Welcome to Higgs Theatricals
2026 Production
Join us for an unforgettable, one-night-only theatrical event as we proudly present Dear Evan Hansen, the powerful and deeply moving musical that has touched audiences around the world. This extraordinary presentation brings together talented performers from across the Capital Region alongside professional artists from Broadway, regional theaters, and local stages.
We are honored to present this beautiful and important work. Dear Evan Hansen tells a poignant, timely story about connection, belonging, and the courage it takes to be seen—reminding us that even in our loneliest moments, we are not alone.
Featuring soaring vocals, raw emotion, and unforgettable music including “Waving Through a Window,” “For Forever,” and “You Will Be Found,” this special presentation promises an evening of heartfelt storytelling and powerful performances. Join us for a moving celebration of empathy, hope, and the stories that truly matter—because every voice deserves to be heard.
Performance Details
Location: Rensselaer City School District
25 Van Rensselaer Drive
Rensselaer, NY 12144
When: Sunday, May 3, 2026 at 6:00pm
General Admission: $30.00
Dear Evan Hansen is recommended for audiences ages 13 and up. This production includes mature themes such as mental health, anxiety, grief, and discussions of suicide, as well as some strong language and emotionally intense moments. Viewer discretion is advised.
This unique collaboration provides our local performers with an invaluable opportunity to work alongside seasoned professionals while making high-quality theater accessible to our entire community. Don't miss this rare chance to witness Broadway-caliber talent right here in the Capital Region.
This production is made possible through the generous support of our community donors and sponsors.
About the Production Team
Andrew Higgs - Stage Director
Gabriel Morris - Musical Director
Gabriel Morris - Musical Director
ANDREW F. HIGGS is a Capital District based director, performer, and educator. He has directed over 100 Capital Region productions over the past 18 years and is thrilled to be back in the directors chair. BROADWAY EVENTS: JANE EYRE, ANASTASIA, THE SECRET GARDEN, JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT, and THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL wi
ANDREW F. HIGGS is a Capital District based director, performer, and educator. He has directed over 100 Capital Region productions over the past 18 years and is thrilled to be back in the directors chair. BROADWAY EVENTS: JANE EYRE, ANASTASIA, THE SECRET GARDEN, JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT, and THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL with Manhattan Concert Productions at Lincoln Center. Andrew looks forward to returning to Lincoln Center in February to join the chorus of Manhattan Concert Productions The Prince of Egypt. NYC THEATRE: Cory/Man 2 (MAD ABOUT THE BOY; NYC Reading) & El Gal (CHOICES; NYC Staged Reading). OTHER THEATRE: Jojo the Whale (A BRONX TALE), Priest (BARE), Thenardier (LES MISERABLES), Edna Turnblad (HAIRSPRAY), Narrator/Mysterious Man (INTO THE WOODS), Geronte (SCAPINO!), Patsy (SPAMALOT!), Santa (A CHRISTMAS STORY: THE MUSICAL), Miss Agatha Trunchbull (ROALD DAHL'S MATILDA) and Barry Glickman (THE PROM). Andrew has also hosted several guest artists and teachers across the Capital Region including: Adam Pascal, Andrew Keenan-Bolger, Felicia Finley, Brynn Williams, Allie Trimm, Nicholas Masson, Becky Gulsvig, Kirstin Wyatt, Angie Schworer, Derek Klena, Adam Kaplan, and Kyle Dean Massey. He would like to thank his parents for their amazing support.
Gabriel Morris - Musical Director
Gabriel Morris - Musical Director
Gabriel Morris - Musical Director
GABRIEL MORRIS is very excited to be part of this production of Dear Evan Hansen! He has been involved in musical theatre for many years and has had the pleasure of collaborating with Andrew on numerous productions. A recent graduate of the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam, Gabe is now a music teacher in Albany County and is passiona
GABRIEL MORRIS is very excited to be part of this production of Dear Evan Hansen! He has been involved in musical theatre for many years and has had the pleasure of collaborating with Andrew on numerous productions. A recent graduate of the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam, Gabe is now a music teacher in Albany County and is passionate about inspiring the next generation of music lovers through his teaching and directing. He thanks Andrew Higgs for asking him to be involved with the show and for putting together such an amazing performance.
