Productions

Past Productions

It's a Wonderful Life

Megan Elizabeth Abraham (Betty)

Megan Elizabeth is pleased to return to Contra Costa Christian Theatre after The Miracle Worker (Blind Girl) and this time with her Dad! Favorite theatrical credits include: Crossroad Theatre’s Cinderella (Wig Mistress), Little Moon Theatre (Asst. to the Director, SM); Grand Rapid’s Civic Theatre’s Into the Woods (Cinderella); Lafayette Town Hall Theatre’s Arcadia (Thomisina); and Center Stage’s You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown (Lucy). When not performing, Megan loves to decorate ice cream cakes, take ballet class, sing in the youth band at church, review other shows for the Walnut Creek Journal, and intern at Crossroads Theatre. “Thanks Dad, for taking time to experience this thing I love: theatre!”

Ray Abraham (Principal)

Ray is making his theatre debut in this play. He always wanted to do a play with his daughter, Megan Elizabeth who is now a senior in high school. He is very supportive of Contra Costa Christian Theatre and considers it a privilege to be part of this production. He is a very active member of Fair Oaks Church in Concord, serves as a member of the board of directors of Eternity Minded Ministries, is an avid motorcyclist and a long distance runner. His company, Wealth Management Consultants, Inc. has been in business for 25 years. He would like to thank his wife, three children and his entire office for all of their support.

Tom Alston (Mr. Welch)

Tom is a husband and a father of four. Tom wishes to thank his wife Patricia for sharing her love of the theatre with their entire family. This is Tom’s second play with Contra Costa Christian Theatre. He first appeared in The Beams Are Creaking as the American Correspondent. He would like to acknowledge & applaud Reen Vogel’s creation of this wonderful & ministry-filled Christian theater group, where novice actors are supported, nurtured and encouraged. And to Patricia, “I love you!”

Keith Barlow (George Bailey)

Keith has enjoyed performing in a variety of venues in the greater Bay Area over the last ten years. Some of his favorites include: DLOC’s Scarlet Pimpernel (Percy). Lamplighter’s The Pirates of Penzance (Frederick), Mountain Play’s South Pacific (Lt. Cable), The Willows’ Once Upon a Mattress (Dountless) and 1776 (Richard Henry Lee). He also fairly recently had the honor of playing Jesus in the Community Presbyterian Church production of Godspell. He spends his days in the theatre as well, playing the role of Managing Director for the Diablo Light Opera Company.

Ben Botello, Jr. (Mr. Martini)

This is Ben’s third year with Contra Costa Christian Theatre. He has served in many capacities - the friendly ticket-taker, House Manager and played the role of Jose in Lilies of the Field. Lately he has been juggling rehearsals, coaching his daughter’s soccer team, the Blue Angels, her basketball team, working and traveling for the U.S. Department of Education. Speaking of angels, he started acting in his grade school, Guardian Angel School. He thanks God for his angels at home: wife Cathy, daughter Becca, Grandpa, Grandma, Hazelnut the dog, and his other angels, Adriana, Ben and his wife, Claire.

Tyler Chastain (Freddie)

This is Tyler’s third show with Contra Costa Christian Theatre. He first appeared in You Can’t Take it with You and then as Clarence Day, Jr. in Life with Father. Most recently he appeared in Uncle Phil’s Diner (PJ ) at Community Presbyterian Church. Other favorite roles include Stars 2000’s Hello Dolly (Horace Vandergelder) and Guys & Dolls (Nathan Detroit). Tyler is a freshman at St Mary’s College. He wishes to thank his mom and dad for all their love and support and his brother, Carter for the laughs.

Patricia Deery (Mrs. Martini)

This is Patricia’s first on-stage performance in 5 years and first time performing stateside and with Contra Costa Christian Theatre. Previously, Patricia spent 10 years in Dublin, Ireland where she first became involved in community theater, and was fortunate to be cast in a wide variety of roles including The Glass Menagerie (Laura), The House of Bernarda Alba (Amelia), I do not like thee Dr. Rell (Suzy), and The Killing of Sister George (Madame Xenia). Patricia is delighted to be re-entering the world of theater with the support and talent of the cast of It’s a Wonderful Life.

