Grease Playbill | Strand Theatre 2025

THE EARL AND RACHEL SMITH STRAND THEATRE PRESENTS

MAY 23 – JUNE 22, 2025

Book, Music, and Lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey

PRODUCTION TEAM

Directed By
SHANE DELANCEY

Choreographer
ZAC PHELPS

Music Director
KEVIN SANDERS

Technical Director/Stage Design
JULIAN MARTIN

Sound Design
ADAM CORN

Lighting Design
JUDE SCHIFFER

Costume Design
AMANDA EDGERTON WEST

Wig Design
ALYCIA BERRY

Stage Manager
MONTANA LUDLOW

Production Manager
CAMILLA SANDERS

Set Artist/Master Carpenter
JOHNNY GRAVLEY 

Sound Technicians
CHRIS GRAHAM
ADAM CORN

Lighting Operators
JUDE SCHIFFER
JACKSON HANIER

Production Assistants
JONAH SANDERS
LILLY STANCIL-RIVERA

CAST

JOSH HUDSON as Danny Zuko

Josh Hudson is thrilled to be making his Strand debut in Grease! Previous professional theater credits include Hairspray (Out Front), Bonnie and Clyde (MTC), Junie B Jones (GET), Fun Home (Actor’s Express), The Sound of Music (ECTC), My Fair Lady (GLOW Lyric), The Stranger Things Experience, The Little Mermaid Experience, and the Jurassic Quest National Tour. Josh would love to thank his amazing family and friends for their constant support! www.joshdhudson.com

ANNA CATHERINE WOOLEY as Sandy Dumbrowski

Anna Catherine Wooley is thrilled to be making her debut at The Strand! She recently graduated from Kennesaw State University with a B.A. in Theatre Performance. Some of her favorite recent credits include Jessie in Sweat, Fastrada in Pippin, and Placard Girl in Reefer Madness. Anna is incredibly honored to bring the iconic role of Sandy to life. She extends heartfelt thanks to her directors, castmates, family, and friends for their constant support and encouragement. Enjoy the show—she hopes it brings you as much joy as it has brought her! @annacwooley

BRANDEN HEMBREE as Kenickie

Branden Hembree He/Him is thrilled to be back on The Strand stage! Branden is an Atlanta-based actor, musician, and artist whose work has recently been showcased in The Legacy Theatre’s production of Jersey Boys (Nick Massi), Out Front Theatre’s production of HAIRSPRAY (Corny Collins), City Springs Theatre’s production of Jersey Boys (Pit Bass/ Nick, Gyp, Hank u.s), Out Front Theatre’s production of Psycho Beach Party (Kanaka), and Players Guild’s production of The Wedding Singer (Robbie Hart). He is the founder and lead guitarist of the band City Wide Fire. Be on the lookout for him as Riff Raff in OnStage Atlanta’s upcoming production of The Rocky Horror Show! He is grateful for the love and support of his friends and family and believes in the power of art and storytelling to positively impact community and cultivate change.

CHRISTIE LAMB CHAPMAN as Betty Rizzo

Christie Lamb Chapman is thrilled to make her Strand Theatre debut! Her recent credits include Jersey Boys (Lorraine) at the Legacy Theatre, South Pacific (Ensemble) at Suncoast Broadway Dinner Theatre, and Elvis (Priscilla) at the Legacy Theatre. She wants to thank her husband, family, and friends for all of their love and support. She hopes you enjoy the show!

ISABELLA ENGBERG as Frenchy

Isabella is beyond grateful to be back at The Strand for this year’s production of Grease! Recent credits include “Nicole Barker” – The House Among the Trees, “Denise” – Sanders Family Christmas/ Smoke on the Mountain, “Kelly” – Hands on A Hardbody, “Showgirl” – Honeymoon in Vegas, “Kafka” – All In The Timing, and Teen Fiona in Shrek the Musical. Isabella would like to thank Shane and Zac for bringing in such a wonderful team and for all the things they do to make these shows happen!! She is also incredibly thankful to her mom and dad for helping her dreams become her reality!!

