Administrative and Artistic Staff
Jessie Beebe
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Jessie Beebe brings over 25 years of ministry and performing arts experience to STAND. As a speaker, pastor, playwright, and leader, Jessie has dedicated her life to using the arts as a platform for Christ. With a degree in Theatre Education and her ordination as a pastor, she spent seven years as a children’s pastor before touring the U.S. as the host and spokesperson for VeggieTales Live, performing in 30 cities. Internationally, she has ministered in places like Nepal, Africa, Haiti, and Honduras, alongside renowned evangelists like Luis Palau. Through STAND Ministries, Jessie has empowered hundreds of children and teen leaders to use their gifts in performing arts to glorify God. She has also written and produced multiple plays, including No Place Like Home and Forward to the Past, and is a frequent guest on Fishbowl Radio Network’s Vinelife Ministry show. Her passion for creative expression and leadership has made her a driving force in the arts ministry world.
✉️jessie@standministries.org
Don Beebe
Renee Norris
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Renee Norris, STAND’s Artistic Director, brings nearly 30 years of experience in theatre education. She is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of artists.
Holding degrees in Theatre and English from Texas Wesleyan University, Renee has taught and directed at Haltom High School, Casa Mañana, Artisan Center Theatre, Stand, and CATS in Arlington. She has also choreographed for Texas Wesleyan University and Fort Worth Shakespeare in the Park.
As a performer, Renee has appeared in shows at Circle Theatre, Stage West, and Six Flags Over Texas, and Fort Worth Shakespeare in the Park.
Renee’s husband, Ethan, works in television production and is a local actor. Their daughter, Ellie, is a Forensic Biology major at Sam Houston State, and their son, Dominic, is a Musical Theatre Major at the University of Texas in Arlington. Her passion lies in preparing her students for their next steps in education, performance, and life.
✉️renee@standministries.org
HAYDEN CASEY
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Hayden Casey is a dedicated theatre practitioner with BFAs in Acting and Directing. Over the past decade, he has contributed to more than 150 productions across Texas with over 70 unique performance credits. His performance experience includes a national tour, and he has directed for companies such as Artisan Center Theater, STAND Performing Arts Ministry, Runway Theatre, and Upright Theatre Co. Hayden remains active in the DFW theatre community as a performer, director, and set designer, committed to creating meaningful, impactful theatrical work. He is incredibly grateful for Stand and the family they have provided for him.
✉️hayden@standministries.org
Ryleigh Andersen
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Ryleigh Andersen has been involved with STAND since she was a child. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Ministries, and being with STAND for its full 20 years, she has the perfect grasp of STAND’s foundation which guides her creative and marketing strategies. Her social media experience is youth and ministry-focused, inspired by her internships with local ministries like The Met Church and Gateway Global Ministries. In Ryleigh’s entrepreneurial endeavors, she has developed a keen eye for action photography, video content creation, and relevant social media strategies that shapes STAND’s storytelling presence and brand identity.
✉️ryleigh@standministries.org
Lindsay Huffman
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With over 20 years in the marketing space and nearly 30 years in the performing arts, Lindsay Huffman has brought her talents to stages and churches alike. She began her career with institutions like The Country Dinner Playhouse and Casa Mañana, appearing in beloved productions such as The Wizard of Oz, The Jungle Book, Anne of Green Gables, and Annie. Lindsay holds both a Bachelor's and a Master's in Communications from Dallas Baptist University, where she was also part of the Legacy Show Choir. Outside of theater, she has led worship for more than 20 years and enjoys spending time with her husband, son, and two dogs. Lindsay is passionate about shaping the next generation of performers through her work at STAND.
✉️lindsay@standministries.org
Shannon Lane
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Shannon Lane blends her extensive experience in business finance with her lifelong passion for the performing arts. With over three decades of vocal training and performance, Shannon has excelled in choir, show choir, and solo competitions, while actively participating in community theater. In addition to her artistic pursuits, she teaches Toastmasters courses, helping individuals build confidence. As STAND’s business manager, Shannon is passionate about empowering the next generation of performers to shine on stage and in life.
