MEET THE CAST
Elijah Biggers
Elijah returns to High Tide Theatrical after playing Tim in Hand to God. His additional credits include Diary of Anne Frank (Peter Van Daan), Leaving Iowa (Don), Murdered to Death (Pierre), Miss Nelson is Missing (Adam), Artifice (Trent), Fools (Leon), The Unsinkable Molly Brown (Prince Delong), and War of the Worlds (Jake Laurents).
“High Tide has been such a welcoming place, allowing me to return to the craft I love.”
Elijah extends heartfelt thanks to his partner, Dylan, for helping him find himself and for always standing by his side.
Wesley Bryan
Wesley returns to High Tide Theatrical after appearing in Hair and The Rocky Horror Show (2024). Additional credits include Pippin (SLT), Sweeney Todd (SCT), and These Shining Lives (MSU). He holds a bachelor’s degree in English/Creative Writing from Missouri State University and will be pursuing a master’s degree in Literature this fall. “In my senior year at Kickapoo High School, we took our production of Into the Woods to the Missouri Thespian Conference. I fell in love with the show during that experience, and I’m beyond grateful for the chance to tell this story again as an adult! So many thanks to Danielle, JDS, and the High Tide Theatrical team for the opportunity and, as always, endless love and gratitude to my family.”
Kathy Busch
Kathy is making her High Tide Theatrical debut in Into the Woods! Her previous credits include Sense and Sensibility, Hedda Gabler, and Treasure Island, all with Springfield Contemporary Theatre. She holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s in English Education, along with a Graduate Certificate in Teaching Writing K–12. “I’ve enjoyed Into the Woods since childhood, and I have related to different characters at different stages in my life. As an educator, the line from the show that “children will listen” pops into my head a lot; it is an incredible burden and privilege that I carry every day. Having always loved the show and seen it as a truly perfect piece of art, I just had to audition!”
Quenton Ellis
Quenton is thrilled to make his High Tide Theatrical debut! His previous credits include Dog Sees God (Beethoven) and Almost, Maine at Marymount Manhattan College, as well as serving as Music Director for Little House on the Ferry Off-Broadway. He earned his BA in Musical Theatre with a minor in Playwriting from Marymount Manhattan College in 2019. “In 2009, I saw Into the Woods—with Dani in the cast—just days after moving to Missouri. Now, after a decade in NYC, it’s a beautiful full circle moment to return home and be part of this production as my first show back.”
Camilla Gipson
Camilla is thrilled to make her High Tide Theatrical debut in Into the Woods! She has an extensive background in theatre through Parkview High School, OTC Theatre, and Mt. Vernon Community Theatre. She will soon be transferring to Missouri State University to continue her studies—and her passion for performance.
“Into the Woods is one of the most complex musicals with a charm only classic Sondheim shows can capture. I’m enchanted by the foundation of mixed fairytale characters, along with the humor of the ridiculousness of the entire show. Despite these things, there are some very important messages to be learned delivered by the characters.”
Camilla is also an aspiring film actor and is excited to take the stage in this dream production.
Heather Haloupek
Heather returns to High Tide Theatrical after performing in Dream Roles: in Concert and Leading Ladies: in Concert (2024). Her additional credits include The Full Monty (ensemble), School of Rock (Patty), Wizard of Oz (ensemble), and Waitress (ensemble) with Springfield Little Theatre, as well as A Midsummer Night’s Dream (fairy) with Actor’s Theatre of Missouri. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Communications from Missouri State University with minors in Spanish and Psychology.
“This show is an opportunity for a new challenge, and, wow, what a fun role I get to play! When I think of music from this show, I always find myself humming Little Red’s parts. Into the Woods is comedic, dark, whimsical, but full of humanity. I’m so excited for the opportunity to stretch my acting and singing chops in this challenging musical. I’ve performed in two of High Tide’s concerts before, and now I get to be in a full-length High Tide Theatrical musical! I’m thrilled! Thank you to the directors for seeing something in me that I can bring to Little Red Riding Hood. Thank you to Gabby for spending a whole morning with me working on my audition piece. You help make me a better performer. And thank you to everyone who encouraged me before and after seeing the cast list.”