LONDON MCKENNA as Marty

London McKenna is so grateful to be returning again to the beautiful Strand Theatre! Her most recent credits include: Julie Benko in Unfunny, Girl (World Premier – Places Please Theatre Co), Angelo/Luciana in Comedy of Errors (The Strand Theatre), Featured Soloist in A Christmas Tradition (The Strand Theatre), June Sanders in Smoke On The Mountain and Sanders Family Christmas (The Strand Theatre), Betsy in Honeymoon In Vegas (Marietta Theatre Company), Alice Murphy in Bright Star (Front Porch Players). Recent Television Credits include: Queen Sugar (Warner Brothers/OWN Network) and Yellow (Amazon). Recent Film Credits include: Slanted (Feature Film 2025) and Hive (Amazon). She would like to thank her family and friends for their endless love and support- especially her partner Domenic. Eternal thanks to her hero, her Mama, to whom she dedicates every performance. To follow her journey or to contact her agency for booking, visit www.londonmckenna.com, or IG: @londonmckenna

MARISSA GARCIA as Jan

Marissa Garcia is thrilled to be back at The Strand Theatre in Grease. A graduate of Millikin University (BFA Musical Theatre & Dance minor), Marissa is a SAG-AFTRA eligible actor. Recent Credits: Mrs. Santiago/Feat. Ens. Ghost (Marietta Theatre Company), Stella/Archie/Ens. Bonnie & Clyde (Marietta Theatre Company), Ginger Brooks The 1940s Radio Hour (The Strand), Roderigo Othello (Women’s Theatre Festival); Film: Jules Untitled Short (WBF), Veronica Extreme Obsession I & II; New Works: Carol Why Are You Like This? (Sharai Bohannon & Tom Robson). Marissa is grateful to her parents, family, and friends for their continued support and love, and would like to thank all those involved in Grease for making this one fun ride. Website: mgmarissagarcia.com. Socials: @officialmarissagarcia.

MAURICE CLERMONT as Doody

Maurice Clermont is a rising senior at Kennesaw State University (KSU), with a major in Theatre & Performance Studies, and a minor in Dance. He is so blessed to be doing his second show here at The Strand! His previous show here was Jukebox Giants: Motown & More where he played Young Carl! A few of his other projects include being a Leading Player in KSU’s production of Pippin, as well as being the Male Swing in Sister Act at the Aurora Theatre. His home is the stage and he is so honored to be able to have this experience with everyone in the cast and share it with every audience! You can find him on Instagram or TikTok @maurice.cjr !

GRAY SMITH as Roger

Gray is thrilled to be performing in his first show here at the Strand as Roger in Grease! Previous credits include Bright Star, And Then They Came For Me (Georgia Ensemble), Parade, Into the Woods (Woodstock Arts), Heathers (Mad Artists), Big Fish (Red Phoenix), and more! He would like to thank his family, friends, and his incredible girlfriend Jackie for their unwavering support. He hopes you enjoy the show!

PARKER REEVES as Sonny LaTierri

Parker Reeves is thrilled to be back at The Strand! Previous Strand credits include Rock of Ages (Lonny). Atlanta credits: Hairspray (IQ), The Prom (Ensemble), Kinky Boots (Ensemble), and Honeymoon in Vegas (Ensemble). Parker is honored to bring Sonny to life and share the stage with such a stellar cast. Much love to friends, family, and everyone supporting live theatre!

ARIELLE GELLER as Patty Simcox/Dance Captain

Arielle Geller has worked at numerous theatres throughout the Atlanta area, including City Springs Theatre Company, The Alliance Theatre, Atlanta Lyric, Georgia Ensemble Theatre, The Legacy Theatre, The Aurora Theatre, and more. Most recent selected credits include: Francine Valli in Jersey Boys (The Legacy Theatre), Ensemble u/s Evelyn Nesbit in Ragtime, Ensemble u/s Serena in Legally Blonde, Ensemble u/s Chava in Fiddler on the Roof (City Springs Theatre Company). Arielle is also the choreographer for City Springs Theatre Conservatory’s award winning Competition Team! Graduate of CCCEPA and CCM. Many thanks to Shane and Zac, and endless love to her husband, Haden. IG: @relwoods_

KEI JONES as Cha-Cha DiGregorio

Kei has been performing for the majority of their life and is overjoyed to finally make their dream of being on a professional stage a reality at The Strand Theatre. Some of their favorite previous roles include Chiffon (Little Shop of Horrors), Dorothy (The Wiz), and lastly Madame Armand (Once on This Island). Kei feels that working with such talented and kind people has pushed them immensely and will be something that they’ll cherish forever. They give thanks to the director Shane for seeing their talent, their mom for always supporting their dreams of being an actor/singer, and last but not least their girlfriend for always uplifting them in everything they do. Kei hopes to continue to receive love and support in their future endeavors!

