Pelham Fringe Festival 2026
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2 AND SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2026
Five original short plays, music and improv, and a reception and after-party, at The Picture House in Pelham. Proceeds benefit Pelham Fringe and The Picture House.
When and where
- Doors and reception at 7:30 PM with live music and refreshments; performance begins at 8:00 PM
- Doors and reception at 4:00 PM with live music and refreshments; performance begins at 4:30 PM
- Running time
- About 1 hour 15 minutes, with no intermission.
- Tickets
- Get tickets, opens in a new window. $40. Includes reception, food, and drink.
About
The Pelham Fringe Festival is where a year of making becomes something shared.
What you see onstage grows out of our Creative Nights: who showed up, what they brought with them, what sparked, what stayed—and what, together, we made.
The room is warm, generous, rigorous, precise, and very much alive. The Festival is where that work meets an audience.
Festival sponsors
Premier Sponsor
Running order
Reception
Written byRich Feldman
Written byJeffrey B. Fuerst
Written byJoni Fritz
Written byAndrew O’Brien
After Party
With improv and music interludes.
Lead Sponsor
Plays
Radio Silence
Written by Rich FeldmanRadio Silence explores the importance of communication and human connection when facing difficult decisions. Metaphorically speaking, you’re never too old to play ball.
About the play
My primary inspiration for this piece is the work of John Patrick Shanley, whose plays, to me, share one overarching theme: Big truths in small places. With that in mind, Radio Silence flowed out of me.
I may not be a true barfly, but I love baseball, lived in Queens for fifteen years, and am a long-suffering Mets fan.
The characters are composites of people I’ve encountered throughout my years as a stand-up comedian, actor, and now writer.
I dedicate this play to anyone who knows their “glory days” are behind them and struggles to find purpose in the years ahead.
Radio Silence explores the importance of communication and human connection when facing difficult decisions. Metaphorically speaking, you’re never too old to play ball.
Director’s note
As T.S. Eliot once inquired: “Do I dare disturb the universe?” And if you’ve been completely flattened in pursuit of a dream, is it courageous or foolhardy to get up and pursue again? I was immediately drawn to Rich Feldman’s exploration of such questions in the play.
About the writer
Written byRich Feldman
Rich lives in Pelham with his wife, Georgene. They have two daughters, Allie and Kate, both of whom graduated from Pelham Memorial High School. In his twenties and thirties, Rich performed stand-up comedy. In his forties, he made the transition to theater, where he discovered a passion for the stage. Since then, he has been fortunate to be steadily cast and enjoy numerous acting opportunities. Thanks to Pelham Fringe, Rich has now added playwriting to his creative pursuits and resume. He is honored and thrilled that his one-act play, Radio Silence, was selected for the inaugural Pelham Fringe Festival.
Cast and creative team
DirectorRich O’Brien, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association
Rich O'Brien, as the son of a boxer, WWll veteran, and NYC detective, was always drawn to stories of determination in the face of adversity. From a young age, he found himself reciting verbatim the lines and monologues of Jimmy Cagney, Jack Nicholson, Robert Deniro, etc, but didn't pursue performing-arts work until he was 40. The late start, he says, makes this time of life -- borrowing from the title of a Pelham Fringe initiative -- a "Second Prime." He has studied acting, singing, and direction with fine teachers at the evening division of The Juilliard School, HB Studio, The Barrow Group, etc. His recent films have won national and international festival awards.
MikeTony A. Watts
Tony A. Watts is an actor, playwright, poet, author, speaker, and founder of Triumphant Media Group. His creative work spans theatre, poetry, television, Movies (The Child) and community programming, including his original stage production "Unbroken Voices." At the heart of Tony's work is a belief in the power of storytelling to create connection, healing, and change, especially through the stories we are often afraid to tell. Whether on stage, on camera, or in the community, Tony seeks to create work that reminds people of their resilience, their humanity, and one simple truth, "It is never too late to begin again."
KatKathleen Mary Carthy, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association
Photo coming soon
ElenaKate McDaniel
Kate McDaniel is a SAG-AFTRA actor, producer, and the Founder and Artistic Director of Pelham Fringe.
A graduate of the University of Virginia, Kate grew up in Richmond, Virginia, and later lived and worked in Los Angeles and New York City before making her home in Pelham with her family. Her television credits include Modern Family and Criminal Minds, and she co-created the sketch comedy channel JustBoobs Sketch.
Pelham Fringe grew out of her desire for the kind of artistic community she had been missing: a place where artists could gather in person, take creative risks, make ambitious work together, and keep moving creatively.
Kate is continually inspired by the talent, generosity, and grace of the artists who have brought this community to life. She dedicates this work in loving memory of her mama, Andrea Poynter McDaniel.
Ron SmithRich O’Brien, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association
Rich O'Brien, as the son of a boxer, WWll veteran, and NYC detective, was always drawn to stories of determination in the face of adversity. From a young age, he found himself reciting verbatim the lines and monologues of Jimmy Cagney, Jack Nicholson, Robert Deniro, etc, but didn't pursue performing-arts work until he was 40. The late start, he says, makes this time of life -- borrowing from the title of a Pelham Fringe initiative -- a "Second Prime." He has studied acting, singing, and direction with fine teachers at the evening division of The Juilliard School, HB Studio, The Barrow Group, etc. His recent films have won national and international festival awards.
A Pair of Mopes
Written by Jeffrey B. FuerstIt’s 1984, and even a couple of mopey putzes can possibly find love.
About the play
In the Under the Influence session on John Patrick Shanley, I was inspired by the plays written in, or set in, the early 1980s. Shanley’s characters were predominantly young and in their 20s, as was I at that time.
I happened to be living in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn then, when it was still solidly working-class Italians. This was the milieu of Shanley’s breakthrough film, Moonstruck (1987). I remember when they filmed scenes at a bakery near where I lived!
I wrote A Pair of Mopes about that era in my life. The characters are an amalgam of local people I befriended there. The cadences of their speech and snatches of dialogue are verbatim (or pretty close). Lifelong friends Hugo, Louie, and Yolanda delight in giving each other sh*t, mercilessly, in a vernacular of poetic invective that is simply their way of saying they love each other deeply, fiercely, and unshakably.
The scene presented in the Festival is the opening section of a full-length play about opening yourself up to possibilities once you accept yourself for who you are.
Director’s note
I immediately fell in love with Jeff’s enduring characters. They harken back to a “simpler time” in one’s life, before the reality of “Real Life” sets in. It’s 1984, and even a couple of mopey putzes can possibly find love.
About the writer
Written byJeffrey B. Fuerst
Jeffrey Fuerst (PLAYWRIGHT, A Pair of Mopes) Jeff's plays and musicals for children and adults have been performed in regional theaters, community theaters, off-off Broadway, and schools around the country. His play, "Two Characters in Search of a 10-Minute Play," a send-up of short play contests, was performed at three different one-act play festivals in NYC last year and was selected for publication in Smith and Kraus' annual "Best Short Plays of 2026." When he is not writing, Jeff enjoys playing tennis, cooking, and taking umbrage.
Cast and creative team
DirectorCathy Reinking
Cathy is a first generation American on both sides. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from UCLA as a Theatre Major, and By God she has made a living from that degree!