Mikil Hernandez
Mikil is making his High Tide Theatrical debut! Previous credits include A Raisin in the Sun (George Murchison), Ragtime (Ensemble), The Color Purple (Ensemble), and Passover (Moses) at Springfield Contemporary Theatre, as well as In The Heights (Ensemble) at Springfield Little Theatre.
“Into the Woods was the first show I had ever seen as a child and was my mother’s first Broadway show she had seen as a child as well. Having that past led me to want to audition for this show. I’m honored to work with such a great cast and production team.”
Seth Dylan Hunt
Seth returns to High Tide Theatrical after portraying Dan in Next to Normal. He was most recently seen in Waitress at Springfield Little Theatre and has been a vibrant presence on Springfield stages for over 20 years.
“I auditioned for the love of this show. It’s simple yet complex and of course timeless. Thank you to the High Tide team! Grace, Imari, Weston, Joshua, Danielle, and Dylan—thank you for your vision and trust. Thank you, Tim and the Children. I love you!”
Olivia Melder
Olivia is delighted to make her High Tide Theatrical debut with Into the Woods! She is an upcoming senior at Missouri State University, studying Social Work and Sociology.
“I was drawn to auditioning for this production, because I missed performing and being a part of theatre. Into the Woods is one of my favorite musicals, so when I saw that High Tide was going to put on this show, it felt like a sign that I had to get out of my comfort zone and audition! I hadn’t auditioned for a show in about 3 years, so I was very hesitant to put myself out there, but I am so happy that I did, or else I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to be part of this amazing production!”
Olivia extends heartfelt thanks to her parents and wonderful friends for encouraging her to do something scary and always supporting her.
Alex Smith
Alex is excited to return to High Tide Theatrical after performing in the Literature to Life concert. Other credits include Waitress (ensemble) with Springfield Little Theatre. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Music and a Graduate Certificate in Choral Studies from Missouri State University.
“The first time I was ever involved in a musical, I played in a pit for Into the Woods in high school. The opportunity to help present this timeless story from the stage is a full circle moment for me!”
Alex thanks his family and friends for their constant support, and sends heartfelt appreciation to the creative team, technical team, orchestra, and fellow castmates for bringing this production to life.
Courtney Stanford
Courtney is excited to make her High Tide Theatrical debut in Into the Woods! Previous theatre credits include Music Director for You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (2025) and The Little Mermaid (2020), where she also appeared as Flounder. “Into the Woods is such a fun and intriguing story to share! I just wanted to be a part of sharing that story! When I’m not performing on stage, I’m teaching tiny humans!”
Sarah Thompson
Sarah is thrilled to return to High Tide Theatrical after appearing in Duets. She studied Vocal Performance at UMKC and is making a powerful return to the stage. “After a 20+ year hiatus, this mama is getting her mojo back and has fallen into the welcoming arms of High Tide. It is an absolute privilege to join such amazing talent.”
Sally Trtan
Sally returns to High Tide Theatrical after performances in Next to Normal (Diana), Pride in Concert 2025, Red Hot and Backwards, and Leading Ladies in Concert. Her additional credits include Waitress (Jenna), Pippin (Leading Player), and Cabaret (Sally Bowles) with Springfield Little Theatre.
“Into the Woods has a special place in my heart because it is one of the musicals my dad and I would listen to together. It is also just one of those quintessential musical theatre shows.”
Sally is proudly represented by RoundTable Talent: Entertainment and Sports Agency.
Ashtin Umstattd
Ashtin is thrilled to make her High Tide Theatrical debut! Her previous credits include Alice By Heart (Alice) with Laboratory Theatre Co, The Moors (Marjory) at Missouri State University, and Gay Sorority Girls Ruin Everything (Mia), an original work. She holds a BS in Theatre from Missouri State University with minors in Non-Profit Leadership and American Sign Language.
