Directors

Actors

Bios

Grace Albert (Eleanor, Jeanne, Fairtone) is thrilled to make her Rose Valley Chorus debut! She doesn't mind driving around for community theatre and visiting the gas pump; her most recent roles were Nicola in Kinky Boots at Viviana Theatre Group and Claire in The Drag at ActorsNet Of Bucks County. She hopes you enjoy this spectacular Rogers and Hammerstein classic! Back to top

Todd Andrews (Roustabout, Ensemble) is excited to feel the thrill of being a member of the cast for the first time since high school. More recently, he helped out with the RVCO productions of Cinderella and The Pirates of Penzance last year. In his free time, he enjoys playing classical piano and reminding everybody that Les Miserables is the best musical ever. Back to top

Sophie Bloom (Margy Frake) is excited to be debuting at RVCO. She is a freshman at Montgomery County Community College, and has recently appeared in Into The Woods (Bakers Wife), Titanic (Bellboy/Others), and PUFFS (Wayne Hopkins). She would like to thank her family and friends for their continued support. Back to top

Don Cheetham (Dave Miller, Shooting Gallery Barker, Ensemble) is enjoying working with this cast and set of Directors. Previous RVC&O shows include the Steward in Cinderella, a Dragoon in Patience, Andrew McLaren in Brigadoon, and chorus in several other musicals. Other favorite roles include two in Our Town – Editor Webb (Barley Sheaf Players) and Simon Stimson (St. Peter's Players), as well as Paul Sycamore in You Can't Take It With You (Barley Sheaf Players.) Back to top

Lisa Cleek (Judege, Ensemble; Properties Chair) is excited and humbly proud to be part of this year's production of State Fair. She is glad the show was resusitated after being cancelled int 2020. She has fond memories of other recnt Rose Valley productions, such as Cinderella, Hight Society, Patience and The Pirates of Penzance. “Please sit back and enjoy ‘the Best State Fair in our state’!” Back to top

Vinnie Emilianowicz (Lem, Chief of Police) is very happy to be involved in his first show with RVCO. He has recently been seen locally in Hamlet (Rosencrantz), The Addams Family (Gomez) and Dial "M" For Murder (Lesgate/Swann). He considers his moments on stage an opportunity to invest time in his art after deciding to pursue musical theater and drama in his adult life. He is supported with deep love by his family and his husband of 5 years – Mark. He always enjoys facing the challenge that each new role presents and wants to thank his family for all their loving support and for believing in him no matter what. Back to top

Michael Dutka (The Astounding, Clay, Fairtone) is delighted to return to the Rose Valley Chorus and Orchestra. Previous RVCO roles include Dick Deadeye in H.M.S Pinafore, The Sergeant of Police in The Pirates of Penzance, Roderick in Ruddigore, and the title role in The Mikado. Michael would like to thank all the many people, on and off-stage, who worked so hard to make this production possible. Back to top

Lisa Franks (Melissa Frake; Board Member) needs all her acting ability to play this role because in real life she loves to cook and unlike Melissa, is quite likely to add a splash of wine or spirits to her sauces. Lisa previously appeared with RVCO as Godmother in Cinderella and Mrs. Fezziwig in A Christmas Carol - The Musical. She understudied Charlotte Hay (Moon Over Buffalo, Walnut St. Theatre). Other community theater roles include Fiona (Brigadoon), Liza Doolittle (My Fair Lady), Sally Smith (Me and My Girl), Sarah Brown (Guys & Dolls), Marion Paroo (The Music Man), Laurey (Oklahoma!), Agnes Cohan (George M!), and Reno Sweeney (Anything Goes). When not on stage, Lisa can be found teaching French at Villanova University. Back to top

Jocelyn Hall (Judege, Ensemble) is excited to perform in her second show with RVCO. Previously she was on stage as a townsperson for Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella. She also performed in two shows with Spotlight Theatre: Come Together: Music From the Beatles and Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr. Jocelyn's love of music has led her to be in the chorus at school and she will sing in ChorusFest 2025. She enjoys playing the flute and piano. Jocelyn also enjoys other activities such as travel soccer, tennis, and dance. Back to top

