MEET THE CAST & CREW OF RENT
THE CAST
First Shane Center Production:
The Wizard of Oz (2009)
Nick is thrilled (and just a little heartbroken) to have shaved his legendary mustache for the chance to step into the role of Mark. He’s been performing with the Shane Center for more than half his life, growing up both onstage and within this community. Some of his favorite past credits include Huckleberry Finn in Big River (2018), King Arthur in Camelot (2018), and Crutchie in Newsies (2019). When he’s not onstage, he can often be found working at Matt’s Meats Butcher Shop. In the summer months, you’ll likely spot him over at the Rubber Ducky, soaking up sunshine and helping folks enjoy the river.
First Shane Center Production:
Oliver (2008)
Andrew is delighted to help bring this iconic production to life. A longtime member of the Shane Center family, he’s participated in most every production that has been on our stage. Some of his favorite past credits include George Seurat in Sunday in the Park with George (2024), Clyde Barrow in Bonnie & Clyde (2022), and the entire Dysquith family in A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder (2018). Offstage, Andrew serves as the Technical Director at the Shane Center, keeping the magic running behind the scenes. He is also currently pursuing a Music degree at Montana State University.
Shane Center Debut
Nicholas is thrilled to be a part of the cast of RENT. He’s been drawn to the stage since the ripe age of seven, finding connection, purpose, and joy through live performance. Several past credits include Ashley J Williams, Evil Dead the Musical (2022) and Dr. Frank N. Furter, The Rocky Horror Show (2016) with the Stagecoach Theatre and Lord Farquaad, Shrek the Musical (2014) and Gaston, Beauty and the Beast (2010) with the Music Theatre of Idaho. This role has been especially meaningful as it reflects the power of kindness and the family we choose. Nicholas believes theatre is an act of shared humanity, and this story is one he is proud to tell. He’d like to dedicate this performance to his two sons, Desmond and McGregor.
Shane Center Debut
Adam is stoked to be playing Benny in RENT. He first met his wife in a production of RENT over fourteen years ago, making this show especially meaningful to him. Most recently Adam played Ernst Ludwig in Cabaret with Montana TheatreWorks (2025). Adam is grateful to join the Shane Center in its mission to tell stories that bridge and celebrate all walks of life.
Shane Center Debut
Emerald is overjoyed to be making her Shane Center debut in RENT alongside this awe-inspiring cast. She was recently seen in the ensemble of Opera Montana’s Ragtime (2026). Previous credits include Lily St. Regis in Annie (2025) and Mrs. Coney in Mary Poppins (2024) with Montana TheatreWorks. She has also appeared with Opera Montana as the Sandman in Hansel and Gretel (2025), in Sweeney Todd (2025), and La Bohème (2024). Emerald earned her degrees in Vocal Performance and Music Education from MSU Billings in 2022. When she’s not onstage, she enjoys crocheting, adventuring with her husband, and snuggling her pups, Maverick and Coda.
Shane Center Debut
Rylan is thrilled to be making her Shane Center debut as the unforgettable Angel. She grew up in Missoula, spending her childhood performing with Missoula Children’s Theatre. After moving to Bozeman in 2020, she went on to graduate from Montana State University in 2023. Angel has long been a dream role, and the chance to audition felt like a gift from the universe after a yearlong hiatus from performing. Stepping back onto the stage in this story has been both healing and joyful. When she’s not performing, Rylan enjoys sewing, playing piano, and taking her cat Dusty out for walks.
Shane Center Debut
Sara is grateful to be making her Shane Center debut in a show that holds deep personal meaning for her. RENT is the musical where she met her husband, Adam, who is also appearing in this production as Benny, while they were both in college. Most recently, she played Fraulein Kost in Cabaret with Montana TheatreWorks (2025) and sings with the Bozeman Symphonic Choir. She is excited to explore both the strength and softness of Mimi through this role. When she’s not performing, Sara works as a Senior Partnerships Operations Manager for XYPN. She would like to thank her parents for their unwavering support, her friends for always showing up, and Adam for being her favorite scene partner both onstage and in life.
First Shane Center Production:
Willy Wonka (2010)
Annika is ecstatic to be portraying a role originally brought to life by the iconic Idina Menzel. This past December, Annika graduated from Montana State University with a BA in History and a Minor in Music. Recent credits include Sandy Cheeks in The Spongebob Musical (2023) and The Waking Woman in a short film titled Between Rivers. When she’s not performing, she’s working as the Marketing Coordinator for the Shane Center, helping instruct the Young Actors’ Workshops, learning a new instrument, or disappearing into the woods with her dog, Beanz. Annika is grateful to get to share queer stories on stage with this wonderful cast.