JAMES PORTWOOD as Eugene Florczyk

James has loved doing theatre ever since high school, so much so he is now going into his senior year at KSU majoring in Theatre & Performance Studies with a concentration in Musical Theatre. James is so glad to have gotten the chance to work with all these wonderful people and couldn’t imagine a better experience to make his Atlanta theatre debut! He thanks his friends, family, and professors for continuing to love and support him through everything!! <33

SI RAJADHYAX as Johnny Casino

Si Rajadhyax is pumped to be making his debut at The Strand Theatre in Grease the Musical! Past favorite roles include: Professor Bhaer in Little Women (ACT1 Theater), The Narrator/Mysterious Man in Into The Woods (Bellissimo Theatre), and Amos Calloway in Big Fish (FoCAL Center). Big thanks to his family, friends, and fiancé, Sam, for always having his back. Let’s stay connected! IG: @sirajadhyax

ASHTON HARDEN as Teen Angel

Ashton Harden, hailing from Warner Robins, GA, is currently a junior at Kennesaw State University. Television: The Ms Pat Show (BET). Film: Young (SCAD), The Pulse Of Time (SCAD). Theatre: Sondheim On Sondheim (KSU), Mother Of God (Southwest Arts), Pippin (KSU), The Color Purple (Marietta Theatre in The Square), Bonnie & Clyde (Marietta Theatre Co.), Reefer Madness (KSU), Newsies (Ronald Barnes Theatre), The SpongeBob Musical (Ronald Barnes Theatre), Freaky Friday (Theatre Macon), and Singing in the Rain (Theatre Macon). @ashtonjharden

CAMILLE FAIRBANKS as Miss Lynch

Camie Fairbanks is thrilled to perform as Ms. Lynch with this talented cast and crew in her debut at The Strand. She has also enjoyed recent theatrical roles with Marietta Theatre Company (Virginia Drew – Hands on a Hardbody, Sis. Wilhelm – Nunsense Jamboree), Atlanta Workshop Players’ Movie Musical Company, Acworth Theatre Company (Mary Shelley – Murder by the Book), Mad Artists Entertainment (Meg – Damn Yankees), and Pumphouse Players (Skye – The Living Room). She extends her deep appreciation to her family and friends for their support. They each deserve an A+!

ZAC PHELPS as Vince Fontaine

Zac is an award-winning choreographer, director, and actor. He previously served as founding Artistic Director for Marietta Theatre Company for three years. Zac has performed in, directed and choreographed many productions at The Strand including: 1940’s Radio Hour, Whose Wives Are They Anyway, Jukebox Giants: Motown & More!, A Christmas Tradition, AbbaBeegees Musical Review, Little Shop of Horrors, Forever Plaid, and Footloose. Zac has also been recognized for his direction and choreography work for high schools that have been nominated for Shuler Hensley Awards.

CREW

SHANE DELANCEY, Director

After directing previous Strand productions Rock of Ages (2024), Jukebox Giants: Motown & More (2018 – 2024), A Christmas Tradition (2017 – 2024), and the ABBA/Bee Gees Song and Dance Spectacular (2022), Shane is happy to be back at Marietta’s favorite theatre to direct Grease! Other recent directing credits include Monty Python’s Spamalot, Jersey Boys and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical at City Springs Theatre Company.

In addition to productions at The Strand, Shane has also regularly created original content for City Springs Theatre Company, Wilson Pickett Legacy, Bravo Dance Center, Davis Direction Foundation, Entertainment Design Group, The Entertainment Department and Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Shane is Senior Producer and Manager of Special Events at Stone Mountain Park. He has been recognized internationally for his award-winning productions, being a ten-time Best Overall Production nominee by the International Association of Amusement Parks & Attractions (IAAPA) and a two-time recipient of the coveted award.

ZAC PHELPS, Choreographer

Zac is an award-winning choreographer, director, and actor. He previously served as founding Artistic Director for Marietta Theatre Company for three years. Zac has performed in, directed and choreographed many productions at The Strand including: 1940’s Radio Hour, Whose Wives Are They Anyway, Jukebox Giants: Motown & More!, A Christmas Tradition, AbbaBeegees Musical Review, Little Shop of Horrors, Forever Plaid, and Footloose. Zac has also been recognized for his direction and choreography work for high schools that have been nominated for Shuler Hensley Awards.