✉️shannon@standministries.org
Angela Hooper
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Angela Hooper has been a dedicated part of STAND for eight years, making her an integral part of the STAND family. As Hospitality Manager, she ensures that every student, parent, and guest feels welcomed and valued. Her deep understanding of STAND’s mission and vision allows her to create a warm, inviting atmosphere where everyone feels at home. With a heart for service and a gift for making connections, Angela helps foster the strong sense of community that makes STAND so special.
✉️angela@standministries.org
SUPPORT STAFF
ELEASHA KRAUSE
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Eleasha Krause has a heart for nurturing creative communities and building strong, effective systems to support them. With a professional background in project management, regulatory affairs, and human resources, she brings years of experience in communication, compliance, and process improvement. A longtime homeschool mom and the local director of a Classical Conversations program, she is dedicated to helping young people grow in confidence, faith, and creativity. She also serves with The Navigators, partnering with local churches and neighborhoods to cultivate spiritual growth and meaningful discipleship. As STAND’s Events and Outreach Manager, Eleasha uses her gifts in organization and relationship-building to help the ministry flourish behind the scenes. She considers it a joy and a privilege to serve in a place where faith and the performing arts come together to transform lives.
✉️eleasha@standministries.org
MIKI HOOPER
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Miki has been with Stand Performing Arts Ministry since 2018, first as a student, then serving as a teacher, choreographer, and director. With experience teaching both singing and dancing, Miki is passionate about using every gift God has given to glorify Him. Currently a worship leader at The Mount, Miki loves creating spaces where people can encounter Jesus through the arts. Her heart is to serve God wholeheartedly and inspire others to do the same.
✉️MikailaHooper8@gmail.com
SERET GOMEZ-RYAN
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Seret Gomez-Ryan is delighted to serve as House Manager for Stand Performing Arts, a role she has embraced since May 2025. In addition to overseeing front-of-house operations, she can often be found stage managing and keeping a watchful eye on the Green Room Players.
, doorman, and expert locator of lost items — both backstage and beyond the curtain.
With a gift for multitasking, Seret thrives in her unofficial roles as diplomat, medic, therapistA longtime lover of the arts, Seret was last seen onstage as Ronnie in Hair (2014) at Mercer County Community College in West Windsor, New Jersey.
✉️seretgryan5@gmail.com
THOMAS BARTKE
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ELI LANE
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Eli Lane is an accomplished prop engineer and master carpenter. He spends his days making games and set pieces, then spends his nights being a giant nerd. With is personal mantra “If I can’t fix it, it ain’t broke” and an awesome attitude, Eli works to make sure all the performers (new, learning, and teachers) have everything they need.
✉️eli@standministries.org
ELLEN LUMPKIN
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Teaching ARTISTS
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Vocals and Private VocalsCarl Andersen has been involved in worship and music since the 8th grade, playing key roles as a singer, acoustic guitarist, electric guitarist, bassist, worship leader, and audio engineer. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Worship Leadership from The King's University and has a deep passion for using music to connect people with God. Carl believes that each person has unique, God-given talents designed to foster both personal growth and meaningful encounters with the Lord. Combining his extensive experience in church worship with his love for artistry, Carl creates authentic worship experiences that inspire and uplift. At STAND, he continues to bring his heart for worship and creative expertise to help others discover their own gifts and build connections through music.
✉️ itscarlwandersen@gmail.com
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PIPs
Cathryn started performing in theatre in the 4th grade with Stars Theater Co. and holds a bachelor of fine arts in Theatre and a minor in Psychology from Tarleton State University. During her time in college she had the opportunity to play various roles on stage and gain experience in multiple design and stage production roles. She did her internship with Stage West in 2018 where she helped build, paint, and strike the sets of their summer productions. While she enjoys being on stage, she also has experience painting (both large and small scale) and stage management. She has directing credits with Upright Theater Co. and has performed in productions at Artisan Center Theater. Cathryn also has worked with Paramount Productions as a Production Assistant and as a background actor. She loves working with kids and storytelling!
