Footloose Bios

NICHOLAS FERREIRA (Ren McCormack) is thrilled to be participating in his first THS musical. Nicholas has been seen in multiple shows throughout Fairfield county. He gives credit to Curtain Call, Fairfield Center Stage, Broadway Method Academy, Downtown Cabaret Theater, and Trumbull Youth Association for allowing him to grow as a performer. Some favorite past roles; include INTO THE WOOD (Jack), WEST SIDE STORY (Baby John), and FULL MONTY(Nathan). Nicholas enjoys being a part of Tap and Modern Company at Rockwell Dance Center. He would like to thank Mrs. Spillane, Andrea, Jerold, and Mr. B for giving him the opportunity to play such an amazing role. Love to family near and far. Love to Nonna.

ISABELLA MERCADO (Ethel McCormack/Music Assistant), a junior, is thrilled to be performing in her third THS Musical! Past THS productions include WORKING TITLE, BYE BYE BIRDIE, WORKING THE MUSICAL, and TWELVE ANGRY JURORS. She has also performed in the ensembles of TYA’s THE MUSIC MAN JR, WEST SIDE STORY, and MAMMA MIA. Isabella would like to thank Mrs. Spillane, Mr. Bracksieck, Jerold, Andrea, and the cast and crew for making this year’s musical one to remember, and to all of Isabella’s family, friends, and mentors who have encouraged her to continue to pursue musical theatre.

NATHAN AYOTTE (Reverend Shaw Moore), a senior, is ecstatic to be in his fourth and final musical on the THS stage! Nathan has appeared in several THS productions (THE GOOD DOCTOR, WORKING TITLE, CHICAGO, BYE, BYE, BIRDIE, WORKING), and is thrilled to be playing Reverend Shaw Moore in this year’s musical! Nathan would like to thank Stagedoor Manor (MARY POPPINS, PIRATES OF PENZANCE, SHE KILLS MONSTERS, ALMOST, MAINE, THE DROWSY CHAPERONE), and Kevin Connors and Jim Schilling (MUSIC THEATER OF CONNECTICUT), Audra Bryant (BMA), and Jessica Schneiderman. Huge thanks to Mrs. Spillane, Mr. B, Jerold, and Andrea for their endless support and mentorship over the last four years. Nathan would like to thank his family for their unwavering love and support. He would also like to thank the entire cast and crew of FOOTLOOSE for making his last show such an incredible experience!

MIA BEKECH (Vi Moore) is delighted to be playing Vi in FOOTLOOSE, her fourth and final production with THS Musicals! Past credits include MAMMA MIA! (Donna Sheridan), WEST SIDE STORY (Somewhere Soloist), and SHREK: THE MUSICAL (Dragon Singer) with TYA, and 12 ANGRY JURORS (Juror 3), WORKING (Theresa Lui), BYE BYE BIRDIE (Gloria Rasputin), RADIUM GIRLS (Mrs. Roeder/ Wiley), SOAP OPERA (Washing Machine), and CHICAGO (Ensemble) with THeSpians. Mia would like to thank Mrs. Spillane, Jerold, Andrea, Mr. B, and the cast and crew for all the hard work they have put into this production, as well as her parents for their endless support. Break legs to the cast and crew!

NORA WATSON (Ariel Moore) a sophomore, is thrilled to be back onstage at THS after last performing as Juror #8 in the fall production of TWELVE ANGRY JURORS. Some of Nora’s favorite roles include Louisa in SOUND OF MUSIC, Little Girl in RAGTIME, Helen Keller in THE MIRACLE WORKER, Captain Hook in PETER PAN, and Miss Hannigan in ANNIE. She has also performed in the ensemble of WORKING, SOMETHING ROTTEN, MAMMA MIA, MATILDA, EVITA, and more! Thank you to Fairfield Center Stage and Curtain Call for providing so many opportunities. Thank you to Nikole and RDC. Thank you to Mom and Dad for the endless support, and a special thank you to Mrs. Spillane, Mr. B, Andrea, Jerold and the production team for this opportunity!

ELLA JANE COOK (Rusty) is absolutely over the moon, while a little sad, to be performing in her final THS musical! Past THS productions include WORKING (Charlie Blossom) and BYE BYE BIRDIE (Alice), as well as TYA productions where she was an ensemble member in SHREK: THE MUSICAL, WEST SIDE STORY, and MAMMA MIA. She would like to thank Mrs. Spillane, as well as Jerold, Andrea, and Mr. B for making this experience an unforgettable one! Ella would also like to give a huge shout out to her friends and family for supporting her undying love for the arts! Break a leg all, and enjoy the show!