Stephen Menard - Backdrop Design
Gabriel Morris - Musical Director
Stephen Menard - Backdrop Design
Based out of Gainesville, Florida Stephen Menard is a Scenic, Costume, and Graphic Design for the Live Entertainment Industry. Menard is best known for his high concept design work, as well as his classic extravagant style.
Recent projects include designing sets for Jersey Jack Pinball's collaboration with The Wizarding World of Harry Po
Based out of Gainesville, Florida Stephen Menard is a Scenic, Costume, and Graphic Design for the Live Entertainment Industry. Menard is best known for his high concept design work, as well as his classic extravagant style.
Recent projects include designing sets for Jersey Jack Pinball's collaboration with The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Disney's The Little Mermaid with Emerald City Theatrical, as well as RENT with University of Florida. Menard is also best known for creating high quality scenic backdrop packages for theatres all of the world.
To see more of Stephen's work, visit www.stephenmenarddesign.com
Instagram: stephensstuff
About the Cast of Dear Evan Hansen
Angela Billings as Zoe Murphy
Eddie Casson as Jared Kleinman
Eddie Casson as Jared Kleinman
Angela Billings (Zoe Murphy) is celebrating her first time ever preforming with Higgs Theatricals! She has had a deep love for the stage for as long as she can remember and is grateful to have had the opportunity to perform in several theaters throughout the Capital Region. Angela’s favorite roles include Gertrude McFuzz in Seussical, Me
Angela Billings (Zoe Murphy) is celebrating her first time ever preforming with Higgs Theatricals! She has had a deep love for the stage for as long as she can remember and is grateful to have had the opportunity to perform in several theaters throughout the Capital Region. Angela’s favorite roles include Gertrude McFuzz in Seussical, Meg March in Little Women, and Chava (U/S) in Fiddler on the Roof. Angela would like to thank Mr. Higgs for this opportunity, her family for all their love and support and God for being her provider and protector. “The Lord God is my strength and my song; He has given me victory.” ~Isaiah 12:2
Eddie Casson as Jared Kleinman
Eddie Casson as Jared Kleinman
Eddie Casson as Jared Kleinman
EDDIE CASSON (JARED KLEINMAN) is thrilled to be performing as Jared in this production of Dear Evan Hansen. Some of his recent credits include Freddy (School of Rock, Schenectady Light Opera Company); Brett (13: The Musical, Theater Institute at Russell Sage); and Wayne (Puffs); Ensemble (Mamma Mia); and Chuck (Footloose), all with his h
EDDIE CASSON (JARED KLEINMAN) is thrilled to be performing as Jared in this production of Dear Evan Hansen. Some of his recent credits include Freddy (School of Rock, Schenectady Light Opera Company); Brett (13: The Musical, Theater Institute at Russell Sage); and Wayne (Puffs); Ensemble (Mamma Mia); and Chuck (Footloose), all with his high school theater department. He hopes to pursue musical theater as a professional career and loves the opportunities he gets to perform and connect with audiences. He would like to thank the cast and crew for all of their hard work and dedication, as well as his family for their support. Enjoy the show!!