Regional performing credits include: Fiddler on the Roof (City Springs Theatre Company) Bullets Over Broadway (Georgia Ensemble Theatre); Les Misérables (Alliance Theatre); Big River (Atlanta Lyric Theatre); Silence! The Musical (Onstage Atlanta); Great American Trailer Park Musical (Marietta Theatre Company).

JULIAN MARTIN, Set Design/Technical Director

Julian is on the staff at The Strand Theatre in a full-time capacity serving as Technical Director. He has over 15 years experience with technical production in audio, film, tv, live concerts and events. His recent favorite projects include, Saw X, Dr. Frights Dead Man’s Party. Julian would like to thank The Strand Theater for the opportunity and the cast and crew for putting this amazing show together!

AMANDA EDGERTON WEST, Costume Design

Amanda Edgerton West is an Atlanta based costume designer whose work has been seen on stage at City Springs Theatre (Jersey Boys, Legally Blonde, Holiday Inn), the Atlanta Lyric Theatre, the Aurora Theatre, Horizons Theatre, and Gordon State College where she is also a resident designer. Amanda also works as a stitcher in film and is a proud member of IATSE 479. She holds a MFA in costume design from the University of Georgia and a BA in theatre from the George Washington University.

ALYCIA BERRY, Wig Design

Alycia is a color specialist and wig designer from St. Louis. She has supervised shows and designed at regional theatres such as The Muny, Theatre Under the Stars, and City Springs Theatre Company. She is so excited to be a part of the team bringing you Grease! @earlymay13th

ADAM CORN, Sound Design

Adam Corn is an Atlantic Records recording artist and music producer who has provided music and editing for TV shows and movies like The Shield and The Murder Podcast, as well as commercial clients like the University of Texas Austin, Delta, and Shell Oil.

JUDE SCHIFFER, Lighting Design/Lighting Operator

Jude has worked with the Tech Department at The Strand since November 2024. They are an honors graduate of Pebblebrook High School and the Cobb County Center for Excellence in the Performing Arts magnet program. They received their training with CCCEPA as a Tech Theatre Major and Drama Minor, specializing as a stage manager and lighting designer. They have received honors such as the Technical Theatre Leadership Award and the Celebrated Technical Theatre Achievement Award for their work with CCCEPA. Theatre performance credits include: A Chorus Line (CCCEPA – Stage Manager), Once on this Island (CCCEPA – Master Electrician and ALD), Clybourne Park (CCCEPA – Lighting Designer). Though a recent addition to The Strand team, Jude is very appreciative for the opportunities it has given them.

MONTANA LUDLOW, Stage Manager

Montana Ludlow is excited to be working with The Strand for the first time! She has previously worked with Marietta Theatre Company, Georgia Ensemble Theatre, and Frat Pack Productions. Montana studied directing and acting in her home state of Arizona before moving to Atlanta, and is grateful for the opportunity to grow more as a stage manager with this production. Thank you to Zac and Shane for the opportunity, to Kim and Kayla for answering their phones after late night rehearsals, and to McDonald’s for staying late and having the most happening Sprite available at all hours.

CAMILLA SANDERS, Production Manager

Camilla has worked at The Strand Theatre for the past eight years and is now serving as the Production Director. She is a professional pianist and vocalist and has spent 30 years performing in the US. Her favorite recent performance was singing on top of the Colony Square helipad for the “Jazz In The Sky” series at the Atlanta Jazz Festival. Camilla would like to thank her family and friends for all the love, laughter and that rockin’ rooftop party just before tech week. And a very special thank you to Andy Gaines and the Strand staff for making work feel like home away from home. @camillasandersmusic

JOHNNY GRAVLEY, Set Artist/Master Carpenter

Johnny has been involved with The Strand for 11 years. In addition to his incredible visual art skills, Johnny loves listening to sci-fi podcasts while he paints, playing piano in the lounge and singing with the GSO chorus. 

