EPAC CAST BIOS
"The Wizard of Oz"

Maria is a freshman at Union Endicott Highschool and has been performing on the EPAC stage since she was a bumble bee in The Jungle Book when she was 5 years old. She has led the EPAC Kids Theater Workshop most recently as Anna in 'Frozen Jr.', Belle in 'Beauty and the Beast', as well as starring in the EPAC Teen Intensive "Firebringer" and "Ride the Cyclone". Maria has also been in the EPAC Repertory Company productions of "Tommy" as young Tommy, and 'The Nutcracker' as Clara and the Nutcracker. Maria will be playing for the U-E Hockey Team and Binghamton Blizzards this Winter, and U-E Girls Lacrosse in the Spring. She would like to thank her Mom and Dad for helping her with her lines and driving her all over the place. She would also like to thank her older sister Lucia for braiding her hair. "There's no place like home."

Joe has been the Executive Director of EPAC for almost five years and has performed many lead roles in the EPAC Repertory Company. Some of his favorite roles include Jesus, Judas and Simon in 'Jesus Christ Superstar', The Leading Player in 'Pippin', Plankton in 'Spongebob the Musical', Sir Robin in 'Spamalot', and the Emcee in 'Cabaret'. When he's not at EPAC producing theatre he's usually at home with his two beautiful daughters Lucia and Maria, and his amazing wife Emily. 

Lori Grace is excited to participate in this production of The Wizard of Oz at her home away from home theater.  Playing the part of “Auntie Em”  has been fun and the entire cast has been amazing in their roles.  She is especially excited to be acting with her “niece”, Dorothy (played by Maria Foti).  Maria and her family has always held a special place in her heart.  She is most recently known for her role as Mother Abbess in “The Sound of Music”.  She has also played Fraulein Schneider in “Cabaret”, The Matchmaker and Motel’s mother in “Fiddler on the Roof with ensemble roles in “Jesus Christ Superstar”, “The Producers” and many other EPAC productions. Lori has also worked backstage as the Stage Manager as well as crew.  She is proudly serving on the EPAC Board of Directors in the office of the Secretary.  Lori would like to thank her husband, Ron Grace, for all of his support and always working backstage for whatever show she decides she wants to do!! 

Braydon Willette is excited to be in the cast of The Wizard of Oz at EPAC! He was most recently seen on stage this summer as the Zombie King in the kid's production of The Big One Oh Jr. at Tiahwaga Community Players and as Chris Hosey in Diary of a Wimpy Kid with BLAST Productions. Starting at the age of two years old, Braydon has been involved in many productions. Other notable roles include: Randy in A Christmas Story at TCP and Fritz in The Nutcracker right here at EPAC last December. He wants to thank all his friends and family for always supporting him!

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Sophia Karpel is a vibrant fifth-grader in the Vestal School District, bringing her passion for the arts to the stage. At just ten years old, Sophia has already been part of six productions across three different area theaters, building her experience and love for performing. An artist at heart, she also enjoys drawing, has attended art classes, and hones her skills through acting classes. Beyond theater, Sophia is an avid drummer both in and outside of school. When she's not performing or creating, she loves spending time with her little brother and caring for her two beloved cats.

Anastasia Fish began performing with EPAC in 2018 in The Nutcracker. Since then she has been in A Midsummer Night's Dream, Crocker, the Frog Prince, Roll Over Beethoven, as well as many more Nutcracker shows. She is excited to be playing many ensemble roles in Wizard of Oz. Anastasia's also enjoys working with her Heart of Homeschool co-op Drama Club, ballet, and horseback riding.

Daniel Fish has participated in many Nutcracker and A Midsummer Night's Dream with EPAC. His favorite thing about theatre is learning new things and making new friends. Daniel also participates in Heart of Homeschool Drama Club, archery, and basketball. 

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Erin Fish started performing with EPAC with The Nutcracker in 2018. She has also been in A Midsummer Night's Dream and did her first Kids' Theatre Workshop this summer in Matilda Jr. She is excited to be part of Wizard of Oz. Erin is also part of the Heart of Homeschool Drama Club. In her free time, she loves to draw and write stories.