Our Own Dysfunctional Family

Tracy Letts

Tracy Letts is a multifaceted award-winning actor and playwright. Letts received the 2008 Pulitzer Prize for Drama for his play August: Osage County and a Tony Award for his portrayal of George in the revival of Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?. He has written the screenplays of three films adapted from his own plays: BUG and Killer Joe, both directed by William Friedkin, and August: Osage County directed by John Wells.   

Notable film credits include portraying Henry Ford II in James Mangold’s Academy Award-nominated racing drama “Ford v Ferrari,” Greta Gerwig’s “Little Women", “Deep Water", Steven Spielberg’s “The Post”, Greta Gerwig’s “Lady Bird,” and  “The Big Short” directed by Adam McKay. 

On the small screen, Letts starred in HBO’s “Divorce” and Showtime’s “Homeland.”

Tracy resides in Chicago with his wife, Carrie Coon, and is an active member of the Steppenwolf Theatre Company.

Forrest Attaway

Forrest Attaway is a native of Gun Barrel City, Texas and attended college at Texas A&M – Commerce. He then joined the National Guard and ended up doing a stint in the regular Army before making a major splash in the theatre world commanding the stage in such productions as David Mamet’s "American Buffalo",

as James Tyrone Jr. in Eugene O’Neill’s "A Moon for the Misbegotten", Tennessee Williams’ "Night of the Iguana", N. Richard Nash’s "The Rainmaker", Anton Chekhov’s "The Seagull", Edward Albee’s "Zoo Story", Harold Pinter’s "Betrayal" David Rabe’s "Hurlyburly", and Shakespeare’s "Titus Andronicus". 

But Attaway, isn’t just an actor. He’s also a producer and playwright. As a playwright he has penned 'Worth", a tough drama about crime and the middle class, and 'Columbus Day", which juxtaposes the tale of an unwed mother in Texas with a classroom of high-school kids held hostage by a round-the-bend teacher with a shotgun.

He and his wife Amy and reside in Kansas City where he is the the artistic director of the Kokopelli Theatre. A long-time fan of "August: Osage County" and Mr. Letts' writing, Forrest is glad to be in Georgia to direct this powerful story on stage.

Alpha Trivette

Alpha restarted an acting career that began in 1984 with classes at The Alliance Theatre. Acting had taken a back seat to a 25-year stint as a morning radio personality. TV roles followed in; Dynasty, Drop Dead Diva, Dopesick, Tyler Perry’s Too Close To Home and others. He is currently featured in the Netflix hit, Sweet Magnolias and is starring as Grandpa Walton in The Waltons Homecoming and The Waltons Thanksgiving, airing this Fall on the CW Network.

Other notable film credits include American Made and Mine-9.

Alpha also starred on stage in Peachtree Battle, Bull Durham the Musical and This Wonderful Life…the one-person stage version of the Jimmy Stewart Christmas classic, “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

Alpha counts the opportunity to play Beverly Weston as one of those iconic roles actors strive for and is grateful to all who helped make his journey to this stage exciting and rewarding.

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Rebecca Koon

Rebecca is excited to make her Atlanta theatre market debut with this joyous team of talent from Greenlight Acting. Born in Spartanburg, SC with an MA in theatre from USC-Columbia, Ms. Koon was a company member at Charlotte Repertory Theatre for 20 years under founder/director/husband Steve Umberger (also father of their daughter, Maggie.) 

Rep credits include WIT (Vivian), SIX DEGREES OF SEPARATION (Ouisa), NOISES OFF (Dotty), SIGNATURE by Beth Henley (premiere) and DROP DEAD! directed by Olympia Dukakis.  From 26 theatres, (many now defunct - THANK YOU for supporting live theatre!), she has accrued over 100 stage credits including a 9,000 mile tour across America for Montana Rep as Ms. Clairee in STEEL MAGNOLIAS and over a span of 17 years, portrayed Shirley Valentine in Willy Russell's one woman show for multiple theatres.

With almost as many film credits as stage, well known titles include A Time to Kill along side Matthew McConaughey, with Julia Roberts in Something to Talk About and Cate Blanchett in The Gift; for John Cassavetes in The Notebook and Adam McCay in Talladega Nights; with Ed Harris and Cuba Gooding, Jr. in Radio and as the kidnapped victim in the Disney remake of That Darn Cat.