CHRIS GRAHAM, Sound Techncian

Chris has worked as a AVL Tech for over seven years doing live shows, events, concerts, and theater. Chris has previously worked on Movies Under The Stars, Caffeine and Octane, Dr. Frights Dead Man’s Party, Holiday In The Park Sixflags. Chris would like to thank the staff at The Strand for the opportunity to work alongside them in such an awesome show.

JACKSON HAINER, Lighting Operator

Jackson Hainer is an aspiring lighting designer and theatre technician. He is a recent high school graduate and will be pursuing theatre design and technology with a focus in lighting design at Ball State University in the fall. Recent works include Landslide, Smoke on the Mountain, and Brew with a Bard.

RANDALL RYE, Production Assistant

Randall is a new addition to The Strand’s tech department. He is an honors graduate of Kennesaw Mountain High School. His theater experience includes: Frozen Jr, Spamalot, Lion King Jr, Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid Jr, and Sweeney Todd (Kennesaw Mountain High school). Randall would like to thank his parents, Zoe, and his grandma for supporting him throughout the years.

JONAH SANDERS, Production Assistant

Jonah has worked with the Tech Department at The Strand for the past two years and has performed with the Strand Ole Opry since 2021. He is an Honors Graduate of Kennesaw Mountain High School (as of Tuesday, May 20th!) and the Percussion Captain of The Kennesaw Mountain High School Band. He is a member of the 2025 GMEA All-State Symphonic Band and the 2025 GMEA All-State Percussion Ensemble. Theatre performance credits include: Sweeney Todd (Kennesaw Mountain HS – Pit Percussionist), Rock of Ages (Strand Theatre-Stagehand), and Beauty & The Beast (Kennesaw Mountain HS – Pit Percussionist). Jonah would like to thank his family and Ben Perkins for teaching him his foundation.

LILLY STANCIL-RIVERA, Production Assistant

Lilly Stancil-Rivera is an upcoming Senior at Kennesaw Mountain High School and is a part of the marching band, band leadership team, symphonic band, percussion ensemble, and theater department. At The Strand, she has worked backstage on Rock of Ages, Sanders Family Christmas, and A Christmas Tradition. She is a performer in Strand Ole Opry and recently placed 1st in Cobb Idol Jr. Lilly would like to thank her mom for supporting her and driving her everywhere.

JIM JACOBS, Book, Music, and Lyrics

Jacobs, who created Grease (in 1970) with Warren Casey, was born and raised on the mean streets of Chicago’s far northwest side. During the golden era of rock ‘n’ roll (1956-1960) he was a guitar-playing “greaser” student at Taft High School. In 1963, Jacobs met Warren Casey when they were both cast in a local theatre production of A Shot in the Dark. Seven years later they wrote what was to become one of the greatest musicals of all time. Grease opened in 1971 in a former trolley barn called the Kingston Mines Theatre in Chicago. A year later, Grease made it to Broadway and “Greasemania” took off, resulting in one of the longest running shows in Broadway history. The 1978 movie became and remains the highest grossing movie musical of all time.

Originally an actor, Jacobs has been seen on television, in motion pictures, regional theatre, national tours, and on Broadway. He is the co-author of several other plays and musicals including Island of Lost Coeds, a musical spoof of the low budget sci-fi/horror/jungle movies of the 1950s, which he wrote with Warren Casey. In May 2014, Mr. Jacobs was presented with an honorary doctorate degree
from Columbia College in Chicago. He currently resides in Southern California and remains active in the theatre, especially with the American Theatre Company of Chicago.

WARREN CASEY, Author, Composer, and Lyricist

Warren Casey was born in Yonkers, New York, and attended Syracuse University. During the late ‘50s, he learned all about “greasers” while working as an art teacher in upstate New York. He moved to Chicago in 1962, where he hoped to pursue an acting career. He appeared in dozens of productions, including creating the role of Bernie Litko in David Mamet’s Sexual Perversity in Chicago. He supported himself with jobs in retail, including working as an assistant manager of a chain of apparel
stores, and as a record salesman. In the meantime, he taught himself how to play the guitar and began writing songs. Mr. Casey acted with the Chicago Stage Guild (where he met Jim Jacobs), the Old Town Players, and the Kingston Mines Theatre. The latter company staged the original production of GREASE which he wrote with Jim Jacobs. After the incredible success of both the musical and the
movie, the two collaborated on Island of Lost Coeds, a musical satire of the B-movies of the 1950s. Mr. Casey died in 1988.