OLIVIA MATE (Urleen), A junior at THS, is thrilled to be in this year's production of FOOTLOOSE! Some of Olivia’s theater credits include: PETER PAN (Wendy), WEST SIDE STORY (Ensemble), WIZARD OF OZ (Glinda), ANNIE (Molly), and THE MUSIC MAN (Marian). Olivia would like to thank Mrs. Spillane, Jerold, Mr. B, Andrea, and the whole cast and crew for all of their hard work and encouragement. Also a big thanks to her Mom, Dad, Grandma, sister Jackie, brother Chris, and Ben for all of their endless love and support.

TALIA COOK (Wendy Jo) is so excited to be a part of her second THS musical! She has had so much fun working with everyone to put on this amazing show. Talia was last seen in WORKING (Candy Cottingham) and MAMA MIA. She would like to thank Mrs. Spillane, Mr. Bracksiek, Jerold and Andrea for giving her this opportunity to play Wendy Jo and for working so hard to make this show possible. She would also like to thank the entire cast and crew for creating such a wonderful environment and great experience. Talia thanks her entire family for providing so much love and support. Break a leg everyone!

PAUL LITCHFIELD (Chuck) is a sophomore and excited to be part of his 3rd THS production. In ’21 he played Freddy Rodriguez in WORKING and Juror #10 in 12 ANGRY JURORS. Past memorable roles include Skipper in MADAGASCAR, Bert in MARY POPPINS, JR., Jack Kelly in NEWSIES and Seymour in LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS. Other interests include bass fishing, guitar and football. Special thanks to Mrs. Spillane, Mr. B, Jerold and Andrea for all of their support and dedication to our shows and to the rest of the cast of FOOTLOOSE for making it so fun to be part of.

TIMOTHY SPILLANE (Willard) is embiggened to be playing the cromulent role of Willard Hewitt. Favorite past roles include The Cat in the Hat in SEUSSICAL. Grasshopper in JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH. Juror #11 in 12 ANGRY JURORS. Tim is a 10th grader and along with the musical he is also involved in outdoor track and field, piano lessons, and enjoys video and photo editing. Tim would like to thank his family and his close friends who are all very supportive of his endeavors in the musical arts. He would also like to thank his acting mentor and long time best friend Frank Root. Finally he would like to thank Jerry Seinfeld for lending him his car.

LUKE HATZIS (Bickle) is a freshman at THS and is excited to be a part of his first musical at the high school. He is grateful for this experience and wishes the best for the cast and crew.

JACOB CHAFFEE (Garvin) is very excited to be a part of the cast for FOOTLOOSE for his first THS performance. Other credits include the Hillcrest Productions of PETER PAN JR. as a Lost Boy and FROZEN JR. in the ensemble, before it was canceled due to Covid. Jacob would like to thank Mrs. Spillane, Jerold, Andrea, and everyone else for giving him a chance and believing in him (and for putting up with his nonsense every now and then.) He would also like to thank Tim, Sam, and Luke for making the past few months incredibly enjoyable. Special thanks to his family and friends for being incredibly supportive and for pushing him to be the best person he can be.

SAM MILLER (Cowboy Bob, Jeter), a sophmore, is so excited to be performing in their second show at Trumbull High. He would like to thank Mrs. Spillane, Mr. B, Andrea, and Jerold for their support for the entire program (and especially how they’ve helped and pushed him to be better). Always, thank you to the cast and crew for being so lively, accepting, and dedicated. To their family- and friends who feel like family- without whom, they would not be able to perform. And finally to their mom, dad, and brother, Shane for their unending support.

GABBY PAVLOV (Lulu Warnicker), a junior, is thrilled to be playing Lulu Warnicker in this year's amazing show, FOOTLOOSE. This is her second show at THS after participating in WORKING as the Flight Attendant last year. She has also been a part of TYA’s WEST SIDE STORY and TYA Jr’s SOUND OF MUSIC, ANNIE, and MUSIC MAN. She would like to thank her mother for her overwhelming love and support. She would also like to thank Mrs. Spillane, Jerold, Mr. B, Andrea, and Mrs. Bolan. If it wasn't for them, we wouldn't have such fantastic musicals.

