Heathers the Musical at The Studio Theatre

Calista Loter

Calista Loter (Veronica) (Choreographer) (She/Her) is honored to perform alongside this incredible cast! Her professional credits include 5-Star Theatricals: Oklahoma!, Children of Eden, Damn Yankees!, The Little Mermaid, Evita, Joseph…Dreamcoat, and Peter Pan, as well as Musical Theatre Guild’s High Society (Dinah Lord) and Disney XD’s Lab Rats (Young Bree). Her choreography has brought the shows Matilda, Mary Poppins, and The Prom to life, as well as Born To Perform Studio’s award-winning competition team. At 15, Calista founded The Backyard Playhouse and after training in NYC this past semester, she’s thrilled to pursue a bicoastal stage-and-screen career! Rep: Coast To Coast, IG:@thecalistaloter

Zach Troutman

Zach Troutman (J.D.) (He/Him) is so excited to be a part of this debut performance for Backyard Treetop! Heathers has been a dream show of his for many years, and he can’t wait to share this show and incredible cast of people with you. His recent credits include: "Bobby Strong” in Urinetown, “Warner” in Legally Blonde, and “Romeo” in Newsies. If you like what you see, he hopes you come see Conundrum Theatre Company’s production of Ragtime this December where he’ll be playing “Mother’s Younger Brother”. He’d like to thank his family and many amazing friends who always make the time to support him so wholeheartedly. Keep up with what he’s up to IG:@zachstroutman

Charlotte Nevins

Charlotte Nevins (Heather Chandler) (She/Her) was born and raised the Nassau, Bahamas and has been living in LA for over a year. She studied Dance at Point Park University with a concentration in Jazz. She is so excited to be performing a dream role in a dream show with such a fantastic cast! IG:@charlotte_nevins

Audrey Lee

Audrey Lee (Heather Duke) (She/They) is stoked to be sharing the stage with this incredibly talented cast in her long-awaited return to musicals. Before moving to Los Angeles a year ago to cultivate her acting career, she loved performing in countless shows at LEGOLAND California Resort. From dancing in the LEGO World Parade to playing a “Spinjitzu master,” a “medieval storyteller”, and “Emma” from the LEGO Friends, her time in San Diego will always be close to her heart. She is beyond grateful to the production team for entrusting her with this role, and to her friends & family, her partner Sam, and their four cats for their endless love and support. How very. IG:@oddlyaudlee

Jessica Lynn Wallace

Jessica Lynn Wallace (Heather McNamara) (She/Her) is an Australian born actor with bases in Los Angeles and New York. Her screen credits include Secret Life of a Sorority Girl (Lifetime) and Isle of Hope, opposite Diane Ladd, Mary Stuart Masterson, and Andrew McCarthy. Jessica is dedicated to arts education, co-leading a thriving middle school musical theater program with Jesse and Karis, where she develops, directs, and choreographs full-scale productions. She most recently appeared on season 2 of a well-known Netflix series, set to release in November. Rep:Gilchrist Artist Management | Brave Artist Management, IG:@Jessicalynnwallace

Isabella Thatcher

Isabella Thatcher (Martha Dunnstock) (She/Her) is an LA-based actor, musician and writer known for her theatrical, spoken word, solo, and chamber music collaborations with the Malibu Friends of Music, the Montgomery Arts House for Music and Architecture, and has toured extensively throughout the continental United States. Isabella can currently be seen as “Martha Goode” in the urban fantasy series Burn The Witch: The Series, of which she also serves as a producer; as “Esther Koskoff/The Pianist” in the upcoming theatrical short film Tempo Rubato; and as a featured performing artist in the global streaming series Montgomery Arts House Presents. IG:@isabellathatcher