HugoJonathan Hicks
Jonathan is an 20year+ veteran of the stage and screen, having worked in New York, regionally, and internationally, as well as appearing in numerous commercials throughout the years. Jonathan just moved with his family to Pelham last year and is loving the community. Jonathan's kids are awesome, wife is amazing, and sink is often full of dirty dishes. Big thank you to Kate, all the people who have made Pelham Fringe possible and to the community who support us.
LouieSean Dagony-Clark
Sean Dagony-Clark performed professionally in D.C. theaters until 2000: Olney Theatre (West Side Story, u.s. Tony), Round House (Jack and Jill, ensemble), BAPA's Imagination Stage (The Wind in the Willows, Rat), Lazy Susan Dinner Theater (Brigadoon, Charlie), Vpstart Crow Productions (Cyrano de Bergerac, Christian), and more. Then he took a short 26-year break from performing to get married, raise a family, and work in design, teaching, and tech. He's delighted to finally be back onstage with Pelham Fringe, where he also performs the roles of founding board member and CTO. Love to H&E&A.
YolandaLizzy Kircher, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association
Lizzy is a New York–based actor and Boston University graduate hailing from Singapore. Having moved frequently throughout her life, she is drawn to stories about change, reinvention, and finding your place, especially those centered on complicated young women and generational female relationships. Her recent work includes Boston Blue, Dexter: Resurrection, NYC A.R.T. Theatre's New Development Readings, award-winning indie projects, and another dang audition. Outside of acting, Lizzy loves design, spending time with her family, and taking classes and workshops. If you can't reach her, she's probably with her orange cat.
How Can I Help You?
Written by Joni FritzThe struggle to accept change is deeply relatable, even for folks who are not in Lilly’s situation.
About the play
During the Under the Influence evening celebrating Theresa Rebeck, I was especially drawn to Sunday on the Rocks and the funny, familiar, brutally honest banter between the young women.
It made me think about my own friendships with women I’ve known since college, my closest friends who still make me laugh and tell me the truth, even when I don’t want to hear it.
I’d also been wanting to write about a medical insurance call with an AI system that literally left me on the floor screaming, “F**k you!” In the middle of my meltdown, I actually got up to write down the idea for a play, then went back to the floor and continued screaming.
As the play took shape, I realized what connected the two: the very human need to be heard, and how easy it is, even when we’re trying to help, to forget to listen.
Director’s note
There are so many reasons I am drawn to this play. It starts with Lilly: a woman who loves her mother beyond measure, who has the kind of friends who show up and tell the truth, who wrestles with the loss of control when life throws a curve ball. Lilly has a big heart and will go to the ends of the earth to help others. But sometimes she goes too far.
How Can I Help You? is a story about that day.
The struggle to accept change is deeply relatable, even for folks who are not in Lilly’s situation. The desire to fight, to hold on, to persevere, to do something, is pervasive. But sometimes gentleness and releasing the need to “fix it” matter, too.
I love how this play embraces the unknown and reminds us that “help” comes in all shapes and forms, and sometimes in the most unexpected ways.
About the writer
Written byJoni Fritz
Joni Fritz is a writer and actress whose work spans the New York stage, regional theatre, television, and commercials. She began her writing career as a comedy sketch writer for USA Network. Her first play, "Girl's Room," starring Broadway legends Carol Lawrence and Donna McKechnie, had acclaimed runs in both New York and Los Angeles. "In the Car with Blossom and Len" won the Susan Glaspell Award, leading to a full production at Centenary Stage and a subsequent major production at Queens Theatre. Most recently, her work has been seen at the Players Theatre, Gene Frankel Theatre, Dominion Stage, Theatre for the New City, Open Eye Theatre, and Westchester Collaborative Theatre. This month, Joni's play "First a Home" will be performed in Ossining, NY, to raise awareness and funds for people experiencing homelessness.
Cast and creative team
DirectorCarolyn Marie Wright
Carolyn Marie Wright is committed to creating opportunities for folx of all ages to experience dignity, belonging, and justice through the arts. She teaches English and Devised Theatre at Fordham Prep, where she also serves as Assistant Director of Campus Ministry for Social Justice and Assistant Director of FP Dramatic Society. She is the founding moderator and director of Theatrum Justitiae, a Visual Performing Arts course where students use playwriting and performance to examine systems of injustice and explore pathways toward advocacy and action. Her work as a performer, director, and teaching artist includes Geffen Playhouse, Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum, The Second City, MCC Theater, New Victory Theater, Valley Youth Theatre, and Catskill Mountain Shakespeare. Proud alum of: Yale (BA), NYU Steinhardt (MA), and UCLA (MFA). Fun fact: she did MoCap for the original BioShock.
LillyLaura Lee Botsacos, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association
Laura Lee Botsacos is a New York-based actor, writer, and storyteller whose career spans television, film, theatre, and stand-up comedy. Her credits include Law & Order, The Young and the Restless, Living in Exile, and acclaimed New York stages including 59E59, Theatre for the New City, and The Players Theatre. A graduate of Skidmore College with a B.S. in Theatre, Laura Lee has trained in the Meisner technique and built a career rooted in bold, deeply human storytelling. This November, she premieres Tuesday, her autobiographical one-woman play about surviving September 11, at Theatre Row on November 21.
BevEmily Aronoff
Emily Aronoff (Bev, How Can I help You) is an actress based in Pelham, NY. Emily has performed in many theater productions. Some of her favorite theater credits include Badland Butterfly (NY Theater Festival), A Visitor in the Doorway (Westchester's Collaborative Theater), The Debt Collector (SOOP to Nuts Finalist), Night of January 16th (The Manor Club Theatre), and Insignificant (Red Monkey Theater Group). Alongside her stage work, Emily can be seen in the recent short film Gone.
EllenKaren Pursel
Karen Pursel is a Pelham mom of three. Like her daughters, she has been singing, acting and dancing since a young age. Karen is happy to share her passion for theatre, music and the arts with the community and can be seen singing with local bands, performing in the Huguenot cabaret, running a music festival and performing in multiple, musical productions around Westchester. She is thrilled to be a part of Pelham Fringe since the beginning and wishes to thank Kate McDaniel and the entire production team for this amazing opportunity. Thanks to Tom for his love and support. Enjoy!
AI VoiceCarolyn Marie Wright
Carolyn Marie Wright is committed to creating opportunities for folx of all ages to experience dignity, belonging, and justice through the arts. She teaches English and Devised Theatre at Fordham Prep, where she also serves as Assistant Director of Campus Ministry for Social Justice and Assistant Director of FP Dramatic Society. She is the founding moderator and director of Theatrum Justitiae, a Visual Performing Arts course where students use playwriting and performance to examine systems of injustice and explore pathways toward advocacy and action. Her work as a performer, director, and teaching artist includes Geffen Playhouse, Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum, The Second City, MCC Theater, New Victory Theater, Valley Youth Theatre, and Catskill Mountain Shakespeare. Proud alum of: Yale (BA), NYU Steinhardt (MA), and UCLA (MFA). Fun fact: she did MoCap for the original BioShock.
