House Program
December 12, 2024 – January 4, 2025
RUNNING TIME
Approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes plus a 20-minute intermission
AUDIENCE CONSIDERATIONS
This production is suitable for all ages 10+
This production contains adult themes, domestic violence, onstage violence, death, use of non-toxic haze, firearms, including gunshot noises, and other weapons.
For more information about specific moments in the show relating to these considerations, please refer to this document: Oliver Audience Considerations.
CREATIVE TEAM
| JOSH EPSTEIN* | Director |
| SEAN BAYNTUN | Music Director |
| NICOL SPINOLA* | Choreographer |
| RYAN CORMACK | Set & Props Designer |
| SOPHIE TANG† | Lighting Designer |
| DONNIE TEJANI | Costume Designer |
| CHRIS ENGLEMAN | Co-Sound Designer |
| JAMEZ GOODON | Co-Sound Designer |
| MANDY HUANG* | Stage Manager |
| DEVON VECCHIO* | Assistant Stage Manager |
| ALDANA PADRON ARGUIMBAO | Apprentice Stage Manager |
| SEAN BAYNTUN | Music Arrangement |
| MIKE KOVAC* | Co-Fight Director |
| SYLVIE LA RIVIERE | Co-Fight Director |
| LISA GOEBEL* | Intimacy Director |
| SOPHIA SAUGSTAD | Assistant Director |
| DANIEL CURALLI | Fight Captain |
| DANICA KOBAYASHI | Dance Captain |
| JOHN ALLEN | Co-Technical Director |
| MIKE LUNEY | Co-Technical Director |
| EMMA KNOX | Props Builder & Buyer |
| DES GEDDES | Child Supervisor |
CAST
| RICKIE WANG | Oliver |
| ANTHONY SANTIAGO* | Fagin |
| LUCAS GREGORY | Artful Dodger |
| MIRANDA MacDOUGALL* | Nancy, Mrs. Sowerberry |
| TANNER ZERR* | Bill Sykes, Mr. Sowerberry |
| VICTOR HUNTER* | Mr. Bumble, Ensemble/Understudy Dr. Grimwig |
| CECILLY DAY* | Widow Corney, Mrs. Bedwin |
| DANIEL CURALLI | Noah Claypole, Mr. Brownlow/Understudy Fagin, Mr. Bumble |
| SUANI RINCON | Bet, Milkmaid, Ensemble |
| LAINE GILLIES | Charlotte, Dr. Grimwig, Old Sally, Ensemble |
| KATE MALCIC | Rose Seller, Dead Body, Ensemble/Understudy Nancy, Mrs. Sowerberry |
| POWELL NOBERT | Chairman, Matron, Knife Grinder, Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang/Understudy Mr. Sowerberry, Mr. Brownlow, Bill Sykes |
| KATRINA TEITZ | Boxer, Ensemble/Understudy Widow Corney, Milkmaid, Knife Grinder |
| DANICA KOBAYASHI | Strawberry Seller, Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang/Understudy Widow Corney, Mrs. Bedwin, Old Sally, Noah Claypole |
| ALLISON LEIA WALL | Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang/Understudy Charlotte, Matron, Rose Seller, Bet, Chairman |
| HELENA AYAS | Charley Bates, Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang/Understudy Artful Dodger |
| JOYA BEVACQUA | Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang/Understudy Knife Grinder |
| GRAYSON BESWORTH | Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang/Understudy Charley Bates |
| MELA PIETROPAOLO | Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang/Understudy Oliver |
| ASHLEY CHUNG | Fagin’s Gang |
| ELLE HANSON | Fagin’s Gang |
| QUINLAN McDONALD | Fagin’s Gang |
| MANA NAKAMURA | Fagin’s Gang |
| ALDRYN MARTIN SAPLALA | Fagin’s Gang |
* The participation of these artists is arranged by permission of Canadian Actors’ Equity Association under the provision of the Dance•Opera•Theatre Policy (DOT).
Powell Nobert and Mela Pietropaolo appear with the permission of Canadian Actors’ Equity Association.
† Indicated designers on this production are represented by the Associated Designers of Canada, IATSE Local ADC659.
ORCHESTRA
| SEAN BAYNTUN | Leader |
| KEVIN WOO | Reeds |
| GEETA DAS | Trumpet |
| MALCOLM FRANCIS | French Horn |
| JOHN BEWS | Bass |
| SAM MacKINNON | Drums |
The Musicians engaged in this production are members of the Vancouver Musicians’ Association, (VMA) Local 145 of the Canadian Federation of Musicians.
PRODUCTION CREW
| DARREN JOHN | Head Sound |
| EMMA KNOX | Head Wardrobe |
| ERIC LESCARBEAU | Head Electrician |
| KEVIN LIANG | Head Props |
| SAMANTHA YIXIN SUN | Head Carpenter |
| DARREN WEN | Assistant Sound |
SET BUILT BY THE ARTS CLUB SET SHOP
Gateway Theatre is a member of the Professional Association of Canadian Theatres and engages professional Artists who are members of Canadian Actors’ Equity Association under the terms of the jointly negotiated Canadian Theatre Agreement.