Jack Dossett as Connor Murphy
Eddie Casson as Jared Kleinman
Andrew F. Higgs as Larry Murphy
Jack Dossett (Connor Murphy) is living out his dream in this wonderful production! He received his BFA in Musical Theatre in ‘22 from Shenandoah University. Some credits include Parade (Frankie Epps) & A Little Night Music (Henrik) both directed by the incomparable Hunter Foster (American Theater Group). Most recently he was a company me
Jack Dossett (Connor Murphy) is living out his dream in this wonderful production! He received his BFA in Musical Theatre in ‘22 from Shenandoah University. Some credits include Parade (Frankie Epps) & A Little Night Music (Henrik) both directed by the incomparable Hunter Foster (American Theater Group). Most recently he was a company member at The MacHadyn Theatre! Jack is a champion of new work, and his passion is to tell stories for people who never thought their story would get told. He would like to thank his parents for showing him the way, and his love Michael, for allowing him to live in his truth unconditionally. You can follow Jack on Instagram @jack.dossett
Andrew F. Higgs as Larry Murphy
Noah First-Huneau as Evan Hansen
Andrew F. Higgs as Larry Murphy
ANDREW F. HIGGS is a Capital District based director, performer, and educator. He has directed over 100 Capital Region productions over the past 18 years and is thrilled to be back in the directors chair. BROADWAY EVENTS: JANE EYRE, ANASTASIA, THE SECRET GARDEN, JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT, and THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL wi
ANDREW F. HIGGS is a Capital District based director, performer, and educator. He has directed over 100 Capital Region productions over the past 18 years and is thrilled to be back in the directors chair. BROADWAY EVENTS: JANE EYRE, ANASTASIA, THE SECRET GARDEN, JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT, and THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL with Manhattan Concert Productions at Lincoln Center. Andrew looks forward to returning to Lincoln Center in February to join the chorus of Manhattan Concert Productions The Prince of Egypt. NYC THEATRE: Cory/Man 2 (MAD ABOUT THE BOY; NYC Reading) & El Gal (CHOICES; NYC Staged Reading). OTHER THEATRE: Jojo the Whale (A BRONX TALE), Priest (BARE), Thenardier (LES MISERABLES), Edna Turnblad (HAIRSPRAY), Narrator/Mysterious Man (INTO THE WOODS), Geronte (SCAPINO!), Patsy (SPAMALOT!), Santa (A CHRISTMAS STORY: THE MUSICAL), Miss Agatha Trunchbull (ROALD DAHL'S MATILDA) and Barry Glickman (THE PROM). Andrew has also hosted several guest artists and teachers across the Capital Region including: Adam Pascal, Andrew Keenan-Bolger, Felicia Finley, Brynn Williams, Allie Trimm, Nicholas Masson, Becky Gulsvig, Kirstin Wyatt, Angie Schworer, Derek Klena, Adam Kaplan, and Kyle Dean Massey. He would like to thank his parents for their amazing support.
Noah First-Huneau as Evan Hansen
Noah First-Huneau as Evan Hansen
Noah First-Huneau as Evan Hansen
Noah First-Huneau (Evan Hansen), 17, has been captivating audiences since the age of four, bringing both heart and dedication to every performance. A passionate young artist, Noah has spent years honing his craft on stages throughout the Capital Region. He was recently honored to step into the iconic role of Danny Zuko in Ichabod Crane H
Noah First-Huneau (Evan Hansen), 17, has been captivating audiences since the age of four, bringing both heart and dedication to every performance. A passionate young artist, Noah has spent years honing his craft on stages throughout the Capital Region. He was recently honored to step into the iconic role of Danny Zuko in Ichabod Crane High School’s production of Grease, showcasing his charisma and stage presence. Noah is thrilled to be part of this production and grateful for every opportunity to grow as a performer and storyteller.
