Carmen

Christina Pezzarossi Ramsey, mezzo-soprano, has been praised for her "smoky mezzo" and captivating stage presence. A native of Miles City, Montana, she has performed on prestigious stages across the country, earning recognition for her remarkable range, emotional depth, and nuanced characterizations. Recent role highlights include Carmen, Dorabella (Così fan tutte), Margaret (The Light in the Piazza), Flora (La traviata), and comedic turns with Pacific Opera Project. Her versatility spans Wagner to Handel, with credits including Rossweisse (Die Walküre), Wellgunde (Das Rheingold), Paula (Florencia en el Amazonas), and a cover with Des Moines Metro Opera. In concert, Christina has performed Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 with the Santa Barbara and Pacific Symphonies, Rossini's Stabat Mater with Pensacola Symphony, and Handel's Messiah with Laguna Beach Chorale. This season, she made her house debut at Opera Las Vegas as Cherubino in Le nozze di Figaro and returned to Opera Santa Barbara as Cornelia (Giulio Cesare) and Sharon Falconer (Elmer Gantry). Christina is currently a candidate for the Doctor of Musical Arts in Voice at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

American tenor Josh Avant has been described as possessing a voice of great “vitality and clarity” (Brooklyn Discovery) and delivering portrayals notable for his “vivid stage presence” (OperaWire). The young tenor made his professional debut in Puccini’s Tosca with the Charleston Symphony and principal artists of the Metropolitan Opera. This season, Josh made his European debut at Teatro Comunale Città di Vicenza (Italy) as Fenton in Verdi’s Falstaff, and a role debut as Rinuccio (cover) in Gianni Schicchi with Opera Carolina. For his performance in Gianni Schicchi, Italy’s OperaMundus praised his “lovely, silvery voice”. After several years in finance, Avant returned to the operatic stage following the COVID-19 pandemic, renewing his commitment to his artistic calling. He has since appeared in leading roles including Don José in Carmen, Rodolfo in La Bohème, Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly, Edgardo in Lucia di Lammermoor Fenton in Falstaff, and Rinuccio in Gianni Schicchi. Additional appearances include Rigoletto, La Traviata, Il Trovatore, and Il Tabarro. Most recently, Josh has appeared with Opera Carolina, Teatro Comunale Città Vicenza, Opera Charleston, Charleston Symphony, Piccolo Spoleto Festival, Charleston Opera Theater, and New York City’s Regina Opera and Amore Opera. Based in New York City, Avant continues his studies there with renowned teacher, Scott Flaherty.

Shira Renee Thomas is the General & Artistic Director of Valley Opera & Performing Arts (VOPA), currently in its 20th season. VOPA presents performances of everything from fully-staged opera and musical theater works with orchestra, to laid back concerts of jazz standards and even classic rock with its band, VOPA Vinyl. Through the company’s outreach, education, and community service program, VOPA provides entertainment to underserved and economically or otherwise disadvantaged communities such as retirement communities, charities, homeless shelters, schools, and more. VOPA has helped launch the careers of many singers and instrumentalists who’ve gone on to perform in organizations such as English National Opera, the Metropolitan Opera, Los Angeles Opera, San Francisco Opera, the Academy Awards, and the Hollywood Bowl, to name a few. 

As a singer herself, Shira has performed all over the world and with some of the biggest stars in opera, including Metropolitan Opera stars, Quinn Kelsey, Christian Van Horn, and Ana Maria Martinez. Among the numerous awards earned by her, Shira won 1st prize in the prestigious Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod Vocal Solo Competition in North Wales, which has hosted such legendary opera singers as Luciano Pavarotti and Bryn Terfel in past years. Having suffered from debilitating recurrent Depression for 25 years, Shira has become an advocate for mental health, and has been interviewed on the subject by National Geographic and KTTV News. She has also written articles for HuffPost and Classical Singer Magazine, and is frequently invited to attend various events and conferences to tell her story of overcoming Depression. Shira is grateful to the staff at Ketamine Clinics Los Angeles for helping her to finally beat the illness.
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Zachary Mascarinas is a Los Angeles-based baritone recognized for his powerful artistry, warm timbre, and vibrant stage presence. He has been praised for his ability to bring both humor and emotional depth, described by Mark Ross as “expressive, beautiful, and... showing mastery of the nonsensical homily.”

He has performed with several esteemed companies and festivals, including Pacific Opera Project, Lyric Opera of OC, Opera Italia, Miami Music Festival, and Chicago Summer Opera. Recent highlights include Papageno in Die Zauberflöte with the CSULB Opera Institute, Marcello in La Bohème with Opera Italia, and Figaro in The Ghost of Versailles with the Miami Music Festival. Upcoming engagements include Ping (cover) in Turandot with Pacific Opera Project, Frank in Die Fledermaus with Opera Italia, Escamillo in Carmen with Valley Opera & Performing Arts, and Guglielmo in Così fan tutte with Opera Seme.

