Amy is thrilled to step into the spotlight as Maria for her inaugural theatrical role, marking a significant shift from her behind-the-scenes work with Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Entertainment Production. Amy sang professionally across Orlando before eventually moving to Mount Juliet. Amy is excited for the opportunity to share the stage with her daughter Lucy.

Zach has loved theater and live performances since he was a kid, watching his mom on stage and his sister at countless dance performances. He didn’t step into the theater world himself until last year, but he's always been passionate about singing, dancing, and acting. Getting to bring all three together is such a thrill! Zach is incredibly grateful for the chance to play Captain Von Trapp and grow in his craft!

Xandria Cross (Baroness Elsa Schraeder) has worked in TV, film, theater, and as a music artist. Credits include White Christmas, Anastasia (Audience of One Productions), Into the Woods, The Little Mermaid (The Palace Players), Fiddler on the Roof, Footloose (The WordPlayers), The Horse and His Boy (The Logos Theatre) and Oliver! (Maryville College). In addition, she is passionate about storytelling through dance and choreography and is writing several original musicals which she hopes to produce. She is so grateful to Bethany and Sarah for welcoming her into the Stage Local family and allowing her to explore one of her dream roles! All Glory to God the creator of creativity! @xandriacross

Josiah Winston is thankful to be performing with Stage Local for The Sound Of Music! His most recent credits include Bob Wallace (White Christmas) and Hermes (Hadestown: Teen Edition) He has spent his time learning Performing Arts at Tennessee Governor’s School For The Arts as well as learning Acting For The Camera at The 4th Wall Acting Studio.

Rylee Taylor is a student at Belmont University studying Elementary Ed. and Music for classical voice. She feels so blessed to play Liesl alongside this wonderful cast. Some past roles include: Sophie in Mamma Mia, Paulette in Legally Blonde, Mrs. Banks in Mary Poppins. She would like to thank Bethany and Sarah for this opportunity, along with her family for their constant support. Enjoy the show!

Takiah Ledo (Liesl), also known as T-CAT, is thrilled to bring her dream role of Liesl to life in Stage Local Lebanon Theatre Company’s production of The Sound of Music!! A proud Nashville native, she is represented by Talent Trek Agency for TV and film acting. Takiah has been studying voice, acting, and singing in choir since the age of 8.  Some of her notable credits include Annie (Annie), Cats (Jemima), You Can’t Take It With You (Essie Carmichael), Once Upon a Mattress (Jester), Seussical (Jojo), The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Leaf Coneybear), Nunsense (Sister Mary Leo), Footloose (Rusty), and Little Women: The Musical (Jo March). Takiah holds an Associate Of Arts degree in Music from Cumberland University and, as of December 2024, became Cumberland’s first graduate of their Bachelor of Music in Musical Theatre degree.

Above all, she aspires to inspire others by sharing her love for performing—all for the glory of God. Takiah extends her heartfelt thanks to her family, friends, mentors, professors, and her previous vocal coaches for their guidance and support throughout her performing journey. She also expresses gratitude to Stage Local Lebanon’s incredible production team and to the entire cast for their encouragement and teamwork. 

Follow Takiah Ledo (T-CAT) on Instagram @tcatofficial, and visit tcatperformspro.com for updates on her upcoming shows and performances!

Landen is 19 years old and started acting at 15 with Marshmelodrama Productions. He found Stage Local this past fall and fell in love with it immediately. This is Landon's 5th play, and he absolutely loves playing Rolf! Landon says, "Everyone in this cast has done a tremendous job, and I love each and every one of them! I'm so grateful that God put them in my path. I try to always keep Jesus first in every aspect of my life, and always remember, Keep Jesus Center Stage."

Olivia is a sophomore at Wilson Central High School. She is so excited to play Louisa in this production of The Sound of Music! She has been on the stage her whole life and trains at Dynamic Performing Arts and Ballroom. Some previous roles include Kathy Seldon in Singing in the Rain, Gretchen in Mean Girls Jr., Erica in Matilda, and Louisa in Sound of Music.

Violet Hughes is so excited to be appearing as Louisa! This is Violet's first ever community theatre experience and she is so glad that it is with Stage Local! She is freshman at MJHS. You may have seen her as Winnifred in the WWMS production of Once Upon A Mattress, young Leanne in Puffs (WWMS), Lady of the Court in SIX (MJHS) and most recently a Hot Box Chick in Guys and Dolls (MJHS). Her favorite characters sing, dance, and make people laugh! She has already learned so much from Bethany and Sarah and is excited to continue in the upcoming seasons. Extra love to her family, friends, and CHSM fam! Thanks for coming to the show!

