Chet Wollan
(HOST: Cowboy Chet) Hailing from Minneapolis, MN, Cowboy Chet is thrilled to be back in the saddle again on the Medora stage as Host for a second summer! After touring the country on Troupe America's National tour of Pump Boys and Dinettes (Jim), he is once again ready to spend the summer in the beautiful badlands of North Dakota. Previously, he has been seen in the national tours of Miracle on 34th Street, Ring of Fire, and Live From Nashville. He has also spent several years performing at Dollywood, in Pigeon Forge, TN, where he met his wife, Candice. Chet would like to thank his family for their continued support! Enjoy the show!
Candice Lively Wollan
(BHS) Back again for her 7th go around in the beautiful badlands, Candice is excited to be a part of the Medora Musical! Most recently she has been seen touring the country as "Prudie Cupp" in Troupe America's Pump Boys and Dinettes. Previously, she has been seen singing, and dancing in several theatres in Pigeon Forge, TN. Her favorites include The Smoky Mountain Opry, The Black Bear Jamboree, and Dollywood. Candice has also had the opportunity to travel abroad as a Lead Production Singer for Norwegian Cruise Lines, and has performed in the national tours of Miracle on 34th Street, Ring of Fire, and Live From Nashville. Candice would like send love to her family, and as always, she is excited to once again share the stage with her husband Cowboy Chet!
Bill Sorensen
(Co-host) Bill Sorensen and his family have been involved in Medora for the past thirty years. During those years, he has been a versatile variety performer, acting as a host, magician and producer for the popular 4M Revue, where he has produced at least two thousand shows.
When he’s not involved in Medora, Sorensen enjoys a varied career as a successful businessman, venture capitalist, boxing manager for renowned champion Virgil Hill, athletic promoter, public speaker/entertainer and public official. Sorensen served 12 years as the mayor of Bismarck; prior to that he served two terms as a state legislator and two terms as a Bismarck City Commissioner.
Today, in addition to his duties as co-host of the Medora Musical, Bill works as Development and Fund Raising Consultant for the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation.
Misti Koop
(BHS) Originally from Grand Forks, ND... Misti is thrilled to return for her 5th season in the "The Greatest Show in the West!" YeeHaw! She earned her undergrad degree in music education from Gustavus Adolphus College (St. Peter, MN) and her master's degree in theater arts from the University of North Dakota (Grand Forks.) Her North Dakota performance credits hail from Frost Fire Summer Theatre, Fort Totten Little Theater and the following Greater Grand Forks companies: Fire Hall Community Theatre, Summer Performing Arts Company (SPA), Summer Arts Stages/Safari, and Empire Theatre Company. She is both a music teacher and performer. Her performing has taken her all over the country on tour, to New York City, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Pigeon Forge, TN, and aboard the Norwegian Epic! Favorite credits include, Maria in Sound of Music, Eponine in Les Mise, Percy in Spitfire Grill, Annie inAnnie, Get Your Gun, and Disciple/Soul Sister in the national tour of Jesus Christ Superstar. Her favorite line is... "There is ALWAYS a way!" Thank you Mom and Dad, for your constant love and support. Medora Musical 2017 is for you, Maury and Faith, and my students, everywhere! Also, check out Misti's Kids Show in Medora throughout the summer; come and "Get Misti-fied!" See y'all in Medora!
Ken Quiricone
(BHS) Ken is over the buffalo moon excited to be back in Medora for his 6th summer performing under the beautiful stars of the badlands. Ken has kept himself busy on stage since last September appearing in Christmas My Way at The Legacy Theatrein Atlanta, and I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change at The Pines Dinner Theatrein Allentown, PA. So much love to his awesome Family and #1 Fan Rochelle. And a great thanks to the musical’s Producing Director Curt Wollan for welcoming him into this Magical Medora Family.