Zachary is also an emerging artist of distinction, having won the 2025 - 2026 Bob Cole Conservatory of Music Voice Concerto Competition, first place in the 2025 Southern California Philharmonic Young Artist Competition, second place in the 2025 Whittier Regional Symphony Young Artist Competition, and a semi-finalist in the 2025 Opera Buffs Young Artist Competition. He is also a recipient of the Martin Figoten Performing Arts Scholarship at the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music. Zachary is a student of Dr. Jennifer Sung.

Lily Prado is an operatic soprano based in Southern California. Recent engagements include: San Diego Opera’s “Making Merry” concert series, Pamina in Die Zauberflöte with Angels Lyric Opera, “Winner’s Concert” with the Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition San Diego District, originating the role of Sarah in the premiere of Luke & Sarah by James Domine, and Opera à la Carte’s “Spring Fling” concert series. Lily won the Encouragement & Audience Choice Awards in the 2025/2026 Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition San Diego District, as well as the first prize of both the 2025 Whittier Symphony Young Artist Competition and 2024 Sigma Alpha Iota PAC Aria Competition. Upcoming, Lily will make her mainstage debut with San Diego Opera as Barbarina in Le Nozze di Figaro. Role highlights include: Gilda (Rigoletto), Adina (L’elisir), Gretel (Hänsel und Gretel), Pamina (Zauberflöte), Valencienne (Merry Widow), Lauretta (Schicchi), Suor Genovieffa (Suor Angelica), Frasquita (Carmen).

Rachel Reich Freed is a sought-after soprano known throughout Los Angeles and beyond for her expressive artistry and commanding stage presence. Rachel has performed with many reputable opera companies including Opera Santa Barbara, Opera San Jose, Pacific Opera Project, Valley Opera And Performing Arts, and Long Beach Opera. Rachel most recently performed as a featured soloist with Opera Santa Barbara in their production of Robert Aldridge's Elmer Gantry. Recent roles include the title role in Dvořák's Rusalka, Nedda in Leoncavallo's i Pagliacci, and the Plaintiff in Gilbert and Sullivan's Trial By Jury. Other notable roles include Donna Elvira in Mozart's Don Giovanni, Tatyana in Tchaikovsky's Eugene Onegin, Micaëla in Bizet's Carmen, Miss Hope in Menotti's The Boy Who Grew Too Fast, and Violetta in Verdi's La Traviata. As a recurring soloist with the Los Angeles Jewish Symphony, Rachel has performed at renowned venues including Disney Hall, Boston Court Performing Arts Center, and Ford Theatres. Rachel is pleased to rejoin VOPA under the baton of Maestra Noreen Green. In addition to the stage, Rachel's voice extends to the big screen and has been featured in several feature films including El Tanto Por Cristo and Unspoken.

Steve “Mor” Moritsugu is pleased to return to the role of Remendado for the fourth time because it was one of his first roles on stage. He was recently the tenor soloist in the Haydn Lord Nelson Mass with Southland Symphony Orchestra; in the chorus of POP Turandot with international Helden tenor Clay Hilley as Calif; and the tenor soloist for the Japanese Messiah Project orchestra. He has sung many principal tenor roles on stage in SoCal including Alfredo, Cavaradossi, Count Almaviva, Don Carlo, Don Ottavio, Faust, Ferrando, Manrico, Otello, Pinkerton, Prince Ramiro, and Tamino. He originated the role of Tana in the 2025 world premiere of Daniel Kessner’s The Camp, an opera about the incarceration of 120,000 Japanese Americans during WW II including Steve’s mother and grandparents at Camp Amache in Colorado for 3 years. He has sung roles in other modern operas by Peter Wing Healey (The Blur, The Italian Lesson, The Tree), Nathan Wang (Shanghai’s World Emporium, LA Opera Connects: On Gold Mountainz), Dr Robert Chauls (The Trial of Goldilocks), and Carlisle Floyd (Cold Sassy Tree).

