Cast Members

Cast Members

GEORGE BAILEY

Jake Veit

Jake is beyond thrilled to be a part of this production! Before It’s A Wonderful Life, he had some notable roles such as Doody in Grease, Captain Phoebus in The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and as Gaston in Beauty and the Beast. Jake would like to thank God, his friends, his family, and Kyndall, for their unending support.

MARY HATCH

Melissa Petrescue

Melissa is thrilled to be making her way out of the orchestra pit and onto the stage with It’s A Wonderful Life, marking her debut as a lead in a musical! As a multi-faceted artist, Melissa enjoys collaborating as a professional vocalist, keyboardist, and director. She can be found performing throughout the Tampa Bay region and beyond in a wide variety of capacities and genres, ranging from concert halls to theme parks, and everything in-between. Melissa is incredibly grateful for this opportunity as she furthers her vision and love of the arts!

CLARENCE

Tom Campbell

Tom is incredibly pleased to be a part of this production! He has been seen in several local theater shows, including at St. Pete City and Murder She Wrote Mystery Theatres. He wrote faith based “The Anron Chapter” -about a heroic boy who is lost back in time twelve thousand years. Thanks to God, our directors and staff, Jack and Allie! Enjoy!

MR. POTTER

Eric Hollaway

The last time Eric performed as an actor onstage was back in college during Opera Workshops, but his love of acting and singing has never waned. In recent years, he has come to prominence singing and acting in several viral videos across social media. He also acts as a voice actor in his home studio each day behind the microphone. You could say that being back on the stage is just another day at the office for Eric, and he loves every minute.

UNCLE BILLY

Rob Smithers

Rob is husband to Jill, doggy-daddy to German Shepherds Max and Sammy, and manages IT at Fulcrum. After years of community theater involvement in the Tampa Bay area and across the southeast, he is excited to be involved in Bridgework Theatre Co.’s debut, It’s A Wonderful Life! 
 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8

COUSIN TILLY

AnnaMarie Smith-Butz

Annamarie and her husband, Wolf, moved to the Tampa Bay area from Virginia Beach, VA, in 2018.  Prior to that, she spent 12 years in New York City, and covered some 20,000 miles in various national tours playing Eliza in My Fair Lady, Anna in The King And I and Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors. She also starred in the theatrical productions of Call Me Madam, Can Can, Shenandoah, Oliver! and Annie. She traveled around the world on Holland America Cruise Lines as a headline entertainer and produced and performed a one-woman show, Let Yourself Go, at the Village Gate in New York City. Annamarie served as Past President of the Board of Directors of Virginia Musical Theatre and is a current member of The Tidewater Winds Board of Directors.  She most recently collaborated with the Tidewater Winds Big Band in Virginia Beach and the Tomkat’s Jazz Orchestra in St. Petersburg in making Big Band and the Standard Songbook available to a wide range of audiences.  On December 18, she will be singing Christmas Big Band charts with the Tomkat’s Jazz Orchestra at the Blue Parrot in St. Pete Beach, and in 2024, will release “Annamarie & the Winds, Ella-mentally Yours,” an album featuring the classic big band arrangements of Ella Fitzgerald.

SAM WAINWRITE

(GEORGE BAILEY UNDERSTUDY)

Jacob Mackintosh

Jacob’s debut started in middle school. In high school he was in the ensemble in Singing in the Rain. From then on, he was Jack Scott in High School Musical, John Northbrook in Mary Poppins, and Joseph Pulitzer in Newsies where he received the Director’s Shout-Out Award for his role. His favorite musical is Newsies.

VIOLET BICK

(Friday Performance)

Gabrielle Pettit

Gabrielle, also known as Gabby, has participated in theater programs for over eight years. Her favorite performances include Mary Poppins, Newsies, and Oklahoma! Gabby is excited to perform as Violet Bick on stage with this talented cast this weekend. Much love and thanks to family, friends, cast, and directors for always encouraging her to do her best. All the glory to God! Colossians 3:17 

VIOLET BICK

(Saturday Performance)

Kyndall Small

Kyndall is a junior at the University of Tampa, studying Musical Theatre. Playing Violet has been so much fun for her, and she has loved getting to know this amazing cast. You may have seen her as Luisa in Ruth Eckerd Hall’s The Funtastics, or in University of South Florida’s cabaret, New Voices, with FreeFall Theatre. She would like to thank her family, friends, Jake, and God for all her opportunities in the theatre world.

MA BAILEY

Sheila Veenstra

Sheila has an extensive background in acting. Although she has been on sabbatical for 14 years, throughout her career she has worked on stage and screen. Theatre experience includes touring Shakespeare in the park; dinner theatre shows; and touring across eastern Canada with musicals. Her favorite theatre roles include Mrs. Webb in Our Town and Sarah in Sally Clark’s Moo. Sheila majored in drama at the prestigious Arts Canterbury H.S. and then earned a BA Theatre at the University of Ottawa. She has also had the privilege of studying under renowned teachers such as John Strasberg and Sears & Switzer MTL. Sheila is delighted to take part in Bridgework Theatre’s inaugural show and make her first return to the stage since having her children. She would like to give a shout out to her husband and twins making their debut stage performances and her eldest son who is helping backstage. All glory to God! 