Sonia VoiceJessica W. Bonds
Jessica W. Bonds is a playwright, actress, director, and producer whose work explores identity, resilience, healing, relationships, and the complexities of being human. Her work is rooted in creating theater that centers diverse voices, challenges assumptions, and invites audiences into stories of transformation, reclamation, and connection. As an actor, Jessica's credits include As You Like It, Paule Cuffe: In Search of a New Land, The Execution of Helen Raye Fowler, Without Color, Gladys Day – The Life and Loves, and other theatrical productions. Her film and commercial work further reflects her versatility as a performer. As a playwright, her works include Phoenix Rising, Peregrination, I Got the Role, Pivot, Magnolia and Moss, and Shimmer. She is also a licensed psychotherapist with more than two decades of experience, bringing emotional insight and authenticity to her creative work. Jessica is passionate about building inclusive theatrical spaces where artists can explore, create, and shine.
The Company We Keep
Written by Andrew O’BrienThis story is a love letter to the women who raised us, the friends who still call us out, and the ties that never really break.
About the play
It’s an honor to make my playwriting debut at the Pelham Fringe Festival. As an actor and singer who has dabbled in writing, I’m thrilled to have my work produced for the very first time!
After attending Pelham Fringe’s Under the Influence: Theresa Rebeck as an actor, a wave of inspiration came over me to write. I thought about something a dear friend had said, and a few days later, put pen to paper. Suddenly, Linda, Tina, Jessica, and Christine came pouring out of me within a few hours.
This is a story of integrity, friendship, womanhood, grief, connecting with one’s roots, family, generational connections and miscommunications, and, most importantly…humanity.
Director’s note
I immediately fell in love with Andrew O’Brien’s play. In just a few pages, he gives us four unforgettable women: fierce, flawed, funny, and full of heart.
His dialogue is sharp, honest, and alive. He writes about friendship with humor and tenderness, and he understands how the past is never really past.
This story is a love letter to the women who raised us, the friends who still call us out, and the ties that never really break.
Set over a simple dinner in an Italian restaurant in the Bronx, The Company We Keep is funny, raw, and ultimately tender.
Thank you, Andrew, for writing characters who feel like old friends, the kind who make us laugh, frustrate us, and remind us who we are. It has been an honor to bring your beautiful play to life.
About the writer
Written byAndrew O’Brien
Andrew O'Brien is an actor and singer who is thrilled to be making his playwriting debut at the Pelham Fringe Festival! Andrew is the playwright of The Company We Keep. As an actor and singer, he has performed in touring and regional productions, cabarets and concerts in New York, and frequently performs stand-up comedy. Some of his favorite credits include Next to Normal, Sweeney Todd, Cabaret, and Sunday in the Park with George. He is a proud graduate of Manhattan School of Music. Website: www.andrewhardyobrien.com Instagram: @aob970
Cast and creative team
DirectorMaria Provenzano
Maria Provenzano has been part of the theater community for more than 35 years, guided by a profound love of storytelling both onstage and behind the scenes. Her directing credits include Blithe Spirit, Barefoot in the Park, Plaza Suite, Rabbit Hole, and Becky's New Car, among many others. She is thrilled and honored to be part of Pelham Fringe, and especially grateful for the opportunity to direct Andrew O'Brien's hilarious, heartfelt, and inspiring The Company We Keep with this wonderfully talented cast. Nick, your light is forever with me. Aiko, it's always you.
Jessica HirschfeldKate McDaniel
Kate McDaniel is a SAG-AFTRA actor, producer, and the Founder and Artistic Director of Pelham Fringe.
A graduate of the University of Virginia, Kate grew up in Richmond, Virginia, and later lived and worked in Los Angeles and New York City before making her home in Pelham with her family. Her television credits include Modern Family and Criminal Minds, and she co-created the sketch comedy channel JustBoobs Sketch.
Pelham Fringe grew out of her desire for the kind of artistic community she had been missing: a place where artists could gather in person, take creative risks, make ambitious work together, and keep moving creatively.
Kate is continually inspired by the talent, generosity, and grace of the artists who have brought this community to life. She dedicates this work in loving memory of her mama, Andrea Poynter McDaniel.
Linda CarlozziRenée Hewitt
Renée Hewitt as Linda Carlozzi – is a veteran seen in such roles as: Sarah Bernhardt/Bernhardt/Hamlet, Helen Bechdel/Fun Home, Ouiser/Steel Magnolias, Aldonza/Man of La Mancha, Kate Mundy/ Dancing at Lughnasa, Rona Lisa Piretti/25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Annie Sullivan/Miracle Worker. New York credits: Bridge Street Theater, Mariya/Uncle Vanya and Brianne,Chaya/Mary Jane; Gallery Players, Beth/Constancy of Home and Lucina, A, Mother/Metamorphoses; Columbia University, Gem/Timmy; The Players Theatre Boo Festival, Gina/ Evenings. Directing Credits: Les Miserables, Spamalot, Sparkle In The Grey and Go Time. Some VO credits: Ivy/ Soulcalibur II and Epona Rhi/Mechwarrior III. Studies voice/acting with Romana Mallory/studiomallory.com. ReneeJHewitt.com
Christine HartleyMaggie Solimine, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association
Maggie Solimine is so excited to be a part of the first Pelham Fringe Festival! She has previously performed in the original West End cast of Figaro: An Orignal Musical at The London Palladium. She has performed at top regional theatres across the country including The White Plains Performing Arts Center, Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Festival 56, The Beck Center For The Arts and Great Lakes Theatre. Some of her favorite credits include Bea in Something Rotten!, Claire in Ordinary Days and Antigone. She is a 2024 graduate of Music Theatre at Baldwin Wallace Conservatory. Website: www.Maggiesolimine.com, IG: @maggiesol25
Tina O’DonnellBette Carlson Siler, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association
Bette Carlson Siler is an actor, director and playwright. Her plays have been produced at the Edinburgh Fringe, New Jersey Repertory, NYC's Estrogenius Festival, Vermont Playwrights, NYC's Emerging Artists and Westchester Collaborative Theatre. Staged readings of Bette's work have been performed at the McCarter Theater Centre and the George Street Playhouse. Bette has directed in New York, Scotland and Dublin. She has performed at Arena Stage, the Pacific Conservatory of the Performing Arts, California Actors' Theater and in Off-Broadway showcases in NYC. carlson.bette@gmail.com
WaiterAndrew O’Brien
Andrew O'Brien is an actor and singer who is thrilled to be making his playwriting debut at the Pelham Fringe Festival! Andrew is the playwright of The Company We Keep. As an actor and singer, he has performed in touring and regional productions, cabarets and concerts in New York, and frequently performs stand-up comedy. Some of his favorite credits include Next to Normal, Sweeney Todd, Cabaret, and Sunday in the Park with George. He is a proud graduate of Manhattan School of Music. Website: www.andrewhardyobrien.com Instagram: @aob970
So Sorry to Kill You, Poor Little Man
Written by Bette Carlson SilerSo Sorry is dripping with Bette Siler’s wit, wisdom, and brilliant sense of rhythm. She pulls themes from her own life that we can all connect to while also making us laugh.
About the play
I fell in love with Theresa Rebeck during her Under the Influence session. Yes, her dialogue and pace were entertaining. But what really got to me were the real people with real problems…however wildly funny they may be. That was my first inspiration. The other motivator was purely autobiographical.
I am an exceptionally crappy knitter. I kid you not. Strictly “Knit 1, Purl 2, F*ck 3.” I mean…I have knitted. The outcome? A crop top for Quasimodo? A beanie for Joseph Merrick? I realize that at my age, I’m just not gonna get good. That’s when I saw him strolling along, taking his TIME and I just…SPOILER ALERT!
