WRHS Drama

Alexa is proud to have been the Theatre Instructor at her alma mater for four years now. She was brand new to teaching, an opportunity that fell into her hands by a stroke of luck (she jokes saying that she was just an actor taking on a new role that actually had a salary). This show feels like this is her gift to those students who have been with her every step of the way - awarding and thanking them for giving her her passion for theatre education, and doing the legacy of being a Wiregrass Bull so much justice. We may not have a big program or any fancy budget or facilities, but she can tell you that what we have the most of is, well, love. Love for what we do, love for each other, and love for the art that we bring out into the world. We are a group of passionate people making this a safe space and a break from the harshness of reality. Hug your loved ones tight and keep your heart open to everything that this world has to offer.

Brie spends her days as a freelance artist, designer and Miss Sheppard's big sister. They have a Bachelors in Sociology from the University of South Florida and a Masters of Fine Art in Design from the Savannah College of Art & Design with 17 years of creative experience across various industries. You Can't Take It With You is her number one favorite show, having played Rheba when she was in High School and just recently directing it at Carrollwood Players this Past August. She is thrilled to be sharing this timeless and hilarious story of what really matters in life with a brand new generation.

Caleigh Yick is in 11th grade and is excited to be the assistant director for You Can't Take It With You. Every time she gets the opportunity to direct or provide creative insight to a project, she is exhilarated. Getting an adrenaline rush through storytelling may seem odd to others, but this is a regular occurrence for Caleigh. She is honored to get to work with this incredibly talented cast and crew, and would like to give her fullest gratitude to Alexa Sheppard for her trust and guidance. Caleigh hopes to get her Master's degree in Film and become a screenwriter and film director.

John Sweeney is a 12 grader who has subjected himself to a world of AP and DE classes. Growing up, getting good grades and doing the most he can for no reason was always a goal. And now that he’s going to FSU next year, he’ll be “enjoying” his college courses. As of now, he is the stage manager for the YCTIWY production and is enjoying his last year as a stage manager and high schooler. He’s extraordinarily excited for what’s to come of the Wiregrass theatre department and owes all of his hard work to his canine: Jake.

​Evangeline is one of the assistant stage managers for you can't take it with you. She has performed the role before in last year's dinner theater and as a stage manager for last year's seasons of love. She loves doing theater and is excited for the show.

Elliot is a senior and is so excited for you all to see this show! He is an assistant stage manager and has worked hard to make sure the show runs smoothly. He is sad this is his last show in high school but he’s looking forward to his future productions!

Kassandra Lopez , is currently a 12th grader at Wiregrass Ranch High School, she has been in the school since her freshman year. Being born in Florida and had lived in New York City, as the youngest child. Kassandra has been the Assistant stage manager for “ You Can’t Take it With You” as well as the Wiregrass ranch High school “Alice in Wonderland” as well as “Seasons of Love musical.” She loves this job because she had a chance to make new friendships that can last a life time. Other than theater Kassandra has plenty dreams and aspirations. She wants to go to USF and become a Nurse Practitioner, because of her Passion to help people. She also has a passion in music production and loves to write lyrics. Kassandra is also an activist for mental health as she believes it is important to raise awareness about it. Kassie is really excited about this play and knows it will be the best one yet! She hopes that all the of the upcoming and current theatre students would enjoy theatre as much as she did. Enjoy the show and remember that “everyone is born weird and that’s okay!”

Nate always strives to be a little good at everything and tried to do everything. Now he is ready to join the theatre people ( maybe permanently) to see why his sister was so committed to.

Luis is a freshmen exploring the different aspects in the performing arts. From backstage to onstage, Luis takes joy in each show he’s in, making excessive research to truly embody the roles. Although typically working in musicals, he enjoys to also display his love for theatre through the performance of plays

John is a really really cool guy. He’s been doing theatre for about 5 years now, and He is a senior doing one of his final performances for high school. He’s super excited to take on this role, and is giving it his best. He also really loves cats, especially his own. Shoutout to Walter <3, the one he’s doing it for.

 

Jocelyn is currently a Junior attending Wiregrass Ranch High School. This year she has been cast as Rheba in WRHS’s production of “You Can’t Take it With You”, and was most recently Alice in last year's production of Alice in Wonderland. This has been a very good experience and she is excited for everyone to see everything come together. She is very thankful for all the support from friends and family, and is glad to participate in this production and hoping to participate in many more.

Kyara is in 11th grade and is super excited to be apart of this play! Her role as "Gay Wellington" has been lots of fun and something that was totally new for her to act out. The people she has been working with have been super fun and kind throughout rehearsals. Kyara thanks her friends and family for their support. Enjoy the show!!