PA BAILEY/ BANK EXAMINER

Dan Veenstra

Dan grew up with a love of acting – as an audience member only! Then, 20 years ago he fell in love and married an actress, and he found a new appreciation for what goes on behind the scenes of an actor’s performance! This show marks the first time Dan takes to the stage – he is still not sure how he ended up here! Dan has always been a fan of Christmas and the truth to which it points, and watching the movie It’s A Wonderful Life has become a beloved annual tradition – so since he has found himself on stage, he is glad it is in this beautiful story! He’d like to thank his talented wife for her support and encouragement. 

HARRY BAILEY

Ian Gentry

Ian, a recent high school graduate, adeptly navigates the skies and plays on stages with versatile talent. Mentored by drumming legends John Blackwell (Prince) and Richie Ramone (The Ramones), his performances reflect both aviation mastery and musical finesse. Ian, set on a path to fly for airliners, has portrayed characters like Rolf in The Sound of Music, Rooster in Annie Jr., and Jud Fry in Oklahoma, solidifying his presence through a dynamic blend of aviation and artistic expression. 

ERNIE/ BOARD MEMBER

David Petrescue

David is an aspiring actor making his debut as Ernie in It’s a Wonderful Life. He is a talented, witty, and creative individual who loves to make people laugh. When not acting or creating his own videos, he can be found studying computer programming and creating his own music.

BERT

Spencer Rigsby

Spencer is thrilled to be on stage and expand his acting and music experience through the role of Bert and as a member of the ensemble. Once he graduates high school, he aspires to pursue a career at Chick-fil-A and be influential in the business world.

MARTY HATCH/ BOARD MEMBER/ MR. LANE

William Zipprer

William is known best as a drama teacher in the area, and for playing Ned Schneebly in Ruth Eckard Hall’s School of Rock this summer. He is very thankful to Bridgework for giving him the opportunity to jump in at the last minute and hopes you all enjoy the show.

MR. GOWER

Ron Morris

Ron is a native Californian and semi-retired graphic designer and musician. This is his first ever theatrical role. Ron is excited to play the role of Mr. Gower, the town pharmacist going through a tragedy. This has given him a new perspective on how God’s grace can work in our life, even as we impact the lives of others around us.

TOM/NICK/CHAIRMAN

Josh Metzger

Josh is excited to make his musical acting debut. When he isn’t on stage, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends. 

MA HATCH

COUSIN TILLY UNDERSTUDY

Kim Fort

Kimberly is delighted to work with Bridgework Theatre Company on It’s A Wonderful Life.  This is her first production, and she is thankful for the opportunity to be alongside such incredible talent. Her favorite things to do would be soaking up time with her family, taking in every beautiful moment. 

MR. MARTINI/ ENSEMBLE

Bill Mackintosh

Bill has performed in a few high school musicals. His favorite musical is Wicked.

MRS. MARTINI/ ENSEMBLE

Cynthia Mackintosh

Cynthia made the top 10 of “Largo Idol” in 2009. While in her high school thespian club, she performed in musical productions and chorus numbers. She is a mezzo soprano who has sung at church and special school events. Her favorite musicals are Grease and In the Heights. 

YOUNG GEORGE/ PETE BAILEY

Caleb Pennington

This is Caleb’s first time acting on stage. He is in seventh grade and aspires to be a professional hockey player for the Tampa Bay Bolts.

YOUNG MARY

Alexa Sawa

Alexa is excited for the opportunity to appear in It’s A Wonderful Life. She has appeared in The Sound of Music (ensemble), Matilda (Amanda Thripp), Legally Blond (ensemble) and Finding Nemo (Nemo), all at St. Petersburg City Theatre.

YOUNG VIOLET

Amelia Rigsby

You may have seen Amelia Rigsby in community productions playing Dorthy in The Wizard of Oz or as Snow White in Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs or as Tiger Lily in Peter Pan, in community plays. Amelia loves to perform but plans to seek a degree in medicine. She wishes to improve her theatre skills and continue performing.

YOUNG HARRY

Luke Kulczar

Luke first found his love for acting through improv classes at Calvary Chosen Co-op when he was 7 years old. Since then, he has performed in Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, SpongeBob the Musical, Addams Family the Musical and several acting camps. Acting is a career he wishes to pursue.

YOUNG SAM/ TOMMY BAILEY

Adrian Wang

Adrian is in fourth grade and has performed through the Progressive Arts group in Matilda, The Lion King, Encanto and Midsummer Night Dream. He aspires to build the tallest building in the world and an amusement park when he finishes college.

YOUNG ERNIE/ DETECTIVE/ MICKEY

Andrew Veenstra

Andrew is excited to be part of this production along with his identical twin. He has enjoyed challenging the directors with guessing which twin is which! Andrew has always loved entertaining others and has been creating and sharing elaborate make-believe worlds since he was little. Andrew would like to thank the directors for giving him this opportunity and for highlighting his juggling talents!