✉️ cathryn.damore@gmail.com
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Improv
Abi has been proud to be part of the DFW theatre community for over 15 years. Since 2017, she has had the joy of serving on the Stand teaching staff, where she has taught more than a dozen different classes and directed productions such as High School Musical Jr., Seussical Jr., Descendants, Camp Rock, Freaky Friday, and more. She studied Theatre Education at both Texas A&M University and the University of North Texas, ultimately earning her degree from UNT. She has had the incredible opportunity to bring characters such as Antonia in Man of La Mancha, Ariel in The Little Mermaid, Gertrude in Seussical, and Chava in Fiddler on The Roof to life. In addition to her work as a director and educator, Abi brings experience in performance, choreography, and costume design. She is deeply grateful for the heart and mission of Stand—to build a faith-centered community for those who love to create.
✉️abioxley18@gmail.com
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VoiceChristina Major Davis is an acclaimed American soprano whose powerful and agile voice has captivated audiences around the world. Since 2005, she has performed with prestigious opera companies and symphonies, gracing stages like Carnegie Hall and Broadway. With a full lineup of performances set for 2024, Christina continues to deliver deeply emotional and technically brilliant performances. Her incredible range and passion for music make her a standout performer and a treasured addition to the STAND team.
✉️clmsoprano@gmail.com
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Musical Theatre
Alison Hale is a dedicated performer, singer, and dancer with more than 10 years of experience in the performing arts. Her journey began in community theater at age 9, and she transitioned to professional theater by 13, earning her Equity Membership Candidate card. Alison has played iconic roles such as Eponine in Les Misérables, Cinderella, and Belle. Now a senior at the University of North Texas, she’s pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Dance with a minor in Theatre. Alison’s passion for teaching shines through as she helps students discover their own unique, God-given talents in the arts.
✉️ Alisonhale100@gmail.com
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Acting, Fitness, Choreography, and Community TheatreCameron Byerly is a movement specialist, director, stunt coordinator, and motivational speaker. He comes to STAND with 15 years of experience on stage and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre from Texas Wesleyan University, Cameron is also a jiu-jitsu practitioner with nine years of experience. He has worked as a stunt coordinator in Los Angeles and uses his expertise in movement to inspire audiences through performance. His work at STAND allows him to bring his passion for creativity and physical expression to a new generation of performers.
✉️ cameronbyerlymoves@gmail.com
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Childrens Theatre, Vocals, Acting
Jill Franklin has been a theater director for nearly a decade and a teacher for over 20 years. She starting performing ballet and tap at age 3. Jill went on to earn degrees in Communication and Educational Leadership. She founded a theater arts program at a Christian school, where her students regularly excel in competitions. Now at STAND, Jill is excited to bring her expertise to a new generation of performers, helping them connect with Christ and develop their talents on stage.✉️jillfranklin2012@gmail.com
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Childrens Theatre, Musical Theatre DanceBella Lindsey began her theater journey at age 12 and has since dedicated her time to teaching young performers at Artisan Theater and STAND. Her love for theater shines through as she helps students grow in their creativity and craft. Bella’s passion for the arts continues to thrive as she teaches and inspires the next generation of performers, sharing her joy for storytelling and stagecraft with every class.
✉️bellarlindsey@gmail.com
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Hannah Perkinson has been part of the DFW theatre community for over 10 years with experience as a stage manager, director, educator, and performer. She recently graduated from the University of North Texas with a Bachelors of Arts in Theatre Education. She is passionate about theatre education and making theatre accessible for students of all ages. She is thrilled to be joining Stand to continue fostering this passion. There is magic in the theatre!