Appearing in over 20 made-for-TV movies and as many credits in TV series, Ms. Koon had recurring roles as Eileen Slocum in NBC's "I'll Fly Away" and in "The Detour" on tbs as Nate's mom.  Other series include "Homeland," "The Walking Dead," "Banshee," "Vampire Diaries," "Dawson's Creek," "Miracle Workers," and "Sharp Objects."

Her dozen+  short films include CRAB TRAP which was juried into 38 festivals from California east to Jakarta and garnered 26 awards including 4 Best in Show and 3 Best Actress trophies for Ms. Koon's portrayal of Peru.

In the past 12 months, she has played Grandma Walton in CW's remake of "The Walton's Homecoming" and an upcoming "The Walton's Thanksgiving," Ralph Fiennes' mother in "The Menu" to be released in theatres Nov. 17, Nora  in Dorothy Fortenberry's "The Lotus Paradox" in it's world premiere at Greenville's Warehouse Theatre, and Grandma in a series of videos designed to help schools raise money. 

Erin Bethea

Erin Bethea is a professional actress born and raised in South Georgia.  Her love for theater came at an early age and after completing her degrees in Acting, she worked for nearly 7 years as a performer for Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL and became a proud member of the Actor's Equity Association.  She then began a successful career in film with over 20 feature film credits including the lead roles in "Fireproof", "The Redemption of Henry Myers", "New Life",  "Miracle on Christmas" and "Adeline". 

Erin's television credits include hosting the Emmy Award Winning television series "OMX: On Mission Xtra" and "Iesodo", Emmy-Nominated "The Heart of Christmas".

Currently, Erin is busy with 2 more feature films preparing to be released this year, "Festival of Trees" which she produced under her production company, Argentum Entertainment.

Erin is more than thrilled to be making a return to the stage with this production of "August: Osage County", and to be appearing alongside her real-life husband Drew Waters.
 

Alicia Kelley

Alicia Kelley grew up in the small town of Upland, Indiana and is currently an actress and youth acting

coach based in Atlanta, GA. Previous Atlanta theatre credits: Jeannette Marks in Bull in a China Shop

(Out Front Theatre Company), Jo Briggs in Independence (Chronicle Collective), and Ashley in Scar

Tissue (Get Scene). Some favorite past educational theatre credits include Daisy in The Adding Machine

(RUTC), Andromache in Trojan Women (RUTC) Catherine in Proof (HUTC) and Meg MaGrath in

Crimes of the Heart (HUTC). She is represented by AMT and has recently been seen in Ozark

(NETFLIX), The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey (APPLE TV), The Resident (FOX), The Act (Hulu), The

Gifted (FOX) and The Inspectors (CBS). Alicia looks forward to bringing Ivy to life and telling this

relevant story with this talented cast and crew. Ephesians 4:2.

Meg Biddle Smith

Meg Biddle Smith is a lover of all things acting, dancing and singing. After graduating from Samford University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre and Dance, Meg moved to Atlanta to pursue her career in television,

film and voiceover. Eight years later, Meg still calls Atlanta home, where she is continuously working as an actor and more recently a ballet teacher and fitness coach. She comes to August: Osage County, after a busy spring filming “Lean Into Love”, a direct to TV film, and a number of commercials. Meg is excited to be back on the stage performing live and is thrilled to share this experience with her friends and family. She wants to thank her husband and parents, who remind her daily of where her worth is found and inspire her to run hard after her dreams and steward her life well. She is

honored and grateful to be a part of such an incredible cast, crew and play.

Drew Waters

A native of Orange, TX, Drew's career started out in the service of our country as a line captain in the US Navy. At the age of 30, Drew made the decision to leave behind a successful construction business to pursue his passion for acting full time. He has never looked back. 

With nearly 80 credits to his name, Drew has worked with some of the most renowned actors and directors in the business. Most recognized from his recurring role on "Friday Night Lights", Drew's television credits also include “Breaking Bad”, “Magic City”, “Major Crimes”, HBO’s “True Detective”, “The Resident” and “NCIS: LA”. He is set to appear next in the new David E. Kelley series “Love and Death” for HBO with Elizabeth Olsen and Jesse Plemmons.  Feature films include "Mad Money", "The Hit List", "The Warrant",  "Parkland", "The Ultimate Life" and more. He made his feature directorial debut with the romantic drama "New Life", winning multiple awards including Best Director.​

 Drew is delighted to be making his on-stage debut in "August: Osage County" and to have to opportunity to play alongside his wife, Erin Bethea.