Anyhow, so sorry dude. I wrote this play in your honor.
Director’s note
Kate: Melissa, you are the best choice to direct this play because it is dark and a little absurdist, but serious.
Me: Basically my bio. LOL.
So Sorry is dripping with Bette Siler’s wit, wisdom, and brilliant sense of rhythm. She pulls themes from her own life that we can all connect to while also making us laugh. It does one of the things theatre has done for millennia and asks: “Wait, what are we missing?” And while we as artists have laughed our way through making it, we’re also deeply moved.
I have worked on new plays throughout my career as a devisor, writer, and performer, always collaboratively. In this piece, Bette’s involvement in our first rehearsal and her endlessly creative spirit gave our actors a chance to feel like they were part of the performance, from script-making to the stage here today.
About the writer
Written byBette Carlson Siler, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association
Bette Carlson Siler is an actor, director and playwright. Her plays have been produced at the Edinburgh Fringe, New Jersey Repertory, NYC's Estrogenius Festival, Vermont Playwrights, NYC's Emerging Artists and Westchester Collaborative Theatre. Staged readings of Bette's work have been performed at the McCarter Theater Centre and the George Street Playhouse. Bette has directed in New York, Scotland and Dublin. She has performed at Arena Stage, the Pacific Conservatory of the Performing Arts, California Actors' Theater and in Off-Broadway showcases in NYC. carlson.bette@gmail.com
Cast and creative team
DirectorMelissa Flower Gladney
Melissa Flower Gladney is a theatre director, performance artist, and dramaturg originally from Houston, Texas. She is currently a PhD Candidate in Theatre and Performance at CUNY. Melissa has trained throughout her career with SITI Company and with SCOT in Japan. Melissa performs across NYC with Yoshiko Chuma's School of Hard Knocks. Her key devised works include Pangea at BLUEorange Gallery, Memory in the Time of the Refugee at Dixon Place, and things missing/missed at Undermain Theatre (adapted into a film which won 7 international film festival awards). Key directing credits include The Return of Sherlock Holmes, Cassandra, Masseur, and Black Water. She is thrilled to be returning to directing with such incredible people at the Fringe!
EthelJudith Reagan, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association
Jude is delighted to play with Fringe fellows to discover who this Ethel lady is. Similar explorations led to performances as Kate, Taming of the Shrew; Elmire, Tartuffe; Josie, A Moon for the Misbegotten; Regina, The Little Foxes; Bunny, House of Blue Leaves; Gittel, Two for the Seesaw; Betty, Chapatti; M'Lynn, Steel Magnolias; Doris, Same Time Next Year; Boo, Last Night of Ballyhoo; Charlotte, Moon Over Buffalo. Other favorite shows include Story Theatre, Quilters, I Do, I Do. Venues include the Pearl Theatre Company, Theatre Virginia, Meadow Brook Theatre, Heritage Repertory Theatre, Wayside Theatre, Totem Pole Playhouse, St. Michael's Playhouse. (See, PLAY is sometimes even in the name!)
MarshaJanine LaManna
Broadway credits include Janet Van De Graaff in the Tony award winning hit, THE DROWSY CHAPERONE. Preceding this sensational production, she played the role of Nickie in the revival of SWEET CHARITY, starring Christina Applegate. But it was Janine's portrayal of Gertrude McFuzz in the Original Broadway Musical SEUSSICAL that earned her a Drama Desk Nomination, Grammy Nomination for Original Cast Album and Broadway.com's Favorite Featured Actress in a Musical Award. Other Broadway show credits include Lois Lane in KISS ME KATE, THE LOOK OF LOVE-The Music of Burt Bacharach and Hal David, Evelyn Nesbit in RAGTIME and SWING! Her first National Tour credits include Velma Kelly in CHICAGO and standing in for Chita Rivera in KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN. Janine has the distinction of being the first actor to play Carmen Sandiego on the PBS series WHERE IN TIME IS CARMEN SANDIEGO? Other Film and TV credits include TWO WEEKS NOTICE, DEVIOUS MAIDS, and several appearances on the Rosie O'Donnell Show, The Today Show, CNN, CTV and the Tony awards. Janine appeared with the New York Philharmonic in Lincoln Center's production of CANDIDE, which aired on PBS Great Performances. Off-Broadway credits include WOMAN OF THE YEAR, LUCKY STIFF, ENTER LAUGHING, HIGH SPIRITS, THEDA BARA AND THE FRONTIER RABBI, WHAT'S A NICE CONTRY LIKE YOU, DOING IN A STATE LIKE THIS?, CHESS and PETS! Regional credits; REGENCY GIRLS (Old Globe – 2025 San Diego Critics Circle Nom.) THE PROM(WPPAC, BW Nom.), NOISES OFF (Cape Playhouse), SWEET POTATO QUEENS (2019 Broadway World Award Winner, New Stage), I HATE HAMLET (Bucks County PH), EVITA (Pioneer) and AIDA (IRNE Nomination -North Shore Theatre). Janine holds a BA in Speech and Theatre from Wagner College and was awarded the 2006 Wagner College Fellows Award.
StewyMichael J. Fanuele
Michael Fanuele lives in Pelham, works in marketing, and hadn't done theatre for twenty-five years – until he was lured back onstage to play Emperor Joseph in The Pelham Manor Club's 2025 production of Amadeus. That role earned him a Best Actor nomination from BroadwayWorld, and Michael has been insufferable since. He's grateful his friends at Pelham Fringe overlook it all.
Production and Venue Sponsor
Music and Improv
Music and improv interludes will run before, between, and after the plays.
Music
James Ahn BrandfonbrenerPiano
Piano
James Ahn Brandfonbrener (pianist, composer, music director) actively performs at diverse venues across NYC, such as The Cutting Room, 54 Below, and Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall. He recently debuted Off-Broadway as music director at the American Theater of Actors. An established composer, his works have been written for loadbang, the DaCapo Chamber Players, and the Park Avenue Armory. James graduated from Yale University with a BA in Music Composition and was awarded the Abraham Beekman Cox Prize in Composition. He teaches across NYC and Westchester.
Jean Garner, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity AssociationVocalist
Vocalist
Jean Garner, AEA, is a singer, actress, writer, composer, teacher, director, and producer. She has performed at Green Room 42, the Laurie Beechman Theatre, Lincoln Center, regional stages, and concert halls, and has worked with Broadway creative teams. As a cabaret and concert artist, she blends jazz, pop, the American Songbook, samba, original music, and musical theatre with relaxed, inspiring patter. A longtime educator, yoga teacher, wellness specialist, and newly certified Happy for No Reason presenter, Jean helps people and animals feel happier and healthier—and artists and presenters find greater clarity, confidence, and expression. For fun, she enjoys dancing, improv, and the great outdoors.