Sam Bevill

Sam Bevill (Kurt Kelly) (He/They) is pumped to be sharing the stage with his beautiful girlfriend Audrey Lee and his best friends Joey Palmeri and Aaron Ellis. Bevill has previously performed as “Kurt Kelly” in Klubhouse Arts’s production of Heathers: The Musical, “Charlie” in Cloudbreak’s To The End Of The World for the Hollywood Fringe Festival, and “Frederick Frankenstein” in YAE’s Young Frankenstein: The Musical, to name a few. In addition to acting, Bevill is a Horror Fiction writer, freehand artist, and video editor. He’d like to thank his friends and family, Audrey, and their four cats who were not able to make it to the show tonight. Enjoy the chaos! IG:@sam.bevill

Jayden Howell

Jayden Howell (Ram Sweeny / US J.D.) (He/Him) Jayden Howell has loved Heathers since he was a freshman in highschool. this show feels like a dream to him and he’s so excited to perform! Hope you enjoy the show!

Karis Brizendine

Karis Brizendine (Ms. Fleming / Veronica’s Mom) (Vocal Director) (She/Her) is an actor, singer, and music director from Agoura Hills. She is a graduate of Baldwin Wallace's BFA Acting program. Acting credits include Cindy and the Discoball (Garry Marshall), Adobe Punk (Plaza de la Raza), and Bye Bye Birdie/Romeo and Juliet (Pioneer Summer Theatre). On-camera credits include upcoming feature Who Did It (Supporting), LATAM Airlines (Voiceover), and multiple mini-series. Karis is also a filmmaker, having written/produced/starred in In Bad Faith (ALTIFF “best cast” nomination). Karis is in preproduction for her next film, Blackballed, set to shoot this Spring. Rep: Courtney Peldon- Aqua Talent, www.karisbrizendine.com

Joey Palmeri

Joey Palmeri (Principal Gowan / Kurt’s Dad / Veronica’s Dad) (He/Him) This is Joeys first show in over 8 years (he feels very old) he’d like to thank his family, friends, cast and crew for being so supportive and encouraging during this run! Everyone break a leg!! Rep: The Parameter Group

Aaron Ellis

Aaron Ellis (Coach Ripper / Ram’s Dad / Big Bud Dean) (He/Him) His most recent role was “Seymour” in Little Shop of Horrors at the Nocturne Theatre in Glendale. He graduated from CSUN in 2023 where he received a BA in Screenwriting and Minor in Theatre Arts. There, he was nominated for the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival’s Irene Ryan Award for his performance of “Stan” in Sweat. Other favorite roles include: “Leo Frank” (Parade), “Bat Boy: (Bat Boy: The Musical), “Princeton / Rod” (Avenue Q), and “Quasimodo” (Hunchback of Notre Dame). If you see him after the show, please tell him your favorite movie. IG:@_aaronellis_

Jordan Fernandez

Jordan Fernandez (New Wave Girl / US McNamara, Duke / Co-Dance Captain) (They/She/He) is thrilled to be performing in Heathers: The Musical for their first production in 5 years! Credits include In The Heights “Carla", (LMU Theatre), Chicago "Matron Mama Morton”, (SJND Theater), and The Wiz “Lion", (SJND Theater). They have a B.A. in Communications from Loyola Marymount University where they also studied Dance and Theater. Outside of performing, they’re a Freelance Makeup Artist, and work in Customer Success at a startup. Many thanks and much love to Mom, Dad, Peli, Lauren, family, and friends! IG:@jordrf Tiktok:@jordxrf

Jocelyn Kilpatrick

Jocelyn Kilpatrick (Stoner Chick / US Veronica, Chandler) is stoked to perform in her all-time favorite show! Understudying two major roles - Veronica and Chandler - has been SO VERY rewarding! Jocelyn holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from UArts, with credits that span genres including her recent west coast debut in Hair “Tribe” at Conundrum Theatre Co., and credits across the Northeast including LaChiusa’s Wild Party “Miss Madeleine True”, Hairspray “Tracy", American Idiot “Ensemble", and The Merry Wives of Windsor “Rugby/Nym”. After recovering from double jaw surgery just over a year ago, she’s returned to performing with even greater drive. Jocelyn brings bold choices, strong vocals, and grounded emotional range to both stage and screen. She’s currently seeking representation for theatre, film, and commercial work. Follow along @thejocelynkilpatrick