Jennifer Heller (Balloon Vendor, Assistant Judge, Fairtone, Ensemble) is thrilled to be on stage with her beloved RVCO family. Ms. Heller has been performing with various musical theatre communities for the last 2 decades. She shared, “I hold a special place in my heart for Gilbert and Sullivan but selections from Golden Age of Broadway are a real treat!” Regarding this production, Ms. Heller shared, “It's hard work but truly a joy with such talented directors, cast, and crew. More people should try community theatre, there's something for everyone both onstage and behind the scenes.” Back to top

Ellen Kecskemethy Tillman (Costumes Chair) is a lifelong lover of musical theater who has lived in Delco for most of her life. She learned to sew at a young age (thanks, Mama!), and has a personal passion for the history of fashion, so she has had a blast with her first ever costuming experience: RVCO's State Fair! In the past, Ellen has also performed in theatre productions in grade school, in college with the Franklin & Marshall Players, and with the Player's Club of Swarthmore, mainly as a bassist in the pit. Many thanks to RVCO for being so welcoming, and to my family for supporting me through this new endeavor! Back to top

Ellie Knickman (Vivian, Fairtones, Ensemble) is glad to be back for her second trip to theatrical Iowa with RVCO, the first as Mrs. Paroo in The Music Man. She's theatrically been to Lebanon, MO (Sally in Fifth Of July, Spotlight), Deadrock, NV (Lottie in Crazy For You, Narberth), Paris (the Dame in Panto Of The Opera, Ardensingers), India (Akela in Jungle Book, PCS), Neverland (Grempkin/Fighting Prawn in Peter And The Starcatcher, Methacton), and even Philly (Sr. Mary Martin in Sister Act, Narberth). Ellie travels all over Delco and Chesco as a reference librarian at DCCC. Back to top

Sharon Kotzen (Mrs. Edwin Metcalf, Fairtone, Ensemble) enjoyed playing the role of the Stepmother in last year's Rose Valley Chorus production of Cinderella. She is delighted to return this year to be amongst the talented performers and musicians led by the inspiring and creative directors Kathy, Bob, Florrie, and Ken. She has also had the good fortune to play many wonderful and diverse leading roles with the Ohev Shalom Players in Wallingford. These include: Adelaide in Guys and Dolls, the Witch in Into the Woods, Mama Rose in Gypsy, Rose in Bye Bye Birdie, Ella Peterson in Bells are Ringing, Amy in Company, Golde in Fiddler on the Roof, Older Belle in Little Me, Nicki in Sweet Charity, Berthe in Pippin, Charity Barnum in Barnum, and Mrs. Paroo in The Music Man. As a retired teacher and guidance counselor at Ridley High School, Sharon has more time to travel with her husband Stanley and keep busy with her children and grandchildren as they participate in all of their activities. BUT she always makes time to do what she loves to do… act, sing and dance on stage. Back to top

Marie Maguire (Mrs. Metcalf's friend, Ensemble) is happy to be in her third production with RVCO. She loves performing with this wonderfully talented cast and production company. Her first production with RVCO was the Gilbert and Sullivan (G&S) operetta, Patience in the fall of 2023. Cinderella (Spring of 2024 with RVCO) was her first musical other than G&S operettas. Marie has performed in all thirteen of the G&S shows, as of the spring of 2024 where she performed in Grand Duke with Savoy Company of Phila. She has sung and danced in 35 G&S productions with Savoy Co.; the G&S Society of Chester County, from West Chester, PA; and Thespis Co. out of Media, Pa including a speaking part in Princess Ida. Marie started out as student of dance, then studied acting at many acting schools including the Phila Repertoire Co, Peoples Light Theatre, etc. She has been a student of voice with a local professional singer since 2007. She is an entrepreneur, author, and business consultant. Marie is thankful to her husband, family, and friends for their support of her stage performance endeavors. Back to top