Steve Dexter (Uncle Billy)

Steve is excited to be in this live performance of one of his family’s favorite movies of all time. He has appeared in past Contra Costa Christian Theatre productions, Lilies of the field (Father Grayson) and Cotton Patch Gospel (Pilate, ensemble) and values the close knit fellowship in Christ he finds through this unique ministry. Steve has played an active role in music and drama at his church, and loves leading young children’s music with his guitar, voice, and sense of humor. He thanks his patient wife for her continual support and encouragement, and God for His never-ending love. Psalm 100.

Bobbie Duncan (Mrs. Marcuzzo)

Bobbie is pleased to make her first appearance with Contra Costa Christian Theatre in It’s a Wonderful Life. She has performed regionally and locally around the Bay Area. Regional credits include Aphra in Children of Eden (Ginny Award) and Evita (AMTSJ), Jekyll and Hyde and Merrily We Roll Along (Willows Theatre Co.) Local credits include Aldonza in Man of La Mancha, Mary Magdalene in Jesus Christ Superstar, Maria in West Side Story, Sarah Brown in Guys and Dolls, and the Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, to name a few. Love to Krystle, Israel, and HTL. Thank you for the sunshine and music in my life!

Loren Ellis (Violet Bick)

Loren is a native to the Walnut Creek area. She has studied acting at Diablo Valley College, San Francisco Acting Academy and UCLA, where she received a BA in Communications. Other acting credits include: Who’s Afraid of Virginia Wolfe? (Honey), Pushing Up the Sky (Cuca/Dancer/Choreographer), and The Reckoning (J.LO, Brittany Spears, Charlie’s Angels). Loren has grown up performing as a dancer with various dance companies through out the Bay Area. Loren would like to thank her mom, sister, and Sean for giving her the love, support, and encouragement to pursue her dreams.

Terry Eseltine (Ernie Bishop)

Terry studied drama briefly at Diablo Valley College and appeared as Mr. Goldstone in Gypsy. Currently he is part of the drama ministry at Creekside Church in Martinez. By day he operates printers for Compumail of Concord. In the off time, he can be found enjoying hiking, biking, skiing, rafting, racquetball, softball, ultimate Frisbee, and nearly anything physically challenging. Terry thanks his whole family and the many friends who have blessed his life with their tough love.

Mike Fleck (Harry Bailey)

This is Mike’s second show with Contra Costa Christian Theatre. He most recently performed in the role of James Keller in The Miracle Worker. After a long hiatus away from the creative arts Mike felt the call to return to theatre and share God’s gifts. By day, Mike is the Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Colt Express (a Benefits Administration company in Walnut Creek). Great big thanks to wife Catherine for her tremendous support in this project, to his children, Samantha, Sarah and Holly for their inspiration.

Derek Giovanetti (Tommy Bailey)

Derek performed in The Wind and the Willows and Charlotte’s Web with the Junior Stage company at the Danville Village Theatre. He also appeared in Barrett Lindsay Steiner’s summer productions of Much Ado About Mutton and Parry Hotter, the Sorceror’s Scone at the Contra Costa Jewish Community Center. Derek’s latest role was as Tiny Tim in the Center Repertory Theatre production of A Christmas Carol. In his free time Derek participates in Cross Country and Track and Field. His other main interests include animals especially his dog Ginger, and cars, for which he is diligently saving his money.

Joyce Glisson (Annie)

Joyce is delighted to be performing in her second show with Contra Costa Christian Theatre. Her last performance was as Sister Sara in Lilies of the Field. Joyce enjoys teaching school and is in her 25th year of teaching. She also enjoys singing in her church choir, reading, and spending time with family and friends. She wishes to thank the director and producers of It’s a Wonderful Life in allowing her to be a part of this production. She is forever thankful to God, her friends and family that support her in whatever she does in life. She especially thanks her kids, Blake and Lynsey.