YOUNG BURT/ FREDDIE OTHELLO

Thomas Veenstra

Thomas is thrilled to take to the stage in this show! Thomas has a love of music and has always enjoyed entertaining others. He has been songwriting and singing since pre-school. He has an amazing imagination and has enjoyed creating stories with his brother. Thomas is excited to join the cast of It’s a Wonderful Life and experience storytelling on stage. He would like to thank Bridgework Theatre for the chance to perform and learn about musical theatre.

JANIE BAILEY/ ENSEMBLE

Kenna Bowers

Kenna is launching her theater career as she takes the stage in her first musical. She dreams to become an actress, whether it is on stage or on a movie set. Kenna plans to pursue nursing and acting in college with ambitions of joining the military.

ZUZU BAILEY

Alyna Wang

Alyna has performed through the Progressive Arts group in Matilda, The Lion King, Encanto and Midsummer Night Dream. She is in second grade and aspires to work with her brother at the amusement park that he is going to build one day.

MS. DAVIS

Kristi Parker

Kristi has been singing for most of her life and has been on stage for over 16 years. This musical is something a little bit different for her, but she is so excited to do this production and hopefully many more. Driven by her love for fashion, she has also stepped into the role of lead costumer for this production.

MRS. PARTRIDGE

Kelli Bowers

Kelli is making her theatre comeback after a decade-plus spent raising children. She is delighted to be sharing the stage with her daughter Kenna. Some of her previous shows include Annie Get Your Gun, Robinson Crusoe, and a myriad of Shakespeare plays. She spends her days volunteering, learning, and winning every arm-wrestling competition with her kids. 

JOSEPHINE “JOE”

Lilliella Wenner

Liliella Wenner is an aspiring actress, who hopes to shine God’s light to others by performing. She has always enjoyed theater, singing, and dancing. And she is hoping to learn how to be a better actress, singer, and dancer by taking part in It’s a Wonderful Life!

GOON

Jay Schuenke

Jay is very excited to make his acting debut with The Bridgework Theatre Company’s production of It’s A Wonderful Life. His favorite musical is Hamilton, and he is looking forward to seeing Back to Future, The Musical.

HARRIET

Kimber Fort

Kimber is new to the world of theater but loves broadways. She is excited and ready to soak up the excitement and experience that this show has to offer.

ZUZU UNDERSTUDY/ ENSEMBLE

Zoe Bell

Zoe has enjoyed her experience singing and dancing with Tutterow, Express Ballet and vacation bible school. Zoe appreciates the opportunity to participate in tonight’s play.

ENSEMBLE DANCER

Ella Jane Hosler

Ella Jane has been dancing and singing since the age of 10. Ella has had the honor of dancing with Affirmation Ballet, the dance program at John Hopkins, and the PCCA program at Gibbs. Ella recently had the opportunity to sing in the Candlelight Processional at Epcot and is currently in rehearsals for My Fair Lady at Keswick Christian School. Ella is extremely excited to be a part of Bridgework Theatre’s debut show It’s a Wonderful Life.

ENESEMBLE DANCER

Quincy Chambers

Quincy has performed in several circus arts shows across the Tampa Bay area and has appeared as a dancer in Faith Covenant Church’s Christmas play of 2021. For her circus arts acts, she has performed on the Lyra in a live show at the Casa Tina and had a lead role on the silks as Clara in The Nutcracker at Bayside Gymnastics. She is thrilled to be here performing with Bridgework Theatre.

ENSEMBLE

Isabella Arnold

Isabella is a freshman that loves to act, sing, and dance. She is part of the Venture Clubs drama team, and she played Annie in her school performance last year. Tonight, she will be in her first large stage performance.

VOICE OF GOD

Elder Phil Dickhaus

VOICE OF JOSEPH

Joel Hosler

Pre-Show Nativity

MOTHER MARY

Adriana Budna

JOSEPH

Jacob Mackintosh

WISE MAN 1

Ian Gentry

WISE MAN 2

Dan Veenstra

WISE MAN 3

Will Zipprer

SHEPHERD 1

Andrew Veenstra

SHEPHERD 2

Spencer Rigsby

Co-Directors

Adriana Budna

Tiffany Hosler

Crew Members

Audio Engineer

Dave San Souci

Costumer

Kristi Parker

Stage Manager

Kristy Rodarte

Set Designer

Ron Morris

Set Builder

David Marconi

Stagehands

Freddy Geneus

Mike Rodarte

Sue Elliot

Avery Stradley

Kay Fort

James Veenstra

Joel Petrescue

Skyler Bell

Ollie Krom

Joel Gonzales

Production Booth Team

Dave San Souci

Jim Pennington

Joel Hosler

Joel Gonzales

Sonny Budna

Promotion

Christopher Mackintosh

A special thank you to Tina Marconi, Carter Herrera, Mike Wilsbach, Dale Kraut, Jim Pennington, Christine Marr, Sandal Aronson and Faith Covenant Church.

To Jane Heflin and Audra Heflin, thank you for using your creative abilities and always having the perfect words to say.

Thank you to John Waterman and Larry’s Ice Cream and Gelato of St. Pete Beach for allowing us to use their antique truck.