Damon Fichter
(BHS) Back for his fourth year, Damon from Dickinson, ND is stoked to return to the Medora stage and the beautiful Badlands he has grown to love since his childhood. He is a Summa Cum Laude graduate of Dickinson State University with a Bachelor of Music. He also received minors in Theater and Leadership Studies as part of the Theodore Roosevelt Honors Leadership Program. Most recently, Damon has been seen in Minneapolis, MN working on various projects in film/commercial, pottery, art, music, and theater. He is grateful for his family, friends, and the overwhelming support of his hometown and state to live the dream. Don't be shy, come say hi!
Jessica Bradish
(BHS) is thrilled to be here for her second year with the Medora Musical! She's originally from Des Moines, Iowa and is now based out of NYC where she received a degree in Musical Theater Performance from Wagner College. Past favorite roles include Maggie in A Chorus Line at The Armory Theater in Wisconsin, Lucy in Jekyll & Hyde at Bucks County Playhouse in Pennsylvania, Rhetta Cupp in Pump Boys and Dinettes at Alhambra Theater in Florida and Iowa Touring Theater Company, and Trenna in Ring of Fire at The Temple Theater in North Carolina. Special thanks to Ryan, Babba, and her family for all their love and support.
Dustin LaFleur
Fresh out of Western Illinois University's M.F.A. program, this Louisiana native son is a proud Ragin' Cajun. He has toured the country as a drummer and backup singer and is a semi-professional photographer. Dustin also enjoys Snickers, especially on Tuesday's.
Klayton Hinshaw
Returning for his second season, Klayton is very excited to be back in Medora and to perform on the beautiful stage of the Burning Hills Amphitheater! Born and raised in Geneva, Indiana, Klayton has spent the last 3 years in North Dakota attending school at Dickinson State and performing in a local jazz combo. He would like to thank Curt, Sandy, Lexie, and all of StageWest Entertainment for having him back again this year and to his family back home for their support and encouragement!
Taylor Leet
(BHS) Taylor is extremely excited to be joining "The Greatest Show in the West"! Raised in her beautiful hometown of Bismarck, she followed her dreams to Chicago earning a BA in Vocal Performance/Contemporary Urban Popular from Columbia College Chicago. At an early age, Taylor discovered her passion for music and performing. She has been fortunate to participate in musicals, special events, gospel ensembles, and worship teams. Growing up, she attended the Medora Musical each summer, and is now thrilled to be a Burning Hills Singer! Taylor is grateful for the love and support from friends and family, especially her mom and dad who remind her to never, never, never give up
Christie Robinson
(BHS) Christie is thrilled to make her Medora debut! A Maine native, Christie most recently earned her Master of Fine Arts in Acting from the University of Florida in April 2017. She also holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Maine at Farmington and a Certificate of Performance from The Circle in the Square Musical Theatre Intensive in NYC. Select acting credits include: Whatever Happened to Baby Jane, The Snow Queen, Honky Tonk Angels (Hippodrome State Theatre), Rock of Ages, The Rocky Horror Show, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, I Love You…Now Change, The Marvelous Wonderettes, The Great American Trailer Park Musical, Boeing Boeing, Magnolias, Little Shop of Horrors (Penobscot Theatre Company). Christie has also been seen with The Nite Show with Danny Cashman (New England Emmy Award nomination), and “Just Kidding! A Live and Online Comedy Show.” Enjoy the show!
Jake Rura
(BHS) Jake is thrilled to be making his debut in Medora. Originally from Fishers, IN and now residing in Orlando, FL, Jake graduated from Ball State University with a BFA in Musical Theatre. Favorite credits include; Buck Barrow (Bonnie & Clyde), Will Parker (Oklahoma!), St. Jimmy (American Idiot), and Neleus (Mary Poppins). Jake would like to thank the entire Medora cast, crew, and staff for this incredible experience. His loving family and friends, Quinton, Jodi, and everyone that has supported him along the way!