BAND

KEVIN SANDERS, Music Director, Pianist

Kevin Sanders is a pianist, composer, and music director based in Metro Atlanta who has been playing professionally since the age of 18. His playing career has taken him all over the US and he has spent the past six years serving as Music Director for several projects at The Strand Theatre: A Christmas Tradition, Jukebox Giants: Motown & More, Rock of Ages, 1940’s Radio Hour and Strand Ole Opry. Kevin has toured with Georgia Players Guild’s Queen, Led Zeppelin and Eagles tribute shows since 2017. With a background that encompasses jazz, rock, and country music styles, Kevin continues to maintain a continuous schedule of performances in concerts, theater productions, and corporate events.

DAN BARASZU, Guitar

Detroit born guitarist/composer Dan Baraszu started playing guitar at the age of nine. His major influences include Jazz guitarists Wes Montgomery, Joe Pass , Pat Martino, Pat Metheny and John Scofield as well as other instrumentalists like Bill Evans, Horace Silver, John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, and Charlie Parker. Dan received his Bachelors degree from the renowned Berklee College of Music, where he majored in Jazz Composition and Arranging, and also received his Masters degree from the University of Miami with a major in Jazz Pedagogy. He currently resides in the Atlanta area where he teaches Jazz Guitar at Emory University, works as a freelance guitarist and leads his own groups as well. Dan Baraszu has released five albums with Blue Canoe Records. The latest 2024 release entitled, “Lone Guitar” is a twenty-song solo guitar album featuring multi-genre interpretations of the American SongBook from jazz, latin, pop and rock.

RAPHAEL DE JESUS, Tenor Sax

Raphael is a Musician/Educator who has called Georgia home since 2005. Having fallen in love with music at an early age, he would study Jazz Performance at KSU and soon would join the Atlanta music scene. Well versed among a multitude of genres and instruments he loves to share his talent in as many ways as possible, whether that be in performance or education. When not doing anything musically related he can often be found enjoying time with his dog “Duck”.

NICK EDELSTEIN, Guitar

Nick Edelstein has performed as music director, pianist and/or guitarist both nationally (Opera Carolina tours) and locally (Actor’s Express, Aurora, Kenny Leon’s True Colors, Horizon, Limelight, Lyric, KSU). He is blessed to have played on many notable productions, including The Color Purple at Actor’s Express (2018 Suzi Bass “Outstanding Musical, Music Direction”); and the Jennie T. Anderson’s Next To Normal (2022 Suzi Bass “Music Direction”). Beyond theatre, Nick has played thousands of concerts on guitars, keys, and horns including asMD-arranger-trombonist of Atlanta Brass Cats (“Best Rock Band” and “Best Dance Band” – Creative Loafing).

His stage career includes symphony orchestras, casinos, universities and international festivals, at venues such as Atlanta’s Fox Theater and Chastain Amphitheater. In the studio, Nick has produced seven albums and appeared on dozens more alongside GRAMMY-winning and signed artists, and his songs have been featured on TV and radio. He has arranged for many of the Southeast’s top bands and scored scenes for film such as Show Me What You Got, which premiered and won “Best Film” at Italy’s Taormina Festival.

His engineering credits include the Music Junkies podcast produced by Shawn Williams at WNNX 99.1 FM (99X/Q100). Nick studied guitar, piano, and trombone at the University of Georgia. He is a BMI Songwriter and a voting member of The Recording Academy. Fun fact: he appears in the Warner Bros. film We Are Marshall.

NICH GANNON, Drums

Growing up in Blue Ridge, Georgia, Nich was first introduced to the drum set in 5th grade. His first kit was an old drum set his father found on the back porch of an abandoned house.

After high school Nich went on to study percussion at Young Harris College, where he graduated. After receiving his Bachelor’s in Music, Nich attended Georgia State University where he received his Master’s in Jazz Studies. While at GSU, Nich had the opportunity to attend masterclasses and perform alongside many nationally renowned artists including Grammy Award Winning Trumpeter Randy Brecker (Brecker Brothers), Curtis Lundy (Betty Carter), Ignacio Berroa, Rene Marie, and many others.

As a performer, Nich has played alongside and recorded with local artists such as Hughes Taylor, Jordan Maye, The Ides of June, Rob Leines, Barry Richman, and many others.