Janine LaMannaVocalist
VocalistMarsha, So Sorry to Kill You, Poor Little Man
Broadway credits include Janet Van De Graaff in the Tony award winning hit, THE DROWSY CHAPERONE. Preceding this sensational production, she played the role of Nickie in the revival of SWEET CHARITY, starring Christina Applegate. But it was Janine's portrayal of Gertrude McFuzz in the Original Broadway Musical SEUSSICAL that earned her a Drama Desk Nomination, Grammy Nomination for Original Cast Album and Broadway.com's Favorite Featured Actress in a Musical Award. Other Broadway show credits include Lois Lane in KISS ME KATE, THE LOOK OF LOVE-The Music of Burt Bacharach and Hal David, Evelyn Nesbit in RAGTIME and SWING! Her first National Tour credits include Velma Kelly in CHICAGO and standing in for Chita Rivera in KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN. Janine has the distinction of being the first actor to play Carmen Sandiego on the PBS series WHERE IN TIME IS CARMEN SANDIEGO? Other Film and TV credits include TWO WEEKS NOTICE, DEVIOUS MAIDS, and several appearances on the Rosie O'Donnell Show, The Today Show, CNN, CTV and the Tony awards. Janine appeared with the New York Philharmonic in Lincoln Center's production of CANDIDE, which aired on PBS Great Performances. Off-Broadway credits include WOMAN OF THE YEAR, LUCKY STIFF, ENTER LAUGHING, HIGH SPIRITS, THEDA BARA AND THE FRONTIER RABBI, WHAT'S A NICE CONTRY LIKE YOU, DOING IN A STATE LIKE THIS?, CHESS and PETS! Regional credits; REGENCY GIRLS (Old Globe – 2025 San Diego Critics Circle Nom.) THE PROM(WPPAC, BW Nom.), NOISES OFF (Cape Playhouse), SWEET POTATO QUEENS (2019 Broadway World Award Winner, New Stage), I HATE HAMLET (Bucks County PH), EVITA (Pioneer) and AIDA (IRNE Nomination -North Shore Theatre). Janine holds a BA in Speech and Theatre from Wagner College and was awarded the 2006 Wagner College Fellows Award.
Andrew O’BrienVocalist
VocalistWriter, The Company We KeepWaiter, The Company We Keep
Andrew O'Brien is an actor and singer who is thrilled to be making his playwriting debut at the Pelham Fringe Festival! Andrew is the playwright of The Company We Keep. As an actor and singer, he has performed in touring and regional productions, cabarets and concerts in New York, and frequently performs stand-up comedy. Some of his favorite credits include Next to Normal, Sweeney Todd, Cabaret, and Sunday in the Park with George. He is a proud graduate of Manhattan School of Music. Website: www.andrewhardyobrien.com Instagram: @aob970
Karen PurselVocalist
Founding Board MemberSponsorship, Production teamVocalistEllen, How Can I Help You?
Karen Pursel is a Pelham mom of three. Like her daughters, she has been singing, acting and dancing since a young age. Karen is happy to share her passion for theatre, music and the arts with the community and can be seen singing with local bands, performing in the Huguenot cabaret, running a music festival and performing in multiple, musical productions around Westchester. She is thrilled to be a part of Pelham Fringe since the beginning and wishes to thank Kate McDaniel and the entire production team for this amazing opportunity. Thanks to Tom for his love and support. Enjoy!
Gabriel Schmid-DoyleUpright Bass
Upright Bass
Gabriel Schmid-Doyle (bassist) is a composer, jazz bassist and educator in New Jersey and New York. She played at Birdland and Dizzy's Club with the Purchase Latin Jazz Orchestra and released the 2025 jazz album, "Who Will You Be?"—take a listen! While earning a Master's from William Paterson in Jazz Composition and Arranging, he studied with some of our Big Band greats—Ed Neumeister, Pete McGuinness, and Cecil Bridgewater. She also arranged and performed "Passages" by Steve Wilson for the William Paterson Jazz Orchestra, with Mr. Wilson as a guest soloist. He has worked and studied with master musicians such as Rufus Reid, Billy Childs, Steve Wilson, Ugonna Okegwo, David Wong, and Doug Weiss at SUNY Purchase College as an undergrad (BM in Jazz Performance on Bass) and looks forward to releasing more songs in the years to come.
Maggie Solimine, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity AssociationVocalist
VocalistChristine Hartley, The Company We Keep
Maggie Solimine is so excited to be a part of the first Pelham Fringe Festival! She has previously performed in the original West End cast of Figaro: An Orignal Musical at The London Palladium. She has performed at top regional theatres across the country including The White Plains Performing Arts Center, Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Festival 56, The Beck Center For The Arts and Great Lakes Theatre. Some of her favorite credits include Bea in Something Rotten!, Claire in Ordinary Days and Antigone. She is a 2024 graduate of Music Theatre at Baldwin Wallace Conservatory. Website: www.Maggiesolimine.com, IG: @maggiesol25
Ellen WeissVocalist, Piano, Guitar
Vocalist, Piano, Guitar
Ellen Weiss is a singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, actor, dancer and Vocal Instructor. Ellen's first big love affair was with Broadway Musical Theater but her own musical expression goes beyond genre always dedicated first to reaching hearts when playing her original theater, pop, folk, blues songs or the beloved Great American Songbook repertoire. Ellen has appeared in New York City clubs such as The Bitter End, Café Vivaldi, The Triad Lounge, and Don't Tell Mama's. She has done theatrical productions such as Kiss me Kate and Titanic the Musical and can be heard as back up vocalist on Brian Kramer's blue album, "Strike While it's Hot, where she also acted as vocal coach. Ellen was a member of the contemporary folk music group "Water Sign" for many years. The group produced an award winning self-titled CD. Presently, Ellen is part of a Jazz vocal/ guitar duo called "Moonglow" with guitarist Jonathan Finkelman. Ellen teaches private vocal lessons and group classes right here in Pelham after living and teaching in her NYC studio for over 30 years. She is dedicated to helping people free and explore their most authentic, empowered vocal expression. www.ellenweissmusic.com and www.moonglowduo.com
Improv
Jim EwingImprov performer
Production Manager, Production teamImprov performer
Jim Ewing is a New Rochelle-based actor and improviser with over 30 years of training and performance experience, including work at The PIT, Second City, and ANDsemble. His credits span improv, sketch comedy, film, television, and stage, with recent roles including dramatic roles, and musical theater. He'll be performing with "AND on Stage" this November. Beyond performance, Jim applies improv principles to leadership and business training, helping teams build presence, adaptability, and trust through the same skills that shape great scene work.
Jill FriedmanImprov performer
Improv performer
Carolyn Marie WrightImprov performer
Founding Board MemberImprov performerDirector, How Can I Help You?AI Voice, How Can I Help You?
Carolyn Marie Wright is committed to creating opportunities for folx of all ages to experience dignity, belonging, and justice through the arts. She teaches English and Devised Theatre at Fordham Prep, where she also serves as Assistant Director of Campus Ministry for Social Justice and Assistant Director of FP Dramatic Society. She is the founding moderator and director of Theatrum Justitiae, a Visual Performing Arts course where students use playwriting and performance to examine systems of injustice and explore pathways toward advocacy and action. Her work as a performer, director, and teaching artist includes Geffen Playhouse, Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum, The Second City, MCC Theater, New Victory Theater, Valley Youth Theatre, and Catskill Mountain Shakespeare. Proud alum of: Yale (BA), NYU Steinhardt (MA), and UCLA (MFA). Fun fact: she did MoCap for the original BioShock.
Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association
Music Sponsors
Festival Company
Everyone in the 2026 festival. Open a name to read their bio.
Emily AronoffBev, How Can I Help You?