Production crew are members of Local 118 of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (I.A.T.S.E.).
WARDROBE CREW
| DARRYL MILOT | Cutter |
| ORIANA CAMPORESE | Stitcher |
| SELINA BORROMEO | Volunteer Stitcher |
| TYLER KORST | Volunteer Stitcher |
LIONEL BART’S OLIVER! is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com
FROM JOSH EPSTEIN
Directing Oliver! has been an incredible opportunity to reimagine a story that has resonated for generations. While it’s a tale of resilience and hope, it also confronts the harsh realities of poverty, abandonment, and the search for belonging. For this production, we’ve worked to see the story through Oliver’s eyes, capturing the vivid and fantastical way children remember moments. This perspective lets us balance the story’s grit with its heart, highlighting the humanity of every character, no matter how flawed.
Performing in this very theatre, and in shows like Oliver! as a child, brought me immense joy. It was a place where I found wonder, community, and inspiration, and now I have the privilege of returning—not just as a grown-up kid, but as a dad myself—stepping back into the world that shaped me.
Our staging reflects the duality of Oliver’s world. Ryan’s set is a playground of wrought iron—unyielding yet transformative, a dynamic canvas for Nicol’s bold and athletic choreography, Donnie’s gorgeous costumes and Sophie’s ethereal lighting. The story’s extremes—comedy and tragedy, gothic horror and joy—are brought to life by Sean’s resonant orchestra. Songs like “Consider Yourself” and “Oom-Pah-Pah” burst with vitality and community, while “As Long as He Needs Me” and “Where is Love?” capture the quiet vulnerability of human connection.
This isn’t a softened version of Oliver!; it’s raw, unflinching, and a true dark fairy tale. It’s a story about finding light in the darkest places and holding onto hope when it feels out of reach. My greatest joy as a director has been collaborating with this remarkable cast and creative team to breathe fresh life into Dickens’ timeless world, reminding us why these characters and their journeys still inspire.
– Josh Epstein
Director of Lionel Bart’s Oliver!
BIOS
(In alphabetical order)
Helena Ayas
Charley Bates, Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang
Helena Ayas
Charley Bates, Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang
Understudy: Artful Dodger
Helena is thrilled to be making her Gateway Theatre debut! Previous theatre credits include: Matilda the Musical (Arts Club Theatre Company), Big Fish (St. Georges Players Theatre Company), Mamma Mia (York House School), and representing Vancouver at the provincial level in both classical and musical theatre voice. She trains pre-professionally in ballet and tap at the Richmond Academy of Dance and is beyond grateful for the support of the directors and faculty. Helena would like to thank her family for being her forever home and the Oliver! team for this wonderful opportunity – enjoy the show! @helenaayas_official
Sean Bayntun
Music Director, Music Arrangement, Band Leader
Sean Bayntun
Music Director, Music Arrangement, Band Leader
A descendent of Ukrainian, Austrian, and British immigrants, Sean grew up, and currently resides, on the ancestral and unceded lands of the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh speaking peoples (Burnaby).
Having grown up steeped in classical music, Sean made his orchestral debut at 16 with the White Rock Symphony, and at 18 performed as a soloist with the VSO. He graduated from UBC with a BMus before attending Rice University (Houston) on full scholarship studying with Dr. Jon Kimura Parker, who encouraged him to explore genres and performance beyond classical piano.
Returning to Vancouver in 2006, Sean joined a pop/rock band as a keyboardist/writer and began freelancing as a session and performance musician. He’s played in tons of bands and is currently an active member of Leisure Club and DAñSE.
In 2009, he music directed Songs for a New World (Not Another Musical Co-op), and the following year was the MD for PSP’s production of Bat Boy. As an MD, his many nominations and awards include The Wild Party (Pint-Size Tall), The Light in the Piazza and Herringbone (PSP). Recent work includes Into the Woods (Studio 58) and CATS (Theatre Under the Stars).
Sean is very excited to be back (under) the Gateway stage after having music directed Anne of Green Gables and Cinderella the last two seasons.
Grayson Besworth
Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang
Grayson Besworth
Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang
Understudy: Charley Bates
Grayson is thrilled to be in his first Gateway Theatre production! He recently performed in the role of Charlie in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory with CTORA, Grayson is excited to be a part of this outstanding cast and creative team of Oliver! Grayson loves to sing, act and dance at Lindbjerg Academy, where he has had fun roles such as Ryan Evans, Winthrop, Bullfrog, Cat in the Hat and Scott. Along with Musical Theatre, Grayson studies Lyrical, Jazz, Tap, Ballet and Glee Choir. Other past production credits include Billy in School of Rock with TUTS in 2024, Eric in Matilda with TUTs in 2023 and Align Entertainment’s production of Beauty and the Beast and Wizard of Oz with CTORA. Thank you for supporting live Theatre and enjoy the show!