Brock is a High School Senior who’s been into theater all his life. From starring in elementary school plays to being a high school thespian, Brock has been very theater involved. He played a role in last years production of Alice in Wonderland, playing the role of the Caterpillar. Brock is a lifelong Boy Scout, making the rank of Eagle Scout last year. He loves playing video games, listening to music, spending time with family, and collecting Funko Pops. Brock’s favorite part about the show is its family oriented nature, he hopes you enjoy it!

Riley is a sophomore and is thrilled to be in this year’s performance. She is excited to play a fun and fancy character. Riley loves taking theatre and had lots of fun in this production. She is very grateful to all her family and friends who have come to support her. However, she’s not really Russian. She hopes everyone enjoys the show!

​Noah is a freshman who has been interested in theatre for about 3 years. This will be his fourth production since then, as well as taking part of thespians and doing other small theatrical events. When he finishes school he wants to be a director and screenwriter.

Benjamin Byno is in 9th grade and is so excited to be able to be a part of troupe 7142 performing “You Can’t Take It With You”. This is his first full play production yet in the past he has participated in the thespys competition proudly representing troupe 7142. This role means a lot as this is the beginning of a lifetime of acting for Ben and an opportunity to make new friends and open new doors. In his free time Ben likes to play guitar and play games with his friends such as DND or Magic the Gathering. Ben thanks all of his family and friends for the support they have given him throughout auditions and life. Enjoy the show and thank you for your support.

Joel Cardona is a senior who loves theatre and performing on stage. He is currently part of his last big play at the school, making the experience especially meaningful to him. Theatre has helped him grow more confident and expressive, and it remains one of his biggest passions. Outside of school, he enjoys playing video games, which give him a way to relax.

Julimary is a senior excited to be a part of "You Cant Take It With You" in set/scenic design! This being her last show in high school, she plans on making the most out of it. Juli sees this as an opportunity to make new friends and grow her love for theatre, being able to both have fun and do a good job. In her free time, Juli likes to draw, play games, and spend time with her friends. She would like to thank her friends and family for supporting her and thank you for watching the show! :)

Kailey is a freshman working in set crew and construction. This is her 6th production but first in high school. Kailey looks forward to this show and future ones!

Cam loves theater and has always been so involved in the world of theater. He loves both sides of it as well back stage and on stage. He really hopes the future brings many more plays and productions. Please enjoy.

​Audrey is in her senior year. She’s passionate about all forms of storytelling; writing, art, and especially theatre! For this show, Audrey was on our tech team, as our general Dramaturg (aka the historian).

Autumn Rae is a very bubbly and out going person in 12th grade. She greatly enjoys theatre and is very greatful for the roll of such an important part to the story, especially such a fun character. She enjoys singing, acting, piano, art, horror movies, and her friends and family greatly. She will greatly miss all of her friends and teachers but is excited to leave this last impression on her school with such whimsy. :)

Ryleigh is a freshman who is so excited to be able to be front of house for this production! She loves doing theatre and has been very passionate about it since second grade. This is her first year doing crew and she’s very happy and grateful for this opportunity. She’s made so many friends and has had so much fun working with her peers.

Esteban is an online student with a strong passion for theater and the general theatrical arts! Performing as Jekkyl and Hyde as well as Frankenstein's monster in the October showcase, he also has a deep interest in the technical side of theater. His contributions include props, set construction, spotlight usage, and male understudy! Along with in person theater, Esteban also commonly practices voice acting online, earning a knowledge of audio management in order to make the most of his mic setup. He is very excited to help put together this performance and hopes that everyone enjoys!

Zoey is a freshman, born and raised in florida. She started theatre in 7th grade and ever since has had a passion for it. Her love for theatre has grown since coming into highschool. During her first show in highschool, she was the choreographer. One of her favorite roles was playing sour kangaroo in suessical the musical. Zoey has made many friends through theatre and wants to thank all of her fellow cast members, and previous ones too, for sticking with her! She has grown so much the past 3 years and its so excited to grow even more.

Talia is a junior initially from Happy Valley, Oregon. Talia joined both Theater and Drama Club in 11th grade, alongside joining the "Boo-Roadway Bulls Spooktacular Cabaret" and "You Can't Take It With You" productions respectively. Talia loves helping out with the sound and anything else that may need assistance on making the productions.

Graham is currently a 16 year old junior, he is in theatre 3 honors. This is his first time being in a play in high school. He loves theatre and wants to be an actor as his profession. He currently is averaging A’s and B’s as his grades, he plans to go to Pasco Hernando State College get his AA degree, after that he plans to go to acting school.