Kelly Hansen (Sally)

Kelly is thrilled to be a part of It’s a Wonderful Life. She is a senior at Las Lomas High School and has most recently appeared in Uncle Phil’s Diner (Brenda) with Community Presbyterian Church. Other roles include Lady Mabelle in Once Upon a Mattress and a wife in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat with Center Stage. She was also a nun in CCMT’s Sound of Music and appeared as Sandy from Grease in a Pops Concert. She would like to send out a big “Thanks!” to her parents and her voice teacher, Steve Kinsella, who have helped her every step of the way.

Leona Hoegsberg (Tilly)

Leona is excited to perform with Contra Costa Christian Theatre and especially to do It’s a Wonderful Life. She has done theatre for many years and some of her favorite roles have been Miss Hannigan in Annie, the stepsister in Cinderella, and Mae Peterson in Bye, Bye Birdie. Leona also does Christian dramatic portrayals (such as Fanny Crosby) and Christian and secular storytelling. In addition, she works as a librarian and tutor. Thanks to God for His gift of salvation and for the joy of serving Him through drama.

Alex Holman (Pete Bailey)

Alex is 12 years old and attends Bristow Middle School in Brentwood. Alex has performed in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (Edmund), Wonderland (Emcee), Fiddler on the Roof (Sasha) and Auntie Mame (Emory/Michael). Alex is active in sports, playing basketball and baseball and is in the drumline core at school. He would also like to thank his mom and dad for all of their support.

Mike Huenergardt (Mr. Carter)

Mike is very excited to be back on the boards again after a 20-year absence while gallivanting around the world with the U.S. Navy. He retired last year as a Chief Perry Officer and is enjoying coming home every night to his lovely wife, Kathy, and two girls, Jaz and Marti (both 5 1/2 Year old German Shepherds). Mike appeared in 8 productions back in high school and was awarded a 4 year acting scholarship from Wichita State University. He is really enjoying his first acting experience with Contra Costa Christian Theatre.

Jeff Lewandowski (Bert)

Jeff has had roles in two of Contra Costa Christian Theatre’s previous productions, The Beams are Creaking (Klaus Bonhoeffer) and God’s Favorite (Morris). Other favorite roles include Issachar in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. This police officer is sworn to protect his household of four lovely ladies, his wife Michele, and three daughters, Cassandra (11), Brooke (8) and Amanda (5). In his off-duty hours, he enjoys work as a water resources engineer and Project Manager at RMC in Walnut Creek. He wishes to thank his family for allowing him the time to participate in Contra Costa Christian Theatre again, and to thank the Lord for all His good gifts.

Kate Lewis (Miss Andrews)

Kate has been involved in all aspects of theatre for the last 20 years. She attended the Scottsdale Conservatory for the Arts in Arizona where she both performed on stage and served in several backstage roles. Her performances include I Ought to be in Pictures, Masterpieces, and The Rimers of Eldrich. Prior to her association with Contra Costa Christian Theatre, Kate was a member of the 34 West Theater Company in Boardman, Ohio, performing in such faith oriented plays as John: His Story, The Little Prince, The Magician’s Nephew and Christmas on Treasure Island. Kate currently lives in San Ramon with her husband, Nathan.

Gary Mutz (Clarence Oddbody)

Gary was seen earlier this year in Contra Costa Christian Theatre’s production of The Miracle Worker, portraying the stern Captain Keller. A two-time Shellie award recipient, Gary has appeared in shows throughout the Bay Area over the past 23 years. Recent shows include Willows Theatre: You Can’t Take It With You (Paul Sycamore), Benicia Theatre: Sylvia (Greg), Contra Costa Christian Theatre: God’s Favorite (Joe Benjamin). He wishes to thank his wife Deborah for her continued support, love, and understanding; and God, for helping him to see hope and love instead of despair.

Tim McCarthy (Sam Wainwright)

This is Tim’s inaugural role in a Contra Costa Christian Theatre production, or any other production. After completing several courses at Full Circle Productions in San Francisco, he auditioned for the role of Sam Wainwright and was thrilled to be chosen. Those who know Tim personally will not be surprised to see him in this role! Tim feels blessed to be a part of this wonderful Christmas classic, which brings the message of God and hope during this holiday season.

