Playwright: Jessica Bedford, Kathryn MacMillan, Charlotte Northeast and Meghan Winch
Directed By:
Production Snapshot
A funny, fast-paced romp as three actors take on all of Austen’s beloved heroines, friends, and love interests – and her incisive social satire – in 90 minutes or less. But when they lose a cast member, the two remaining Janeites must teach an understudy about her work. It is a truth universally acknowledged that an audience in possession of high spirits will enjoy this big-hearted comedy that will delight Austen fans and newcomers alike.
all production photos by Jan Cartwright.
Cast
Lisa Michaels
Jessica
Lisa Michaels (Jessica) is ecstatic to be back at Open Book Theatre Company in this fabulous show! She made her OBTC debut in last season’s production of “Artemisia” in the (older version of the) title role. Most recently, Lisa was seen playing Meg in “Crimes of the Heart” at Inspired Acting Company, and will be understudying Captain Hastings this spring in The Purple Rose Theatre Company’s production of “Murder on the Links.” Lisa wishes to thank the incredible creatives who have poured their time and talents into this production, along with her family and friends for their unwavering love and support. TU-VFV-AOK
Kryssy Becker-Krenitsky
Charlotte
Kryssy Becker-Krenitsky (Charlotte) is so happy to be back at Open Book Theatre! She was previously seen at OBTC as Rhonda in “This Random World,” and is no stranger to the Jane Austen universe, having played Lizzie Darcy in two of the “Christmas at Pemberly” plays. Kryssy has also performed at Tipping Point Theatre, The Ringwald Theatre, Stagecrafters, and wrote and performed her own cabaret, “Horrible/Wonderful.” A recent downriver resident, Kryssy thanks her husband, Justin, for holding down the fort at home with our little future Austen fan, Olivia, so Mama could return to the stage!
Jeffrey
Miller
Jeffrey Miller (Trevor) is thrilled to be returning to Open Book after previously appearing in “Artemisia” (Francesco) and the Wilde Award winning “39 Steps” (Hannay). He was most recently seen in “The Woman In Black” (Kipps) at Penny Seats Theatre. He also appeared at The Ringwald, Theatre Nova, and Puzzle Piece Theatre, and on various other stages in Southeast MI. Many thanks to Lisa, Kryssy, Hannah, Krista, Harley and the rest of the outstanding OBTC crew for this outstanding opportunity. Also, as always, much love and gratitude to my family and friends for their unending support and encouragement. Enjoy the show!
Crew
Hannah Niece
Director
Hannah Niece (director) has loved Jane Austen since the tender age of twelve when she first read Pride and Prejudice after falling in love with Colin Firth in the BBC miniseries. Since then, Hannah graduated from Wayne State University with a BFA in Theatre and has worked as an actor, director, and teaching artist for the last decade. Select acting credits include Mary Debenham in “Murder on the Orient Express” and Belle in “A Christmas Carol” at Meadow Brook Theatre and Lady Macbeth in “Macbeth” with UnCovered Theatre Co. Recent directing credits include “And Then There Were None” at Rochester Christian University. Hannah splits her time between creating theatre, working at Brooks Books in Wyandotte, reading novels, and spending time with her sweet husband Eric and wild and wonderful children, Daphne and Miles. She is delighted to be working with Open Book and this wonderful team to share the love of Austen with you all!
Sarah Root
Stage Manager
Amanda Bates
Scenic Designer
Amanda Bates (Scenic Designer) is a theatre artist from the Detroit area working both in technical roles and as a performer, and is happy to return to Open Book Theatre as a Scenic Designer. Previously she has worked at Open Book as a Props Designer (“Too Heavy for Your Pocket”, “The Taming”, “The Wickhams: Christmas at Pemberley”) and Scenic Painter (“Every Brilliant Thing”, “Bernhardt/ Hamlet”). Her past Scenic Design credits include “It’s Only Life” at Inspired Acting Company, “Death of A Driver” at Theatre Nova, and “Return to the Forbidden Planet” at Penny Seats Theatre. Amanda received her MA in Theatre Arts from Eastern Michigan University and is a Scenic Carpenter at Meadow Brook Theatre.
Harley Miah
Lighting Designer
Harley Miah (Lighting Designer) is a freelance artist designing and programming for theatres, nightclubs, concerts and festivals across the country with IKO Global Productions. As the resident Lighting Designer for Open Book Theatre. Harley has earned Wilde Awards for Best Design – Lights for “Red” in 2014, and “This Random World” in 2022. Harley's work can also be seen this season at Tipping Point Theatre, The Inspired Acting Company, and at The Williamston Theatre. Harley spends his spare time with his loving partner Reyna spoiling their cats, traveling, and seeing as many shows as they can in this great theatre community we have in Southeast Michigan. He hopes you do the same.
Cheryl Zemke
Costume Designer
Cheryl Zemke (Costume Designer) is a Multi Award winning Fashion Designer, Professional Artist, and Owner of C. Creations Custom Sewing & Design since 2002. Her store, Cheryl Zemke Boutique, is located at 2934 Biddle Ave. in downtown Wyandotte. Zemke’s love for fashion and history has led her to a part of the Open Book Theatre team since 2017. This will be her 20th play as a costume designer. Zemke was born and raised in southern Michigan, received a B.S.B.A. from Lawrence Technological University, and earned an Associate degree in Merchandising at the International Academy of Merchandising and Design. Contact Cheryl Zemke via her email czcreations@hotmail.com, or on Facebook or Instagram @cherylzemkeboutique.
Henry Ballesteros
Properties Designer
Henry Ballesteros (Properties Designer) is beyond excited to return to Open Book designing props for this entire season, after designing props for Ripcord and Artemisia last season. Henry is also an actor, who was most recently seen on the OBTC stage as Bellomy, and will make his Open Book directing debut with our next show, “Clue.” For my love Bryan, B, R & A.
Krista Schafer
Sound Designer, Producer
Krista Schafer (Sound Designer, Producer) is the founding Artistic Director of Open Book. She earned her degree in theatre from Northwestern University and has additional training from Arden Theatre Company, SITI company, Fringe Benefits, and Augusto Boal. Krista has performed on professional stages large and small across the country. Krista also has over 25 years of experience directing, leading drama workshops, and teaching theatre to all ages. She served as the director at Grosse Ile High School from fall 2016-spring 2019 and has directed several Grosse Ile Boar’s Head Festivals. Krista has won many Wilde Awards for her work as an actor and director. Now Begin.