James Still is a 14 year boy from Lebanon, TN. He is a very passionate young man. He is a Boy Scout with Troop434 from the First Presbyterian Church in Lebanon, TN. He is currently working on his Eagle project. He has been participating in theater at school since 2023. He has been in 4 plays at Walter J Baird Middle School and 1 at Water's Edge Church in Watertown, TN. He also has his own You tube channel that he and a few friends write scripts for and voice acts for characters in his videos. He is thrilled to be in this production of Sound of Music. He hopes to continue to work with Stage Local in future performances.

Beckett Kolbe, age 11, is excited to be joining the Von Trapp family as Kurt! He is a 5th grader at Byars Dowdy Elementary. His previous experience includes playing the Dormouse, in Centerstage’s production of Alice in Wonderland, several productions with Immanuel Baptist Church, Byars Dowdy Choir, Wilson County Honor Choir & Christmas on the Square with Stage Local. When he’s not on the stage, Beckett can be found on the baseball field, basketball court, football field or wrestling mat or playing Fortnite and VR with his friends. A special thanks to my family & friends for supporting me & to my Mom & Dad for letting me chase my dreams.

Zoey is a 12-year-old performer who began her theater journey at the age of 8. She has brought a variety of characters to life, including a spoon in Beauty and the Beast,a zebra in The Lion King, and Gladys in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Outside oftheater, Zoey loves singing in choir and at church. She enjoys spending time with her pets, family, and friends.

Lydia Kirby got her first taste of life on the stage starting at 3 years old when performing with Ballet Adora for both spring and summer recitals. At 6 years old, she transitioned to her first theatre performance as a sea turtle, fish friend, jellyfish and seagull with Dynamic Ballroom and Performing Art’s production of Finding Nemo Jr. last summer. This year, she joined the cast of Deck the Halls with CenterStage Performing Arts in Gallatin as a sugar cookie/dancer as well as having one vocal solo. Immediately prior to Sound of Music, she played a Narnian/Wood Nymph in the Chronicles of Narnia production also with CenterStage Performing Arts. Now in second grade at West Elementary, she feels so blessed and so excited to be bringing the role of Brigitta alive for Stage Local’s debut production of Sound of Music!

Lucy Nichols, a second grader at Gladeville Elementary, is a seasoned performer who’s passion for the arts began at age 3 when she started piano lessons, her dedication to dance at Diamond Academy of Dance in Mount Juliet since 2021, and for the past two years, on the theatrical  stage with standout roles including "Young Kangaroo" in Seussical, Jr, "Gracie Shin" in Music Man Jr, and "Marie" in Aristocats, Jr at Williamson County Parks and Recreation. Now, Lucy steps into the role of "Marta Von Trapp" alongside her mother, Amy, who portrays "Maria”. When she's not centerstage, Lucy enjoys playing with her neighborhood friends, writing her own plays, and experimenting with her culinary skills in her easy-bake-oven. 

Audrey is a second grader at Mt. Juliet Elementary. She is thrilled to be making her stage debut in this production! Outside of theatre, her hobbies include reading and all things Disney! She would like to thank Bethany and Sarah for giving her this opportunity, and also her family and teachers for their support.

Kate is thrilled to be a part of Stage Local’s debut production! She recently jumped back onto the stage after a 10-year hiatus to join Audience of One’s production of the Little Mermaid (Mersister), followed by Anastasia, and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Dorcas). She is beyond excited to continue to pursue her passion to bring the very judgmental nun, Sister Berthe, to life. Kate thanks her husband and family for their unending support and encouragement

Victoria is a 40-year-old wife and mother of four. She began musical theater in her 30s, performing in ensembles for Annie, Mary Poppins, and A Christmas Carol. Her notable roles include Sister Sophia in The Sound of Music, Mrs. Wormwood in Matilda, and Jack’s Mother in Into the Woods. She directed The Best Christmas Pageant Ever and understudied Golde in Fiddler on the Roof.

Elizabeth Nalley Irvin is a Singer, Actress, Public Speaker, Sports Mom, and Dreamer. Elizabeth is excited to be making her first theatrical debut in Tennessee as Sister Sophia. A few of her favorite roles have been as “Mary Poppins” in Mary Poppins and “Belle” in Beauty and the Beast, and a featured extra in a “A Week Away” on Netflix. A huge thank you to her kids, Olivia and Bo for encouraging her to jump back on stage and audition for Sound of Music! I Love you both!! 