Michelle Neil

Michelle Neil began her acting career in the Sydney theatre scene. While in Australia, Michelle produced and appeared in multiple local and regional theatrical productions including playing the role of Anna in Patrick Marber's "Closer" and as Older Gabrielle in Andrew Bovell's "When the Rain Stops Falling." She also traveled to London to appear as Julia in the critically acclaimed play "Feathers" by Eliza Power, which she also produced. Michelle studied acting at the Australian Academy of Film and Television, where she received her associate’s degree and began working in various film and television projects. She has since relocated to Georgia, where she has appeared in multiple stage productions, short films, and a feature film.

Christian Stokes

Christian Stokes was raised in East Texas and grew up the oldest son of a firefighter. He credits his laid back, easy going manner to growing up with his grandparents and learning the value of hard work and determination. This focus has led Christian to working steadily as an actor/ stuntman for the past 25 years.  After an 8-year stint in Hollywood, Christian returned to the south to be closer to family. He has merged his original love of acting with his stunt background to became a sought after action actor with over 50 credits in film and tv, including “Monster", "Escape Plan", "Doom Patrol", "Leverage: Redemption“ and "Bernie". Christian also coaches the 12 Guideposts Audition Technique, Stunts for Actors, and The Business of Show Business at Greenlight Acting Studios.

Caroline LeDuc

Caroline LeDuc is an actor, singer/songwriter, and artist currently working in Atlanta, GA.  Born and raised in Atlanta, she returned here in 2019 following her graduation from Wake Forest University to work with the Horizon Theatre as an acting apprentice. Recent and favorite credits include Girl in Us/Them (WFU), Alice in Closer (WFU), Singer in The Caucasian Chalk Circle (WFU), Claire in Tough Love (SheATL Arts), and Cinderella in Shattered (RoleCall Theatre). She is thrilled to help bring this story to life, and grateful to Greenlight Acting Studios and the entire production team for the opportunity.

Warren Levi Haney

Warren Levi Haney is thrilled to share in bringing this powerful play to life! Warren received his B.F.A. from Cornish College of the Arts (Seattle, WA), and moved to the Land O’ Peaches to do high-caliber work with equally high-caliber people. Theater credits include Hamlet (RoleCall Theater), Richard III (Idaho Shakespeare  Festival), Romeo & Juliet (Seattle Shakespeare Company), 12th Night (Seattle Shakespeare

Company), Cymbeline (Greenstage), Pirates of Penzance (The Core Ensemble), Happy, Happy, Happy (Matcha Theatre Works). As an Idaho spud living amongst the

Georgia peaches, Warren is incredibly grateful to both his wonderful Atlanta community for the love and the incredible people behind this production for the opportunity to play a part in one of the most well-written stories of the 21st century. Much love!

Amey Richards

Amey Richards was born and raised in the Houston area and moved to Georgia in 2018. Previous theater roles include: Renfield in Dracula,  Rita in Prelude to a Kiss, and Mary in First Kisses. Amey has appeared in the films The Last Astronaut and Lion Killer,  numerous short films and is a series regular on the webseries Keep Newton Beautiful. Amey has also lived with a TBI since 2004. A special thank you to Greenlight Acting Studios, Greenlight Live and the production team for this amazing opportunity. In addition, much love to Kirk, Noah and Cosette for their continued support and encouragement.

Josh Brook

Josh Brook is thrilled to be working with Greenlight Acting Studios on such a rich and poignant piece. Josh has been performing and teaching in the Atlanta area for the last decade. Regional: Legacy of Light, The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, Anne Boleyn (Synchronicity Theatre), The Wizard of Oz, Tuck Everlasting (Alliance Theatre), The Importance of Being Earnest (Theatre Buford) Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (Springer Opera House) Peter and the Starcatcher (Georgia Ensemble Theatre). Many many thanks to the incredible team behind this production and all of the hard work that is put in to bring this story to life. All the love to Erin Anastasia and the wiggle noodle pups back home. And Gary the cat. Enjoy the show!!