Joya Bevacqua
Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang
Joya Bevacqua
Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang
Understudy: Knife Grinder
Joya is thrilled to be joining the cast of Oliver! as part of Fagin’s gang. A passionate performer, Joya has been involved in the arts for many years, starting with the Royal City Youth Ballet’s Nutcracker, where she danced for seven years. Recently, Joya appeared in Newsies Jr. and is excited to take on her next role in Urinetown this coming May with Lindbjerg Academy of Performing Arts. She has a deep love for singing, having also performed with the British Columbia Girls Choir. Joya is excited to continue pursuing her passion for performance and cannot wait for the future.
John Bews
Bass
John Bews
Bass
John loves to play bass. “Do do doo,” he says to himself as he plays along with other musicians, singer/songwriters, and musical theatre productions. John has been a part of Ave Q (Arts Club), Rock or Ages (Arts Club), Million Dollar Quartet (Arts Club), Ring of Fire (Arts Club), A Chorus Line (Studio 58), Rocky Horror (Studio 58), Parade (Raincity), Bat Boy (Patrick Street) and others, do do dooing each time. Happy John.
Ashley Chung
Fagin’s Gang
Ashley Chung
Fagin’s Gang
Ashley is a dancer, actor and singer with more than two years experience in the local performing arts scene. Ashley trains in musical theatre and various dance styles at Vancouver Performing Stars. Ashley has performed in many shows including Matilda the Musical as Sophie and Matilda Understudy (Theatre Under the Stars) and Wizard of Oz as Munchkin (CTORA). She was also thrilled to have presented at The Ovation! Awards, celebrating Musical Theatre in the Lower Mainland. Ashley loves to share her infectious joy with audiences of all ages and looks forward to bringing Fagin’s gang to life!
Ryan Cormack
Set & Props Designer
Ryan Cormack
Set & Props Designer
Ryan is a graduate of Queen’s University and studied set and costume design at The National Theatre School of Canada . Past credits include: Yaga (Gateway/Touchstone), Jersey Boys (Arts Club), The Comedy of Errors, Measure for Measure, A Shakesperience (Bard on the Beach), Fourplay (Studio 58), Parade (Raincity) The Last Wife (United Players); OZ (CTYP); Mr. Burns: A Post Electric Play (DSDM); If/Then, Bring It On! (QMT). Assistant Designer: Done/Undone, Romeo and Juliet, As You Like It, Julius Caesar (Bard on the Beach); Kinky Boots, Forgiveness (Arts Club); The Jungle Book (ATP); Actually, The Great Divide (Harold Green/Obsidian).
Daniel Curalli
Noah Claypole, Mr. Brownlow, Fight Captain
Daniel Curalli
Noah Claypole, Mr. Brownlow, Fight Captain
Understudy: Fagin, Mr. Bumble
Daniel loves storytelling in all forms! Local theatre credits include Made In Italy, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Guys and Dolls (Arts Club) Snow White: The Panto (Metro Theatre) Shrek: The Musical, Annie, Seussical (Align Entertainment); Hairspray, Mary Poppins, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Newsies, Something Rotten (TUTS); Daniel is a proud graduate of UBC’s BFA program and a recipient of TUTS’ EV Young Award, three Ovation Nominations for Supporting Performance and an Ovation Award for Outstanding Lead Performance. Thank you for supporting live theatre! Love to Mom, Dad, Sophia, Thomas. To God be the Glory. IT’S SHOWTIME!!!!!!!!! www.danielcuralli.com
Geeta Das
Trumpet
Geeta Das
Trumpet
Vancouver born Guyanese, Geeta Das, is a very diverse and well seasoned, professional multi-instrumentalist focusing on winds, percussion, and voice, across countless genres. She has been studying, teaching, conducting, and performing locally and internationally for over 30 years and has had the humbling opportunity of working with countless local legends and world renowned artists alike. Geeta has had the honour of performing with: UK singer/songwriter Adele, rapper Kanye West, UK pop/rock sensation The Heavy, historic big band The Glenn Miller Orchestra, as well performing extensively in the musical theatre world. Geeta has been performing at the Gateway Theatre since the late 1990s and is thrilled to be a part of Lionel Bart’s Oliver! Pit Orchestra.
Cecilly Day*
Widow Corney, Mrs. Bedwin
Cecilly Day*
Widow Corney, Mrs. Bedwin
Cecilly is a multifaceted artist and performer, pleased to be returning to Gateway Theatre in her debut role on the Mainstage. Cecilly has performed across Canada in shows including Little Shop of Horrors and The Sound of Music (Arts Club Theatre); American Hymnal (TerraBruce Productions); Escape to Margaritaville (Theatre Calgary). She would like to thank her agents with daCosta Talent and her family for their continued support. Even in the darkest of times there are still bright moments of happiness and Cecilly believes the arts are a crucial part of keeping dreams alive. Thank you for being here.