“Into the Woods was one of the first musicals I ever listened to and got obsessed with as a kid. There were so many overlapping pieces that I could really analyze and pick apart. When I was eleven, my friends and I transcribed the movie and spent all summer practicing (I played The Witch, Jack’s Mother, and other various characters—lots of quick changes in the garage), and we invited his whole neighborhood to come see us perform in his driveway, so this genuinely is a dream come true. There’s also something so important about all the themes this show holds, and I think it’s so important and beautiful. I am so excited to finally be doing something with High Tide and I’m so grateful!”
Elaina Vanderflught
Elaina is a familiar face at High Tide Theatrical, having appeared in The Rocky Horror Picture Show (2023 & 2024), Duets in Concert, Leading Ladies, Dream Roles, and Red Hot & Backwards. Additional credits include Disaster (ensemble, Springfield Contemporary Theatre) and If You Want To View Paradise (swing, Shane Everett Production). She holds a Master’s in Architecture with a Minor in Music.
“Into the Woods has been one of my favorite musicals since I was a kid. My little sister and I used to watch the original Broadway production all the time. I’m so happy to be in a dream show with a dream role!”
Elaina thanks JDS, Danielle, and High Tide Theatrical for this incredible opportunity.
“Into the Woods was one of the first musicals I ever listened to and got obsessed with as a kid. There were so many overlapping pieces that I could really analyze and pick apart. When I was eleven, my friends and I transcribed the movie and spent all summer practicing (I played The Witch, Jack’s Mother, and other various characters—lots of quick changes in the garage), and we invited his whole neighborhood to come see us perform in his driveway, so this genuinely is a dream come true. There’s also something so important about all the themes this show holds, and I think it’s so important and beautiful. I am so excited to finally be doing something with High Tide and I’m so grateful!”
Lyndsey Williams
Lyndsey returns to High Tide after roles in Hair (2025), Rocky Horror (2023, 2024), Villains in Concert, and Pride in Concert. She has also performed in Waitress, The Full Monty, and School of Rock at Springfield Little Theatre. Lyndsey holds a degree in Communications from Missouri State University. This marks her first principal role since 2018, and she couldn’t be more excited.
Kaitlyn Wilson
Kaitlyn returns to High Tide Theatrical after appearing in Next to Normal (Dr. Fine/Dr. Madden), HAIR: The Musical, and High Tide’s concert series. Other credits include Fiddler on the Roof (Fruma Sarah/Ensemble), among others. She will be attending Missouri State University this fall to study Voice Performance.
“Into the Woods has been a dream show since I was about 10 years old. It’s always inspired me to keep going with my dreams. The song “No One Is Alone,” specifically, has been a song I’ve always turned to when feeling lost or in doubt. This show as a whole has brought a great deal of heart and comfort to me throughout the years. I’m so thankful I get to be a part of this production and help bring it to life! I would like to thank Joshua and Danielle for this incredible opportunity along with my friends and family for their endless support!”
MEET THE TEAM
Joshua David Smith
Joshua is the Artistic Director of High Tide Theatrical. His directing credits include Next to Normal and The Rocky Horror Show (2023, 2024). Into the Woods holds a deep personal connection for Joshua—it was the first show he saw after moving to Missouri in 2009, and this production marks a full-circle moment in his artistic journey. He is deeply grateful to the cast, crew, and creative team for their dedication to meaningful theatre.
Danielle Hardin
Danielle Hardin (she/her) returns to High Tide Theatrical as Music Director and Conductor for Into the Woods. She previously served as Music Director for The Rocky Horror Show (2023). Danielle’s selected credits include West Side Story, Jekyll and Hyde, Rent, Big Fish, Little Women, and Something Rotten. She holds a master’s degree in collaborative piano and vocal coaching.