Frau Schmidt is being performed by Dianna Stephens, who is returning to theater forthis production. She is living proof that it is never too late to return to your creative rootsfor pleasure. Dianna spent her earlier years performing as a jazz saxophone player, playingpiano and continues her love of singing by hosting old fashion gospel singings withfriends and family. You canfind “the Gatherer in Wilder” on the hundred-acre farm she shares with her husband onthe Cumberland Plateau. No reservations are required for Saturday Night Supper!

Justin is thrilled to be playing Franz in our wonderful production of "The Sound of Music." He works in accounting and is fairly new to the Lebanon area. He has always loved the theater, however doesn't have a lot of prior theater experience, other than a small role in Annie Jr. during high school. Enjoy the show!

Josh Crabtree is thrilled to be onstage again and working with Stage Local’s Sound of Music. He has previously worked with Audience of One productions, including several roles such as Lurch in The Addams Family, Sergei in Matilda, and as a featured ensemble in Fiddler on the Roof. He is a proud graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design with a BFA in Dramatic Writing. Josh wishes to thank his Mom, Dad, and sister, Ava for their love and support all these years.

Isaac is a native of Lebanon and a graduate of Lebanon High School and Tennessee Tech. He currently works as a Data Analyst for Wilson Bank & Trust. His first production since high school, he is thrilled to be part of this amazing show. Some of his “favorite things” include exercising, playing saxophone, and serving in church.

Whether on or off stage, Lily has been involved in numerous theatre productions since she was 12. Lily continues to grow her passion for performance and intends to pursue a degree in Theatre Education at Trevecca Nazarene University in the coming years. Sound of Music has been such a sweet, exciting experience. Lily feels beyond blessed to be a part of Stage Local's first ever production!

Chad is excited to return to the stage after a long hiatus from acting! Though it's been a while (since 1997), Chad is thrilled to be part of this wonderful community production. With a deep passion for the arts and a love for live theater, this is a fun and exciting experience to share with the audience. Chad would like to thank the cast, crew, and volunteers for their support and dedication. Enjoy the show!

Isabella is making her community theatre debut in The Sound of Music with Stage Local Productions. She is so excited to have the opportunity to work with so many new people, and she is so amazed by all the hard work the production team has put into this show. She would like to thank her friends and family for supporting her in all her theatre endeavors, and pushing her to go outside her comfort zone and purse community theatre.

Reagan is so excited to be a part of The Sound of Music! This will be her first community theatre show in two years! She feels honored to be apart of Stage Local’s inaugural production and can’t wait for everyone to see the show and love The Sound of Music just as much as she does!

Gabi is a Nashville based actress thrilled to be a part of Stage Local’s inaugural show as her Tennessee theatre debut. She graduated with a BA in Theatre and Drama from Belmont University in 2023, and she’s especially proud of her work as Dramaturg for the US premiere of The Welkin at Nashville Story Garden. Much love to Mom and Dad, Raquel, and the Sid Gold’s family. 

Emma is a 17 year old junior at Green Hill High School and has been involved in musical theater since the age of 8. She looks forward to majoring in musical theatre (graduating with a BFA) in college. She has been in several productions including Jams and the Giant Peach, and The Struggles. Emma is so happy to be a part of Stage Local and looks forward to many shows ahead!

Kai’a Chaffin is a Junior at Cumberland University getting her Bachelors in Musical Theater. She has had the honor of being in the theater department at CU for the past three years with her favorite role being Marcy Parks in The 25th Annual Putnum County Spelling Bee. She will be continuing her studies in the fall while also participating in her role at the Disney College Program. Kai’a has enjoyed making lots of friends and bettering existing friendships that she hopes will last for many more years to come as she continues with Stage Local!

Cayla Kolbe is thrilled to be dusting off her acting shoes, for her first show since college! Getting to share the stage with her son, Beckett, has been such a special experience. Thank you to Bethany & Sarah for breathing new life into a past passion of mine. Special thanks to my husband, Wes, for supporting my love for the arts & holding down the fort at home, while Beckett and I have been ‘Climbing Every Mountain’.

Jordan is so excited and blessed to be apart of the Sound of Music cast. He mainly does work in the field of stand up and improv comedy, but is no strange to musical theater. He wrote, produced, and played a role in a half hour musical about a modern day depiction of the Book of Esther based in a corrupt music industry environment. He is so grateful for friends, family, and supporters who have encouraged him to walk deeper into his creative expressions and is looking forward to more opportunities to do just that. He loves to laugh and have fun, and also bring wisdom and encouragement to those around him. A testament to his favorite quote, “To Err is human, to Skrr is Hip-Hop… but to Brrr is hypothermia.”

