WCPS Summer Performing Arts Academy

06/28/2026

06/28/2026

And just like that… we’ve reached the end of the Yellow Brick Road 💛

Thank you to everyone who came to support our production of The Wizard of Oz. Every ticket purchased, every round of applause, and every encouraging word meant more than you know.

We also want to give a very special thank you to all of our incredible sponsors who made this production possible! We truly couldn’t have made this show come to life without you.

To our parents, thank you for sharing your children with us this summer and for all of your support along the way.

To our amazing cast, thank you for your hard work, your kindness, and the joy you brought to every rehearsal. You weren’t just talented, but you were also kind, respectful, encouraging, and truly made this camp something special.

They say, “There’s no place like home,” but for a few wonderful weeks, we found another place that felt a little like home that was filled with laughter, friendships, creativity, and a little bit of Oz magic.

Thank you for making this summer unforgettable!! Until our next adventure, keep believing that magic isn’t found… it’s created. 💚✨🌈🦁👠🪲

06/26/2026

The journey down the Yellow Brick Road begins tonight! 🌈✨

Join us for the first performance of The Wizard of Oz at 7:00 PM in the Coeburn Middle School Auditorium. Our talented students are ready to bring the magic of Oz to life, and we’d love for you to be part of it.

Tickets are available at the door.

There’s no place like the stage… and the adventure starts tonight! 💚

06/26/2026

IT’S OPENING NIGHT! Meet the cast with “Shake My Hand in Character”

Join us tonight at 7pm in the CMS auditorium for our journey down the yellow brick road! 💛

06/26/2026

The journey to Oz begins tomorrow! 🌈✨
Before the curtain rises, meet the incredible production team who made this magic possible. Read their bios below and get to know the faces behind the show.

Shane Burke, PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Shane Burke has been teaching at Eastside High School and Coeburn Middle School since 2009. During his time with Wise County Public Schools, he has directed eleven state-winning one-act plays and numerous school musicals and plays. He received a Bachelor's in Music Education from East Tennessee State University and a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction: Theatre Pedagogy from Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Shane lives in Norton, VA with his beautiful and talented wife, Amber, their three children, Matthew, Jenna, and Andy, a clumsy poodle named Dolly, and a dramatic chihuahua named Cricket. He has enjoyed working on The Wizard of Oz with such a talented and committed group of young artists.

Melissa Galliher, MUSIC DIRECTOR
This is Melissa Galliher‘s 6th summer as music director and it is such an honor for her to be a part of the WCPS Summer Arts Academy team. Melissa has taught for 28 years and this will be her 21st year teaching in Wise County. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy and a Master’s degree in Music Education from Florida State University. Along with working at St. Paul Elementary School, Melissa is a very proud mom, a teacher with the Lyric Children’s Chorus, and a church musician. She is so proud to have the privilege to watch these fabulous students blossom on the stage.

Amber Burke, CHOREOGRAPHER/COSTUME DESIGN/CO-DIRECTOR
Amber Burke holds a Bachelor’s degree in Vocal Performance from East Tennessee State University and a Master’s degree in Vocal Performance from James Madison University. For the past 14 years, she has taught vocal music in public school systems, where she continues to share her passion for music and performance with students of all ages. Outside the classroom, Amber enjoys directing youth musicals with All An Act Theatre Project and has choreographed a wide range of productions. She believes strongly in the power of the arts to build confidence, discipline, and community. Watching young performers discover their voice—both on stage and off—remains one of her greatest joys. Amber lives in Norton, VA with her husband, Shane, and their three children—Matthew, Jenna, and Andy.

Heather Marchant, TECHNICAL DIR./SET, LIGHTING DESIGN
Heather Marchant is the technical director for the theatre program at Eastside High School. She is also the head speech coach and assistant theatre coach there as well. Heather studied Theatre at UVA Wise with a focus on design and production. In 2004, she was in the Wizard of Oz for the very first time, and it was the show that truly inspired her love for theatre. She is forever grateful for Ms. Debbie Ogle, the first director who took her on a journey to Oz. It is that love and dedication that have inspired Heather to work with the next generation of theatre kiddos. Some of Heather’s favorite shows that she has worked on are The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Little Shop of Horrors, and Groundhog Day. When she isn’t working on a show, she enjoys watching reruns of Survivor, Sci-Fi movies, and rediscovering her childhood through 90’s country music. Heather hopes you enjoy the magic that has been created this summer. To Oz!

