Footloose Cast

Aydan Wunderlich (Ren McCormack) is a 26 year-old long time performer in Columbia theater who’s thrilled to be making another appearance on the Workshop Theatre's stage. This is his second trip to Bomont, last appearing as Ren back in 2016 in his high school’s production of Footloose. He’s extremely honored to get the rare chance at a second crack at the role almost exactly a decade after the first! He extends his sincere gratitude to the production staff for giving him this opportunity and thanks all of you for coming out and supporting this incredible cast of performers.

Hayle Barry (Ariel Moore) is thrilled to be in her first musical since 2017. She recently served as the Assistant Director for Workshop’s Guys and Dolls. She has her BFA in Acting from Coastal Carolina. She would like to thank Julian, Jordan and Katie for allowing her to be a part of this wonderful show, and Jeni, Dean, Andie, Amy, Lily, and Patrick for all their gorgeous work. Special thanks and love to her fiancé Josh. Her performance is in honor of her grandmother, Ireen, who would have loved this show (especially the red boots).

Frank Thompson (Rev. Shaw Moore) has been seen on the Workshop stage in such roles as Nathan Detroit in Guys and Dolls, Mortimer Brewster in Arsenic and Old Lace, and Odell in Sordid Lives. His other stage credits include Henry Higgins in My Fair Lady, Harold Hill in The Music Man, Billy Flynn in CHICAGO, and Lumiere in Beauty & The Beast. He is proud to serve on the Board of Chapin Theatre Company, where he recently directed Barefoot In The Park, performed in Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors, and looks forward to playing Mr. Banks in Mary Poppins this summer. Love and thanks to our amazing Footloose cast and production team for making this show such a joy!

Lisa Baker (Vi Moore) is thrilled to return to the Workshop stage and thanks Julian, Jordan, and Katie for the opportunity. A 32-year veteran music teacher and director in Lexington, Lisa recently originated the role of Nanette in the original musical The Puzzle which premiered in Spoleto, Italy last summer, and recently at Town Theatre. Favorite local credits include Grizabella (Cats, Workshop), The Witch (Into the Woods, Town), and Mrs. Fleming (Heathers: The Musical, Trustus). Much love to her family for supporting her theatrical endeavors and to the Workshop Theatre family for making her feel so at home on and off the stage!

Dara Younce (Rusty) is thrilled to be returning to the stage for her third production at Workshop Theatre. She was recently seen in two other Workshop shows as a Hot Box Girl in Guys and Dolls and as an ensemble member of The Producers. While Dara is relatively new to theatre, her love for singing and the performing arts has been lifelong. She’s excited to step into the role of Rusty and is grateful for the opportunity to be part of this vibrant community. Dara would like to extend a special thank you to her family and friends for their unwavering support—she couldn’t do it without them!

Samuel Cleveland (Willard Hewitt) is a college student at Midlands Tech. Samuel is excited to be in his first show at Workshop Theatre as Willard. He has been acting in productions like High School Musical Jr as Troy Bolton, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s: Cinderella as Prince Christopher, Disney's Descendants as Prince Ben and A Christmas Carol as Fred. At first he didn’t know if he belonged in the theatre crowd, but he found his home performing on stage with great people and great crews. He feels very lucky to be in this show and is stoked to make his character his own.

Dylan Livingston (Chuck Cranston) is a 20-year-old student at Midlands Technical College, and he is very excited to perform as Chuck Cranston. He has worked hard to bring this character to life. He would like to thank his mom for telling him to audition for this show when he was feeling discouraged, as well as his girlfriend for putting up with the haircut. He hopes you enjoy the show as much as he loved working on it. (PS. Mom - how much do I owe for the swear jar.)

Erin Niland (Wendy Jo) is having so much fun cutting loose with this amazing cast and crew! She was last seen on Workshop’s stage as Amber Von Tussle in Hairspray! Her other major credits include Grease (Marty), Beauty & the Beast (Babette), Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella (Gabrielle), The Little Mermaid (Ariel), The Importance of Being Earnest (Gwendolyn), and A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Puck). When she’s not onstage, Erin enjoys reading, painting, and traveling.