Emily Aronoff (Bev, How Can I help You) is an actress based in Pelham, NY. Emily has performed in many theater productions. Some of her favorite theater credits include Badland Butterfly (NY Theater Festival), A Visitor in the Doorway (Westchester's Collaborative Theater), The Debt Collector (SOOP to Nuts Finalist), Night of January 16th (The Manor Club Theatre), and Insignificant (Red Monkey Theater Group). Alongside her stage work, Emily can be seen in the recent short film Gone.
Jessica W. BondsSonia Voice, How Can I Help You?
Sonia Voice, How Can I Help You?
Jessica W. Bonds is a playwright, actress, director, and producer whose work explores identity, resilience, healing, relationships, and the complexities of being human. Her work is rooted in creating theater that centers diverse voices, challenges assumptions, and invites audiences into stories of transformation, reclamation, and connection. As an actor, Jessica's credits include As You Like It, Paule Cuffe: In Search of a New Land, The Execution of Helen Raye Fowler, Without Color, Gladys Day – The Life and Loves, and other theatrical productions. Her film and commercial work further reflects her versatility as a performer. As a playwright, her works include Phoenix Rising, Peregrination, I Got the Role, Pivot, Magnolia and Moss, and Shimmer. She is also a licensed psychotherapist with more than two decades of experience, bringing emotional insight and authenticity to her creative work. Jessica is passionate about building inclusive theatrical spaces where artists can explore, create, and shine.
Laura Lee Botsacos, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity AssociationLilly, How Can I Help You?
Laura Lee Botsacos is a New York-based actor, writer, and storyteller whose career spans television, film, theatre, and stand-up comedy. Her credits include Law & Order, The Young and the Restless, Living in Exile, and acclaimed New York stages including 59E59, Theatre for the New City, and The Players Theatre. A graduate of Skidmore College with a B.S. in Theatre, Laura Lee has trained in the Meisner technique and built a career rooted in bold, deeply human storytelling. This November, she premieres Tuesday, her autobiographical one-woman play about surviving September 11, at Theatre Row on November 21.
James Ahn BrandfonbrenerPiano, Music
James Ahn Brandfonbrener (pianist, composer, music director) actively performs at diverse venues across NYC, such as The Cutting Room, 54 Below, and Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall. He recently debuted Off-Broadway as music director at the American Theater of Actors. An established composer, his works have been written for loadbang, the DaCapo Chamber Players, and the Park Avenue Armory. James graduated from Yale University with a BA in Music Composition and was awarded the Abraham Beekman Cox Prize in Composition. He teaches across NYC and Westchester.
Kathleen Mary Carthy, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity AssociationKat, Radio Silence
Sophie F CohenStage Manager, Production team
Stage Manager, Production team
Sophie Cohen (Stage Manager) This is Sophie's first show with Pelham Fringe and she is so grateful to be involved. She would love to give a special thanks to everyone in the company for making such an awesome and educational experience and a huge thanks to my family for supporting me along the way. I can't wait for you all to see the show!
Sean Dagony-ClarkFounding Board Member
Founding Board MemberCTO, Web Design, Production teamLouie, A Pair of Mopes
Sean Dagony-Clark performed professionally in D.C. theaters until 2000: Olney Theatre (West Side Story, u.s. Tony), Round House (Jack and Jill, ensemble), BAPA's Imagination Stage (The Wind in the Willows, Rat), Lazy Susan Dinner Theater (Brigadoon, Charlie), Vpstart Crow Productions (Cyrano de Bergerac, Christian), and more. Then he took a short 26-year break from performing to get married, raise a family, and work in design, teaching, and tech. He's delighted to finally be back onstage with Pelham Fringe, where he also performs the roles of founding board member and CTO. Love to H&E&A.
Jim EwingProduction Manager, Production team
Production Manager, Production teamImprov performer, Improv
Jim Ewing is a New Rochelle-based actor and improviser with over 30 years of training and performance experience, including work at The PIT, Second City, and ANDsemble. His credits span improv, sketch comedy, film, television, and stage, with recent roles including dramatic roles, and musical theater. He'll be performing with "AND on Stage" this November. Beyond performance, Jim applies improv principles to leadership and business training, helping teams build presence, adaptability, and trust through the same skills that shape great scene work.
Michael J. FanueleMarketing, Production team
Marketing, Production teamStewy, So Sorry to Kill You, Poor Little Man
Michael Fanuele lives in Pelham, works in marketing, and hadn't done theatre for twenty-five years – until he was lured back onstage to play Emperor Joseph in The Pelham Manor Club's 2025 production of Amadeus. That role earned him a Best Actor nomination from BroadwayWorld, and Michael has been insufferable since. He's grateful his friends at Pelham Fringe overlook it all.
Rich FeldmanWriter, Radio Silence
Rich lives in Pelham with his wife, Georgene. They have two daughters, Allie and Kate, both of whom graduated from Pelham Memorial High School. In his twenties and thirties, Rich performed stand-up comedy. In his forties, he made the transition to theater, where he discovered a passion for the stage. Since then, he has been fortunate to be steadily cast and enjoy numerous acting opportunities. Thanks to Pelham Fringe, Rich has now added playwriting to his creative pursuits and resume. He is honored and thrilled that his one-act play, Radio Silence, was selected for the inaugural Pelham Fringe Festival.
Jill FriedmanImprov performer, Improv
Joni FritzWriter, How Can I Help You?
Joni Fritz is a writer and actress whose work spans the New York stage, regional theatre, television, and commercials. She began her writing career as a comedy sketch writer for USA Network. Her first play, "Girl's Room," starring Broadway legends Carol Lawrence and Donna McKechnie, had acclaimed runs in both New York and Los Angeles. "In the Car with Blossom and Len" won the Susan Glaspell Award, leading to a full production at Centenary Stage and a subsequent major production at Queens Theatre. Most recently, her work has been seen at the Players Theatre, Gene Frankel Theatre, Dominion Stage, Theatre for the New City, Open Eye Theatre, and Westchester Collaborative Theatre. This month, Joni's play "First a Home" will be performed in Ossining, NY, to raise awareness and funds for people experiencing homelessness.
Jeffrey B. FuerstWriter, A Pair of Mopes
Jeffrey Fuerst (PLAYWRIGHT, A Pair of Mopes) Jeff's plays and musicals for children and adults have been performed in regional theaters, community theaters, off-off Broadway, and schools around the country. His play, "Two Characters in Search of a 10-Minute Play," a send-up of short play contests, was performed at three different one-act play festivals in NYC last year and was selected for publication in Smith and Kraus' annual "Best Short Plays of 2026." When he is not writing, Jeff enjoys playing tennis, cooking, and taking umbrage.
Jean Garner, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity AssociationVocalist, Music
Jean Garner, AEA, is a singer, actress, writer, composer, teacher, director, and producer. She has performed at Green Room 42, the Laurie Beechman Theatre, Lincoln Center, regional stages, and concert halls, and has worked with Broadway creative teams. As a cabaret and concert artist, she blends jazz, pop, the American Songbook, samba, original music, and musical theatre with relaxed, inspiring patter. A longtime educator, yoga teacher, wellness specialist, and newly certified Happy for No Reason presenter, Jean helps people and animals feel happier and healthier—and artists and presenters find greater clarity, confidence, and expression. For fun, she enjoys dancing, improv, and the great outdoors.