✉️hmsimpson29@yahoo.com
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ActingCrystal Byerly is thrilled to be entering her eighth year of teaching theatre. Her love for the art form comes from watching students discover their unique talents and using them to create something truly special together. She believes there’s nothing quite like the magic that happens when young performers collaborate, grow in confidence, and bring stories to life as a team.
In her classroom, Crystal focuses on building a supportive, fun, and creative environment where every student feels valued and encouraged to express themselves.
She can’t wait to make more magic with her students this year.
✉️crystal_022661@yahoo.com
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Musical Theatre
Ashley has been teaching vocal technique for 20 yrs and directing theater for 8 yrs. She has a BA in voice disorders and loves coupling the science/anatomy of speech with vocal performance. She graduated from the Citrus Singer Conservatory and toured as a classical soloist through Europe and New York, also performing as a pop/R&B vocalist in California and Hawaii. Favorite professional roles include: Sara(Guys and Dolls), Christine(Phantom), Lily (The Secret Garden), Belle (Beauty and the Beast), Mayzie La Bird (Seussical), and Hope(Urinetown). Whether acting as vocal coach, adjudicator, music director, choreographer, or audience member, she loves helping students achieve their dreams on and off the stage.
✉️ashley.diane.green@gmail.com
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Hip Hop and ChoreographyDeardre Randolph has been dancing since she was two years old and teaching since she was 15. While her expertise lies in hip-hop, she’s also well-versed in jazz, tap, and ballet. Deardre has performed at renowned venues like Bass Performance Hall and was a collegiate pom squad member at Stephen F. Austin State University. As the choreographer for STAND Performing Arts Ministries, Deardre is dedicated to shaping the next generation of dancers by fostering creativity, confidence, and faith through movement.
✉️deardre.randolph@gmail.com
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Acting, Vocals, PIPSBridgette Marquardt brings her diverse background in acting, vocals, and dance to STAND, where she has been teaching for three years. A graduate of Belhaven University with a Bachelor of Arts in Dance, Bridgette has trained in classical ballet, modern dance, and numerous other styles. Professionally, she has worked as a voice actor for Funimation/ Crunchyroll, toured with Dallas Children’s Theatre, and directed local productions. As the founder of Chameleon Dance & Theatre Company, Bridgette uses the arts to inspire meaningful conversations and encourage the pursuit of truth.
✉️diverity_and_unity@protonmail.com
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ActingAngel Somarriba is an American actor & writer who believes in taking a risk to tell a story. He’s hard at
work on the first issue of the highly anticipated rebrand of the creative literary journal, Project Haiven
(formerly Haiven House). Angel has been a part of the DFW theatre community for several years
spanning many roles such as Butch Defeo in the regional premiere of Amityville’74, The Cat in the Hat in
Seussical, Henry Jekyll/Hyde in Jekyll and Hyde, Ramon De La Vega in Zorro the Musical, Pheobus De
Martin in the Hunchback of Notre Dame, which earned him a Column award nomination for best actor in
a supporting role. He holds a BFA in Creative Writing from Full Sail University and has trained with
Adam Findley on character development and audition techniques. He is pursuing an MFA in
Screenwriting at Regent University to further his knowledge. “For an actor to effectively do their job,
they must understand the text, cover to cover before they can truly play in the playground they’re given.”
✉️ulyssessomarriba@gmail.com
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Hip HopChanie Thomas is a passionate dancer, choreographer, and teacher who has been training in multiple styles—including jazz, hip hop, tap, and contemporary—since the age of two. With over nine years of teaching experience, she brings both energy and expertise to every class she leads.
Chanie currently teaches at HQ Dallas, Preston Center Dance, and Live Arts Conservatory. She holds an Associate Degree in Musical Theatre from KD Conservatory and is excited to be part of the STAND family, where she looks forward to sharing her love for dance and inspiring the next generation of performers.
✉️chaniekierra@gmail.com