Matthew Stairs
(BHS) Matthew is thrilled to be making his debut with the Medora Musical. He originally hails from Casper WY and graduated May 2016 with his BFA in Musical Theatre from MSU in Mankato MN and has been working professionally ever since. After graduation, Matthew went into his first contract with Blue Gate Musicals in Sugarcreek Ohio (May 2016-November 2016) and next performed as a strolling caroler at the Christmas at the Galt House Event in Louisville Kentucky (December 2016). Prior to these contracts, he played many roles including Bert in Mary Poppins and Thomas Andrews in Titanic the Musical. Matt wants to thank his ever supportive family, mentors, and friends and especially wants to thank God for being able to do what he loves each and every day.
Alyssa Scott
(BHS) Alyssa Scott, Fargo native, is beyond excited to join the Burning Hills Singers in the Medora Musical for the first time this year! Alyssa is a graduate from McNally Smith College of Music and holds a degree in Vocal Performance. She currently resides in Minneapolis, MN where she has been working full time as a vocalist for a variety of cover bands including, Scarlet County, Skewed View, and Marshall Star Band to name a few. She keeps busy in the meantime writing and recording music in Minneapolis and will be moving to Nashville, TN in September to continue her career in music.
Alyssa cant wait to see where this new adventure will take her as well as the great relationships that will come with it!
Roger Rettig
(Pedal Steel) Originally from London, Roger turned pro in 1959 and spent the next few years playing guitar with many big names of the UK music scene (Marty Wilde, Joe Brown, Eden Kane, Billy Fury) and touring alongside the Beatles, The Hollies and the Rolling Stones. He graduated to studio work in the ‘70s, then took up pedal steel guitar. He appeared on countless recordings, TV shows and commercials as well as playing numerous West End shows. He performed with Tom Jones, Duane Eddy, George Harrison and his boyhood idol, Lonnie Donegan! Roger emigrated to the USA in 1998 and continues to get his living doing the best job in the world. He now lives in Naples, Florida and is delighted to be returning to the Medora Musical for his 13th season!
Andrew Crowe
(Fiddle/Mandolin, Bandleader) Andrew is an actor, singer, and musician who has spent the last thirteen years performing all over the country. As an actor he has been seen in the national tours of Sweeney Todd, Cabaret, and Stand by Your Man, and over 50 regional productions. As a musician he tours with The Grand Tour - the foremost tribute to the music of George Jones.
Brandon Fillette
(Keyboards) Brandon has been playing piano for as long as he can remember. He has performed at the Loessin Playhouse, The Palace Theater at Cedar Point and most recently at Circa 21 as Jerry Lee Lewis in Million Dollar Quartet. Other roles include: Pippin (Pippin), Bilbo Baggins (The Hobbit), Cain (Children of Eden), Bud Frump (How to Succeed…), and L.M. on the recent National Tour of Pump Boys and Dinettes. Thanks to family and friends for supporting him and his dream of shaking hands with Billy Joel.
Zach Schmidt
(Drums) Zach is excited to return to his home state of North Dakota as the drummer for the 2017 Medora Musical. This will be his second non-consecutive season performing in the Coal Diggers Band, having served as the pianist and associate music director in 2013. Raised in Mandan, ND, Schmidt was immersed into a family of musicians. He attended St. Mary's Central High School in Bismarck, graduating in 2003. In 2006, Schmidt moved to Minneapolis to attend the McNally Smith College of Music and has since been forging a career as a freelance musician. Equally adept on both drum set and keyboard, Zach maintains an assiduous performance schedule throughout the Minneapolis area and the U.S.
Schmidt can be seen frequently on stage with Sarah Morris, Reina Del Cid and others.
Adam Vogel
(Guitar) Adam is from Melrose, a rural community in central Minnesota. He was introduced to music at a young age by his father and uncles. They had a local band and some of Adam’s earliest memories are of watching his dad’s family band rehearse and perform. Adam started playing drums in middle school then quickly gravitated to his dad’s electric guitar. He got a job washing cars and bagging groceries to save up and buy the guitar you see him playing today.
Adam played in cover bands throughout high school and college. More recently Adam has played lead guitar for Andy Calhoun & The Outlaws, a country cover band that plays throughout the Minnesota area.Adam is extremely excited to be a part of the Medora Musical for the first time.