NATHAN MONTALVO, Guitar

A professional musician for over 15 years now, Nathan Montalvo has toured with Yngwie Malmsteen, Jake E Lee, Joe Lynn Turner, Michael Schenker, Uli Jon Roth, Ross the Boss and many more. As well as an accomplished solo artist Nathan is also a member of the speed metal band Atrophy, and continues to write and tour.

MICHAEL OPITZ, Tenor Saxophone

Atlanta-based saxophonist Michael Opitz is a versatile musician equally at home in a big band, chamber ensemble, orchestral pit, or rock band. Thus far, Michael has appeared with a variety of artists including Tim Armacost, Todd Williams, Geof Bradfield, Carl Allen, Wycliffe Gordon, and Chantae Cann. As a sideman, Michael has appeared frequently in the Joe Gransden Big Band, the Atlanta Latin Jazz Orchestra, and the Georgia Symphony Orchestra Jazz Ensemble. During his time studying at Kennesaw State University, Michael was able to travel to Italy, as well as perform at a wide variety of jazz clubs including Café 290, Churchill Grounds, the Velvet Note, and the Blue Note in New York.

As an educator, Michael has taught clinics at numerous high schools and middle schools in Atlanta, as well as serving on faculty at the Atlanta International School and Reinhardt University as a woodwind instructor. Michael received his Master’s in Jazz Performance from Northern Illinois University in 2021 and currently teaches privately while performing around the metro-Atlanta area.

DANNY PASCHALL, Drums

Danny Paschall is a professional drummer/percussionist of 25+ years. Originally hailing from Exmore, VA (though since his folks are from Pennsylvania originally, he considers himself “a frustrated Philly boy born in VA”) he grew up in a musical family and gravitated toward playing drums.

After graduating high school and going through the “young musician rigmarole” (school band, marching band, bands of the garage variety) Danny moved to Atlanta to study at the Atlanta Institute of Music, and since then has made Atlanta his musical home for the last 18 years or so. His broad musical palette has allowed him to play/record/tour with the likes of (but not limited to): Col. Bruce Hampton, Brent Hinds (Mastodon), Ike Willis & Denny Walley (Frank Zappa), Tony McAlpine, Emil Werstler (Tony McAlpine, Verlorener, Chimaira, Daath), Kevin Scott (Jimmy Herring, John McLaughlin, Wednesday Night Titans), Twin Criminal, Georgia Players Guild, and many other talented folks in GA and elsewhere.

Among the gigs he has done, Danny has also participated in playing many theatrical productions, including a 7-year stint as a performer at the Georgia Renaissance Festival. Danny has also been an active teacher since he first moved to Atlanta, teaching a huge wealth of students of all ages and levels.

BILL PRITCHARD, Bass

Bill has been an active freelance musician since he moved to Atlanta in 2001. He holds degrees in Music Management and Classical Performance in tuba and recently finished a jazz performance bass degree from Kennesaw State University. He plays bass for the live band, heavy metal karaoke, Metalsome. He also plays a number of shows at the Strand Theatre, plays with the jazz group The Troy Brown Collective and the Julian Laury Trio and plays bass with the prog metal band Sight of Theia.

CHRIS RIGGENBACH, Bass

Chris Riggenbach has played bass with Josh Groban, Chloe Agnew, Joe Gransden, Gary Motley, Wycliffe Gordon, Victor Goines, Ted Howe, Audrey Shakir, Karla Harris, Gavin Ahearn Trio, Jerry Fields, Vecinos del Mundo, Keith David, Sarah Partridge, Marcus Lewis, Josh Lawrence, Raphael Imbert, Matt Catingub, Macon Pops, Jens Lindemann, Atlanta Pops Orchestra, Atlanta Opera, Atlanta Wind Symphony, Jazz Legacy Big Band, 4 th Ward Afro Klezmer Orchestra, and Gold Sparkle Band among many others.

Other performance credits include the musicals Wicked, Cats, Anything Goes, Camelot, Beehive, The Sound of Music, Catch Me If You Can, Dreamgirls, Bonnie & Clyde, and Thoroughly Modern Millie. In 2010, Chris performed in Poland with the Josh Lawrence Jazz 3 at The Sopot Molo Jazz Festival and the jazz club Piwnica pod Baranami in Kraków. In 2024, Chris performed with his jazz trio at the Saraswati Jazz Fest in Poland. Chris holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music from Georgia State University and teaches bass at Emory University and Oglethorpe University.