Rye Winecoff (Urleen) is very excited to be back on stage as Urleen with Workshop Theatre. They have been involved with numerous shows throughout the years with Workshop Theatre, CCT and school. Some of Rye's favorite theater experiences have been Annabeth in The Lighting Thief: Percy Jackson the Musical (PCA), Delia in Beetlejuice JR (Workshop), and costume designer for She Kills Monsters (PCA). Rye is a junior in PCA at Richland Northeast High. They are looking forward to playing Anastasia this summer in Anastasia: Youth Edition at Workshop but before that they are beyond excited for you to enjoy this production of Footloose.

Mendy Lewis (Ethel McCormack) is thrilled to make her musical theater debut in Footloose as Ethel McCormack. While this is her first musical, she has been singing for more than 30 years in a variety of settings, from worship bands and choral groups to weekend karaoke. Taking the stage in this production has been an exciting new adventure, and she is grateful for the chance to bring Ethel’s warmth, strength, and heart to life. Mendy sends heartfelt thanks to the cast and crew for making this such a wonderful first show, as well as to her husband, Andrew, and sons Wes and Riley for cheering her on as she took the leap into musical theater.

Tay Brown (Jeter) is super ecstatic to be part of this amazing production, making it his third show at Workshop Theater! Tay is a rising senior at the University of South Carolina, majoring in Music Performance in Clarinet. While outside of college, he has been in numerous productions, including here at Workshop Theater where he was Grandmaster Chad/Padamadan/Carlos in Legally Blonde. In Chapin Theater, he made his debut as Carlos (ironically) in Descendants the Musical and was featured in ensembles with both Chapin Theater and Workshop Theater! Tay would like to thank his family, friends, and the cast/crew for supporting him with this production as he’s ready to bust some moves in Footloose!

Isaiah Dickson (Bickle) is a Sophomore at USC and is ecstatic to perform as Bickle in Footloose! He has recently performed as Bob Enright (9 to 5), Bickle (Footloose), and will portray Neleus in Mary Poppins! In his free time, he enjoys hanging out with family and friends, playing video games, dancing and running. He wants to thank Workshop for putting on an amazing show and he’s so glad they gave him this opportunity to do what he loves. He hopes you all enjoy and remember to CUT FOOTLOOSE!

James Nolan (Travis) is excited to perform again at Workshop Theatre! He recently performed in Guys and Dolls as an assortment of different characters and has been in other shows including Grease and Something Rotten at Town Theatre. He is grateful for the opportunity and hopes to loosen his feet with everyone else!

Jordan Robinson (Garvin/Ensemble) This is Jordan Robinson’s first time working on a show with Workshop Theatre, and she is so glad to be dusting off her dancing shoes after taking a break from performing. She likes to spend her free time reading books, writing poetry, and spending time with her family.

Tyler Zangla (Lyle) is excited to be in his second show at Workshop Theatre. His most recent performance was as Lt. Brannigan/Ensemble for Guys and Dolls. Some of his recent performances were as Young Jacob Marley in Town Theatre’s A Christmas Carol: The Musical and as Prince Dauntless in Chapin Theatre’s Once Upon a Mattress. He may not be Kevin Bacon, but he certainly is cutting loose. Tyler also wants to thank his friends and family for being there and supporting him every step of the way. They have helped inspire him in many ways to be where and who he is now.

Will Dowd (Cowboy Bob) Saddle up! This town’s about to shake! Will is thrilled to be making his Workshop Theatre debut kicking up some trouble as Cowboy Bob. Recent credits include Paul (Kiss Me Kate), and Ensemble (School of Rock and Chicago). Will sends a heartfelt thank you to his beautiful wife Sarah and their loyal pups, Luanne and Nessie, for always being his steady home on the open road.