First Shane Center Production:
Oklahoma (2015)
Sidney grew up on the border of Yellowstone National Park in Cooke City, MT but did most of her schooling in Livingston. She began participating in productions at age ten and has since appeared in more than twenty shows. Some of her past credits include Pugsley Addams in The Addams Family (2019) and Paulette in Legally Blonde (2022). The Shane Center has been a constant presence throughout her life and artistic growth. Being part of this community has shaped her both on and off the stage. Sidney is deeply grateful for the Shane Center and the many people who make it such a meaningful asset to the community.
First Shane Center Production:
The Vaudevillians (2006)
Ethan grew up performing at the Shane Center, appearing in dozens of shows over the past two decades. Notable roles include Jack Kelley in Newsies (2019), Bill Sykes in Oliver! (2024) and most recently Phoebus in the Hunchback of Notre Dame (2025). He also holds the special distinction of being the youngest cast member in the Shane Center’s 2013 production of RENT and is one of the three cast members returning from the Shane Center cast of the show. After graduating college with a finance degree, he has been lucky enough to haunt the halls of the Shane Center, now serving as the Operations Manager. Ethan is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to return to his favorite musical and share the stage with this remarkable cast.
Shane Center Debut
Riley is excited to be making his Shane Center debut, returning to the stage after a fifteen-year hiatus from performing. He grew up in Germany and has called Montana home for the past fourteen years. Before stepping away from theatre, some of his past credits include Malcolm in The Full Monty, Roger in Grease, and Bud Frump in How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying with the SouthEast Alabama Community Theatre. Returning to performance has been both energizing and affirming for him. When he’s not onstage, Riley is a painter and a self-taught baker. He is deeply grateful to the friends who encouraged him to step out of his shell and find his way back to the stage.
First Shane Center Production:
The Music Man (2023)
Lisa feels especially at home with this production of RENT. She grew up near The City, went to school in the East Village (where RENT is set) and lived on the Lower East Side. She is often found onstage at the Blue Slipper, most recently appearing as Danny in Wasted and Alex in Home, I’m Darling. Lisa works as the Marketing Director for Gallatin Ice in Bozeman and also runs a marketing consultancy. When she’s not working or performing, Lisa loves to travel, volunteer, read, drink exorbitant amounts of tea, and hang out with her dog and boyfriend.
First Shane Center Production:
Little Abner (2000)
A native of Missoula, it wasn’t until Russ moved to Livingston in 2001 that he realized the sun could actually shine during the winter months. Russ received his Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Montana, but spends much of his time backstage as a welder and electrician. Some of his favorite past credits include the title role in Jekyll & Hyde (2004), Gus the Theatre Cat in CATS (2011), Inspector Javert in Les Miserables (2014), and Miss Trunchbull in Matilda (2022). Recently, Russ performed at the Ellen Theatre as Herr Schultz in their production of Cabaret. When not immersed in all of the Shane Center’s many events, Russ takes great pleasure in moving rocks out at his “farm in progress” and floating every chance he gets. Spending time with his wife and their two dogs, Mabel and Mavis, keeps him happily grounded.
First Shane Center Production:
The Wizard of Oz (1996)
James is fulfilling a lifelong dream of being a part of this iconic musical. This production marks his 30th production, a milestone that he’s incredibly proud of. Some favorite past credits include Zoltan Karpathy in My Fair Lady (2025) and Amos in Big Fish (2020). Being part of a show with such a powerful and enduring message makes this moment even more meaningful. He would like to dedicate this performance to the loving memory of his mom, Ellie Raffety.
Shane Center Debut
Daisy is grateful to be making her Shane Center debut in RENT after living in Montana for the past fifteen years. She is honored to perform in a show that speaks closely to the story of her own life. As a trans woman, she finds Angel Schunard’s journey especially meaningful, and the character’s struggle resonates deeply with her personal experiences. Being a part of this production has felt both affirming and powerful. When she’s not dabbling in performance, Daisy works as a barista. She would like to thank Russ for giving her this opportunity and Sidney for encouraging her to take the leap and audition.