​Londyn is in 9th grade and is excited to start her theatre journey. This role in set and scenic design means a lot to her because she gets to be involved in theatre and be with her friends. Londyn is from Indiana, and since moving to Florida, she has made a lot of friends and met other awesome people. In her free time, she enjoys playing games, watching movies, and spending time with loved ones. She thanks everybody involved and hopes you enjoy the show!

Jacob is a junior and is very happy that he gets to be in this play! He has had his fair share of acting and he really likes to just have fun with things. He has previously played as Humpty Dumpty from Alice in wonderland, and he sang hellfire from hunchback of Notre Dame for a booroadway spectacular cabaret! He loves his best friend Milo who has helped him a lot with everything. He also loves his cats who are always ready for snuggles!

Kaylee is an 11th grader who is so excited to be a part of this production, helping out in any way she can. She is the friendly face you see when you're walking in, so make sure to say hi! Kaylee enjoys line dancing, hanging out with friends, playing volleyball, and baking in her free time. Kaylee wants to thank her parents for always supporting her and being with her every step of the way!

Nailah is in her Senior year and working on her final show of the year. She is excited to be helping backstage as a stagehand and helping set up and strike the scenes. Nailah is truly grateful for the opportunity theatre has given her to be involved in a community and to work with other techies for all four years of highschool.

Gauge is just a regular guy who is very determined to become the best actor he can possibly be. Gauge happens to be a weirdo and a bit emo, but also an extrovert so he's kind of one big contradictory character who hasn't really figured out who he is completely. Stay tuned to find out the ending of the Glamorous Gauge!

Amarah Lowe is a senior at Wiregrass Ranch High School who has been a stagehand in the play for the past 4 years. She enjoys being involved in theatre productions and has enjoyed doing her part backstage each year. She helps moves props during various of productions like Alice in Wonderland, Once Upon a Mattress, Crazy 8s, and more.

Karina is in the 9th grade with a strong love for theatre and putting on productions. She is new to the acting side of theatre this year and has loved to expand her love for the stage through a new form. In middle school, Karina was always offstage either greeting the audience or, stage managing! Regardless of her role or technical position, she enjoys making new friends and trying new opportunities to bring her passion of fine arts to life. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!

Lilli Marshall is a Junior in highschool and the lighting operator for this production. She found her love of lightning through the theatre program in her sophomore year and has continued it since. Lilli is very happy to help out with any aspects of the production like the set and props and has a fun time learning about other aspects of making a show. Shes also had fun making new friends in this production and meeting so many new people. Shes also enjoyed watching new shows and reading new things while working on the production with her friends like Homestuck.

James is in 12th grade and is so excited to be a part of this production. They have had so much fun rehearsing in order to give you all a wonderful show. They have been in theater for 5 years and have played King Sextimus in the musical Once Upon A Mattress and the King of Hearts in the musical Dorothy In Wonderland. Although James loves theatre, they are coming from running cross country where he recently ran at the State level in Tallahassee, Fl. James would like to thank his friends and especially his family for always supporting him in all he does. Now from The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes “Enjoy the Show.”

Gorgi has been in many plays before, such as Fairytale Law and Order, Little Women: Then and Now, and they have two dogs. They loves to do Theater . It’s one thing that has helped me through school for a while. It would make their day if you would come & see this amazing production.

Maria Mesquita is a junior. Born in Brazil and lived her whole childhood there. In 2023, she moved with her family to the United States when she was a freshman. She got involved with theater and as of now, she has 2 years of being part of the tech people in the theater’s plays. This year Maria chose to be in publicly and open door, where she sees herself more drawn to.

Zuly is a freshman who loves theatre and is very passionate about it. She’s been doing theatre for about nine years of her life. One of her favorite roles that she’s had the honor of playing was, marcy parks in 25th annual putnam county spelling bee. She’s very grateful to be part of the costume and makeup crew. She’s made so many great friends and is so very honored and grateful for this opportunity.

Diana is a sophomore and has loved every minute of being in theatre. This year she came out of her shell in the role of Debbie Addams. Working on this schools last 2 productions showed Diana how amazing it is to be a part of such an an accepting community. Diana has always loved performing arts and using her voice to express herself, she was in choir for 7 years and cherished every minute of it. The connections she’s made will last a lifetime, because she can be herself around them without being judged, write, and sing her heart out.