ZACHARY CECERE (Wes) a sophmore, is thrilled to be in his first cast role in a THS Musical. In the fall he was an assistant stage manager in 12 ANGRY JURORS. In addition to various shows in primary school including SHREK THE MUSICAL (Donkey), he has also appeared in Two Planks ALADDIN (Aladdin); and TYA Junior’s THE MUSIC MAN (Oliver Hix). He is especially grateful to Mrs. Spillaine, Mr. Bracksiek, Jerold, and all of the amazing cast and crew who have made this fantastic show possible. He also wants to thank his family for their unrelenting support and encouragement.

DAVID ILAGAN (Coach Roger Dunbar) is exhilarated to be participating in his first THS musical, FOOTLOOSE, alongside an extraordinary and remarkably adept, and talented group of people! While David has previously been in other productions outside of THS, such as INTO THE WOODS, and FROZEN, this experience has truly been exceptional, and surely one he will remember. While he may not be the most experienced, he truly is grateful. David would like to give a special thanks to, of course, all of the cast and crew, for their amazing hard work and dedication, all those who have helped him reach this point, from his family and friends across the country, to the Philippines, New York, and of course, his family.

IRENE YEZERSKY (Eleanor) a sophomore at THS, is thrilled to be back for her 2nd THS Musicals production, her first being WORKING. She may also be seen in TYA, her most recent appearance being their production of MAMMA MIA. She has also been in TYA jr.’s productions of THE LITTLE MERMAID in which she played Ariel, THE MUSIC MAN, and ANNIE. She can be seen singing in chambers and treble choir. Irene sincerely thanks her vocal coach, Allison Fay and of course her friends and family for their everlasting support. Special thanks goes to Mrs. Spillane, Mr. Bracksieck, Jerold and Andrea for giving her the opportunity to partake in something that makes her so happy. Break legs!!


BRAYDEN ROGERS (Lyle) is excited to perform in his first THS musical production as a freshmen. He has previously been seen in TYA shows including RAGTIME (Edger) and SHREK THE MUSICAL (Little Shrek/Ensemble). He would like to give a special thanks to the entire cast, Mrs. Spillane, Mr. Bracksieck, and Jerold - the show would not be what it is without these talented people. This entire experience has been so fun for him and he hopes to continue with the THS musicals in the future years.

IZZY O’NEIL (Betty Blast), a sophomore, is thrilled to be in her first musical FOOTLOOSE at Trumbull High. In 2021, she dedicated her time to being an understudy in THS’s fall production of TWELVE ANGRY JURORS. While this is her first musical, she has always had a passion for music and performing. She would like to say a special thanks to Mrs. Spillane, Jerold, and the crew for being the foundation of the show and believing in her. She would also like to thank the cast of TWELVE ANGRY JURORS for guiding her through her first show, and her family for supporting her love for music and theater. Break a leg and let’s “cut loose, footloose!”

FRANKIE MASTRIANI (Cop/Choir) is a freshman at THS, and this is his first appearance in a musical. However, he has always felt a calling for the spotlight, as some of his dream jobs include acting, singing, and comedy! He is nervous for his first real step into the world of acting, but he has an amazing friend group and family who have backed him up the whole way! He’s “been workin’ so hard,” and he’s finally ready to “CUT FOOTLOOSE!”

JULIANA MARTINS (Dance Captain/ Dance Ensemble), a senior, is thrilled to be part of her final musical production at THS! Juliana has been dancing for 15 years and adores being on stage. She studies at Rockwell Dance Center and is a co-captain for the THS dance team! She is currently in both Rockwell’s Hip Hop and Pre-Professional modern dance company and will be majoring in dance at Montclair State University next fall. Freshman year she played Annie in CHICAGO, and was dance captain/ensemble for BYE BYE BIRDIE and WORKING! Juliana loves performing for her family and friends and is grateful for their unconditional support of her passions. She thrives under the spotlight and loves capturing the attention of her audience!

MADDY MINELLA (Dance Ensemble), a senior, is proud to be a part of her 4th THS musical production. She has previously performed in CHICAGO, BYE BYE BIRDIE, and WORKING (featured vocalist) at Trumbull High School. She has also performed in THE WIZARD OF OZ (Cowardly Lion), ANNIE (Annie and Pepper), and SCHOOL HOUSE ROCK. She’d love to thank her family and friends for their continued support and encouragement. She’d love to thank her cast and crew mates for all the incredible memories she has gained these past four years. She’d also like to thank Mrs. Spillane, Mr. B, Jerold, and Andrea for giving her the opportunity to be a part of something so special.

