Operations 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.
Don Beebe
Renee Norris
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Renee Norris, STAND’s Artistic Director, brings nearly 30 years of experience in theater education. She is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of performers.
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 Fort Worth Shakespeare in the Park. She recently filmed an Award Winning short film titled, "Hope" through Artisan Production with Director Chris Gallego-Wong.
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 senior in high school, preparing for a future in collegiate and professional musical theatre. Her passion lies in preparing her students for their next steps in education, performance, and life.
Abi Oxley - Derrik
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Abi Oxley-Derrik has spent over a decade immersed in musical theater, working as a performer, director, choreographer, and stage manager. She has collaborated with theaters across Texas, including Casa Mañana and UNT Theatre. Abi holds a degree in Theatre Education and specializes in using theater as a powerful tool for learning. Her favorite onstage roles include Ariel in The Little Mermaid and Chava in Fiddler on the Roof. When she’s not teaching or performing, Abi actively serves at The Creek Church, leading worship and mentoring middle school students.
Ryleigh Andersen
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Ryleigh Andersen has been part of STAND Performing Arts since birth, developing a deep passion for both hip-hop and ministry. At just 23, she has already spent over a decade teaching and performing across the globe. A graduate of The King’s University with a degree in Christian Ministries, Ryleigh is committed to merging her love for dance with her desire to see the Church impact the arts. Ryleigh has been teaching at STAND since she was 16. She passionately continues to inspire the next generation by connecting them to both Christ and the art of dance.
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.
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.
Angela Hooper
Teaching Staff
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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.
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Acting and Audition PrepFaith Cheesman has spent 25 years in music and theater, beginning with violin at age 12 and singing at 16. Over the years, she has performed in numerous choirs and stage productions, contributing to the opening of two theaters in the metroplex. Faith is thrilled to be part of STAND, where she helps talented individuals grow in a safe and creative environment. Her passion for the arts and dedication to fostering talent make her an invaluable part of the team.
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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.
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Vocals and ActingAt just 18 years old, Macye Armstrong has already worked on over 60 productions across the metroplex. As a college freshman at The King’s University, she’s passionate about helping young performers grow in both their skills and confidence. With a love for theater and ministry, Macye also serves on the worship team at The Mount Church, where she brings her creative energy to both performance and faith. Her work at STAND allows her to combine her love for the stage with her desire to help kids shine.
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Acting, Musical Theatre, PIPSAlison 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Vocals, Choreography, and Hip Hop
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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.