Chris Engleman
Co-Sound Designer
Chris Engleman
Co-Sound Designer
Been doing audio for over 44 years…. Started with the love of music with my Dad’s band Brain Damage… worked for many years at Rocky Mountain Sound when it started in the early 80’s.
Really excited to be co designing for the first time with my audio buddy extraordinaire Jamez Goodon. Jamez and I have been working together for awhile now and it has become a really good time. Jamez is an amazing musician and audio wizard. A real privilege….
Head Sound Vogue Theater 96-06
Currently Head Audio: Bard on the Beach (since 2003), Jazz Fest, Fringe Fest, Writer’s Fest, PNE Winters Fest Coliseum…
House tech in the past: Commodore, Town Pump, Railway and many different Venues….
Rocky Mountain Sound (1980-1995)
PNE (since 1996), current stage Amphitheater Concert Stage
Started working with bands in 1980. Toured North America and Europe…. with Dead Kennedys, DOA, Nomeansno, Doug and the Slugs, Trooper, Bolero Lava, Enigmas, Roots Roundup, Furnaceface, Frightwig, Default, etc…
Studio and Live… Stage managed many shows in the 80’s.
Also an old Punk drummer in bands in the early 80’s
IATSE 118 member
Josh Epstein*
Director
Josh Epstein*
Director
Josh Epstein is an award-winning director, writer, producer, and actor with a global footprint in the film industry. His work has garnered 39 Leo Award nominations. Recently, he penned Astrid’s Deathlist for Paramount Pictures, Knight’s Camp in collaboration with Good Question Media, and a re-imagining of Youngblood with Aircraft Pictures. Josh won the Ovation Award for his directing debut, Cabaret, at Studio 58, the highest-grossing show in their history. As an actor, Josh has won 4 Jessie Awards, been nominated for 3 Dora Awards, and was recognized as the Most Promising Actor at the Stratford Festival. This couldn’t have happened without the love from J.L., Pierce, and Sloane. @joshepstein1
Malcolm Francis
French Horn
Malcolm Francis
French Horn
Malcolm Francis has been playing the French Horn for decades and has been performing in local musical theatre orchestras for the past 27 years. These include Theatre Under the Stars, Royal City Musical Theatre, Align Entertainment, Capilano University and Raincity Theatre. Malcolm has also performed with the Richmond Orchestra and New Westminster Symphony. He also enjoys singing with the Vancouver Men’s Chorus. Performing in musical theatre is his passion and he’s delighted to be playing French Horn in Gateways production of “Oliver!”. Research has shown many health benefits to performing and listening to music. Malcolm credits his good health and love of life to his music career.
Des Geddes
Child Supervisor
Des Geddes
Child Supervisor
Des is a theatre artist and educator with 6 years experience working with youth in theatre. This is Des’ first time working with Gateway. Des is a graduate of Thompson Rivers University, and has only recently moved to Vancouver to begin their career at Studio 58 in January. Des wants to work long-term with children in theatre, believing that young people are the key to keeping art alive and well.
Laine Gillies
Charlotte, Dr. Grimwig, Old Sally, Ensemble
Laine Gillies
Charlotte, Dr. Grimwig, Old Sally, Ensemble
Laine is an actor and visual artist based in Vancouver (Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nation). A graduate of Studio 58 Theatre, she has been acting and dancing on stage for over a decade, getting her start in her hometown of Kamloops (Secwepemc territory). Recent credits include: It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play (Western Canada Theatre), Gravity In Your Eyes (Furious Grace Dance Theatre), The Hobbit in The Hobbit (Project X Theatre), Riff Raff in The Rocky Horror Show (Studio 58), and Everybody in Everybody (Studio 58). Laine is excited for her Gateway Theatre debut alongside such amazing artists.
Lisa Goebel*
Intimacy Director
Lisa Goebel*
Intimacy Director
Lisa Goebel is an interdisciplinary artist working as an actor, choreographer, and intimacy director. Recent credits include performing in Middletown (Sticks and Stones), intimacy direction for Die Fledermaus (Vancouver Opera) and movement consultant for Miracle on 34th Street (Arts Club). For Gateway: intimacy director for Yaga, Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery, and China Doll. She completed her Intimacy Certification through Intimacy Directors and Coordinators and is a graduate of Studio 58.
Jamez Goodon
Co-Sound Designer
Jamez Goodon
Co-Sound Designer
For over 20 years, Metis Audio Engineer/Sound Designer Jamez Goodon has been working in live audio production and sound design. From major tours and festivals to local and indigenous productions. Also mentoring programs with Studio 58 and Indigenous communities.
Starting as a musician at a young age, his love for music and performance is at the foundation of his work. Studying at several colleges, earning many certifications, diplomas and awards. His love for performing arts grew to all aspects of the stage and production. Jamez has worked on many productions with Bard on the Beach, The Arts Club, The Cultch and The York. As well as touring all over the world with various musical artists and festivals.
