks to her sweetheart, Allan.
ELIZA WERNICK once brought down the house moonwalking as Michael Jackson in a Houston living room — a quiet kid with a loud imagination who found her voice under stage lights, transforming shyness into bold storytelling.
A Houston native returning home, she's thrilled to join The Art Factory family for their 10th anniversary spectacular!
Past musical performances include belting as Marty Maraschino in GREASE (2005), commanding the spotlight as Velma Kelly in CHICAGO (2006), and scaling emotional heights as Rapunzel in INTO THE WOODS (2007), and bringing fire, fragility, and fierce resilience to Mimi Marquez in RENT.
She's grateful to those who believed in her spark, and to every audience willing to go on the ride.
JOSHUA A MURRAY is returning for another performance here at Art Factory. He is an aspiring musical theatre performer and screen actor who studied under Emily Tello Speck and Jesse GrothOlson. Born and raised in Houston, Joshua found a love for performance very early on, though he has only been working professionally for a few years. Through his studies he has worked on shows like IN THE HEIGHTS (El Piragüero), LEGALLY BLONDE (Warner Huntington III), ANNA KARENINA (Stiva), AS YOU LIKE IT (Orlando), AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 MINUTES, and SOME ENCHANTED EVENING. He has also appeared in short films such as DRIFTING APART (Dr. Michael Schwartz), CAN’T STOP LAUGHING (Aaron), and DON’T MIND ME (Anthony). Joshua began his professional work in musical theatre with Stageworks Theatre’s URINETOWN (Officer Barrel) and 9 TO 5 (Dwayne Rhodes), as well as Art Factory’s CINDERELLA (Lionel), HAIRSPRAY (Edna Turnblad), and THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW (Phantom). If you care to follow his journey, find him on Instagram @The_Joshua_A_Murray.
MATTHEW SHURTZ is ecstatic to be performing in this celebration. Born and raised in a small town in New Mexico, Matt moved to the big town of Houston in 2015 and has enjoyed life in the big city. Matt’s past roles include REEFER MADNESS (Ensemble), INTO THE WOODS (Cinderella’s Father), STRANGER SINGS (Hooper), SUNDAY IN THR PARK WITH GEORGE (Mr./Lee Randolph), CINDERELLA (King), SWEET CHARITY (Herman), and HAIRSPRAY (Wilbur). In his free time, Matt enjoys reading, debating, a good documentary, and attending all of his talented bride's performances.
ATHENA TRY is thrilled to be celebrating 10 years of the Art Factory and performing with some of her favorite people! She graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2023 with a degree in Systems Engineering and spends her day working at Pepsi. Since moving to Texas, she has been seen in Art Factory’s productions of THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW (Phantom), A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM (Ensemble), and THE WILD PARTY (Mae Understudy/Ensemble). She’s also been seen in Stageworks Theatre’s production of THE WEDDING SINGER (Waitress 1/Ensemble) and at Moore Vision Entertainment’s CHICAGO (Ensemble) and BABY (Lizzie). Athena would like to take a moment to thank the cast for always being encouraging, her friends for giving her confidence, and her partner Noah for being her number one supporter.
ABBI RODRIGUE is a Houston native and graduate of HCU with a BME in music education. Her passion for performing comes through in her work as a music teacher and music director. Most recently, she was seen in Art Factory’s LITTLE WOMEN (Beth), HAIRSPRAY (Mr. Spritzer/Mr. Pinky/Principal/Guard), CINDERELLA (Joy), A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM (Protean, u/s Hero), THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW (Phantom), THE WILD PARTY (Nadine), STRANGER SINGS (Beetlejuice/Scientist, u/s Dustin), and INTO THE WOODS (Cinderella’s Mother/Snow White). Other recent and favorite roles have been TWISTED (Sherrezade), CINDERELLA (Portia), JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH (Ladybug), and FIDDLER ON THE ROOF (Hodel). She has also served as the resident music director for the Plaza Theater’s Litefooters program. She would like to thank her dear friends and roommates (and dog niece Jodi) for their constant support, love, and laughter. @abee_not_abbi
CRYSTYL SWANSON is a Houston native, but moved every year as she was growing up, seeing three different high schools in four years. She cut her chops in church, and given her passion for the stage, started working professionally in commercials, print work and musical theatre. She also was a finalist in the Miss Texas and Miss Tennessee pageants, where she went on to win overall preliminary talent. After receiving her Bachelor of Music from Oklahoma City University where she studied with the world renown Florence Birdwell (RIP), Crystyl continued to pursue her passion for theatre. Crystyl appeared in the Broadway production of JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT (Chorus) which featured Donny Osmond in the Chicago Theatre and in the off-Broadway production of the world premiere of THE MOST MISERABLE CHRISTMAS TREE (Miss Willow). Some of her favorite credits include COMPANY (Sarah), AIDA (Amneris), BAT BOY (Meredith), DISENCHANTED (Jasmine & Belle), GATSBY (The Green Light), NINE (Luisa Contini), THE LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS (Audrey), RENT (Maureen), CABARET (Texas), WORKING (Waitress & Hooker) and XANADU (Melpomene/Medusa). Crystyl is thrilled to be back on stage as Dr. Hibble in the world premiere of NOW THAT YOU’VE SEEN ME NAKED! @cricket428