Florrie Marks (Music Director) is a past recipient of the Best Musical Director award at the International Gilbert and Sullivan Festival. She has music directed the entire G&S canon, primarily with the G&S Society of Chester County. Other directing credits include Allenberry Playhouse, Penn Singers, Ardensingers, Ridgewood (NJ) Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Company, Ridgewood High School Alumni Band, and Glen Rock (NJ) Pops Orchestra. For several years, she was also the Music Director of the fall and spring musicals at Archbishop Wood High School. In addition to her conducting activities, she is Director of Music Ministries at Temple Lutheran Church in Havertown. Before picking up the baton on a regular basis, Florrie was a professional violinist, with credits ranging from symphony orchestras to a bluegrass band. She has music directed several of our productions since 2017, most recently last year's Cinderella and The Pirates or Penzance, and she is delighted to return this spring to direct this classic of American musical theater. Back to top

Paula McGeary (Roustabout, Ensemble) is performing in her second show with RVCO. She was previously a townsperson in Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella. She is thrilled to be diving back into the world of theatre after many years. She was active in community theatre in her high school and college years and is excited to perform again. Back to top

Jason Messinger (Charlie) is excited to make his debut on RVCO's stage with this amazing production! He is an elementary music teacher who loves teaching and performing. He can typically be found performing on the Griffin Theatre's stage, occasionally directing and music directing there as well, or performing at Wilmington Drama League. Jason would like to thank Mike for posting about this opportunity, the State Fair production staff for trusting him to jump in and join this talented cast, and his amazing fellow cast members for everything! He would also like to thank his friends and family for all of their continued support. He hopes that you can sit back, relax, and enjoy our State Fair. Back to top

Bill Michael (Harry, Uncle Sam, Fairtone; Producer; Webmaster) is thrilled to be able to finally perform Harry for an audience. He was the Solicitor in Patience, George Kitteridge in High Society, Ito in Mame twice, and many minor roles and ensemble over the years. He has performed just as many roles behind the scenes. Producer again for State Fair, he has been a stage manager, set designer, house manager, as well as others roles including RVCO's webmaster since 2006. “I do it for the love of the people of RVCO and the magic of the theatre and am glad to share the insanity of the doing theater with my wife, Kathy.” Back to top

Kathy Michael (Co-Director, RVCO Board Secretary) is a long time member of RVCO and has been involved in many aspects of productions. She has been a lighting designer, stage manager, house manager, and most recently director. She is also currently the secretary of the RVCO Board. After directing last Spring's production of Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella, she has once again taken on the role of Director for Rodgers & Hammerstein's State Fair. Away from the theater, Kathy is involved in her local library and enjoys traveling with her husband of 30 years. Special thanks to Bill for putting up with her ever changing mind and control issues, and thanks to this cast and crew for being so terrific! Enjoy this wonderful production of State Fair! Back to top

Robert Moore (Co-Director, Show Selection Chair, Make-Up Design) is a proud Life Member of RVCO since 1974 and has previously served on the Executive Board. This is his fifth production of State Fair as both director and performer. His first time was in a dinner theatre production under the direction by an original Broadway cast member of this delightful show! Bob holds an MA in Theatre from Villanova University and has a long list of credits in professional theatre, film, and touring companies. He has directed many shows for RVCO and other theatres and has also created numerous principal roles here over the years. He performs with The Brandywiners LTD at Longwood Gardens and was in their beautiful production of Seussical The Musical last Summer. He currently serves on the artistic staff of the Next Generation Youth Theatre in Swarthmore and dedicates this show to his parents and friends Bonnie and Roger. He hopes you all enjoy State Fair! Back to top

Cara Nardone (Emily Arden) is so blessed to be reviving this musical with Rose Valley. Past shows include Into the Woods (Cinderella's Stepmother), The Sound of Music (Sister Margaretta), How to Succeed Without Really Trying (Ms. Jones), Mary Poppins (Mrs. Banks), and Barnum (Charity). Offstage, she entertains senior citizens full time at Wellington at Hershey's Mill as Assistant Activity Director through visual and performing arts. Endless love and thanks to all of RVCO for "gettin the band back together" and bringing this show back to life from 2020! http://caramianardone.wixsite.com/mysite Back to top