Patrick Bittner is an opera singer based in Los Angeles, California. Growing up in Minnesota, he began learning piano at a young age and began singing in choirs around his hometown of Andover. After high school, he moved to Flagstaff, Arizona, to study vocal performance at Northern Arizona University under the direction of Dr. Robert Allan Saunders. While in undergrad, Patrick spent time in Italy and England working with world-class musicians and directors during summer programs. After receiving his Bachelor’s degree, he moved to Los Angeles to continue his education, beginning his Master's program at California State University, Northridge, where he is currently attending. Patrick has portrayed many characters during his time as a performer, including Count Almaviva in Le Nozze di Figaro, Rev. Olin Blitch in Susannah, Tobia Mill in Le Cambiale di Matrimonio, The Father in Juniper Tree, Angelotti in Tosca, Dottore Spinelloccio in Gianni Schicchi, and the title role in Mozart’s Don Giovanni. Post-graduation, Patrick plans to continue performing and teaching the next generation of musicians.

Johnny DiGiorgio is a bass singer/actor originally from Long Island, NY and is thrilled to be performing with VOPA in his first classic opera. Previous opera includes Jonathan Dove's Flight at USC, where he studied acting and 3-D Animation. Regional theatre: The Jersey Boys regional tour at La Mirada Theatre, MT West, and CCAE San Diego, Wellness (PRT) Twelfth Night (8-Ball), Moments in Time (Odyssey Theatre), Troilus and Cressida (Carriage House Players). TV/Voiceover: Blindspot, Super Wings, King Herod/Barabbas in the recently released audio series The Christ: An Easter Audio Epic alongside Tom Pelphrey, David Oyelowo, and Paul Walter Hauser. DiGiorgio grew up speaking Italian at home with his family, making him a fluent speaker and beginning his love for opera. He is a first degree black belt in kempo karate with the rank of shodan, 18+ years training, and works as an SAFD-certified fight director, proficient in multiple weapon disciplines for the stage. He is also a multi-instrumentalist and teacher of five instruments, including trombone and accordion. He is a member of the Barbershop Harmony Society, and in his free time, can be found performing in Barbershop Quartet competitions with his quartet High Point, or making homemade red wine in his tiny apartment.

American Baritone Eli Alonso Katz was born and raised in Southern California into a family of musicians. He studied violin and piano along with his two sisters, and sang with his father. He had a great fortune of being mentored by Jeanine Wagner, who invited him to sing in the Wagner Ensemble which has taken him to Japan, South Korea, France, Germany and the Czech Republic. The 2018-2019 season opened up new singing opportunities with Galina Barskaya and the Independent Opera Company, starting with Romeo and Juliet, The Gypsy Princess, The Snow Maiden, The Medium, Don Giovanni, Die Fledermaus, and Kashchey The Immortal.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Colin A. Schmaltz has had a love for performing for as long as he can remember. Throughout his life he has performed in many theatre productions including but not limited to Once upon a Mattress (Sir Luce), West Side Story, Big Deal, Scapin Sylvestre, The Importance of being Earnest, Jack, and Hamilton King George to name a few. His operatic works include The Dialogues of the Carmelites chorus member, The Three Penny Opera (the Street Singer), and Die Fledermaus, Dr Blind. Colin has also been a member of Choral Ensembles like Musyca Children’s Choir and the Santa Clarita Master Chorale. Colin has trained for 2 years in musical theatre at Texas Christian University where he trained with Dr. J. David Brock, and is currently obtaining his Bachelor of Music in Opera Performance at California State University Northridge and being taught by Former Metropolitan opera singer Dr. Hugo Vera. Besides Musical Theatre and Opera, Colin dabbles in other musical genres like pop and heavy metal. Colin is expected to perform in a Concert with the Northridge Singers on October 23rd, give his Junior Recital on November 8th, and perform in the Santa Clarita Master Chorale’s Christmas Concert ‘Tis the Season.

Jessica Mamey is a mezzo-soprano performing a wide range of repertoire from Cabaret to Classical, praised for a "gorgeous mezzo-soprano voice that is crisp and clear" (Stage and Cinema). Ms. Mamey has been a familiar presence on Southern California's operatic stages for over a decade, performing with Pacific Opera Project, Long Beach Opera, Lyric Opera of Orange County, Mission Opera, Opera a la Mode, Townsend Opera, and Center Stage Opera (now called Valley Opera & Performing Arts), among others. Her operatic credits span a broad range of repertoire, including the title role in Carmen, Dorabella and Despina in Così fan tutte, Dinah in Trouble in Tahiti, Zerlina in Don Giovanni, Mother in Amahl and the Night Visitors, the Gingerbread Witch in Hansel and Gretel, and Flora in La traviata. She has also appeared as a featured soloist with the Claremont Symphony Orchestra, the Pasadena Master Chorale, and the LA Daiku Singers. An enthusiastic advocate for new and contemporary works, Ms. Mamey created the role of the District Attorney in the world premiere of Anthony Davis's Pulitzer Prize-winning The Central Park Five at Long Beach Opera — a production that drew national critical attention, with the Long Beach Post noting that she "knows how to work both sides of the emotional street." Additional new work credits include Edka in Jake Heggie's Two Remain, Catalina in Link Harsnberger’s La Golondrina, and the origination of Sister Flavia in Peter Wing Healey's The Italian Lesson. Ms. Mamey is a graduate of Occidental College, where she began her vocal studies with Scott Blois. She continues her studies with teacher Joann Zajac.