Natalie Knipe

Natalie Knipe (Young Republicanette / US Veronica’s Mom) (She/Her) is so excited to be entering the world of Westerburg. Favorite theater credits include Pajama Game with Conejo Players Theater, A Little Princess with Berkeley Playhouse, Hair with Barestage Theater, and Love’s Labour’s Lost with Dean Productions. Favorite film credits include My Crazy Ex on Lifetime Network and short film Where We Disappear. She couldn’t be happier to have you here, and hope you have some Big Fun! Rep: Now Talent Group, IG:@natalieknipe

Holden J. Bernstein

Holden J. Bernstein (Beleaguered Geek / US Dads) (He/Him) is a Los Angeles-based actor, singer, educator, and social worker who holds a BFA in Theatre Education & Performance from Emerson College, and an MA in Educational Studies and an MSW from the University of Michigan. Some favorite credits include Heathers (Priscilla Beach Theatre), Lucky Stiff (Emerson Stage), and No Ordinary Man (TIFF). Holden is also the founder of Transpose Theatricals, a theatre company dedicated to celebrating trans joy. IG:@holdenmyhorses

Drake Mulligan

Drake Mulligan (Hipster Dork / US Fleming) (He/Him) has been a musical theatre performer for 4 years now and has been a part of numerous productions including The Prom, Mary Poppins, Mean Girls, etc etc. He has also vocal directed for the other branch of Treetop Productions, Backyard Playhouse and is currently their Technical Director. IG:@drake.mulligan

Noah Hosfeld

Noah Hosfeld (Preppy Stud /US Kurt, Ram) (He/Him) is a Los Angeles–based actor, singer, and dancer. His past roles include “Ryan” in High School Musical and "Mr. Banks” in Mary Poppins. A dedicated athlete and Kinesiology student, Noah blends artistry and athleticism, bringing energy and authenticity to every performance. Lets have some BIG FUN! IG:@noah_hosfeld

Olivia Antu

Olivia Antu (Swing / Co-Dance Captain) (She/Her) is ecstatic to be performing in Heathers the Musical! A dedicated performer, Olivia has appeared in productions including Head Over Heels, Hadestown, and Beetlejuice, with her favorite role being “Miss Argentina”. She is training at Moorpark College with intentions of transferring to Cal State Channel Islands to pursue her degree in Dance/Musical Theater and her Special Education teaching credential. Beyond the stage, Olivia enjoys the beach, being with her loved ones and is inspired by the power of performance to connect communities. She is deeply grateful to her family, friends, and mentors for their constant encouragement and support. IG:@livvs05

Jesse Fulton

Jesse Fulton (Director) (He/Him) is an award winning playwright and director based in Los Angeles, CA. After receiving his BFA in theatre from Emerson College, he co-founded CloudBreak Theatre Company where he now serves as Artistic Director, dedicating his time bringing new works to life on stage. Additionally he helps run an after school musical theatre program for local middle school students in the Las Virgines area. His most recent directing projects include Below Zero by Anna Watts (Hollywood Fringe) and To the End of the World (Hollywood Fringe). Fulton is so proud to present Heathers The Musical with Backyard Playhouse Treetop. This project has been a dream of his for over a decade and he’s so thrilled to see it come true at last. Thank you to Calista, Paige, Madison, Amanda, and the entire cast + crew for making it happen! @jessealexfulton @cloudbreaktheatreco