Ann McGaha (Eleanor Dunbar/Ensemble) is so excited to be part of Footloose the Musical! Her previous credits include Hairspray, Legally Blonde, Cats, and Guys and Dolls, all of which have helped grow her love for performing and being on stage. She is incredibly grateful to the amazing production team for their guidance and hard work in bringing this show to life. Ann would also like to thank her family and friends for their constant support, and gives a special thank you to her boyfriend, Noah, for always encouraging her and cheering her on. She hopes you enjoy the show!

Caroline Leonard (Betty Blast/Ensemble) is thrilled to be back at Workshop Theatre for Footloose, this time cutting loose as Betty Blast. She’s previously been seen at Workshop in The Producers, Hairspray, CATS, and Guys & Dolls, and still isn’t tired of hanging out here (someone should probably check on that). When she’s not onstage, Caroline enjoys perfecting her dramatic reactions, delivering well-timed one-liners, and reminding everyone that character actors have the most fun. Endless thanks to the Workshop team for the laughter and love, and to her husband, Rod, for supporting her through every rehearsal, line run, and inevitable car concert.

Harrison Ayer (Wes Warnicker/Ensemble) Footloose marks Harrison's second time on the Workshop stage (that Workshop is aware of), and he's quite excited to be the grumpy old man who doesn't dance. He's also excited to be playing the part of Wes Warnicker. He hopes you enjoy the show and make good choices.

Brandi Mimbs (Lulu Warnicker/Ensemble) (she/her) is delighted to “shake it shake it” in her fourth foray into fun with Workshop Theatre. She is an eternal mental health fanatic and an advocate for neurodivergent humans. She is so grateful to share her existence with the Best Kid Ever, three chaotic kitty kiddos, the gloriousest of human beings as a partner, and the most magical group of friends imaginable. And infinite thanks to Jeni and Workshop Theatre for consistently creating a home for my heart!

Cherelle Turner (Principal Harriet Clark/Ensemble) is delighted to return to the stage at Workshop Theatre, taking on the role of Principal Harriett Clark in Footloose. Since stepping onto this stage for the first time, she has continued to build on her strong background in vocal performance and live entertainment. With a passion for storytelling, Cherelle is thrilled to explore new dimensions of her artistry in this production. She intends to keep things in order...whether the students like it or not!

Nikki Anderson (Cop/Ensemble) knew she was meant for the stage in elementary school when she played the tiger in the yearly musical. She continued on to Columbia College where she earned her degrees in both art and music. She toured as the lead vocalist in several rock cover bands and has performed in many local shows. She was a member of the Sandlapper Singers, is currently a member of the Columbia Choral Society and is on the music staff at St. Martins in the Field. Her favorite roles include Matron Mama Morton (Chicago), The Duke (Patience), Lord Tolloller (Iolanthe), The Pirate King (Pirates of Penzance) and last, but not least, Willard's crazy mama in Footloose! When not singing, Nikki can be found painting, drawing, reading, baking or gardening.

Meghan Sonatore (Teen Ensemble/Dance Captain) is excited to be back dancing with Workshop Theatre. As a lifelong dancer, she is grateful for the opportunity to showcase her talents on stage in this fun production. As a graduate of the University of South Carolina, Meghan is a proud Carolina Coquettes Dance Team alum. Being a part of the Footloose cast has brought her so much joy! Meghan would like to thank Workshop Theatre for this wonderful opportunity and her awesome family for their love and support!

Hope Anglemyer (Teen Ensemble) performed in A Chorus Line playing the role of Laura, the role as Victoria in CATS, and in Hairspray at Workshop Theatre. She also choreographed James and the Giant Peach JR at Workshop Theatre. She is a student at Columbia College majoring in Dance Education and in the Dance Company. She is currently teaching at Artistic Dance Academy. She has been dancing for 20 years and danced at the following studios: Contempo School of Dance, Americas Ballet School, All that Dance, Burns Dance Studio and acGATEWAY (a program for children gifted and talented in arts). She is a competition dancer and has performed at many halftime performances. Her favorite dance memory is winning nationals and performing with the Moscow Ballet. She has also cheered at South Aiken High, SC Border Bowl Cheerleader and UCA All-American Cheerleader. I am so happy to be in my fourth show with Workshop Theatre!