Jamez is happy to back to the Gateway Theatre with this great cast and crew for a wonderful production of Oliver! Enjoy!
Lucas Gregory
Artful Dodger
Lucas Gregory
Artful Dodger
Lucas is thrilled to be a part of this talented company of artists. Originally from England, and now based in Vancouver, his notable performances include Troy Bolton in High School Musical, the Huntsman in Snow White, and Dmitry in Anastasia. He has also been featured in ensemble casts for companies such as Theatre Under the Stars’, Align Entertainment and more. Graduating high school this year, he is very excited to explore a future life as a performer. Lucas is honored to tackle the iconic role of the Artful Dodger and hopes you enjoy the show. Watch your pockets! @lucasvictorgregory.
Elle Hanson
Fagin’s Gang
Elle Hanson
Fagin’s Gang
Elle is 10 years’ old and has been singing, acting and dancing since she was 3. In 2023, Elle was selected to participate at the BC Provincials and Canada West Performing Arts Festivals for singing. Elle has performed in several musicals with Vancouver Performing Stars and feels on top of the world when she’s on stage!
Mandy Huang*
Stage Manager
Mandy Huang*
Stage Manager
Mandy is a local stage manager holding a B.A. in Theatre Studies and Sociology from UBC. She couldn’t be more excited to return to Gateway Theatre this holiday season – it’s a dream come true to stage manage at the theatre where she grew up performing. Some favourite stage management credits include 9 to 5 (Chemainus Theatre Festival), Cinderella (Gateway Theatre), The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical (CTORA), Anne of Green Gables (Gateway Theatre), Naked Radio (Chemainus Theatre Festival), Peter Pan Goes Wrong (Arts Club), and Made in Italy (Arts Club). Mandy feels so grateful to be part of this wonderful team of artists and is endlessly thankful to her family and partner for their love and support every step of the way.
Victor Hunter*
Mr. Bumble, Ensemble
Victor Hunter*
Mr. Bumble, Ensemble
Understudy: Dr. Grimwig
Victor is a stage- and voice-actor returning to the Gateway Theatre for the first time since The Wizard of Oz in 2015-16. He’s performed on stages across Western Canada over the past 15 years in shows like Matilda (Theatre Under the Stars), Guys & Dolls (Arts Club Theatre), and most recently The Piano Teacher (Chemainus Theatre Festival). Victor regularly discusses the intersection of theatre and video games on his podcasts and livestreams @victorehunter
Emma Knox
Props Builder & Buyer
Emma Knox
Props Builder & Buyer
Emma is a props fabrication artist originally based in Calgary and now emerging in Vancouver, working in both theatre and the construction of commercial mascots. Recent props credits include: Linck & Mülhahn (Studio 58), Into the Woods (Studio 58), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Vancouver Opera), The Pearl Fishers (Vancouver Opera), The Neverending Story (Storybook Theatre), Curious George (Storybook Theatre). Emma is a graduate from the University of Lethbridge and holds a BFA from their Technical Theatre & Design program.
Danica Kobayashi
Strawberry Seller, Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang, Dance Captain
Danica Kobayashi
Strawberry Seller, Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang, Dance Captain
Understudy: Widow Corney, Mrs. Bedwin, Old Sally, Noah Claypole
Danica Kobayashi is Vancouver-based emerging theatre artist & is delighted to be returning to the Gateway stage for another fun-filled holiday season! She is a graduate of both Studio 58 and MacEwan University’s Theatre Arts Programs, where she studied Acting and Musical Theatre respectively. Recent credits include: Baker’s Wife (Into the Woods, Studio 58), Gabrielle (Rodgers + Hamerstein’s Cinderella, Gateway), and Ensemble (Matilda, Theatre Under the Stars). Upcoming: Choreographer for The Watsons (Vital Spark Theatre). Danica is passionate about providing accessible arts education through her work as a theatre, music, and dance educator. Much love to her family and the Oliver! team!
Mike Kovac*
Co-Fight Director
Mike Kovac*
Co-Fight Director
A certified Fight Director and Instructor with Fight Directors Canada, Mike is also active as a stunt performer and actor in the Vancouver film and television scene. Other shows at Gateway Theatre he’s been a Fight Director for include BASKERVILLE, CINDERELLA, and CRAZY FOR YOU. If you ever see him onstage or screen, he’s probably about to get beaten up.
Sylvie La Riviere
Co-Fight Director
Sylvie La Riviere
Co-Fight Director
Sylvie La Riviere is a Fight Director with over 10 years of experience working in the Vancouver area. A certified Advanced Actor Combatant with the Academy of Fight Directors Canada, Sylvie has had the pleasure of working with Gateway Theatre for Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery, Anne of Green Gables, and Cinderella.