DIRECTOR

Bethany Harrison is the co-owner and Executive Director of Stage Local. She is a classically trained soprano, having studied voice for over 18 years. She is also an actress, and locally has appeared in roles such as Rapunzel in “Into the Woods” (Audience of One) among others. Bethany believes the arts are a fundamental component to a thriving community and believes Stage Local has the potential to offer residents quality, enriching arts programming. She is a lifelong resident of Wilson County and is passionate about bringing the community together through “The Sound of Music”!

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR/ PRODUCER

Sarah Collins is the proud co-founder of Stage Local! Sarah is the owner of Poppie’s Boutique in downtown Lebanon, with another location in downtown Cookeville. She also runs a ministry, Good Grace Club, where she co-hosts a bi-weekly podcast. Sarah has always been heavily involved in theatre and the arts and is a trained musician and worship leader. Sarah is convinced that theatre and the arts are a God-given gift that can bring so much joy to our hearts, neighbors, and friends and is passionate about sharing that gift with others!

MUSIC DIRECTOR

Madison Gunn is an actress, director, and vocal coach based out of Nashville, TN. She is a graduate of Trevecca with degrees in Dramatic Arts and Music. Madison works at Dynamic Ballroom and Performing Arts where she teaches private voice lessons and writes and directs musical theatre camps. Some music director credits include Wizard of Oz, Xanadu Jr and She Loves Me (AMD). She is so honored to be a part  Stage Local’s inaugural show! 

CHOREOGRAPHER

Kayla Hill is currently a junior Elementary and Special Education major with a dance minor at Lipscomb University, where she is also a third year member of the dance company. 

Kayla’s passion lies with dance, along with any aspect of the fine arts. Over the past eighteen years, Kayla trained in eleven different styles of dance, but tap and hip hop will always hold a special place in her heart. She has also been highly active in the competition and performance company world. Kayla believes the stories told through dance can change hearts and lives. She is unbelievably excited and honored to share the gift of dance with this cast!

CHOREOGRAPHER

At just 16 years old, Ava Baker has become a standout talent in the local community theatre scene. She began her performance journey as a competitive dancer, and at the age of 7, she took the stage in her first Broadway musical. Since then, Ava has starred in over 20 community theatre productions, portraying roles such as Annie in Annie, Nala in The Lion King, Jr., Brigitta in The Sound of Music, and Penny Lou Pingleton in Hairspray. Additionally, she served as the choreographer for Newsies, Jr., The Music Man, Jr., and The Lion King, Jr. at Historic Capitol Theatre in Lebanon, TN. A sophomore at Wilson Central High School, Ava is also a proud member of the Wilson Central Dance Team. She is thrilled to join the creative team at Stage Local Lebanon and looks forward to the exciting opportunities this new company will bring to the community.

CUMBERLAND UNIVERSITY LIASON

Jenny Ballard is an Assistant Professor of Theatre at Cumberland University in Lebanon, TN.  Until very recently, she lived in Baton Rouge, where she served as Managing Artistic Director of Theatre Baton Rouge, and as an Adjunct Professor in the Theatre Department at Louisiana State University.  She received her B.A. in English and Theatre from the University of TN, and her M.F.A. in Theatre Performance from LSU.  She has been acting and directing professionally forover 23 years.  She is a proud member of SAG-AFTRA, and been seen in American Horror Story: Coven, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, Cover Me, NCIS: New Orleans, The First, Keanu, and most recently in Apple TV+’s Black Bird.  Favorite theatrical acting credits include Proof, The Taming of the Shrew, Pride and Prejudice, Twelfth Night, All the King’s Men, King Lear, A Few Good Men, The Crucible, and Clue; favorite directing credits include Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Disney’s Newsies, Rock of Ages, Peter and the Starcatcher, The Drowsy Chaperone, Monty Python’s Spamalot, Baskerville: A Sherlock Homes Mystery, The Wizard of Oz, Godspell, and Little Women.

Stage Manager

Kellee is a senior and is so excited to participate in Stage Local’s first production! She is a senior at Wilson Central and most recently played Zelda in Singing in the Rain. Some of her favorite roles that she played in Wildcat Theatreinclude Agent Branton in Catch Me if You Can and Maria in Twelfth Night. She hopes everyone enjoys the show!

Assistant Stage Manager

Breckyn has been around theater since 2018 and has played various ensemble roles in shows such as Jungle Book, Descendants Jr., Mary Poppins, and The Lion King, as well as assisting in stage crew. Breckyn hopes to grow in her skills and be a blessing to all she encounters through this experience and looks forward to more opportunities in the future.