Melissa Flower GladneyResident Dramaturg, Design, Production team
Resident Dramaturg, Design, Production teamDirector, So Sorry to Kill You, Poor Little Man
Melissa Flower Gladney is a theatre director, performance artist, and dramaturg originally from Houston, Texas. She is currently a PhD Candidate in Theatre and Performance at CUNY. Melissa has trained throughout her career with SITI Company and with SCOT in Japan. Melissa performs across NYC with Yoshiko Chuma's School of Hard Knocks. Her key devised works include Pangea at BLUEorange Gallery, Memory in the Time of the Refugee at Dixon Place, and things missing/missed at Undermain Theatre (adapted into a film which won 7 international film festival awards). Key directing credits include The Return of Sherlock Holmes, Cassandra, Masseur, and Black Water. She is thrilled to be returning to directing with such incredible people at the Fringe!
Renée HewittLinda Carlozzi, The Company We Keep
Linda Carlozzi, The Company We Keep
Renée Hewitt as Linda Carlozzi – is a veteran seen in such roles as: Sarah Bernhardt/Bernhardt/Hamlet, Helen Bechdel/Fun Home, Ouiser/Steel Magnolias, Aldonza/Man of La Mancha, Kate Mundy/ Dancing at Lughnasa, Rona Lisa Piretti/25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Annie Sullivan/Miracle Worker. New York credits: Bridge Street Theater, Mariya/Uncle Vanya and Brianne,Chaya/Mary Jane; Gallery Players, Beth/Constancy of Home and Lucina, A, Mother/Metamorphoses; Columbia University, Gem/Timmy; The Players Theatre Boo Festival, Gina/ Evenings. Directing Credits: Les Miserables, Spamalot, Sparkle In The Grey and Go Time. Some VO credits: Ivy/ Soulcalibur II and Epona Rhi/Mechwarrior III. Studies voice/acting with Romana Mallory/studiomallory.com. ReneeJHewitt.com
Jonathan HicksHugo, A Pair of Mopes
Jonathan is an 20year+ veteran of the stage and screen, having worked in New York, regionally, and internationally, as well as appearing in numerous commercials throughout the years. Jonathan just moved with his family to Pelham last year and is loving the community. Jonathan's kids are awesome, wife is amazing, and sink is often full of dirty dishes. Big thank you to Kate, all the people who have made Pelham Fringe possible and to the community who support us.
Lizzy Kircher, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity AssociationProgram Design, Production team
Program Design, Production teamYolanda, A Pair of Mopes
Lizzy is a New York–based actor and Boston University graduate hailing from Singapore. Having moved frequently throughout her life, she is drawn to stories about change, reinvention, and finding your place, especially those centered on complicated young women and generational female relationships. Her recent work includes Boston Blue, Dexter: Resurrection, NYC A.R.T. Theatre's New Development Readings, award-winning indie projects, and another dang audition. Outside of acting, Lizzy loves design, spending time with her family, and taking classes and workshops. If you can't reach her, she's probably with her orange cat.
Janine LaMannaVocalist, Music
Vocalist, MusicMarsha, So Sorry to Kill You, Poor Little Man
Broadway credits include Janet Van De Graaff in the Tony award winning hit, THE DROWSY CHAPERONE. Preceding this sensational production, she played the role of Nickie in the revival of SWEET CHARITY, starring Christina Applegate. But it was Janine's portrayal of Gertrude McFuzz in the Original Broadway Musical SEUSSICAL that earned her a Drama Desk Nomination, Grammy Nomination for Original Cast Album and Broadway.com's Favorite Featured Actress in a Musical Award. Other Broadway show credits include Lois Lane in KISS ME KATE, THE LOOK OF LOVE-The Music of Burt Bacharach and Hal David, Evelyn Nesbit in RAGTIME and SWING! Her first National Tour credits include Velma Kelly in CHICAGO and standing in for Chita Rivera in KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN. Janine has the distinction of being the first actor to play Carmen Sandiego on the PBS series WHERE IN TIME IS CARMEN SANDIEGO? Other Film and TV credits include TWO WEEKS NOTICE, DEVIOUS MAIDS, and several appearances on the Rosie O'Donnell Show, The Today Show, CNN, CTV and the Tony awards. Janine appeared with the New York Philharmonic in Lincoln Center's production of CANDIDE, which aired on PBS Great Performances. Off-Broadway credits include WOMAN OF THE YEAR, LUCKY STIFF, ENTER LAUGHING, HIGH SPIRITS, THEDA BARA AND THE FRONTIER RABBI, WHAT'S A NICE CONTRY LIKE YOU, DOING IN A STATE LIKE THIS?, CHESS and PETS! Regional credits; REGENCY GIRLS (Old Globe – 2025 San Diego Critics Circle Nom.) THE PROM(WPPAC, BW Nom.), NOISES OFF (Cape Playhouse), SWEET POTATO QUEENS (2019 Broadway World Award Winner, New Stage), I HATE HAMLET (Bucks County PH), EVITA (Pioneer) and AIDA (IRNE Nomination -North Shore Theatre). Janine holds a BA in Speech and Theatre from Wagner College and was awarded the 2006 Wagner College Fellows Award.
Kate McDanielFounder
FounderBoard ChairArtistic Director, Production teamElena, Radio SilenceJessica Hirschfeld, The Company We Keep
Kate McDaniel is a SAG-AFTRA actor, producer, and the Founder and Artistic Director of Pelham Fringe.
A graduate of the University of Virginia, Kate grew up in Richmond, Virginia, and later lived and worked in Los Angeles and New York City before making her home in Pelham with her family. Her television credits include Modern Family and Criminal Minds, and she co-created the sketch comedy channel JustBoobs Sketch.
Pelham Fringe grew out of her desire for the kind of artistic community she had been missing: a place where artists could gather in person, take creative risks, make ambitious work together, and keep moving creatively.
Kate is continually inspired by the talent, generosity, and grace of the artists who have brought this community to life. She dedicates this work in loving memory of her mama, Andrea Poynter McDaniel.
Andrew O’BrienVocalist, Music
Vocalist, MusicWriter, The Company We KeepWaiter, The Company We Keep
Andrew O'Brien is an actor and singer who is thrilled to be making his playwriting debut at the Pelham Fringe Festival! Andrew is the playwright of The Company We Keep. As an actor and singer, he has performed in touring and regional productions, cabarets and concerts in New York, and frequently performs stand-up comedy. Some of his favorite credits include Next to Normal, Sweeney Todd, Cabaret, and Sunday in the Park with George. He is a proud graduate of Manhattan School of Music. Website: www.andrewhardyobrien.com Instagram: @aob970
Rich O’Brien, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity AssociationDirector, Radio Silence
Director, Radio SilenceRon Smith, Radio Silence
Rich O'Brien, as the son of a boxer, WWll veteran, and NYC detective, was always drawn to stories of determination in the face of adversity. From a young age, he found himself reciting verbatim the lines and monologues of Jimmy Cagney, Jack Nicholson, Robert Deniro, etc, but didn't pursue performing-arts work until he was 40. The late start, he says, makes this time of life -- borrowing from the title of a Pelham Fringe initiative -- a "Second Prime." He has studied acting, singing, and direction with fine teachers at the evening division of The Juilliard School, HB Studio, The Barrow Group, etc. His recent films have won national and international festival awards.