Perry Orfanella
(Bassist) Perry Orfanella has been active on the contemporary music scene for over thirty years. During that time his performances have taken him from the jazz club to the Broadway theater; from the classical stage to the sports arena; from the church sanctuary to the theme park. He has accompanied such celebrities as Don Rickles, Joan Rivers, Frank Gorshin, John Davidson, Connie Francis, Rosemary Clooney, Oliva Newton-John, Al Martino, The Platters, The Coasters; shared the stage with Broadway legends Bernadette Peters, Mandy Patinkin, Patti LuPone, Tommy Tune, Idina Menzel, worked with jazz luminaries Jackie McLean, Stanley Turrentine, John Faddis, Glenn Zattola, Eric Darius, Doc Severinson, Lionel Hampton, Joe Morell, Peper Adams; performed at Disney World, Universal Studios, Busch Gardens, appeared in concert with more than a dozen professional symphony orchestras and shared his experiences as an educator at private and public schools, community colleges and state universities, and in the private studio. He holds a Masters Degree in music and a teacher's certification. As a teacher/clinician/conductor, he brings his thirty years of practical and personal experience to each class, workshop, rehearsal and lesson. His compositions and arrangements hve been premiered and featured at numerous venues throughout the United States and he has recently been seen acting several regional theater productions.
Curt Wollan | Executive Producer/Director
Curt Wollan is the Executive Producer and Director of StageWest Entertainment and Troupe America Inc., a Minneapolis based theatrical production company operating The Plymouth Playhouse in the Twin Cities area, and providing traveling productions for the National Tour Circuit. Curt has directed many National Tours including Steel Magnolias, Driving Miss Daisy, The 1940’S Radio Hour, Hank Williams-Lost Highway starring Jason Petty, and Stephen King’s Ghost Stories. He has also co-produced three National Tours of Forbidden Broadway, directed M*A*S*H*’s Jamie Farr and William Christopher in the National Tour of The Odd Couple, and directed the National Tours of Moon Over Buffalo starring Gavin MacLeod, The Sunshine Boys starring Dick Van Patten and Frank Gorshin, and Same Time Next Year, starring Mackenzie Phillips and Adrian Zmed. Curt has been based at the Plymouth Playhouse in Minneapolis since 1979 and has directed most of its productions, notably How To Talk Minnesotan, The Musical, Church Basement Ladies, I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change, Ring Of Fire, and Diamond Studs which won the Twin Cities “Kudos” Award for Best Direction, Choreography, and Best Musical. As a free-lance director, his work has been seen at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium with Cotton Patch Gospel starring Gary Sandy, at Dollywood in Tennessee with Dolly Parton, Theatre Under the Stars in Houston, and at Kansas City’s New Theatre Restaurant. Curt makes his home in Minneapolis and Fort Myers, Florida with his beautiful wife Jane, who he met right here in Medora when he was a Burning Hills Singer many years ago.
Sandy Tipping | Musical Director/ Musical Arranger
Sandy Tipping (Music Director) was born and raised in a small town north of Toronto, Ontario (in Canada!). He attended Berklee College of Music in Boston, graduating summa cum laude (B.Mus), and moved to Nashville where he has frittered away the last 16 years as a busy recording engineer, music director, elementary music teacher, hired-gun keyboard player, producer, arranger, and bagel enthusiast.
In Nashville, he has been the music director for the popular night show on the General Jackson Showboat and is currently MD for touring jazz artist Jaimee Paul. He has also produced award-winning records for Denver and the Mile High Orchestra, Daniel Lee Martin and Jaimee Paul, toured with acts such as the Platters, the Temptations and Martha Reeves, engineered albums for the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Bobby Osborne and Andrea Stolpe, and orchestrated or arranged custom music for numerous churches, show bands, theme parks and publications, as well as shows for a variety of national and international acts.
