Welcome to EUPHORIA!
ERICA BADKE (Loretta)
Erica is returning the stage after a ten year hiatus. She is very glad to be back “Home.” It has been too long. Erica started on the stage but soon became interested in hair and make-up. She has been a practicing licensed hairstylist for almost 15yrs. She would like to thank her crazy Southern family for more than enough inspiration for this role, and her friends for putting up with her! A special thanks to Mark for getting her back out there on the boards!
AMANDA BESINGER (Heather)
Amanda is thrilled to be making her return to EUPHORIA. A native of the Chicagoland area, Amanda moved back to Chicago upon graduating from Hamilton College with a BA in Theatre and Philosophy in 2006. Since then, she has also studied with i.O. Chicago, the Annoyance Theatre, Profiles Theatre, the Neo-futurists, and Chicago Physical Theater. Most recently, Amanda has been seen reading strangers' old receipts with her improv team {End of Chit}. Other recent credits include: CHUG CHICAGO (Gorilla Tango), HOUSE OF WEIRD DEATH (Tympanic), DANCING AT THE REVOLUTION (Thunder and Lightning), and THE FABLED FOREST (New World Rep.), which she wrote and directed. Thanks and love to Mark, AP, and the cast, friends, family, and Stephen. Oh, Amanda also wants to know if you got the Pringles.
ILENE COLLINS (Agnes)
Ilene graduated from college with a BFA in theatre at the dawn of time. She looks remarkably good when she is not made to look like an androgynous prison guard. She has a background in improvisation and was a founding member of The Griffin Theatre Company. Ilene is thrilled to still be able to act from time to time. Most of the time, she acts like the CEO at Apartment People and like a responsible mother of 2 amazing teens.
MARK CONTORNO (Albert)
Originally from Chicago, Mark’s story in theater began in New York, where he met theatrical producer, Jerry Reneau, who produced Mark’s first show, THIS CRAZY LIFE, for which Mark wrote the book, lyrics and music. Mark’s most affectionate memories of New York revolve around working with Joe Layton (BARNUM, RICHARD PRYOR LIVE ON THE SUNSET STRIP and WOMAN OF THE YEAR with Lauren Bacall). Mark returned to Chicago to direct, act and write for the theatre. He extends a big thank you to Mark and Andrew for the opportunity to be a part of this wonderful show.
PATRICK GANNON (Cory)
Patrick is excited to be part of this reading series. Some of his previous credits include SIN: A CARDINAL DEPOSED, MERRY JEWISH CHRISTMAS (Bailiwick), ANGELS IN AMERICA (The Journeymen), BETTY'S SUMMER VACATION (Roadworks), AMERICAN GOTHIC (Breadline Theatre), and SOME MEN (Pride Films and Plays). Thanks to Edward Negron for putting up with him all these years, David Zak for all his support and Andrew Souders for casting him.
TIM GRIMES (Glen)
Tim's acting career is grown into a huge secret underground cult status. Only known by himself and a few other lucky theater patrons. Tim also apologizes in advance for the shape his body is in. You'll see what he's talking about soon enough. You can also see Tim's half-naked body with the sketch comedy group The Accountants of Homeland Securityand maybe at the Admiral Theater.
MARTIN GRUBBS (Donald)
Marty is a native Hoosier and returns to Chicago after being the Executive Director and Education Director at Muncie Civic Theatre. He has missed the boards and is glad to be on them again. Some of his most memorable roles include: Horton in SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL, The Baker in INTO THE WOODS, and Charles in PIPPIN. Donald Gunderson reminds him a bit of some of his great uncles from Tennessee. He hopes you enjoy this evening’s show.
JOHN HIGHBERGER (Joe)
John is very excited to be working on EUPHORIA and thanks Mark and Andrew for this opportunity! Favorite roles include Osric in FORTINBRAS, Challee in THE CAINE MUTINY COURT MARITAL, Jared in QUEENS FROM A MARRIAGE, Walter in A PERFECT GANESH, and Sebastian in TWELFTH NIGHT. John was also recently seen in LIPS TOGETHER TEETH APART as part of the Pride Films and Plays Series. Thanks go out to God (creation; nice touch), Mom (life; wouldn’t be writing this without you), friends (support and love) and Dan (love and respect, amongst other things).
MICHELLE McKENZIE-VOIGT (Narrator)
Michelle is euphoric about working on EUPHORIA! Recent credits include THE RITZ with Alexandra Billings, THE WEDDING SINGER (Grandma Rosie), GYPSY (Rose), BEAUTIFUL THING (Sandra), and the title role in MAME. A company member of Glitterati, she has worked with Pride Films and Plays, Hell in a Handbag, Organic Theater, SLATE, and Village Players. Thanks to Andrew and Mark for inviting me to join this delightful cast and crew. Love always to husband Don, son Christopher, and her faithful pirate companion Enrique.