Paul Franchak

Paul Franchak is a professional actor based in Atlanta. His credits include several feature and short films, TV, commercials and theater productions. Paul is also busy working on other projects, currently writing and producing two original films. He’s thrilled to be able to perform such a respected and well-known work as August: Osage County. He’s grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such a talented and experienced cast & crew. Paul wishes to thank his family; especially Mary, Mark, Anastasia, David and Eleanor, his friends, and acting family for their support. A special thank you to Greenlight Live for this opportunity.

Jonathan Lee Taylor

Jonathan Lee Taylor has been a storyteller by trade for over 20 years. As a classically trained actor, he has performed in regional theatres across the US and feels equally at home on stage, on camera, and behind the microphone. Jonathan has been nominated for multiple awards and as an Equity Actor, he has over 1,500 performances at the Kennedy Center with America’s longest running comedy "Shear Madness". As a narrator, he has over 100 titles and in addition to giving voice to multiple audiobooks, he has been seen on television, in films, and been featured on national commercials.  

Having worked in New York and Washington DC for the past two decades, Jonathan is excited to be in Georgia. He is constantly outnumbered and out voted by his wife and two daughters and two pups...and he wouldn't have it any other way!

Sara Hayter

Sara Hayter is an Atlanta born actress who began her acting career in 2017.  Since then, Sara has been focused on developing her talent and skills through a dedication to her training including intensive Meisner studies, the Warner Loughlin technique, Improv, On-Camera classes and more.  Sara’s acting credits include short films, feature films and this, her inaugural stage play, with August: Osage County. 

J.R. Hartigan

J.R. (Joe) Hartigan studied acting, theatre and screen writing at Palm Beach Stage College where he was cast as Alley in Hands Across the Sea and as Ken DeLaMaize in The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 at the school’s Eissey Theatre.  He played Biff Baker in The 1940’s Radio Hour at the Lake Worth Playhouse.  A U. S. Army veteran, Joe actually got to play a soldier, Cpl. Rat Cunningham in the Italian film Bye, Bye, Viet Nam shot in the Dominican Republic.  He has appeared in several commercials and industrial films as well.  Thanks to a new skill learned at Greenlight Acting Studios, Joe has narrated several audio books: most notably First Watch: Charlie’s Secret where he voiced over thirty characters and a fascinating biography, Joe’s Dash: From Million Dollar Drug Busts to Multi-Million Dollar Collections for Las Vegas Casinos.  Joe is honored and elated to get to work on this marvelous play with all these talented people. 

Ed Palombo

Ed Palombo (Scenic Designer) has involved himself in all aspects of the backstage world for more than 45 years.  He earned his bachelor and master’s degrees in Theatre and Stagecraft from Berry College and Lamar University, respectively. He has been involved in educational, professional and community theatre productions for his entire career and now dedicates most of his time to Cherokee Theatre Company. Some of his favorite designs are for Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Lion in Winter, Little Shop of Horrors and Mornings at Seven.

Jonathan Robertson

Jon Robertson is a sound designer, audio engineer and composer based in Kansas City, MO. During the pandemic era, Jon has turned his attention to developing methods of improving audio sync and audio quality in live virtual performances. In 2021, in collaboration with White Snake Projects, Jon developed the audio tool, Tutti Remote, which allows for performers to easily send, receive and sync audio sources from anywhere in the world. 

Jon composes and designs for theatrical productions, radio plays, film and video, and his work has been featured at composition conferences and festivals such as SEAMUS, Electronic Music Midwest, Kansas City Fringe, UC Davis Summer Arts, and many others.

Jon teaches electronic music and sound design, recently an adjunct at University of Missouri-Kansas City, the Kansas City Art Institute, and Missouri Western State University. Educational background: MFA Sound Design (UMKC 2015), Master of Music Composition (UMKC 2011), Bachelor of Music (University of Arizona 2005).

Lindsey Sharpless

Lindsey Sharpless graduated with a BA in Theatre, with an emphasis on stage management and lighting design. After graduating, Lindsey worked professionally as a touring stage manager until 2016 when she co-founded Vernal & Sere Theatre, where she currently acts as producing partner, lighting designer, and performer. Most recently, she was the lead designer in Vernal & Sere's production of The Exterminating Angel adapted by Sawyer Estes after Luis Buñuel.

In between productions with her company, Lindsey does freelance design and stage management around the city and acts as house tech at The Windmill Arts Center in East Point, GA.