Miranda MacDougall*
Nancy, Mrs. Sowerberry
Miranda MacDougall*
Nancy, Mrs. Sowerberry
Miranda is a Jessie Award-nominated actor, writer, and award-winning film director and producer – she’s excited to be making her Gateway debut! Training: BFA Acting University of Windsor, SITI Company (NYC) Select stage credits: Parade (Raincity), The Sound of Music, DPSMCC (Arts Club) Of Mice and Men (Unit 102, TO), In Response to Alabama (Pi Theatre), etc. Miranda works regularly as an actor in film and television (When Calls the Heart, WildCards, The Flash, etc.), currently appearing in the Canadian-made (woohoo!), award-nominated feature Hunting Matthew Nichols – a film for which she also serves as Executive Producer. THANK YOU for supporting the electric and necessary magic that is live theatre – may it remain a safe place to examine our shared existence. XO!
Kate Malcic
Rose Seller, Dead Body, Ensemble
Kate Malcic
Rose Seller, Dead Body, Ensemble
Understudy: Nancy, Mrs. Sowerberry
Kate is an emerging theatre artist who is excited to be making her Gateway Theatre debut. She is a recent graduate of Sheridan College’s Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre program. Past credits include Serena in Legally Blonde (Stephenville Theatre Festival), Cat in Pinocchio (Stephenville Theatre Festival) and Mrs. Lovett in Sweeney Todd (Theatre Sheridan). Kate is a strong advocate for inclusive and compassionate theatre practices.
Quinlan McDonald
Fagin’s Gang
Quinlan McDonald
Fagin’s Gang
Quinlan is thrilled to be performing in his first role at Gateway Theatre. He is a student at the VSO School of Music, the Richmond Academy of Dance, and is a member of the Vancouver Bach Youth Choir. Earlier this fall, Quinlan performed the role of Charlie in CTORA Theatre’s, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Quinlan loves to fill the world with music.
Sam MacKinnon
Drums
Sam MacKinnon
Drums
Sam is a freelance musician, software developer, and filmmaker living in Vancouver B.C. Sam studied music composition and drums at Selkirk College in Nelson B.C., and has played for a number of groups including the indie-rock band The Ruffled Feathers (2010-2017), and the folk-rock band Coldwater Road (current). Sam also co-created and hosted the monthly variety show At Least We Tried (2018-2020). Sam is always on the lookout for interesting creative collaborations that bring artists from different backgrounds together.
Mana Nakamura
Fagin’s Gang
Mana Nakamura
Fagin’s Gang
Mana is making her debut role at Gateway Theatre as Fagin’s gang in Oliver! the Musical. Previously, Mana has performed in shows such as Matilda the Musical as Amanda for Theatre Under the Stars, and was part of the children’s chorus in Elf the Musical with Arts Club. To Mana, musical theatre allows her to express herself and connect with others.
Powell Nobert
Chairman, Matron, Knife Grinder, Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang
Powell Nobert
Chairman, Matron, Knife Grinder, Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang
Understudy: Mr. Sowerberry, Mr. Brownlow, Bill Sykes
Powell is ecstatic to be making his Gateway Theatre debut with Oliver! Along with being a musical theatre performer, Powell also dabbles in music composition. He has written and workshopped an original musical during his time at St. Lawrence College in Ontario, where he studied musical theatre. Powell’s past credits include Cats, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Legally Blonde, Mamma Mia!, and more. Powell hopes you enjoy this show as much as he does!
Aldana Padron Arguimbao
Apprentice Stage Manager
Aldana Padron Arguimbao
Apprentice Stage Manager
Aldana is a theatre artist who specializes in Stage Management. As a graduate from the University of Victoria’s Theatre program, she has honed her passion in Production and Management, as well as her general theatre knowledge. Her previous experience includes Fire Never Dies: The Tina Modotti Project (Workshop – Electric Company Theatre), Every Brilliant Thing (Caravan Farm Theatre), and Mojada (Phoenix Theatre). Aldana believes that theatre should be intriguing and fun for all. Aldana would like to thank her family and friends for their lasting support, as well as her fellow SM team members for their continued guidance and mentorship.
Mela Pietropaolo
Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang
Mela Pietropaolo
Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang
Understudy: Oliver
Mela is a 13 year old performer who is over the moon to be making her debut with Gateway Theatre. In 2022, she performed as Brigitta von Trapp in the Arts Club’s production of the Sound of Music, and in 2023 was in Vancouver Opera’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. You can hear Mela as Yoyo on Netflix’s ‘CoComelon Lane’, and she has a few other exciting projects in production. Mela believes in dreaming big and working hard and she wishes to thank her family, (and kitties!!) and instructors at Vancouver Performing Stars for always believing in her. Oom-Pah-Pah, and enjoy the show!!! @mela_pietropaolo
Suani Rincon
Bet, Milkmaid, Ensemble
Suani Rincon
Bet, Milkmaid, Ensemble
Suani is a versatile musical theatre actor with a rich international background, having trained and performed in Canada, China, and the UK. She holds a BA from the Shanghai Conservatory of Music and an MA in Musical Theatre from Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts in London. Suani is thrilled to make her Gateway debut in Oliver! She extends heartfelt gratitude to her family and friends for their support and looks forward to bringing more stories to life on stage and screen.