TRACIE NETTESHEIM (Tina)
Tracie is happy to be reprising the role of Tina in this staging of EUPHORIA. She has a BA in theater from Colgate University. Upon moving to Chicago she has participated in Second City’s Conservatory Program as well as various films and theater productions. She most recently played the PA in Point Break, Live! at New Rock Theater. Tracie also owns the Unicorn Café in Evanston and invites you all for a cup of coffee.
AARON PAGE (Trent/George)
Aaron is very happy to be back in EUPHORIA after playing Trent in the first staged reading. Originally from Virginia, Aaron has been in Chicago for two years. He is a graduate of Christopher Newport University with a BA in Musical Theater and has studied comedy since arriving in Chicago. He has performed with the musical improv group Recapitulation and the sketch group Salsation. Much love to the roommies and Brent!
KELLY SCHMIDT (Aimee Ruth)
Kelly is a recent graduate from St. Norbert College (BA: Art and Theatre), and a recent addition to Chicago from Madison, WI. Previous shows include BOOK OF DAYS (Ginger), TWELFTH NIGHT (Viola), THE PRODUCERS (Hold-Me-Touch-Me), CABARET (Lulu), FUDDY MEERS (Gertie), METAMORPHOSES, andSONGS FOR A NEW WORLD.
MARK SMAGLINSKI (Aaron)
Having done shows in Chicago with Famous Door Theatre and other companies, Mark is thrilled to be returning to the stage. Other credits include television (CHICAGO HOPE and E.R.), film, commercial and voice over work. Mark was last seen in the Pride Films and Plays Reading Series of SOME MEN. His thanks go out to family and friends.
TOMMY VENUTI (Patrick)
Tommy graduated from Valdosta State University with a B.F.A. in theatre performance. Since last September, you may have seen him in WELCOME TO THE MOON . . . and OTHER PLAYS and ALIVE AND DEAD IN INDIANA at Village Players, WATERPROOF at Strangeloop Theatre’s Loopfest, A MIDSUMMER NIGHTS DREAM with Kalakaara Theatre and in SOME MEN with Pride Films and PLAYS. And soon – Steppenwolf! . . . . Please?
AMY WALLIN (Marie)
Amy is originally from Illinois and is thrilled to beback in the theatre. Most recently, she was heard in the first reading of EUPHORIA held at the Raven Theatre in 2009. Favorite uncredited work includes playing a commuter in MY BEST FREINDS WEDDING, an office associate in EARLY EDITION and dot in BETAVILLE. Amy currently works as a freelance graphic designer and lives in Evanston, IL. Many thanks to Drew for her ongoing inspiration. Also thanks Edna, Dorothy, Blair, Natalie , George, Geri and JoAnne for positive influences.
LEE WICHMAN (Phil)
Lee has previously been seen performing in various readings with Pride Films and Plays. Other theaters Lee has acted with include City Lit, Open Eye Productions (Jeff Citation for Best Ensemble), Stage Left, Clock Tower, About Face, Theatre at the Center and Milwaukee Repertory Theater. Additionally, Lee has worked as an assistant director at the Milwaukee Repertory Theater, the National Jewish Theater, and the Hangar Theatre (Ithaca, NY) and can be seen in the independent short film THE PSYCHO OF HAPPINESS.
Erica is returning the stage after a ten year hiatus. She is very glad to be back “Home.” It has been too long. Erica started on the stage but soon became interested in hair and make-up. She has been a practicing licensed hairstylist for almost 15yrs. She would like to thank her crazy Southern family for more than enough inspiration for this role, and her friends for putting up with her! A special thanks to Mark for getting her back out there on the boards!
AMANDA BESINGER (Heather)
Amanda is thrilled to be making her return to EUPHORIA. A native of the Chicagoland area, Amanda moved back to Chicago upon graduating from Hamilton College with a BA in Theatre and Philosophy in 2006. Since then, she has also studied with i.O. Chicago, the Annoyance Theatre, Profiles Theatre, the Neo-futurists, and Chicago Physical Theater. Most recently, Amanda has been seen reading strangers' old receipts with her improv team {End of Chit}. Other recent credits include: CHUG CHICAGO (Gorilla Tango), HOUSE OF WEIRD DEATH (Tympanic), DANCING AT THE REVOLUTION (Thunder and Lightning), and THE FABLED FOREST (New World Rep.), which she wrote and directed. Thanks and love to Mark, AP, and the cast, friends, family, and Stephen. Oh, Amanda also wants to know if you got the Pringles.