Danielle is particularly drawn to stories that explore what happens when the fairy tale doesn’t come true—narratives that challenge characters to respond, rebuild, and redefine their paths. Her work brings emotional depth and musical nuance to this powerful production.
Austen McGranahan Padgitt
Austen McGranahan Padgitt joins High Tide Theatrical for the first time as Choreographer for Into the Woods! Her previous choreography and directing credits include The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (SLT Education at the Judy), Kinky Boots (Assistant Choreographer – SLT), Full Monty (Associate Director – SLT), and Waitress (Assistant Choreographer – SLT). Performance credits include Rock of Ages (SCT), Shout! (SLT), Hands on a Hardbody (SCT), and Footloose (SLT). She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Missouri.
“When asked to help with movement, I was excited to say yes because of my love for High Tide’s message and for the individuals involved in this production.
Thank you to my husband, Nick, who always lets me test run my choreography with him—and he never complains!”
Imari Stout
Imari Stout serves on staff as the Production Manager for High Tide Theatrical, where she most recently oversaw HAIR and now brings her expertise to Into the Woods. Her diverse performance and production background includes national touring work and voice acting: she toured North America and Canada as Daisy in Peppa Pig Live!, voiced Harmonique in Mermaze Mermaidz, and appeared in Cinderella with Springfield Little Theatre. Imari studied under Tony Award nominee Robert Westenberg at Drury University, where she honed her craft both onstage and behind the scenes.
“What makes Into the Woods important to me is its layered storytelling and the way it holds space for multiple truths at once. It fully embraces paradox. ‘Witches can be right, Giants can be good.’ There’s something in the Woods that will meet you where you are, and leave you thinking long after the final bows.
To the cast and creative team: the woods hold more than trees—I’m grateful to have met you there.”
Dylan Bradley
Dylan Bradley is thrilled to return to High Tide Theatrical as Stage Manager for Into the Woods! Previous High Tide credits include portraying Jessica in Hand to God and serving as Stage Manager for HAIR. Additional theatre credits include Jordan in The Great Gatsby and Helen in Night of the Living Dead with Marshfield Community Theatre.
“This is a story that tells the tales of real people, in a fantastical way. It’s a story of heart, loss, love, and magic. I have loved this show for a long time and have consistently been so inspired by the High Tide team and couldn’t wait to get to work with them again! Thank you to my forever and always, Elijah, for being my biggest supporter no matter what I choose to pursue.”
Madison Steward
Madison Steward returns to High Tide Theatrical as Costume Designer for Into the Woods! Her previous work with High Tide includes costuming for HAIR and photography for Next to Normal and The Rocky Horror Show. Additional credits include costuming for Hair, Grease the Musical, Clue, Beauty and the Beast, Annie Get Your Gun, Into the Woods, Bye Bye Birdie, and Gypsy.
“I feel that most people connect with this show because the fairytale sets itself apart from fiction. It tells a story that weaves together a beautiful narrative of the human experience. At any point in your life, you may find yourself in the shoes of these characters. None of them are perfect; they’re vulnerable, their lives are messy, and they don’t always make the ‘right’ choices.
Through it all, we’re reminded that it is possible to make it out of the woods, no matter how many times you find yourself there.
I’m very thankful to have another opportunity to contribute to this wonderful production and everything it represents.”
Crystal Hilton
Crystal Hilton is thrilled to be joining the creative team for Into the Woods! This marks her first production with High Tide Theatrical. Previous credits include Assistant Director for Shrek Jr. and Disney’s Frozen Jr. with Marshfield Junior High. She has also served as Props Manager for Disney’s Descendants, Little Mermaid Jr., and High School Musical, and as Production Manager for The Addams Family and The Art of Murder with Marshfield Community Theater.
“I’m really excited to be included on the creative team for Into the Woods! I’ve had the honor of working with several members of the team in the past and look forward to helping bring the vision to life.”