Taylor Ruffo as Heidi Hansen
Noah First-Huneau as Evan Hansen
Noah First-Huneau as Evan Hansen
Taylor is so excited to be joining this cast! She previously spent the past few years playing Anna in “Frozen: a Musical Spectacular” on Disney Cruise Line for audiences all over the world. Other regional credits include Newsies (Katherine), Jersey Boys (Mary), Pippin (Catherine) and more! She’d like to thank Andrew for trusting her with
Taylor is so excited to be joining this cast! She previously spent the past few years playing Anna in “Frozen: a Musical Spectacular” on Disney Cruise Line for audiences all over the world. Other regional credits include Newsies (Katherine), Jersey Boys (Mary), Pippin (Catherine) and more! She’d like to thank Andrew for trusting her with this role. Shoutout to her family and her wonderful partner, Jacob, who you may have seen charm audiences as Dmitry last fall! @taylorruffo
Emily Spateholts as Cynthia Murphy
Emily Spateholts as Cynthia Murphy
Emily Spateholts as Cynthia Murphy
Emily Spateholts (Cynthia Murphy) has been working in musical theatre for the past 17 years, exploring nearly every side of the stage—from backstage hand and crew member to choreographer, director, and performer. Her love for theatre began at The Mac-Haydn Theatre, where She worked for over 10 years and proudly calls her “artistic home.”
Emily Spateholts (Cynthia Murphy) has been working in musical theatre for the past 17 years, exploring nearly every side of the stage—from backstage hand and crew member to choreographer, director, and performer. Her love for theatre began at The Mac-Haydn Theatre, where She worked for over 10 years and proudly calls her “artistic home.” Credits: TOUR: Spongebob, Sound of Music, A Bronx Tale (Press Asst.) REGIONAL: Anastasia (Higgs Theatrical), Ragtime (Mac Haydn), Something Rotten! (MCPA), Sweeney Todd (Mac Haydn), Daddy Long Legs (MCPA), Heathers (Lights Up), Matilda (Theatre Workshop of Nantucket), Little Women (MCPA). Emily would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Skip, Robyn, and Krystle for their love and support. She would also like to thank the Dream Team, Andrew and Gabe for always keeping her on her toes and most importantly, making her smile.
Mary Weinheimer as Alana Beck
Emily Spateholts as Cynthia Murphy
Emily Spateholts as Cynthia Murphy
Mary Weinheimer (Alana) is beyond thrilled to be making her debut in Higgs Theatricals! Mary is a senior at Columbia High School in the New Visions Medical program, and she plans to attend Furman University in the fall to pursue a double major in Neuroscience and Vocal Performance on a pre-medical track. Previously, Mary has performed in
Mary Weinheimer (Alana) is beyond thrilled to be making her debut in Higgs Theatricals! Mary is a senior at Columbia High School in the New Visions Medical program, and she plans to attend Furman University in the fall to pursue a double major in Neuroscience and Vocal Performance on a pre-medical track. Previously, Mary has performed in Into the Woods (Baker's Wife - Columbia High School), Pippin (ensemble - Columbia High School), and Heathers (Mrs. Fleming - Master Class Performing Arts), among many others. She also plays violin in the Empire State Youth Orchestra's flagship ensemble. She would like to thank her parents and sister for being her biggest cheerleaders, as well as the incredible friends who have made her who she is today. Enjoy the show!
About the Authors of Dear Evan Hansen
Book by Steven Levenson
Music and Lyrics by Justin Paul
Music and Lyrics by Benj Pasek
Steven is a Tony Award-winning playwright, screenwriter, and television writer and producer. His plays include If I Forget, Core Values, Seven Minutes In Heaven, and The Language of Trees. He wrote the book for the musical, Dear Evan Hansen, which won six Tony Awards, including Best Book and Best Musical, as well as the Olivier Award for
Steven is a Tony Award-winning playwright, screenwriter, and television writer and producer. His plays include If I Forget, Core Values, Seven Minutes In Heaven, and The Language of Trees. He wrote the book for the musical, Dear Evan Hansen, which won six Tony Awards, including Best Book and Best Musical, as well as the Olivier Award for Best New Musical. He co-created and executive produced the FX series “Fosse/Verdon,” which was nominated for seventeen Emmy Awards, including Best Limited Series and Best Writing for a Limited Series, as well as for Critics’ Choice Association and Producers Guild Awards, in addition to winning the Writers Guild Award and an AFI Award for Outstanding Series. Other honors include the OBIE Award, two Outer Critics Circle Awards, and the John Gassner Memorial Playwriting Award. He adapted Jonathan Larson’s tick, tick…boom!, directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, for Netflix. He is a graduate of Brown University.