Maria ProvenzanoDirector, The Company We Keep
Maria Provenzano has been part of the theater community for more than 35 years, guided by a profound love of storytelling both onstage and behind the scenes. Her directing credits include Blithe Spirit, Barefoot in the Park, Plaza Suite, Rabbit Hole, and Becky's New Car, among many others. She is thrilled and honored to be part of Pelham Fringe, and especially grateful for the opportunity to direct Andrew O'Brien's hilarious, heartfelt, and inspiring The Company We Keep with this wonderfully talented cast. Nick, your light is forever with me. Aiko, it's always you.
Karen PurselFounding Board Member
Founding Board MemberSponsorship, Production teamVocalist, MusicEllen, How Can I Help You?
Karen Pursel is a Pelham mom of three. Like her daughters, she has been singing, acting and dancing since a young age. Karen is happy to share her passion for theatre, music and the arts with the community and can be seen singing with local bands, performing in the Huguenot cabaret, running a music festival and performing in multiple, musical productions around Westchester. She is thrilled to be a part of Pelham Fringe since the beginning and wishes to thank Kate McDaniel and the entire production team for this amazing opportunity. Thanks to Tom for his love and support. Enjoy!
Judith Reagan, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity AssociationEthel, So Sorry to Kill You, Poor Little Man
Ethel, So Sorry to Kill You, Poor Little Man
Jude is delighted to play with Fringe fellows to discover who this Ethel lady is. Similar explorations led to performances as Kate, Taming of the Shrew; Elmire, Tartuffe; Josie, A Moon for the Misbegotten; Regina, The Little Foxes; Bunny, House of Blue Leaves; Gittel, Two for the Seesaw; Betty, Chapatti; M'Lynn, Steel Magnolias; Doris, Same Time Next Year; Boo, Last Night of Ballyhoo; Charlotte, Moon Over Buffalo. Other favorite shows include Story Theatre, Quilters, I Do, I Do. Venues include the Pearl Theatre Company, Theatre Virginia, Meadow Brook Theatre, Heritage Repertory Theatre, Wayside Theatre, Totem Pole Playhouse, St. Michael's Playhouse. (See, PLAY is sometimes even in the name!)
Cathy ReinkingDirector, A Pair of Mopes
Cathy is a first generation American on both sides. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from UCLA as a Theatre Major, and By God she has made a living from that degree!
Gabriel Schmid-DoyleUpright Bass, Music
Gabriel Schmid-Doyle (bassist) is a composer, jazz bassist and educator in New Jersey and New York. She played at Birdland and Dizzy's Club with the Purchase Latin Jazz Orchestra and released the 2025 jazz album, "Who Will You Be?"—take a listen! While earning a Master's from William Paterson in Jazz Composition and Arranging, he studied with some of our Big Band greats—Ed Neumeister, Pete McGuinness, and Cecil Bridgewater. She also arranged and performed "Passages" by Steve Wilson for the William Paterson Jazz Orchestra, with Mr. Wilson as a guest soloist. He has worked and studied with master musicians such as Rufus Reid, Billy Childs, Steve Wilson, Ugonna Okegwo, David Wong, and Doug Weiss at SUNY Purchase College as an undergrad (BM in Jazz Performance on Bass) and looks forward to releasing more songs in the years to come.
Bette Carlson Siler, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity AssociationWriter, So Sorry to Kill You, Poor Little Man
Writer, So Sorry to Kill You, Poor Little ManTina O’Donnell, The Company We Keep
Bette Carlson Siler is an actor, director and playwright. Her plays have been produced at the Edinburgh Fringe, New Jersey Repertory, NYC's Estrogenius Festival, Vermont Playwrights, NYC's Emerging Artists and Westchester Collaborative Theatre. Staged readings of Bette's work have been performed at the McCarter Theater Centre and the George Street Playhouse. Bette has directed in New York, Scotland and Dublin. She has performed at Arena Stage, the Pacific Conservatory of the Performing Arts, California Actors' Theater and in Off-Broadway showcases in NYC. carlson.bette@gmail.com
Maggie Solimine, Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity AssociationVocalist, Music
Vocalist, MusicChristine Hartley, The Company We Keep
Maggie Solimine is so excited to be a part of the first Pelham Fringe Festival! She has previously performed in the original West End cast of Figaro: An Orignal Musical at The London Palladium. She has performed at top regional theatres across the country including The White Plains Performing Arts Center, Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Festival 56, The Beck Center For The Arts and Great Lakes Theatre. Some of her favorite credits include Bea in Something Rotten!, Claire in Ordinary Days and Antigone. She is a 2024 graduate of Music Theatre at Baldwin Wallace Conservatory. Website: www.Maggiesolimine.com, IG: @maggiesol25
Tony A. WattsMike, Radio Silence
Tony A. Watts is an actor, playwright, poet, author, speaker, and founder of Triumphant Media Group. His creative work spans theatre, poetry, television, Movies (The Child) and community programming, including his original stage production "Unbroken Voices." At the heart of Tony's work is a belief in the power of storytelling to create connection, healing, and change, especially through the stories we are often afraid to tell. Whether on stage, on camera, or in the community, Tony seeks to create work that reminds people of their resilience, their humanity, and one simple truth, "It is never too late to begin again."
Ellen WeissVocalist, Piano, Guitar, Music
Vocalist, Piano, Guitar, Music
Ellen Weiss is a singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, actor, dancer and Vocal Instructor. Ellen's first big love affair was with Broadway Musical Theater but her own musical expression goes beyond genre always dedicated first to reaching hearts when playing her original theater, pop, folk, blues songs or the beloved Great American Songbook repertoire. Ellen has appeared in New York City clubs such as The Bitter End, Café Vivaldi, The Triad Lounge, and Don't Tell Mama's. She has done theatrical productions such as Kiss me Kate and Titanic the Musical and can be heard as back up vocalist on Brian Kramer's blue album, "Strike While it's Hot, where she also acted as vocal coach. Ellen was a member of the contemporary folk music group "Water Sign" for many years. The group produced an award winning self-titled CD. Presently, Ellen is part of a Jazz vocal/ guitar duo called "Moonglow" with guitarist Jonathan Finkelman. Ellen teaches private vocal lessons and group classes right here in Pelham after living and teaching in her NYC studio for over 30 years. She is dedicated to helping people free and explore their most authentic, empowered vocal expression. www.ellenweissmusic.com and www.moonglowduo.com
Carolyn Marie WrightFounding Board Member
Founding Board MemberImprov performer, ImprovDirector, How Can I Help You?AI Voice, How Can I Help You?
Carolyn Marie Wright is committed to creating opportunities for folx of all ages to experience dignity, belonging, and justice through the arts. She teaches English and Devised Theatre at Fordham Prep, where she also serves as Assistant Director of Campus Ministry for Social Justice and Assistant Director of FP Dramatic Society. She is the founding moderator and director of Theatrum Justitiae, a Visual Performing Arts course where students use playwriting and performance to examine systems of injustice and explore pathways toward advocacy and action. Her work as a performer, director, and teaching artist includes Geffen Playhouse, Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum, The Second City, MCC Theater, New Victory Theater, Valley Youth Theatre, and Catskill Mountain Shakespeare. Proud alum of: Yale (BA), NYU Steinhardt (MA), and UCLA (MFA). Fun fact: she did MoCap for the original BioShock.
Appearing courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association
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