Bill Oakley (Man)

Bill is thrilled to be involved with Contra Costa Christian Theatre, working with people of all ages. He has performed with various theatre groups in the area. Some of his favorite roles include: On Stage Theatre’s You Can’t Take it With You (IRS agent) and Act Now’s Rebecca (the Butler). Bill works as a shoe salesman in Pleasant Hill, is in a sing-a-long chorus entertaining at retirement homes and community centers; tinkers with an old pick-up truck; hikes and collects stuffed animals with his kindred spirit, Bonnie.

Keith Parker (Mr. Gower)

Keith was last seen in Contra Costa Christian Theatre’s Cotton Patch Gospel (Jesus), and has a B.A. in Theatre from UC Davis. From 1968-70 he toured California and Nevada with religious drama. Other favorite roles: How to Succeed in Business (Bud), The Hasty Heart (Lachlen), Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead (Rosencrantz), and WCPC Players’ A Time For Christmas (Bill) and Hannah! (Archie). He was also in CCMT’s Sound of Music (Baron Elberfeld, The Bishop). By day, the Evidence Custodian for Walnut Creek PD, Keith thanks the living God for the support of his wonderful wife, Diane, and family. Enjoy the show!

Lee Pfautch (Marty and Goon)

This is Lee’s fourth play with Contra Costa Christian Theatre. His roles include, You Can’t Take it with You (Ed Carmichael), The Beams are Creaking (Eberhardt Bethage), and Lilies of the Field (folk guitarist). Lee is also a guitarist with Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church’s Worship Team. Lee says, “Leave it to Reen to take on an American film icon. You will be amazed at how God has not only blessed this production, but Contra Costa Christian Theatre as well”. He would also like to dedicate his performance in It’s a Wonderful Life to the memory of his grandmother, Irene Freiley, who has been, next to God, a profound influence on his life. God Bless.

Adam Powell (Young George, Ensemble)

Adam, a sixth grader at Charlotte Wood Middle school, is making his debut with Contra Costa Christian Theatre. He has performed in theatre since first grade. His favorite roles include Oliver Twist (Noah Claypole), Charlie and The Chocolate Factory (Augustus Gloop), A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (sailor and ensemble), and “Adam” in The True Meaning of Christmas, where he recorded his first CD. He enjoys all forms of dance, singing with the CWMS Boy’s Choir, and leading a church youth praise band. As Adam says, “With Jesus in your heart, it truly is a wonderful life.”

Samantha Sahi (Zuzu Bailey)

Samantha is 8 ½ years old and attends 5th grade at Bancroft Elementary School in Walnut Creek. She is excited to be working for the first time with Contra Costa Christian Theatre. Sammy appeared in the Antioch Rivertown Theatre production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, and has told stories at various storytelling festivals. Sammy enjoys swimming for the year-round swim team, the Walnut Creek Aquabears, and playing violin in the school orchestra. Sammy would like to thank her parents and her other relatives for their support, and thank God for all that He has given her.

Danita Schwemer (Mr. Potter’s Secretary)

Danita has been involved in the cast or crew of practically all Contra Costa Christian Theatre shows. And although being part of the crew is great, she loves being on stage! Recent acting credits include Lilies of the Field (Sister Agnes) and a dinner theatre production of Destination: Fantasy Island (Mary). Danita is very involved with Christian Women’s Club and has recently become an inspirational speaker. She would like to thank her husband and children for their support and God for providing everything as needed.

Willis Shotwell (Mr. Henry Potter)

A Navy Chaplain in WWII, Willis earned a PhD at the University of Chicago and became a Professor of New Testament at Berkeley Baptist Divinity School. Later, he served at UC Berkeley as Lecturer in Ancient History, Asst. Dean of Students, Coordinator of Facilities and Regulations and retired as Asst. Director of Student Advising. As a long time resident of Contra Costa County, Willis has performed with DLOC, under Jay Hornbacher, with Oakland Civic Theatre and for the last five years in productions at Hillside Covenant Church. He is retired, but not finished.