Music and Lyrics by Benj Pasek
Music and Lyrics by Justin Paul
Music and Lyrics by Benj Pasek
Songwriters and producers Benj Pasek & Justin Paul are best known for their Oscar, Grammy, and Tony-winning work on La La Land, The Greatest Showman and Dear Evan Hansen, each of which spawned albums that landed in the Top 10 on the Billboard 200, including multiple weeks at #1 for The Greatest Showman, which in 2018 was the world’s best
Songwriters and producers Benj Pasek & Justin Paul are best known for their Oscar, Grammy, and Tony-winning work on La La Land, The Greatest Showman and Dear Evan Hansen, each of which spawned albums that landed in the Top 10 on the Billboard 200, including multiple weeks at #1 for The Greatest Showman, which in 2018 was the world’s best-selling album. This year, they won their first Emmy Award as songwriters of Only Murders in the Building and, as a result, achieved EGOT status, joining a rarified list of artists who have won all four major showbiz prizes. Additional film and television credits include Apple’s Spirited, Sony’s Lyle, Lyle Crocodile, Disney’s live-action Aladdin, Dreamworks Animation’s Trolls, Amazon’s Harlem, Apple’s Dear Edward, NBC’s Smash, The CW’s The Flash, Amazon’s Pink: All I Know So Far (Grammy nomination), and FX’s Welcome to Wrexham. Amongst their varied stage credits, they made their Broadway debut with the musical A Christmas Story (Tony nomination), further adapted into a live telecast for Fox (Emmy nomination); and won their second Tonys for co-producing Best Musical winner A Strange Loop. Among their countless honors, they became the youngest winners ever of the Jonathan Larson Award and the first writers for stage or screen to be honored with the ASCAP Vanguard Award. In total, Benj and Justin have each won two Tonys, two Grammys, an Emmy and an Oscar across five distinct projects.
Music and Lyrics by Justin Paul
Music and Lyrics by Justin Paul
Music and Lyrics by Justin Paul
Songwriters and producers Benj Pasek & Justin Paul are best known for their Oscar, Grammy, and Tony-winning work on La La Land, The Greatest Showman and Dear Evan Hansen, each of which spawned albums that landed in the Top 10 on the Billboard 200, including multiple weeks at #1 for The Greatest Showman, which in 2018 was the world’s best
Songwriters and producers Benj Pasek & Justin Paul are best known for their Oscar, Grammy, and Tony-winning work on La La Land, The Greatest Showman and Dear Evan Hansen, each of which spawned albums that landed in the Top 10 on the Billboard 200, including multiple weeks at #1 for The Greatest Showman, which in 2018 was the world’s best-selling album. This year, they won their first Emmy Award as songwriters of Only Murders in the Building and, as a result, achieved EGOT status, joining a rarified list of artists who have won all four major showbiz prizes. Additional film and television credits include Apple’s Spirited, Sony’s Lyle, Lyle Crocodile, Disney’s live-action Aladdin, Dreamworks Animation’s Trolls, Amazon’s Harlem, Apple’s Dear Edward, NBC’s Smash, The CW’s The Flash, Amazon’s Pink: All I Know So Far (Grammy nomination), and FX’s Welcome to Wrexham. Amongst their varied stage credits, they made their Broadway debut with the musical A Christmas Story (Tony nomination), further adapted into a live telecast for Fox (Emmy nomination); and won their second Tonys for co-producing Best Musical winner A Strange Loop. Among their countless honors, they became the youngest winners ever of the Jonathan Larson Award and the first writers for stage or screen to be honored with the ASCAP Vanguard Award. In total, Benj and Justin have each won two Tonys, two Grammys, an Emmy and an Oscar across five distinct projects.