Anthony Santiago*
Fagin
Anthony Santiago*
Fagin
Anthony is delighted to be appearing in his second Gateway Theatre production after playing Matthew Cuthbert in Anne of Green Gables the Musical (2022). Anthony has appeared on stages across Canada with theatre companies such as the Arts Club, Rain City, The Citadel, Alberta Theatre Projects and The Stratford Festival. Much love to his kids James and Nya-Manet and to his Belovèd wife Alexis.
“The greatness of humanity is not in being human, but in being humane.” – Mahatma Gandhi.
Aldryn Martin Saplala
Fagin’s Gang
Aldryn Martin Saplala
Fagin’s Gang
Aldryn is an aspiring theatre artist with 2 years experience, and the stage is his playground. Aldryn was attending musical theatre classes at Lights up and Gateway for 3 years now. And presently enrolled in Musical theatre performance class at Gateway. Last year, Aldryn was included as ensemble in Gateway’s Holiday show, “Cinderella” and he is extremely excited to perform again this year’s show “Oliver!” as one of Fagin’s gang. For Aldryn, performing in theatre is a dream come true and doing it with talented and kind co-actors and production staff is what makes it FUN!
Sophia Saugstad
Assistant Director
Sophia Saugstad
Assistant Director
Sophia is a performer and emerging director. She is a graduate of Studio 58’s acting program and holds an Honours Degree in Theatre Studies from UBC. Past directing credits include Gravity in Your Eyes (Dancing on the Edge), 30 Neo-Futurist Plays (Bramble Theatre Collective), The Importance of Being Earnest (UBC Players Club), Unraveling (OR Festival/Fabulist Theatre), and Venus and Moon (Ignite Festival, Vines Festival). Assistant Directing credits include Snow White (Carousel Theatre), Constellations (Exact Resemblance) and Saint Joan of the Stockyards (UBC). Sophia is excited to keep creating and producing theatre and believes that live performance plays a vital role in building and nurturing community.
Nicol Spinola*
Choreographer
Nicol Spinola*
Choreographer
Nicol is a multi-award-winning choreographer excited to return to the Gateway this holiday season. Select credits include Cinderella, Anne of Green Gables, Joseph (Gateway Theatre); Ring of Fire, Million Dollar Quartet (Arts Club Theatre Company); Jesus Christ Superstar (Thousand Island Playhouse & Western Canada Theatre); Something Rotten, Cinderella, Mary Poppins (Theatre Under the Stars); Mamma Mia! (Chemainus Theatre Festival); Into the Woods (Studio 58) Parade, Cabaret, Company, Sweeney Todd (Raincity Theatre); Shrek, Legally Blonde, Annie (Align); Seussical (SaskExpress); 9 to 5 (Capilano University) Nicol is the Co-Managing Artistic Director of Raincity Theatre and Co-Founder and Executive Director of Camp Cue. www.nicolspinola.com
Sophie Tang†
Lighting Designer
Sophie Tang†
Lighting Designer
Sophie Tang is an award-winning lighting and set designer working in Theatre, Opera and Dance. She has worked with companies including Stratford Festival, Shaw Festival, Electric Company Theatre, Vancouver Opera, Arts Club Theatre, Bard on the Beach, Citadel Theatre, Canadian Stage, Theatre Replacement and so on. Credits Gateway Theatre: Yoga Play, A Broadway Holiday, Cinderella, Anne of Green Gables. Other Recent credits: East Van Panto: Robin Hood (Theatre Replacement), The Lehman Trilogy (Theatre Calgary), Jersey Boys (Arts Club Theatre), Salesman in China (Stratford Festival), Three Musketeers (Citadel Theatre x Arts Club Theatre), Twelfth Night (Bard on the Beach), Michel(le) (Théâtre la Seizième), Portfolio website: sophieyufeitang.com
Katrina Teitz
Boxer, Ensemble
Katrina Teitz
Boxer, Ensemble
Understudy: Widow Corney, Milkmaid, Knife Grinder
Katrina Teitz is an interdisciplinary artist based in Vancouver, BC and a graduate of Capilano University’s Musical Theatre Diploma Program (2017). Their favourite past credits include: Snow White (Carousel Theatre), Next To Normal (West Moon Productions), The Five Vengeances (Affair of Honor). When they aren’t acting on stage or screen, they are co-producing films with company: this could’ve been an email Productions and in The Melobies on YouTube! She is an emerging stunt performer with training in flips, tricks, Wushu and a black belt in Karate. Upcoming: Stuart Little (Carousel Theatre). Happy Holidays!