Kyleigh Harmon, COUNSELOR
Kyleigh is a junior at the University of Virginia's College at Wise, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with aspirations to become a Nurse Anesthetist. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, baking, volunteering at church, and competing in pageantry. A proud alumna of the WCPS Summer Arts Academy and Eastside High School’s theatre program, where she won 8 VHSL state championships and a state acting award, Kyleigh has continued to share her passion for the arts by mentoring young performers throughout Wise County. While at EHS, she served as the student director and choreographer for numerous productions, including Shrek, the Musical,and Beetlejuice Jr. She most recently served as the choreographer for UHS’s production of The SpongeBob Musical. From staging and costumes to choreography, character development, and social media promotion, she is grateful for the opportunity to help with the WCPS Summer Arts Academy and inspire the next generation of young performers while sharing her love of dance and theatre. She wants to give a special thank you to her family and former coaches who fostered her love for the arts. All Glory be to God!

Angel McReynolds, COUNSELOR
Ms Angel is an employee of Wise County Public Schools, where she works in PreK at St. Paul Elementary. The Wizard of Oz is the third summer program she has helped with. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, crafts, and watching true crime. She hopes all the children have enjoyed this production and looks forward to many more years of working with the Arts!!

Heather Ayers, COUNSELOR
Heather Ayers is an educator with Wise County Public Schools and most recently directed the dance education program at St. Paul Elementary School. This fall, she will join the faculty at Coeburn Middle School. A longtime supporter of theatre and the performing arts in Wise County, Ms. Ayers is thrilled to be part of the WCPS Summer Arts Academy staff. Throughout this production of The Wizard of Oz, she has enjoyed helping students develop their performance skills through dance and staging while also collaborating with fellow educators on costumes, props, and production design. Ms. Ayers is grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such talented students and creative colleagues and is proud to be part of an experience that fosters confidence, creativity, and a love for the arts.

Sue Marchant, COUNSELOR
Ms. Sue is originally from Marion, VA and recently relocated to Norton to live with her daughter, Heather. She has been a theatre mom since 2002 when her daughter was in her first show. Since then, she has been all over watching plays, going to theatre competitions, and helping out with shows. Whether it’s making tissue flowers, cutting out foam, or steaming costumes, she is always willing to jump in with a helping hand. This is her first year working with the Wise County Summer Performing Arts Academy and she has loved having the opportunity to help bring this show to life. In her free time, Ms. Sue loves watching Say Yes to the Dress, doing arts and crafts, and dreaming about sitting in the sun on a beach somewhere. She hopes everyone will enjoy this show!

Magic isn’t found… it’s created 💚

06/25/2026

Last but not least… meet Toto! Yes, one of our cast members has 4 paws and is bringing tail-wagging fun to the stage in Oz!

Mable is delighted to make her theatrical debut as Toto in The Wizard of Oz. At just one year old, this talented toy schnauzer enjoys barking at nothing in particular, stealing shoes, demanding treats, and confidently stealing every scene she enters. Mable is the proud “doghter” of Kyleigh Harmon and enjoys naps, car rides, and being the center of attention. She would like to thank the cast and crew for recognizing her natural talent and hopes audiences enjoy the show almost as much as she enjoys applause and animal cracker cookies!

06/25/2026

Meet our Technical Crew that are behind the scenes!

TECHNICAL CREW - Jack Austin
Jack is a student at Central High School and is excited to join the technical crew for this summer’s production of The Wizard of Oz. Although this is his first theatre experience, he is enjoying learning the behind-the-scenes aspects of production. In his free time, Jack enjoys gaming and taking naps. He would like to thank his mom for her continued support and encouragement.

TECHNICAL CREW - Jaxon Burke
Jaxon is a rising eighth grader at St. Paul Elementary School and is providing technical support for The Wizard of Oz. Jaxon previously performed in James and the Giant Peach and was a member of the technical crew for Big Fish. He enjoys learning about space, building with Legos, and climbing. Jaxon is excited to be part of this production and hopes you enjoy the show.