First Shane Center Production:
Gypsy (2003)
Skye is over the moon to join the cast of RENT. Some of her past credits include Cinderella in Into the Woods (2015) and Sibella in A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder (2018). When not playing on stage she is the Director of Operations at Working Dogs for Conservation. Skye has known and loved this music and score since she was too young to even understand the power and impact, making this production especially meaningful to her. She would like to thank her husband, John, for always supporting her creative pursuits.
First Shane Center Production:
Annie Get Your Gun (2013)
Erika is thrilled to once again be part of this revolutionary production. The reminder to live fully, love deeply, and stay present continues to strike close to home. Notable credits include Esmeralda in The Hunchback of Notre Dame (2025), the Witch in Big Fish (2020), and Elizabeth Benning in Young Frankenstein (2017). Offstage, Erika serves as Executive Director of the Shane Center, working to Strengthen Community through Participation in the Arts. When she’s not at the theatre, she loves escaping to the river with Andrew and their four-legged companion, Kismet. She is deeply grateful to her parents, the Shane Center team, and this incredible community for their support.
First Shane Center Production:
Mamma Mia (2019)
Although he wasn’t a theatre kid growing up, this production holds deep personal meaning and represents a powerful full-circle moment for Mick. As a gay man living in New York City in the 1990s, working as a HIV/AIDS crisis coach, and witnessing one of the earliest workshops of RENT, this story is closely intertwined with his own lived experience. He feels a profound connection to the character of Paul, which honors many of the friends he lost to the AIDS epidemic. Being part of this production feels both reflective and deeply purposeful. Recent credits include Plankton in The SpongeBob Musical (2023) and Harry Bright in Mamma Mia! (2019). Mick is grateful for the opportunity to share this story and its enduring message with the community.
First Shane Center Production:
Matilda (2022)
Milo is so excited to be part of this show and feels especially energized by its music. Since moving to the area five years ago, he’s participated in just about every Shane Center production. Most recently, he loved playing Fredric in The Hunchback of Notre Dame (2025), particularly because it gave him the chance to wield a real sword and take part in his first stage fight. When he’s not performing, he is working toward an education degree, serves as a paraprofessional for the Belgrade School District and helps out with the Shane Center’s Summer Young Actors’ Workshop. He would like to thank his girlfriend for her encouragement and support, and his parents for coming to every show.
First Shane Center Production:
Chicago (2016)
Taylor is a native Montanan and grew into the artist she is today in Bozeman. She’s loved theatre since she was a kid. Her first big production was in Missoula Children’s Theatre’s The Fisherman and His Wife where she played a starfish who yelled, “Put me down!” Since then, she’s been in countless productions locally with the Verge Theatre, the Blue Slipper Theatre, Open Door, the Shane Center, and Last Best Comedy and has trained at Second City in Chicago. She’s extremely excited to be a part of this show and cast!
First Shane Center Production:
The Spongebob Musical (2023)
Berlynn has been dreaming about being a part of a production of RENT since her high school theatre days. Stepping into this show feels both affirming and long-awaited for her. When she’s not gracing the stage she works as a glassblower at GlassyBaby. In addition, she is one of the founding members of the Livingston Pride Coalition and is proudly known as a Drag Mother of Livingston. She’s especially excited to have a featured solo in this production and to share it with our community.
Shane Center Debut
Jacob is proud to be making his Shane Center debut in RENT, a show he describes as one of his all-time favorite musicals. A multi-generational Montanan, auditioning for this production felt like an easy choice. His first—and most recent—stage performance was as Stanley in Brighton Beach Memoirs with Open Door Theatre (2015). In addition to performing, Jacob has generously volunteered his technical expertise with Kaleidoscope Youth Theatre. When he’s not working at BlackBox Design, he can be found behind the drum kit with his punk band, The Rockin Chads. He would like to thank everyone who continues to support and champion local arts programs.
First Shane Center Production:
Legally Blonde (2022)
Cady is very excited to be a part of this production of RENT. They just got back to Livingston after touring with Missoula Children’s Theatre for seven months as a Tour/Actor Director. Recent credits include Bogle in Jacob Marley‘s Christmas Carol (2024) and Letter Writer in Tiny Beautiful Things (2024) at the Blue Slipper Theater. When Cady isn’t performing or at rehearsals, there’s a high probability that they are tending to their many house plants, making a mess in their art room, or snuggling their cat. Cady would like to thank the cast, crew, and the audience for this wonderful experience.