Steve Naz (Gus, Pickle Judgel, Endsemble; RVCO Board Member) returns for his sixth consecutive show with RVCO. He says, “I want to put in a good word for RVCO and community theater, in general. More people should try it! If you've ever enjoyed play-acting as a child, this is the ultimate experience for having fun and making new friends.” Steve has played in numerous bands and ensembles from elementary school to Temple University's marching and concert bands, and he has been an orchestra member in several musical shows, including Brigadoon, Wildcat, and Call Me Madam. Off-stage, Steve is a retired I.T. professional and technologist. Back to top

Chris Rubino (Wayne Frake; Set Designer, RVCO President) has been performing with RVCO since 2011. Notable roles include Freddy in My Fair Lady, Nanki-Poo in The Mikado, Ralph in H.M.S. Pinafore, Dexter in High Society, and the Prince in Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella. Chris has also designed sets for RVCO, beginning with The Sorcerer (2018), A Christmas Carol - the Musical (2019), H.M.S. Pinafore (2022), High Society (2023), Patience (2023) and The Pirates of Penzance (2024). “Much love to my wife Meagan and our two sons Marc and Brian, all of whom have inspired me to grow in my stagecraft.” Back to top

Joyce Severin (Emcee, Siamese Twin, Ensemble) is very excited to join in Rose Valley's production of State Fair. This will be her first time down the midway of the Iowa State Fair, the “best state fair in the state!” Joyce last appeared with Rose Valley in The Pirates of Penzance. When not performing with RVCO, Joyce is an active member of the Havertown Choristers, St. Andrew's Chorus, and the William Penn Community Chorus. Joyce would like to thank her family for all their love and continued support! Sit back and enjoy, it is truly “A grand night for singing!” Back to top

Michael Stadnicki (Hank Munson, Hoopla Barker, Ensemble) is no stranger to RVCO. Having appeared with them since My Fair Lady in 2012, he has taken on ensemble, supporting, principal, and music director roles. Outside of theater, Michael is an an elementary music teacher, marching band assistant, hornist, and private brass instrumental coach. Many thanks to the staff of State Fair for bringing it back to life. Much love to the best dogs, Pac-Man and Pumpkin! Back to top

Jeff Swafford (Abel Frake; Board Member) enjoys spending time with his RVCO family. Recent RVCO roles include The Pirates of Penzance (Samuel), Cinderella (King Maximillian), Patience (The Duke of Dunstable), High Society (Mike Connor), H.M.S. Pinafore (Dick Deadeye), A Christmas Carol - The Musical (Bob Cratchit), Naughty Marietta, Revised 2018 and The Mikado (Ensemble), and with other local theaters, South Pacific (Stewpot), Seussical the Musical (Horton), and The Wizard of OZ (Uncle Henry). Jeff enjoys camping, the shore, Italian food, red wine, and hopes to revive his love for the piano and photography. Back to top

Fiona Tillman (Violet, Ensemble) is thrilled to be back for her 3rd show with RVCO. She was with RVCO for Cinderella in the Spring of 2024, and The Pirates of Penzance in the Fall of 2024. She plans to continue her theater career for many years to come and hopes one day to perform on Broadway! She loves her RVCO family and is supported by her two enthusiastic siblings at home. She also has a love for both sports and music, and participates in softball and cross country as well as both chorus and band at her school. Back to top

Tim Tillman (Pat Gilbert) is excited to join RVCO for the third time in State Fair. Tim joined RVCO in Cinderella last Spring, and in The Pirates of Penzance in the fall. This will be his first lead role and, while a bit nervous, is incredibly excited to have this opportunity. He wants to thank his family for the support in his newly found passion for the stage. When not in rehearsal (or at work), Tim can be found playing games and sports with his family, or running around somewhere on the roads and trails of Delaware county.. Back to top

Heather Williams (Concession Stand Barker, Judge Hippenstahl, ensemble) found RVCO through a recommendation by a friend. This is her third production with RVCO. Previously, she has stage managed at the Players Club of Swarthmore, performed at Wilmington Drama League, and she has performed in several concerts with the West Chester Area Community Chorus. She is happy to join such an energetic cast and is looking forward to participating in many more productions. When not on stage Heather can be seen managing a busy local driving school and herding her brood of 5 kids to where they need to be. Heather is grateful to her very patient husband for his support. Back to top