ILENE COLLINS (Agnes)
Ilene graduated from college with a BFA in theatre at the dawn of time. She looks remarkably good when she is not made to look like an androgynous prison guard. She has a background in improvisation and was a founding member of The Griffin Theatre Company. Ilene is thrilled to still be able to act from time to time. Most of the time, she acts like the CEO at Apartment People and like a responsible mother of 2 amazing teens.
MARK CONTORNO (Albert)
Originally from Chicago, Mark’s story in theater began in New York, where he met theatrical producer, Jerry Reneau, who produced Mark’s first show, THIS CRAZY LIFE, for which Mark wrote the book, lyrics and music. Mark’s most affectionate memories of New York revolve around working with Joe Layton (BARNUM, RICHARD PRYOR LIVE ON THE SUNSET STRIP and WOMAN OF THE YEAR with Lauren Bacall). Mark returned to Chicago to direct, act and write for the theatre. He extends a big thank you to Mark and Andrew for the opportunity to be a part of this wonderful show.
PATRICK GANNON (Cory)
Patrick is excited to be part of this reading series. Some of his previous credits include SIN: A CARDINAL DEPOSED, MERRY JEWISH CHRISTMAS (Bailiwick), ANGELS IN AMERICA (The Journeymen), BETTY'S SUMMER VACATION (Roadworks), AMERICAN GOTHIC (Breadline Theatre), and SOME MEN (Pride Films and Plays). Thanks to Edward Negron for putting up with him all these years, David Zak for all his support and Andrew Souders for casting him.
TIM GRIMES (Glen)
Tim's acting career is grown into a huge secret underground cult status. Only known by himself and a few other lucky theater patrons. Tim also apologizes in advance for the shape his body is in. You'll see what he's talking about soon enough. You can also see Tim's half-naked body with the sketch comedy group The Accountants of Homeland Securityand maybe at the Admiral Theater.
MARTIN GRUBBS (Donald)
Marty is a native Hoosier and returns to Chicago after being the Executive Director and Education Director at Muncie Civic Theatre. He has missed the boards and is glad to be on them again. Some of his most memorable roles include: Horton in SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL, The Baker in INTO THE WOODS, and Charles in PIPPIN. Donald Gunderson reminds him a bit of some of his great uncles from Tennessee. He hopes you enjoy this evening’s show.
JOHN HIGHBERGER (Joe)
John is very excited to be working on EUPHORIA and thanks Mark and Andrew for this opportunity! Favorite roles include Osric in FORTINBRAS, Challee in THE CAINE MUTINY COURT MARITAL, Jared in QUEENS FROM A MARRIAGE, Walter in A PERFECT GANESH, and Sebastian in TWELFTH NIGHT. John was also recently seen in LIPS TOGETHER TEETH APART as part of the Pride Films and Plays Series. Thanks go out to God (creation; nice touch), Mom (life; wouldn’t be writing this without you), friends (support and love) and Dan (love and respect, amongst other things).
MICHELLE McKENZIE-VOIGT (Narrator)
Michelle is euphoric about working on EUPHORIA! Recent credits include THE RITZ with Alexandra Billings, THE WEDDING SINGER (Grandma Rosie), GYPSY (Rose), BEAUTIFUL THING (Sandra), and the title role in MAME. A company member of Glitterati, she has worked with Pride Films and Plays, Hell in a Handbag, Organic Theater, SLATE, and Village Players. Thanks to Andrew and Mark for inviting me to join this delightful cast and crew. Love always to husband Don, son Christopher, and her faithful pirate companion Enrique.
TRACIE NETTESHEIM (Tina)
Tracie is happy to be reprising the role of Tina in this staging of EUPHORIA. She has a BA in theater from Colgate University. Upon moving to Chicago she has participated in Second City’s Conservatory Program as well as various films and theater productions. She most recently played the PA in Point Break, Live! at New Rock Theater. Tracie also owns the Unicorn Café in Evanston and invites you all for a cup of coffee.
AARON PAGE (Trent/George)
Aaron is very happy to be back in EUPHORIA after playing Trent in the first staged reading. Originally from Virginia, Aaron has been in Chicago for two years. He is a graduate of Christopher Newport University with a BA in Musical Theater and has studied comedy since arriving in Chicago. He has performed with the musical improv group Recapitulation and the sketch group Salsation. Much love to the roommies and Brent!
KELLY SCHMIDT (Aimee Ruth)
Kelly is a recent graduate from St. Norbert College (BA: Art and Theatre), and a recent addition to Chicago from Madison, WI. Previous shows include BOOK OF DAYS (Ginger), TWELFTH NIGHT (Viola), THE PRODUCERS (Hold-Me-Touch-Me), CABARET (Lulu), FUDDY MEERS (Gertie), METAMORPHOSES, andSONGS FOR A NEW WORLD.
