Out of the Box: An evening of story and song Cast

Anna Macke appeared with afO most recently as a cast member in "Longing for the Light". She made her afO debut playing the title role in "My Name is Ruth" (2020). Anna has performed with groups from Concordia Lutheran High School, Taylor University, Emmanuel Community Church, and En Croix Ballet. Her favorite roles include Nellie Forbush in "South Pacific", and Meg in "Little Women". When she is not on stage, Anna enjoys the role of being a mom to her two kids, as well as a teacher of art and literature to a wonderful group of homeschool students. May God be glorified!

David made his afO debut in December 2023's "Longing for the Light". He studied voice for 12 years, and has been a featured soloist for the Fort Wayne Philharmonic, Huntington University, Heartland Sings, Civic Theater, First Pres, Summit City Music Theater, and SeaWorld-San Antonio. In addition to singing and acting, he works as a graphics operator for Micropulse, Inc. and enjoys being a visual artist for his own studio. He thanks his loved ones for believing in the mission of bringing art to the community with enthusiasm, determination, passion, and dedication. Shalom, and Hallelujah

Lauren is a founding member of afO (along with her husband Dennis) and has served as artistic director since 2007. She has acted (I Remember Mama, Tilly, The Secret Garden, etc), written numerous scripts (Sentimental Journey, Redemption of Ruth, Jane Eyre, etc.), composed incidental music for many productions, and directed 49 of our Main Stage productions. Lauren and Dennis have two adult sons and two beautiful granddaughters, the elder of whom they have the privilege of raising. Enjoy the show…and please join us for Winnie-the-Pooh in April!

Dennis appeared in "An Ideal Husband" with afO back in 2019, and also had a major role in one of the staged readings we presented that summer as part of our inaugural Fresh Finds project. Dennis was born and raised in Huntertown. He is the tenth of twelve children, and the father of two. He was a member of St. Vincent de Paul Children's Choir from fifth to eighth grade and performed with Carroll High School's Show Choir and in their musicals. Much of his inspiration comes from his children, who have always told him, "Do it, Dad!"

Naomi is excited to have this opportunity to participate in the beautiful the story of Ruth and get her creative juices flowing again. It's been a minute since she's been on the stage as life with three busy kids keeps her active! Some of her past and favorite performances include "Sense & Sensibility" and "A Christmas Carol" (all for One), "It's A Wonderful Life" and "Misalliance" (First Presbyterian Theatre), "The Man Who Came to Dinner" (University of St. Francis), and "Cinderella" (The Civic Theatre). Enjoy the show!

Jeff is ecstatic for his afO return! Long-time attendees may remember him as Mr. Knightley in "Emma" (2012), Martin Luther in "A Mighty Fortress" (2013), C.S. Lewis in "Freud's Last Session" (2016), and many other roles. He was a lighting designer, director, and Technical Director for many years with afO. He graduated from Bethel University (B.A. in Theatre) and spent over 10 years in the professional theaters in the Midwest, as well as many theaters here in Fort Wayne. Most recently he ran the fine arts building at his alma mater before deciding to return home to Fort Wayne.

Stacey has been seen frequently on afO’s stage since she started acting with them in 2012. Favorite roles include the unforgettable blond Janet in "The Charitable Sisterhood…", Mrs. Weston in "Emma", multiple roles in "The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane", and Mole in "The Wind in the Willows". Stacey’s life is full as the executive director of afO, a position she has held since 2018, and the assistant treasurer at Deer Ridge Elementary School. She and husband Brent have two adult children, Rachael (who is getting married in August!) and Jonathan.