With his business partner, he operates Advantage Music Production, a Dove award-winning one-stop shop for custom music production, recording, and arranging. (www.advantagemusicproduction.com)
See also: http://www.advantagemusicproduction.com/about-us/sandy-tipping/
Lexie Wollan-Swenson | Asst. Director/Choreographer
Lexie Wollan-Swenson (Choreographer) has loved Medora and the Medora Musical since she was born. She has been “Sheriff Bear”, a BHS for ten years, the Assistant Choreographer for three years and the Choreographer for two seasons. As a performer she has been seen on National Tours and Dinner Theatres across the country. She now resides in the Twin Cities with her daughters and her husband, Jeremiah, who she met in Medora.
Greta Grosch | Writer
A member of the Musical team since 2005, Greta is also an actress, director and producer whose work has been seen on stages around the country. She works regularly as a voice over and commercial artist, travels the country as a motivational speaker and corporate entertainer, and has written the last 5 installments of the highly successful Church Basement Ladies’ musicals. For more information visit gretagrosch.com
Erica Zaffarano | Set Designer
Erica Zaffarano (Set & Props Designer) feels fortunate to be involved in this, her 6th year with the Medora Musical. Originally from Iowa, she has designed east of the Mississippi in Indiana, Maine, Vermont, the US Virgin Islands and west of Washington, California, Utah, Nevada, Iowa and her newest home, Minnesota. Coincidentally, while working in Los Angeles many years ago, she worked as a scenic artist for Rene´ Lagler, designer of The Burning Hills Amphitheater. She feels lucky and grateful to be surrounded by the community of so many inspirational, unique, eccentric, delightful people in her work and loves coming “home to Medora!”
Alan Hanson | Lighting Designer
Alan Hanson is excited to be back for his 6th season as the Lighting Designer for The Medora Musical! Alan holds an MFA in Theatrical Lighting Design from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. He has designed productions throughout the country and including the National Tours of Lost in Yonkers and Leading Ladies for Montana Repertory Theatre and Miracle on 34th Street for Troupe America. He has toured nationally with the Montana Repertory Theatre (Miracle Worker, Steel Magnolias, The Trip to Bountiful, Lost in Yonkers, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, To Kill a Mockingbird), Chamber Theatre of Boston (Classics!), Troupe America Inc. (Babes in Toyland, Church Basement Ladies), and the Moscow Ballet (The Great Russian Nutcracker) as well as town Montana state educational outreach tours. For more information please visit www.alanmhanson.com
Katrina Benedict | Costume Designer
Katrina Benedict is thrilled to have the opportunity to costume design this year’s Medora Musical. Katrina works as a free-lance Draper for the Guthrie Theatre in Minneapolis, MN and as a Costume Designer for various theatres in the Twin Cities area. Her design work includes: Kirby, at the History Theatre, Sherlock’s Last Case at the Minnesota centennial showboat, and various productions at the Normandale Community College. Her most recent designs include: Ring of Fire, and four of the Church Basement Ladies musicals –Church Basement Ladies: A Second Helping, Away in the Basement, A Mighty Fortress is our Basement, and The Last Potluck Supper.
Jason Lee Resler | Co-Costume Designer
Jason is very happy to return to the Medora Musical for his third season. Previously Jason has designed for theatre companies in Minnesota and around the country, including Idaho Shakespeare and Great Lakes Theatre Festivals, Phoenix Theatre, Commonweal Theatre, Park Square Theatre, Illusion Theatre, History Theatre, Hope Summer Repertory, Cortland Repertory, Citadel Theatre, and Minneapolis Musical Theatre. Jason has also worked in the costume shops of Barrington Stage Company, Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus and Disney on Ice. During the year Jason is Assistant Professor of Costume Design at Indiana UniversitySouth Bend- www.claponcue.com
Koryn Weiman | Production Stage Manager
Koryn is excited to be celebrating her first season with the Medora Musical. Koryn has been a stage manager for various theatre companies including: Childsplay, Houston Ballet, Main Street Theatre for Youth, and Katy Visual Performing Arts Center. Koryn studied Technical Theatre, receiving her BA at University of North Texas and her AA at Blinn College. When not working on a show, Koryn enjoys baking and cooking.