Lola Carroll (Teen Ensemble) is a rising senior at River Bluff High School. She has been dancing since she was in third grade, training pre-professionally for seven years at The Academy of Lexington Youth Ballet. She started specializing in musical theater dance in Spring of 2025, being in productions such as Phantom of the Opera (Ballet girl), Little Women (Mrs. Kirk/Choreographer), and The Little Mermaid (Dancer soloist). She is a choreographer for her school and Revival Adult Dance, where she loves sharing her art with the community. She wants to thank Coach Hilly for encouraging her to be a part of this amazing show and being the theater mom she could always go to for anything. She loved meeting everyone in this process and wants everyone to know how grateful she is for such an amazing experience.

Catherine Cieri (Ensemble) is a Junior at Spring Hill High School where she is a member of the Thespian Honors Society. Recent shows include Robinhood, Descendants, Beetlejuice Jr. and School of Rock. Catherine is also a tapper with SC Music and Dance Academy, and in her free time, she enjoys volunteering with the Riverbanks Zoo Teens, reading, and binge-watching old 90’s tv shows.

Hannah Cummings (Teen Ensemble) is returning to the theater world for Footloose. This is Hannah’s second production with Workshop Theatre, following a role in Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville. Hannah is a graduate of Clemson University and is currently a fifth-grade teacher. Along with her passion for teaching, she has always had a passion for dance and movement. After a break from dance following high school, Hannah was excited to get back to something she loves, doing it yet again with one of her best friends. She would love to thank her family and friends for their unwavering support and love!

Gillian Lease (Ensemble) is making her debut here at Workshop Theatre. She has been seen at many other theatres around the Columbia area, including Town Theatre, Village Square Theatre, and Columbia Children’s Theatre. From stage managing to working tech, she’s back on the stage, which is her favorite place to be. She is looking forward to sharing the stage with her best friends and wants to thank all of her friends and family for their love and support!

Abby Mathias (Teen Ensemble) is always excited to get back onto the Workshop stage! She was just recently in Guys and Dolls, marching with her Bugle! Abby is a junior at the University of South Carolina, majoring in Theatre, and is a member of the Carolina Band. She participates in the USC Dance Marathon organization and serves on the board of directors for Chapin Theatre Company. Her favorite roles consist of Ariel (The Little Mermaid), Sillabub (Cats), and the Nightingale (Once Upon a Mattress). When she isn’t performing, she is most likely hard at work, running around with her plate full, or finally taking a break at home with her two cats.

Peyton Rabon (Teen Ensemble) is cutting up in her Workshop Theatre debut of Footloose. You might have seen her on stage in the ensembles of Town Theater's Spamalot or Kiss Me, Kate! Peyton has spent years training in various styles of dance including ballet, tap, jazz, and lyrical. She is looking forward to sharing the stage with friends and can't thank them enough for their continuous support!

D’Asia White (Ensemble) is excited to join the teen ensemble in Footloose. She was recently seen as Patty in School of Rock with Village Square Theatre and previously performed in the University of South Carolina’s Spring 2022 Musical Theatre Cabaret. D’Asia has also spent a combined ten years singing and acting at her church, serving in the collective creative arts ministries. She is grateful for the opportunity to continue growing as a performer and thanks her family and friends for their love, encouragement, and support.

Hannah Williamson, having previously worked backstage for Workshop Theatre’s productions of Hairspray and Arsenic and Old Lace, is eager to make her on-stage debut at Workshop Theatre. She was last seen on stage in Town Theatre’s Spamalot, and most recently worked as the Props Designer for The Crucible at Trustus Theatre. Hannah is often either on stage or behind the scenes stage managing, working with props, or on a backstage crew around multiple theaters in the area.