Stella is a freshman who is new to public school. They are part of the set design crew! This is the second play they have done. Theater is something Stella really enjoys! Stella has a passion for marine biology, especially sharks! They swam with sharks for their 14th birthday!! They also like to draw. Stella really enjoys things like The Life Series, Hermitcraft, and Vampires smp!! They have a younger sister who does gymnastics! The Crane Wives is Stella's favorite music artist! They have been to one of their concerts. Stella hopes you enjoy the set they have put all of their heart into!!! <3

Raksmey Pond is a senior. She have been working in theatre for all 4 years of my high-school career. For this play, she is working backstage as tech! She so excited, and loves love watching the hard work and effort transform into magical entertainment during the show!

Aryen is a senior and this is his first theatre production ever. He has enjoyed spending time with his friends and girlfriend participating in the play. Aryen would like to thank everyone for being nice and supportive.

Alana is very happy to be involved in this play. Alana has done theater for three years being involved in a couple of productions at WRHS including the Cabaret this year and the musical revue last year also being a part of the last year's Improv troupe. And hoping to be apart of more along the way!

​Robert is in the 11th grade and is very excited to be in his third production. He plays an agent who does not like the like fireworks and is one of the bad guys. This is hi’s second time working with props and first time on set construction. He also loves the theater program and wants to continue it in his senior year. He is very excited to be on stage playing the role of a bad guy character.

​Jin is a junior only having theatre experience in a small school in a military base in South Korea as an actor. They've taken on a role as a costumer on the production as they have a small hobby in sewing and wanted to branch out of acting and into tech. Being in a bigger theatre program has helped them get more first hand experience on larger productions with a wonderful cast and crew. They hope to pursue theatre in the future as a career in either costuming or acting as their passion for theatre grows with every show they take part in.

Talia is a senior who is about to partake in her last ever high school show. She has been apart of theatre for 5 years and it has taught her so much. Lastly, she wants to thank her family for always supporting her and her best friends Genevieve and Jackson for partaking in this journey with her.

Genevieve is a senior who is so excited for their final high school production. They have been in a theater program for seven years now. Every year Genevieve has learned something new about this community and is grateful for everyone that has been there along the way. Genevieve would love to thank their grandmother and mother for the continuous support. Genevieve is also appreciative of Talia and Jackson for joining them through their theater experiences.

Cinar is a freshman and works front of house for this production, aka the hero making sure you get in, get your ticket, and don’t trip over your own feet (seriously watch out guys, dont trip and fall!!! We need you:D). When he’s not answering “Where’s the bathroom?” for the millionth time, he’s hanging out with his friends, playing violin and piano like a legend, and making his outfits and hair more extra than a spotlight on opening night. Fun fact: guess what… chicken butt. Big thanks to the cast, crew, and anyone who survived being greeted by him at the door. Enjoy the show! #FRONTOFHOUSELIFE

​Alessandra has been working in plays with costumes for two years makeup and hair for three years, she has been improving her skills with SFX and costume designing throughout these three years. She is excited to be the lead for hair, makeup, and costumes for this play and can’t wait for the next step in growing as an artist and stylist.

Isaac Wilson recently moved from San Francisco, California and was really excited to join the drama club this year. This is his first role in Florida, but he has done two other roles in California. Isaac loves to read and spend time with his two younger brothers Micah and Caleb. He also likes baking with his mom and playing video games with his dad.

Stephanie Duchesne is an ASL teacher at WRHS and the founder of the school’s ASL program, which she established nine years ago. Under her leadership, the program has continued to grow and flourish each year. Before becoming a teacher, Mrs. Duchesne worked as both a freelance and district interpreter, bringing valuable real‑world experience to her classroom. She is deeply committed to helping students develop their ASL skills and appreciation for Deaf culture. Mrs. Duchesne is incredibly proud of her students and their dedication, especially the hard work and teamwork they pour into the annual play.

Ms. Marquez is an American Sign Language teacher at Wiregrass Ranch High School, where she has taught ASL 1 and ASL 2 for two years. She is committed to creating an engaging, inclusive classroom that builds students’ confidence in their signing skills and deepens their understanding of Deaf culture. With over ten years of experience in theatrical interpreting, Ms. Marquez is passionate about the expressive, creative side of ASL and integrates performance-based techniques into her teaching. She enjoys sharing her love of visual storytelling with students, inspiring them to explore ASL as both a language and an art form.

 

This is Natalie’s fourth, and final, year doing theater at Wiregrass Ranch. This time she has chosen to be under a different spotlight. She would like to thank God for giving her the opportunity to get this far is her ASL journey and to be sharing the stage with her friends and brother! A standing ovation For Nathaniel Acosta and James Maughan! She was so grateful she was able to experience this, after all “If you walk the footsteps of a stranger, you’ll learn things you never knew you never knew.”