Karis Brizendine

Karis Brizendine (Vocal Director) (She/Her) is an actor, singer, and music director from Agoura Hills. She is a graduate of Baldwin Wallace's BFA Acting program. Acting credits include Cindy and the Discoball (Garry Marshall), Adobe Punk (Plaza de la Raza), and Bye Bye Birdie/Romeo and Juliet (Pioneer Summer Theatre). On-camera credits include upcoming feature Who Did It (Supporting), LATAM Airlines (Voiceover), and multiple mini-series. Karis is also a filmmaker, having written/produced/starred in In Bad Faith (ALTIFF “best cast” nomination). Karis is in preproduction for her next film, Blackballed, set to shoot this Spring. Rep: Courtney Peldon- Aqua Talent, www.karisbrizendine.com

Calista Loter

Calista Loter (Choreographer) (She/Her) is honored to perform alongside this incredible cast! Her professional credits include 5-Star Theatricals: Oklahoma!, Children of Eden, Damn Yankees!, The Little Mermaid, Evita, Joseph…Dreamcoat, and Peter Pan, as well as Musical Theatre Guild’s High Society (Dinah Lord) and Disney XD’s Lab Rats (Young Bree). Her choreography has brought shows like Matilda, Mary Poppins, and The Prom to life, as well as Born To Perform Studio’s award-winning competition team. At 15, Calista founded The Backyard Playhouse and after training in NYC this past semester, she’s thrilled to pursue a bicoastal stage-and-screen career! Rep: Coast To Coast, IG:@thecalistaloter

Jan Roper

Jan Roper (Music Director) is a composer and music director from Southern California. Besides staying busy music directing in the Los Angeles area, she has several original musicals in development, including "The Path to Catherine", whose cast album was released on Center Stage Records just last month. Jan also won the L.A. Scenie Award in the 2019-20 & 2022-23 season for Best Music Director and was nominated by Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle for Best Musical Direction in 2024. She is also a faculty teacher at AMDA College of the Performing Arts.

Madison Selby

Madison Selby (Stage Manager) (She/Her) has been working as a stage manager in Los Angeles since she graduated from Emerson College’s Stage and Production Management program in 2023. After graduating, she, Jesse (the lovely, talented director), and two other Emerson Alum started their own theatre company, Cloudbreak Theatre Co. This is her first time branching away from Cloudbreak and she couldn’t be more excited to be doing it with Backyard Playhouse’s “Treetop Productions". The biggest thank you to Jesse (always), Paige and Calista, Amanda, Karis, and the entire company of Heathers!

Amanda Meyers

Amanda Meyers (Assistant Director/Assistant Choreographer) (She/They) is thrilled to return to proscenium theatre as the Assistant Director of Heathers! Based in LA, she works as a creative director specializing in interactive and site-specific performance, and in 2022 founded her company, Party at Anna’s, to bring more Gen-Z artists into immersive theatre. Professional credits include stage management with Capital W and Studio Dream Factory, along with original works featuring live musicians, long-form improv, audience transport, and the occasional (successfully negotiated) noise complaint. She’s honored to bring this inventive, resourceful energy to Heathers. (See more: partyatannas.com)IG: @amandameyerss

Paige Loter

Paige Loter (Executive Director & Costume/Prop Design) (She/Her) is the Executive Director of Backyard Playhouse, which she founded with her daughter, Calista, to create inclusive, high-quality productions that inspire creativity, confidence, and community for all ages. With a background in theatre education and design, Paige has spent over two decades producing and designing costumes, props, and sets for the stage. Her work blends whimsy with precision, bringing stories to life through bold visuals and thoughtful detail. Whether directing a nonprofit or designing a musical, Paige is driven by a deep love for storytelling and a commitment to building meaningful experiences for artists, audiences, and the next generation of theatre makers.

Quincy De Vere

Quincy De Vere (Lighting Design) (She/Her) is thrilled to be lighting this production of Heathers. She has a passion for technical theatre and plans to continue in the industry. Recently, she has worked in the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza on their production of Million Dollar Quartet. Along with that, she has been a lighting designer for numerous productions at Santa Susana High School, Backyard Playhouse, and Born to Perform Studio. She uses her past in performing to her advantage while lighting productions, making sure to convey a story to the audience. Enjoy the show and have some big fun!! IG: @quincy.lights