Shane Center Debut
Emma grew up in Buffalo, New York, and has called Livingston home for the past eight years. She promised herself that if RENT ever returned to Livingston, she would conquer her fears and audition. Being part of this production feels deeply meaningful, and she finds it hard to put into words just how excited she is to finally take the stage in a show she’s loved for as long as she can remember. When she’s not volunteering, she works as an Occupational Therapist. In her free time, she enjoys making clothing from vintage quilts—often in the company of her five cats.
First Shane Center Production:
The Hunchback of Notre Dame (2025)
Christina is delighted to return to the Shane Center for this production of RENT. When not on stage she works as an Audio Engineer with Jereco Studios Inc. Past credits include the title role in Annie and Veruca Salt in Willy Wonka with Pretty One Productions. She would like to offer special thanks to her mom for all the years of vocal and acting lessons, countless trips, long months of rehearsals, and unwavering support. She wouldn’t be where she is today without her. Christina feels so lucky to get to perform this story that the world desperately needs right now.
Shane Center Debut
Katherine is grateful to be making her Shane Center debut in RENT. After graduating from Luther College with a BA in Music Education and Musical Theatre, she moved to Bozeman in June of 2025. She now works as the General Music Teacher at Stony Creek Elementary in Belgrade, a role she finds incredibly rewarding, especially working with K–4th grade students. Most recently, she appeared as Belle in A Christmas Carol at the Ellen Theatre. Katherine would like to thank her mom, dad, and brother for their unending love and support, and hopes everyone enjoys the show.
THE CREW
Russell lewis
Artistic Director
A Missoula native, Russ grew up performing with MCT and graduated from the University of Montana’s music and theatre departments in 1998. Since then, he has spent the majority of his career working in the performing arts in Montana; first performing with the Illustrious Virginia City Players from 1998 - 2001, then serving as Artistic Director of The Firehouse 5 Playhouse from 2001 - 2010, and since 2010, as the founding Artistic Director of the Shane Lalani Center for the Arts in Livingston. Russell is incredibly grateful for his wife Kimberly and her ongoing support, the community of Livingston for twenty-five years of making theatre.
GREG BOULIN
Musical Director
Greg is a composer, arranger, music director, vocal coach, and pianist with a deep passion for musical storytelling. He received his D.M.A. in Composition from the University of Texas at Austin. Greg previously served as the Head of Music Direction for Texas State University’s acclaimed musical theatre program. His compositions have been performed by ensembles around the world. He is also a two-time recipient of the Austin Critics’ Table Award for Best Music Director. Greg is grateful to return to the Shane Center and help bring this powerful score to life.
LARRY RAFFETY
Scenic Design
Bio coming soon!
CHARLIE NEWSOME
Lighting Design & Board Operator
Charlie is excited to participate in another Shane Center production, having assisted with My Fair Lady (2025), Oliver (2024), and the Spongebob Musical (2023). Charlie has also instructed and designed the lighting for most of the Young Actors Workshops over the past few years. Additionally, he has designed the lights for several projects at the Blue Slipper Theater including; Old Times (2025), Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol (2024), Home I’m Darling (2024), and Tiny Beautiful Things (2024). Charlie attended University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill before beginning to work with professional lightning design companies. Charlie would like to thank you for your continued support of the local theater community.
JIM YOCOM
Audio Engineer & Sound Operator
Jim is the owner of Black Box Design and has been supplying the Shane Center with audio, visual, and technical support for decades. His long-standing partnership has helped shape the sound and technical excellence audiences experience in every performance. Black Box Design is a custom electronics design and build firm serving a wide range of commercial clients across Montana. Jim’s work can be found in schools, civic spaces, performance venues, and large-scale theatrical installations throughout the region. His depth of knowledge and steady presence make him an invaluable part of the Shane Center’s production team. The organization is deeply grateful for his continued support, expertise, and commitment to the arts.
MATTHEW ROGERS
Stage Manager
A theatre mouse, Matt first crept onto the stage during the Firehouse 5’s production of Pirates of Penzance (2009) as a bumbling policeman. Continuing to bumble on, he grew up in the Young Actor’s Workshops and main stage productions. Matt serves as the Events and Facilities Manager and has been involved with the organization for more than two decades. Some of his favorite past credits include Paul in RENT (2013), Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors (2014), and Ensemble in Spamalot (2015). Believing in the mission of the company and its positive influence in the community, Matthew could not be happier to be working at The Shane Center.