MORGAN PLITNICK (Dance Ensemble) is excited to be making her THS musical debut in FOOTLOOSE! A few of her past credits include TYA summer productions of, MAMMA MIA (Featured Dancer), WEST SIDE STORY (Featured Dancer), SHREK (Duloc Dancer/tapper), and many others. Special thanks to her family and friends for supporting her endless love of dance and the stage! Also a shout out to the cast and crew for making her feel so welcome. She hopes you have as much fun watching as she has had performing!

CAMRYN BLANK (Dance Ensemble) a junior, is thrilled to be participating in her third THS musical production. Aside from this year's production of FOOTLOOSE, she has previously performed in BYE BYE BIRDIE (Dance Ensemble) and WORKING THE MUSICAL (Ensemble). Camryn would love to thank her amazing cast members and Mrs. Spillane, Jerold, Andrea, and Mr. Bracksieck for making her theater experience the best, and making her want to be the best possible performer she can be!

ISABELLA CABRAL (Ensemble) a freshman, is very excited to cut loose in her first THS musical! Her past productions include MAMMA MIA and 12 ANGRY JURORS. She would like to wish a special thanks to her parents and family who are always there for her, her friends, and the entire production crew and cast of FOOTLOOSE for making this such a memorable and fun experience! Enjoy the show!

BAILEY CHAPIN (Ensemble) is excited to be participating in her first THS musical after appearing on stage in 12 ANGRY JURORS. She has worked with Pantochino Productions Teen Theatre and has appeared in THE DROWSY CHAPERONE, RUNAWAYS, SPONGEBOB THE MUSICAL and BATBOY. She has been dancing with Connecticut Dance for 10 years. She would like to thank Mrs. Spillane, Jerold, Andrea and Mr. Bracksieck as well as the wonderful cast and crew!

ELYSSA DEFRANCO (Dance ensemble) a freshman at THS, is thrilled for her first THS musical production. She would like to thank her family and friends for encouraging her to audition. She would also like to thank the cast and crew for making her experience spectacular and making it a fun time.

VANESSA HERRERA (Dance Ensemble) a freshman at THS who is very excited for her first THS musical production, FOOTLOOSE. She’s very thankful for her friends and family for supporting and encouraging her in auditioning and in general. She’s also thankful for the cast and crew of FOOTLOOSE for an amazing journey and great memories.

ANABELA MARTINS (Dance Ensemble) is extremely excited to be back for her second show at Trumbull High School. Anabela loved being in the cast of WORKING last year and she is even more excited to dance in FOOTLOOSE. She has always participated in lots of singing activities such as the Hillcrest Choraleers, in which she has had 3 solos. She used to participate in dance and wanted to continue arts throughout high school. Also, she plays soccer at Trumbull High and made the varsity team as a goalkeeper. Anabela is super excited to have another great experience this year with FOOTLOOSE!

HALLIE MONTES (Dance Ensemble) a junior at Trumbull High School, is excited to be a part of her first THS musical production. Although Hallie has not been seen in any other production, she has been a part of the Trumbull High varsity cheerleading team since her freshman year. She would like to thank her cast for welcoming her with open arms, and her friends Camryn Blank, and Olivia Mate for introducing her to the world of theater. Hallie would also like to give a big thank you to a number of tumbling coaches from GCA and Just Tumble for showing her how to perform beautiful flips and tricks.

SOPHIA SCIONTI (Ensemble) is thrilled to be a part of FOOTLOOSE. Sophia's recent credits include A MAGICAL CABARET (Sadness [Inside Out scene], Ensemble) and MDA VISION at Monroe Dance Academy. She has also been in Rodgers and Hammerstein's CINDERELLA (Staring Maiden & Ensemble), FOOTLOOSE (Principal Clark, Ensemble) and PUFFS (Suzie Bones) with Fairfield Summer Stage. Sophia thanks THS for this wonderful opportunity.