Donnie Tejani
Costume Designer
Donnie Tejani
Costume Designer
Donnie has built his career wearing many hats in the wardrobe department and has established himself in Vancouver as a dresser, wig stylist and Jessie Award winning costume designer. After a few years of learning tricks from the ‘front lines’ as Head Dresser at the Arts Club, he shifted focus to design going on to work with companies such as TUTS, Neworld Theatre and Vancouver Opera. He satisfies his cravings for work backstage by touring internationally as the Wardrobe Supervisor for Kidd Pivot. Donnie’s work can also be seen on the runways of drag competition series’ such as RuPaul’s Drag Race and Call Me Mother @donnietejani
Devon Vecchio*
Assistant Stage Manager
Devon Vecchio*
Assistant Stage Manager
Devon (she/her) is a Theatre BFA graduate of the University of Victoria. Selected credits: Cinderella (Gateway), Jersey Boys, Every Brilliant Thing, Me Love BINGO!: Best In Snow (Arts Club), Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Stage West), The Phantom of the Opera (Grand), Dido and Aeneas, Orpheus and Eurydice (Opera Atelier), Gaslight (Vertigo), The 39 Steps (The Grove), Bury the Hatchet (Culture Den Society/Belfry), Summer Bucket List (Collectivus), Comic Potential, The Drowsy Chaperone (Phoenix), and Oink, Oink (SATCo). Many thanks to Mandy, her favourite partner in crime, who without Gateway, she never would have met. Love to Mom, Dad & Nessarose.
Allison Leia Wall
Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang
Allison Leia Wall
Ensemble, Fagin’s Gang
Understudy: Charlotte, Matron, Rose Seller, Bet, Chairman
Allison grew up in North Vancouver where she began dancing at the age of seven and eventually moved to Toronto to attend Randolph College for the Performing Arts. She is excited to be back in Vancouver after 10 years in Toronto performing various shows including most recently Junie B Jones the Musical, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus (TYT Theatre) and Heathers the Musical (Hart House Theatre) as well acting in several commercials and short films. She is excited to be working with a company that is so committed to creating an accessible and open space for both artists and audiences.
Rickie Wang
Oliver
Rickie Wang
Oliver
Rickie Wang, a 12-year-old performing artist from Vancouver, has been active in the local performing industry for over four years. His debut role as Oliver at Gateway Theatre will highlight his talent. Notable roles Rickie has played in recent Arts Club productions include Tiny Tim in Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol (2021), Kurt in The Sound of Music (2022), and Michael Hobbs in Elf: The Musical (2023). Other credits include Prince Eddie in The Last Wife (United Players of Vancouver, 2023) and a Fairy in A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Vancouver Opera, 2023). He also performed as a boy soprano in the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s Christmas Kids Concert Snowman (2021, 2022). Rickie believes in theatre’s power to inspire and connect!
Kevin Woo
Reeds
Kevin Woo
Reeds
Kevin has been involved with the Vancouver & Lower Mainland musical theatre community for over 30 years as a musician and arts administrator. An accomplished reed musician, he studied clarinet at UBC’s School of Music and has played in orchestra pits for companies such as RCMT, Raincity Theatre, Gateway Theatre (The King & I, Wizard of Oz, Music Man, Crazy for You, Joseph.., Cinderella), and Theatre Under the Stars, where he also works as their General Manager. Witnessing decades of artists grow and excel, Kevin has enjoyed the camaraderie and encouragement that the Vancouver theatre community fosters.
Tanner Zerr*
Bill Sykes, Mr. Sowerberry
Tanner Zerr*
Bill Sykes, Mr. Sowerberry
Tanner Zerr (he/him) is a graduate of Studio 58. Tanner is also a recipient of the Carol Chrisjohn Scholarship for demonstrating passion and joy in the art of theatre, the 2022 E.V. Young Award for Outstanding Performance at Theatre Under the Stars, the 2023 OVATION Award for Outstanding Newcomer, as well as a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Lead at the 2024 OVATION Awards. Some of Tanner’s recent work includes MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET—Arts Club Theatre Company, PARADE—RainCity Theatre, and JERSEY BOYS—Arts Club Theatre Company. Tanner is thrilled to be part of this incredible show, and honoured to bring life to Sowerberry and Sykes this holiday season.
SPONSORS
Anna’s Cake House
Catering Sponsor
Boy with a Knife
Catering Sponsor
Stir
Media Sponsor
980 CKNW
Media Sponsor
CHMB AM1320
Media Sponsor
SPECIAL THANKS
Western Canada Theatre Company, Richmond Power Crew, Kyrie Vincent and Sarah Sosick
Dedicated workers, supporters and donors make our artistic offerings and initiatives possible. Gateway Theatre would like to acknowledge its government funders, corporate supporters, foundation supporters, individual donors, Gateway Theatre volunteers, board of directors and staff for their contributions. Help us fulfill our commitment to the community by becoming a Donor to Gateway Theatre, a not-for-profit registered charity.
Celebrate our 40th Anniversary!
1000 Donations of $40
Gateway is 40 this year, and we invite you to accept our Fabulous 40th Birthday Bash Challenge! We challenge 1,000 of our loyal supporters to give $40 for us to reach our ultimate goal of $40,000 of individual donations for this momentous season.