TECHNICAL CREW - Cash Engle
Cash is a rising freshman at Eastside High School and is excited to join the technical crew for The Wizard of Oz. After appearing on stage in productions such as The Addams Family, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, James and the Giant Peach, Elf Jr., and Big Fish. Cash is enjoying the opportunity to experience theatre from a new perspective. Outside of theatre, he enjoys swimming, listening to and creating music, and spending time with friends. Cash would like to thank his parents, Ms. Angel, Ms. Heather, Ms. G, Ms. Ayers, and Mr. Burke for their patience, guidance, and support.

TECHNICAL CREW - Piper Lane
Piper is excited to serve on the technical crew for The Wizard of Oz. Piper has been involved in theatre since sixth grade and enjoys learning about the many aspects of production behind the scenes. Her previous theatre experiences include Lafayette No. 1 and Action News: Now with 10% More Action. Outside of theatre, Piper enjoys playing soccer. She would like to thank her friends and family for their continued encouragement and support.

TECHNICAL CREW - Natalie Luther
Natalie is part of the technical crew for The Wizard of Oz. She has experience in acting, technical theatre, decorating, and prop construction, and has been involved in theatre since fifth grade. Natalie enjoys art, sketching, and listening to music. She would like to thank her family and friends for their continued support.

TECHNICAL CREW - Cheyenne Mullins
Cheyenne is a rising senior at Eastside High School and is excited to be part of the technical team for The Wizard of Oz. She recently earned a state championship in One Act as a member of The Trench. Her favorite role to date was Lead Dancer in James and the Giant Peach. Cheyenne is grateful for the opportunity to support this production behind the scenes and help bring the show to life.

TECHNICAL CREW - Keaton Peak
Keaton is an incoming freshman at Eastside High School and is excited to join the technical crew for The Wizard of Oz. He is interested in the construction and electrical aspects of technical theatre. Although this is his first experience in stage production, he is eager to learn and grow. Keaton looks forward to future opportunities with Mr. Burke and Ms. Heather.

06/24/2026

🐞 Don’t let this weekend bug you with regrets… come see the Jitterbug come to life on stage in The Wizard of Oz! 🪲

Our talented WCPS Summer Arts Academy cast is ready to click their heels and dance their way down the Yellow Brick Road. You won’t want to miss the magic, music, and fun!

📍 Coeburn Middle School
📅 June 26 at 7 PM
📅 June 27 at 2 PM & 7 PM

There’s no place like the stage, and we hope to see you there!

06/24/2026

Meet the Munchkins and Flying Monkeys of Oz!

MUNCHKIN/NIKKO - Bristol Ayers
Bristol is a rising sixth grader at Coeburn Middle School with a passion for dance and theatre. She is excited to portray Nikko and a Munchkin in The Wizard of Oz. Her previous credits include Girl with the Orange Cat in Big Fish, Bette Healy in Annie Jr., and Sven in Frozen Kids. Bristol loves every opportunity to perform and is thankful for the support of her family and friends.

MUNCHKIN/OZIAN - Lydia Bowman
Lydia is a rising sixth grader at Union Middle School and has eight years of dance experience with Angela Tepton Dance Studio. Her performance experience includes Shrek Jr., Matilda, James and the Giant Peach, and Frozen Jr. Lydia enjoys spending time with friends, swimming, and cheering. She would like to thank her family for their love and support in all of her dreams.

TOT/FLYING MONKEY - Emma Clifton
Emma is a student at Wise Primary School and is excited to portray Tot and a Flying Monkey in The Wizard of Oz. This marks Emma’s third theatrical production. Her previous performance credits include Shrek and Gather Performance. Outside of theatre, Emma enjoys gymnastics and spending time with friends. She would like to thank her mother for supporting her and encouraging her to follow her dreams.

MUNCHKIN/OZIAN - Vivian Ervin
Vivian is a rising sixth grader at L. F. Addington Middle School and is excited to portray an Ozian and Munchkin in The Wizard of Oz. Her previous theatre credits include Puffer Fish in Finding Nemo, Lavender in Matilda the Musical Jr., and Little Red Riding Hood in Shrek the Musical Jr.. Vivian enjoys playing volleyball, learning the ukulele, and spending time with her cats. She would like to thank her mom for supporting her dream of performing.