After spending the last few years behind stage, Elena’s changing her scene and taking up the role as an interprete for this year’s play. From San Diego California, she’s lived in the state of Florida for the past 4 years, and is finishing her senior year strong. She couldn't be more excited to sign for this show, and it fills her with a sense of eustress. She’s making sure to give a big thank you to all her ASL instructors and Ms. Sheppard for giving her this amazing opportunity.

Matilda is in year 11 and this is her first time interpreting. She wants to become an ASL interpreter and focus on interpreting for courts/law enforcement. She normally works as a stagehand backstage but is excited to step into the spotlight in her own way. She wants to thank her parents for their continued support, her friends for running lines with her 24/7, as well as Ms. Marquez for help with prep. Most of all she wants to thank Mrs.Duchesne, her ASL teacher, who has supported her and given countless much needed pep talks throughout this process.

Vienna is a senior and has spent the past 4 years learning American Sign Language. With experience interpreting for last year’s musical revue, Vienna is excited to interpret Penny in this year’s theater production. Outside of ASL, Vienna is also a very passionate musician in the school’s band program. Vienna would like to thank family, friends, and Keira Leigh Brown for all the support in learning ASL and how to interpret.

Sara is a senior in her 4th year of the ASL program at WRHS. This is her first time interpreting for a production and definitely not the last! Sara has experience being on-stage in theatre productions, but she is thrilled to still be apart of this space with off-stage participation through interpreting. Alongside a dedication in ASL, Sara plays on the Wiregrass lacrosse team and is serving as the senior class president. Graduation is sneaking up quickly and Sara aspires to obtain her bachelor's degree from Spelman College in Georgia to further her education. She hopes you enjoy the show!

Patrick is a senior this year and is excited to be apart of such a great group. This is his first time interpreting the school play and couldn’t be more excited. Patrick would like to thank Mrs. Duchesne and Mrs Marquez for helping him with interpreting and giving him the opportunity to be here tonight!

Jackson is thrilled to be the student ASL interpreter for Grandpa in You Can't Take It With You. He has been acting since 6th grade and has taken ASL his whole high school career. Last year, he had the opportunity to interpret and perform for the Broadway Bulls Seasons of Love revue. Jackson is eager to pursue ASL interpreting in college and would like to thank his teachers Mrs. Duchesne, Ms. Marquez, and Miss Sheppard for giving him all possible opportunities to shine. He also wants to give special thanks to his mom for supporting him no matter what!

Gabriel is a 12th grader in ASL 4 and is very excited to be a part of the WRHS interpreting team for a second year! He had so much fun last year, and has had a blast interpreting this year, too. In his free time, Gabriel enjoys making and listening to music, as well as doing ASL renditions of songs (that’s his shower karaoke). Additionally, Gabriel plans to obtain a Bachelor’s in American Sign Language Interpreting from the University of South Florida.

​Manuella is a junior in High School and has a passion for theater. She was born and raised in Brazil until she was 13, speaking Portuguese, English, Spanish, and ASL. Besides theater, Manu loves to read romantasy books, watch movies, bake for friends and family, take photos, and write creatively. She is also an editor for her school's yearbook team. She hopes to do something either related to International Relations or Journalism in college, though Film Production will always have a place in her heart. Manu wishes everybody to enjoy the magic of theater through this production.

​Shreeya Patel is a senior at Wiregrass Ranch High School and is excited to interpret two characters in this production. She is currently in ASL 4, and this is her first time interpreting for a school play. Shreeya has dedicated countless hours to practicing for this role. She is also a member of the Wiregrass Ranch Mixed Choir and sells smoothies outside of school. Shreeya has enjoyed meeting many talented individuals in the theater program and would like to thank Mrs. Duchesne for pushing her to her limits and giving her this opportunity. She hopes you enjoy the show!

His name is Yeniel Suarez-Rosario, originally taking American Sign Language to broaden his career opportunities, He found it growing into a passion. Now in American Sign Language 4, he is excited to have the opportunity to interpret the play alongside his classmates

Katie, a senior and ASL interpreter, is loving her first experience interpreting a live production with her friends! Her passion for helping people and theater inspired her to join this show. When she’s not interpreting, she can usually be found reading too many books, running almost entirely on coffee, or working long hours as a swim instructor. She’s thrilled to be part of this production and grateful for the memories it has brought, and she promises to keep it expressive, or at least entertaining.