MARK SMAGLINSKI (Aaron)
Having done shows in Chicago with Famous Door Theatre and other companies, Mark is thrilled to be returning to the stage. Other credits include television (CHICAGO HOPE and E.R.), film, commercial and voice over work. Mark was last seen in the Pride Films and Plays Reading Series of SOME MEN. His thanks go out to family and friends.
TOMMY VENUTI (Patrick)
Tommy graduated from Valdosta State University with a B.F.A. in theatre performance. Since last September, you may have seen him in WELCOME TO THE MOON . . . and OTHER PLAYS and ALIVE AND DEAD IN INDIANA at Village Players, WATERPROOF at Strangeloop Theatre’s Loopfest, A MIDSUMMER NIGHTS DREAM with Kalakaara Theatre and in SOME MEN with Pride Films and PLAYS. And soon – Steppenwolf! . . . . Please?
AMY WALLIN (Marie)
Amy is originally from Illinois and is thrilled to beback in the theatre. Most recently, she was heard in the first reading of EUPHORIA held at the Raven Theatre in 2009. Favorite uncredited work includes playing a commuter in MY BEST FREINDS WEDDING, an office associate in EARLY EDITION and dot in BETAVILLE. Amy currently works as a freelance graphic designer and lives in Evanston, IL. Many thanks to Drew for her ongoing inspiration. Also thanks Edna, Dorothy, Blair, Natalie , George, Geri and JoAnne for positive influences.
LEE WICHMAN (Phil)
Lee has previously been seen performing in various readings with Pride Films and Plays. Other theaters Lee has acted with include City Lit, Open Eye Productions (Jeff Citation for Best Ensemble), Stage Left, Clock Tower, About Face, Theatre at the Center and Milwaukee Repertory Theater. Additionally, Lee has worked as an assistant director at the Milwaukee Repertory Theater, the National Jewish Theater, and the Hangar Theatre (Ithaca, NY) and can be seen in the independent short film THE PSYCHO OF HAPPINESS.
ANDREW SOUDERS (Director)
Andrew has a BFA in Directing form The University of Evansville. Some of the favorite shows he has directed are: A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST, THE LADY FROM DUBUQUE and FINIAN’S RAINBOW. Andrew was a founding member of The Griffin Theatre Company and recently directed the Chicago premier of Terrence McNally's SOME MEN for Pride Films and Plays. Thanks to his cast and crew for all their hard work...You guys are the best !
MARK RIDGE (Writer)
Mark holds a theatre degree from The University of Evansville, where he won the campus playwriting competitions for two consecutive years. As a director, his production of THE GREAT NEBULA IN ORION was selected to showcase at the American College Theatre Festival and earned both cast members Irene Ryan nominations. A graduate of The Second City Actor Training Program, Mark has appeared in shows with the Shawnee Professional Theatre Company, The Court Theatre and was a founding member of The Griffin Theatre Company. In a past life, Mark worked in the film industry. IMDB him.
HAYLEY SMITH-PILAT (Stage Manager) began her work in Chicago with David Zak, when she was the Assistant Stage Manager for the The Bare Naked Lads. Since then, she has worked backstage with Victory Gardens, Drury Lane Water Tower and Navy Pier Entertainment. Most recently, Hayley was the Stage Manager for the staged reading of SOME MEN for Pride Films and Plays. She sends "Thanks" to Michael and Charlie for their love and support!
Andrew has a BFA in Directing form The University of Evansville. Some of the favorite shows he has directed are: A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST, THE LADY FROM DUBUQUE and FINIAN’S RAINBOW. Andrew was a founding member of The Griffin Theatre Company and recently directed the Chicago premier of Terrence McNally's SOME MEN for Pride Films and Plays. Thanks to his cast and crew for all their hard work...You guys are the best !
MARK RIDGE (Writer)
Mark holds a theatre degree from The University of Evansville, where he won the campus playwriting competitions for two consecutive years. As a director, his production of THE GREAT NEBULA IN ORION was selected to showcase at the American College Theatre Festival and earned both cast members Irene Ryan nominations. A graduate of The Second City Actor Training Program, Mark has appeared in shows with the Shawnee Professional Theatre Company, The Court Theatre and was a founding member of The Griffin Theatre Company. In a past life, Mark worked in the film industry. IMDB him.
HAYLEY SMITH-PILAT (Stage Manager) began her work in Chicago with David Zak, when she was the Assistant Stage Manager for the The Bare Naked Lads. Since then, she has worked backstage with Victory Gardens, Drury Lane Water Tower and Navy Pier Entertainment. Most recently, Hayley was the Stage Manager for the staged reading of SOME MEN for Pride Films and Plays. She sends "Thanks" to Michael and Charlie for their love and support!