MUNCHKIN/OZIAN - Lydia Hood
Lydia is a rising eighth grader at L. F. Addington Middle School and is excited to portray an Ozian and Munchkin in The Wizard of Oz. Lydia has appeared in numerous productions, including The Addams Family, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Shrek Jr. Outside of theatre, she enjoys attending 4-H camp, swimming, and playing tennis. Lydia would like to thank her mom for supporting her love of performing.

MUNCHKIN/OZIAN - Madison Howard
Madison is a rising freshman at Central High School and is excited to make her theatrical debut as an Ozian and Munchkin in The Wizard of Oz. Madison has always loved theatre and has enjoyed learning about the work and dedication that go into bringing a production to life. She is grateful for the encouragement and support of her family and friends and is excited to share this experience with audiences.

BRAGGART/OZIAN - Leighanna Jessee
Leighanna is a rising eighth grader at L. F. Addington Middle School and is excited to portray Braggart and Ozian in The Wizard of Oz. Her previous theatre experience includes portraying Anna in Frozen Jr. Outside of theatre, Leighanna enjoys roller skating, swimming, and styling hair. She would like to thank her Uncle Andrew for introducing her to the stage and encouraging her love of performing.

MAYOR/FIDDLER/OZIAN - Nolan Johnson
Nolan is a rising seventh grader at St. Paul Elementary School and is excited to portray the Mayor, Fiddler, and an Ozian in The Wizard of Oz. His recent theatre credits include Young Will in Big Fish, Rooster in Annie Jr., and the Duke of Weselton in Frozen Jr. Nolan enjoys singing, pickleball, and all things theatre. He would like to express his heartfelt gratitude to his parents, Nana, Papaw, and his brother Henry for their love and support.

TOT/FLYING MONKEY - Kinley Kite
Kinley is a rising seventh grader at St. Paul Elementary School and is excited to portray Tot and a Flying Monkey in The Wizard of Oz. This is Kinley’s first theatrical production, and she is enjoying every moment of the experience. Outside of theatre, she enjoys softball, volleyball, and dance. Kinley would like to thank her sister, Alexis, for introducing her to the world of theatre and encouraging her to participate.

TOT/FLYING MONKEY - Avery Melott
Avery is a student at Union Primary School and is excited to be part of The Wizard of Oz. She has previously performed in Finding Nemo, Matilda, and Shrek Jr. Avery enjoys gymnastics, singing, and dancing, and hopes to become a songwriter in the future. She would like to thank her family for always supporting her dreams.

MUNCHKIN/OZIAN - Gracie Norris
Gracie is a rising seventh grader at St. Paul Elementary School and enjoys participating in theatre. She previously appeared in The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Gracie enjoys dancing, spending time with her cats, and baking with her dad. She would like to thank her parents for supporting her dreams.

MUNCHKIN/OZIAN - Ellie Rich
Ellie is a rising sixth grader at Union Middle School and has participated in several productions including Shrek Jr., Frozen Jr., and SpongeBob the Musical. She enjoys playing with her dogs and spending time outdoors. Ellie hopes to continue acting in the future and would like to thank her family and friends for their constant support.

MUNCHKIN/OZIAN - Isabelle Venable
Isabelle is a rising eighth grader at Coeburn Middle School and is excited to portray a Munchkin and Ozian in The Wizard of Oz. Her previous theatre credits include Ensemble in The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Ms. Margaret and Tourist in Lafayette No. 1, and Ensemble in The Addams Family. Outside of theatre Isabelle enjoys drawing, acting, and catching up on sleep. She would like to thank her mother and her cousin, Kylie, for their love, encouragement, and support.

MUNCHKIN/OZIAN - Madelyn Ventro
Madelyn is a rising sophomore at Eastside High School and is excited to make her stage debut as an Ozian and Munchkin in The Wizard of Oz. Outside of rehearsals, she can often be found at the dance studio or attending competitions. Madelyn would like to thank her parents for their encouragement and support in helping her try new experiences.