Liza Tichenor (Mary Bailey)

After “shaking the dust from her feet” of her ole’ Kentucky home, Liza ventured to san Francisco and made her onstage debut appearance as Estelle in Jean Paul Sartre’s No Exit. While in college, Liza performed in The Musical Comedies of the 1940’s (Nikki); As You Like It (Celia); The Taming of the Shrew (Bianca); Romeo and Juliet (chorus/Fate); Dracula (Lucy); and was a member of the Happy Gas Improv Troupe. Liza does commercial, film and voice over work. She is thrilled to join this blessed family and she considers it pure joy to be working with such a caring, dedicated and compassionate cast and crew. Liza dedicates her performance to all of her family back home. She hopes that we all realize that truly – this is a wonderful life!

Don Tubb (Peter Bailey)

This is Don’s fourth Contra Costa Christian Theatre production, having appeared in Cotton Patch Gospel (Herod); Life With Father (Dr. Somers) and The Beams Are Creaking (Karl Bonhoeffer). His WCPC Players credits include Hannah! (Louis) and I am the Vine (Pastor). His day jobs have varied from Air Force fighter pilot to (currently) business appraiser. Current passions are enjoying his growing family of wife Joyce, 3 daughters, and 3 grandkids, and golf whenever possible. “Thanks to God for all these things.”

Joyce Tubb (Ma Bailey)

Joyce enjoys theatre both on the stage and behind the scenes and is delighted to be acting in her second Contra Costa Christian Theatre production. She is a founder and board member of Contra Costa Christian Theatre and has served on the production team of all its past shows. Acting credits include O Little Town (Inez), Lilies of the Field (Sister Gertrud) and Hannah! (Thelma). She has also independently produced presentations both for stage and television. She is the proud mother of three daughters and a grandmother three times. Her gratitude is to God for the amazing growth and success of Contra Costa Christian Theatre as well as her husband Don, who shares the stage with her for the second time.

Rachel Wagner (Janie Bailey)

Rachel is happy to be back on the stage with Contra Costa Christian Theatre, having recently appeared as Helen Keller in The Miracle Worker, for which she is nominated for a Shellie award. She had the pleasure of performing with Woodminster Theatre: Evita (Children’s chorus), Chanticleers: Snoopy (Woodstock – best supporting actress award), ACLO; Joseph… (Children’s chorus/featured dancer) and as orphan Kate in Annie (CCMT). An accomplished dancer, she also loves to sing, golf and play piano. She studied acting at ACT and aspires to be on Broadway, a veterinarian or the next Tiger Woods. Thanks to the love and support of family and friends, this is indeed a wonderful life!

Paul Waschkowsky (Nick)

This is Paul’s first time performing with Contra Costa Christian Theatre and he considers it a great honor and privilege. Paul’s life has been one stage after another. Paul was trained in acting from early on, as the youngest of six children and having an Irish mother and German father. Every day became a lesson in drama and comedy. Later he fine tuned his craft at Jean Sheldon’s Actors Lab in San Francisco. Paul has done work in film, television and theatre. He would like to thank Jesus, his wife Marlena, his daughter Kayla, his son Christopher, Acting Coach - Felicia Faulkner and Life Coaches -Sam Beler, Roger Dill and Scott Walchek.

Bonnie Young (Mrs. Hatch/Mrs. Thompson)

Always interested in art, music, dance and drama, Bonnie graduated from UCLA with a major in English/Theatre Arts. Among her college memoirs are roles in Anastasia (Anastasia) and Green Valley (Pam). She studied ballet and was involved with Arabian Horse shows for many years. After marriage she entered teaching, using her theatrical background in the classroom, school talent shows and musical programs. Recently appearing in Hannah! (Sally) and The Beams are Creaking (Paula Bonhoeffer) she is happy to be a part of the Contra Costa Christian Theatre ministry.

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