JESSIE FLAM (Stage Manager) is thrilled to be stage managing her seventh and final show with Trumbull High School. Past productions include: THE GOOD DOCTOR, CHICAGO (ASM), A WORKING TITLE (light board opt/ ASM), BYE BYE BIRDIE (ASM), WORKING (SM), and 12 ANGRY JURORS (SM). Jessie is looking forward to attending Texas State University in the fall where she will be a member of their BFA technical theatre program, with a concentration in stage managing. Jessie wants to sincerely thank Mrs. Spillane, Mr. Bracksieck, and Everett Rende for inspiring and teaching her new things everyday. Thanks for introducing her to the dark side. She is sad to leave THS but is excited for her new adventures in college and beyond!

NATHAN AUTEN (Assistant Lighting Designer), a senior, is ecstatic to be part of his last THS Musical. In the past, he has been a part of the crew for the THS production of CHICAGO, THE GOOD DOCTOR, and WORKING TITLE as videographer and lighting crew. He was the Assistant Lighting Designer for BYE BYE BIRDIE and WORKING. He would like to thank Mr. B, Everett, and Jack Mocker for helping him to learn everything he knows about lighting design, as well as to the whole crew fall productions he has been a part of for making every moment memorable and fun.

ISSAC LYNE (Director’s Assistant and Head Dramaturg) , a senior, cannot believe that this will be the last time he will get to work with the Thespians here at THS. Prior to senior year, Issac has been a part of the cast, some of his past productions include: CHICAGO, WORKING, and 12 ANGRY JURORS. Issac made this change because being a part of a production’s creative team means so much to him and wants to gain that experience for his future. Issac would like to thank Mrs. Spillane, Mr. B, Andrea, and Jerold for letting him take this amazing opportunity. Lastly, Issac would love to give a huge thank you to his Mom, Dad, and sibling Ava for their loving support.

ALEKHYA VYKUNTA (Properties Manager) is very happy to be working on her 7th and final THS production. Past productions include THE GOOD DOCTOR; CHICAGO; AN ACT OF ONE NIGHT PLAYS; BYE BYE BIRDIE; WORKING; FIVE ANGRY JURORS; and TYA’s MAMMA MIA. Special thanks to Jill Clark being an amazing mentor and Anisha Kurup for being a supportive partner. She thanks Ms. Spillane and Mr. Bracksieck for making this production possible. She would also like to thank the other seniors and props crew for becoming her second family, always being there for her, and always making her laugh.


MOLLY MELLINGER (Production Assistant) is a senior here at Trumbull High and thrilled to be in her last show at THS! Past productions include WORKING (Spotlight) and TWELVE ANGRY JURORS (Production Assistant), as well as Trumbull Youth Association’s MAMMA MIA (Props/Run Crew). Despite not doing THS Theatre for long, she has fallen in love with crew and everyone in it. She would like to especially thank Mr Bracksieck, Everett, and Jill for helping her learn everything. She would also like to thank her family and everyone who has made past productions so much fun.

GRACE CARRELLO (Build Crew/Run Crew/Wing Manager), a senior, is excited for her last show at THS. Past productions include CHICAGO; A WORKING TITLE: A SERIES OF ONE ACTS; BYE BYE BIRDIE; WORKING; 12 ANGRY JURORS; and TYA’s MAMMA MIA!. She would like to thank her family for putting up with the long days and late nights that came with being in the show,. Mr B for teaching her everything she knows.. She would also like to thank all the friends that she has made through the program, it wouldn’t have been the same without you guys! Shoutout to the wedding iykyk.

AVERY ROSA (Build Crew/Light Crew/Spotlight) is excited to be part of FOOTLOOSE as their final show at THS. Their past productions include: THE GOOD DOCTOR, CHICAGO (Spotlight), A WORKING TITLE (Run Crew), BYE BYE BIRDIE (Spotlight/ Build), WORKING (Spotlight/Build), and 12 ANGRY JURORS. Avery would like to sincerely thank Mr. Bracksieck and Everett who helped them along the way in improving their skills. They would also like to thank the other seniors on crew for helping make this experience one of the best parts of high school. They are sad to leave but excited for new adventures and future opportunities!

MELANIE DIFABIO (Build Crew) a senior at THS, is excited to be back for her last production. Past productions include THE GOOD DOCTOR, CHICAGO, WORKING TITLE: A NIGHT OF ONE ACTS, BYE BYE BIRDIE, WORKING, TWELVE ANGRY JURORS. She would like to thank her family for always supporting her and her crazy hours and the friends she made in theater these past 4 years that made her excited to come each day. She would also like to thank Mr B. and Mr A for teaching her everything she knows about building. Shoutout to the wedding iykyk.