ZACH McKINLEY
Lead Guitar
Zach grew up in Helena and has lived and created in Montana his entire life. By day, he teaches guitar and bass at Music Villa. By night, he plays with his band, Jacob Rountree and the Somethings or performs as a solo act. His weekends are almost always reserved for being silly with his lovely wife, but he’s excited to branch out and play for this incredible production. RENT will be Zach’s second musical theatre production, having also played lead guitar in Hedwig and The Angry Inch with the Grand Street Theater. He knows this production is going to be a blast and can’t wait for the challenge!
ANDREW OLIVO
Bass
Bio coming soon!
MICK BURLINGTON
Choreography
Mick brings a thoughtful, grounded approach to choreography. He has been creating personalized choreography and dance movements for over three decades. He currently instructs two-step classes at the Shane Center, where his love of rhythm and connection shines through. Mick approaches dance as both expression and storytelling. Dance always serves as a way to communicate any story without words, and Mick believes this is especially true in RENT. He’s grateful to support the Shane Center community through movement and shared experience.
ANDREW REICHERT
Choreography
In addition to frequently performing onstage, he also serves as the director for the Teen Theatre productions. Past directing credits include: Legally Blonde (2022), Band Geeks (2023), Something Rotten! (2024), and Grease (2025). Andrew brings a collaborative and story-driven approach to choreography. Some favorite choreography credits include Big River (2018), Cabaret (2018), Mamma Mia! (2019), Newsies (2019), Matilda (2022) and The SpongeBob Musical (2023). Andrew is grateful to continue supporting the Shane Center community both onstage and behind the scenes.
DEWEY KEMP
Production Manger
At the ripe age of five, Dewey began his theatre career in Livingston as the smallest Appleseed in a production of Johnny Appleseed. After spending a summer working with Russ Lewis and J.S. Brown as an Illustrious Virginia City Player, he packed his bags and hit the road with the Missoula Children’s Theatre. Three years, forty states, and four countries later, Dewey found his way back home, returning to work alongside his longtime cohorts. These days you might catch a Dewey sighting in the box office, on stage in his bear costume – ukulele in hand, or helping orchestrate one of the many Shane Center’s education programs.
KATE BRITTON
Acting Coach
A Montana native with a lifelong passion for the arts, Kate brings over three decades of hands-on experience in the theater world. This includes twenty-five years teaching theater and acting to students of all ages. She is currently Development Coordinator of the Shane Lalani Center for the Arts. She is also the Co-Founder of The Collective, a theater education organization, Co-Producer and Co-Creator of the Livingston Fringe Festival, and a founding member of the MT + NYC Collaborative. She has worked and continues to work as an actor (both in theater and film), writer, director, costumer, sound designer, collaborator, and casting director. She is grateful to have been a part of this meaningful show and its message of hope and community.
HAILEY JENKINS
Assistant Stage Manager
Hailey grew up in Lake Tahoe, Nevada and has lived in Montana for the past three years. She is currently attending Montana State University, spending much of her time researching strawberry plants in the labs. When she’s not fulfilling her duties as a student, Hailey is thankful to be able to volunteer at the Shane Center. Hailey began volunteering last fall, serving as the light board operator in the Hunchback of Notre Dame (2025), then going on to operate the lights for the Holiday Vaudeville (2025) as well. She would like to thank her family for encouraging her to get involved. She wouldn’t have met so many wonderful people if she didn’t taken the leap.
VICKI PETRY
Run Crew
Bio coming soon!
ERIKA ADAMS
Projections
Erika first fell in love with the Shane Center in 2002 as a youth participant in a production of Annie Get Your Gun. At the time, she never could have imagined that this place would one day become both her creative home and her professional calling. She officially joined the organization’s staff in August of 2015, starting out as an office assistant. Now serving as Executive Director, Erika loves volunteering behind the scenes and using her editing and storytelling skills to help bring each production to life. Being part of the magic onstage, offstage, and in the details - continues to be a source of deep gratitude for her.
SPECIAL THANKS
The Carol & Sal Lalani Endowment, The Shane Center’s Board of Directors, LTS Architecture, A2 Salon, Cameron Reichert, Matthew Hirsch, Julie Sietel, Photographer, The Shane Center’s Student Interns, The Ellen Theatre.