ROBERT HENSON, Bass (May 24)

Robert Henson is a bassist from Atlanta and graduate of the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University. He has performed with a wide diversity of musical ensembles including the Atlanta Opera Orchestra, Yacht Rock Revue, the Who, Vince Gill as well as touring the US with Corey Smith from 2006-2012. He currently leads a popular local music trio called Lilac Wine.


STRAND STAFF & BOARD

STAFF

Andy Gaines
Executive Director

Manda Costoulas
Operations Director

Chris DeLeo
Facilities and Events Director

Camilla Sanders
Production Director

Taylor Rambo
Development Director

Julian Martin
Technical Director

Jackie Garvin
Box Office Manager

Madison Willits
House Manager

Debbie Hall
Accountant

Chris Graham
Theatre Technician

Adam Corn
Theatre Technician

Savannah Patton
Education Program Manager

BOARD

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Holly Tuchman, Chair
Terri Guthrie, Vice Chair
Ron King, Treasurer, Finance Chair
Tracy Styf, Secretary

Cassandra Buckalew, Facilities Chair
Kim Gresh, Past Chair, Nominating Chair, Development Chair
Mazi Mazloom, Governance Chair
Dana Johnson, Governance Chair
Stan Wise, Development Chair
The Honorable Latonia Hines, Liaison to Advisory Board

Linda Beggs
Wendy Bunch
Lindsey Burruss
Lisa Crossman
Jay Cunningham
Karen Hallacy
Arnold Huffman
Stephen Imler
Don Keller
Karen Lockhart
The Honorable Sam Olens
David Persson

ADVISORY BOARD
John Alday
The Honorable Roy Barnes
Michael Bohling
Deanne Bonner
Bill Bruton, Jr.
Katy Ruth Camp
Luci Hogue
Michele Howard
Sam Kelly
Sheree Knowles
John Loud
Jackie McMorris
JK Murphy
The Honorable Bert Reeves
The Honorable D. Victor Reynolds
The Honorable Devan Seabaugh
Alice Summerour

TRUSTEES EMERITUS
Debbie Abernathy
Ron Carter
The Honorable William Dunaway
Carol Ann King Massih
Ralph Knight
Becky Paden
Earl Smith*

STRAND SPONSORS

PRESENTING SPONSORS
Sa White Logo Color
marietta city logo
PLATINUM SPONSORS
dmda
MP Logo
GOLD SPONSORS
Cobb EMC Foundation-Logo
ESM Logo_ph_web_2c (1)
K Mike
SILVER SPONSORS

BRIAN WEAVER PHOTOGRAPHY
COBB TRAVEL & TOURISM
HLB GROSS COLLINS
LGE COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION
MARIETTA POWER & WATER
NETEVATE
THE STYF FAMILY
WALTON COMMUNITIES

BRONZE SPONSORS

ACCESS COBB, A CRAFT BANK
ED VOYLES AUTOMOTIVE GROUP
RABBI STEVEN LEBOW AND MADELINE SABLE
MANNING PROPERTIES
YEOMANS, YOURRETIREMENTCOACH.COM

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

THE 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-artists

“Grease” is presented by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc., a Concord Theatricals Company. www.concordtheatricals.com

Earl & Rachel Smith Strand Theatre

117 North Park Square
Marietta, GA 30060

Box Office Hours

Tue – Thur, 12 pm – 4 pm
Fridays 12pm – 6pm
Two hours before showtime

It is The Strand’s mission to enrich and engage our regional community through diverse entertainment and memorable experiences for all.

The historic Strand Theatre lights up the downtown Marietta square with live theatre, films, concerts, comedy, private events, and more. The Strand is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

© 2025 Friends of the Strand, Inc. All rights reserved

EIN 20-0210688

It is The Strand’s mission to enrich and engage our regional community through diverse entertainment and memorable experiences for all.

The historic Strand Theatre lights up the downtown Marietta square with live theatre, films, concerts, comedy, private events, and more. The Strand is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Box Office Hours:

Tue – Thur, 12 pm – 4 pm
Fridays 12pm – 6pm
Two hours before showtime

Earl & Rachel Smith Strand Theatre

117 North Park Square
Marietta, GA 30060

© 2025 Friends of the Strand, Inc. All rights reserved

EIN 20-0210688