Emily Gallagher is the creator and star of the one woman opera, Enchanted Melodies: An Interactive Fairytale Opera which she premiered in June of 2024 with City Lyric Opera in New York City. She has gone on to perform the opera with Pacific Opera Project, Opera Modesto, the Stanislaus County Library System, Azure Family Concerts (Pittsburgh), The Stissing Center (New York), Creative Becoming (Philadelphia), the Ronald McDonald House of Greater Philadelphia, Lyric Opera of Orange County, Santa Cruz Opera Project, and the Pittsburgh Children’s Museum, with upcoming performances at San Francisco Opera, through the company’s community engagement and outreach programs.

As a 2022-23 Fulbright Grantee to Austria she worked with the theater production company TaleSpin—Musical Tales for Big and Small in Vienna to produce an original children’s concert series and picture book available in four languages. Emily has music and stage directed numerous musicals for youth theater and created a PBS “teachable moment” about opera which aired on Pittsburgh area PBS stations. Enchanted Melodies is a fusion of Emily’s creative passions with the mission of accessible and affordable live music experiences for all.

An avid producer, Emily is also the co-creator of the immersive concert experience Goodnight Moon. She has performed this program of moon themed repertoire across genres with pianist Andrew Pham in Eugene, Oregon and Modesto, California this past season. This innovative recital is performed in a planetarium with an accompanying full-dome planetarium show designed specifically for the concert.

Upcoming engagements include Micaëla in Carmen with Valley Opera and Performing Arts; a soloist with Opera Santa Barbara for their Pop-Up Opera series; a soloist for the N.E.O voice festival where she will premiere a Finnish-language piece for soprano, choir, and organ; and a soloist for an operatic wine pairing concert, Opera Uncorked, at the Stissing Center in New York.

Zachary Mascarinas is a Los Angeles-based baritone recognized for his powerful artistry, warm timbre, and vibrant stage presence. He has been praised for his ability to bring both humor and emotional depth, described by Mark Ross as “expressive, beautiful, and... showing mastery of the nonsensical homily.”

He has performed with several esteemed companies and festivals, including Pacific Opera Project, Lyric Opera of OC, Opera Italia, Miami Music Festival, and Chicago Summer Opera. Recent highlights include Papageno in Die Zauberflöte with the CSULB Opera Institute, Marcello in La Bohème with Opera Italia, and Figaro in The Ghost of Versailles with the Miami Music Festival. Upcoming engagements include Ping (cover) in Turandot with Pacific Opera Project, Frank in Die Fledermaus with Opera Italia, Escamillo in Carmen with Valley Opera & Performing Arts, and Guglielmo in Così fan tutte with Opera Seme.

Zachary is also an emerging artist of distinction, having won the 2025 - 2026 Bob Cole Conservatory of Music Voice Concerto Competition, first place in the 2025 Southern California Philharmonic Young Artist Competition, second place in the 2025 Whittier Regional Symphony Young Artist Competition, and a semi-finalist in the 2025 Opera Buffs Young Artist Competition. He is also a recipient of the Martin Figoten Performing Arts Scholarship at the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music. Zachary is a student of Dr. Jennifer Sung.

Natalie Vatcher is a coloratura soprano from Boston, MA, and is thrilled to join her first production with VOPA! Since relocating to the West Coast last year, she has performed with Guild Opera Company, Trial Run Productions, and the Ventura County Gilbert & Sullivan Repertoire Company. She has also appeared in several educational outreach performances with Pacific Opera Project and Guild Opera. Later this summer, Natalie will make another company debut with Lyric Opera of Orange County as Gretel in Hansel and Gretel. She recently made her Off-Broadway debut at the American Theatre of Actors in Gunfight at the Not-So-OK Saloon and Does Not Compute, two original one-acts by Brooke deRosa. Natalie’s previous credits include performances with the Boston Baroque Chorus under Martin Pearlman, as well as Boston Opera Collaborative and MassOpera. Favorite roles include Alice in the premiere of deRosa’s Alice in Wonderland, the Queen of the Night (Die Zauberflöte), Morgana (Alcina), Mabel (The Pirates of Penzance), Patience (Patience), Flora (The Turn of the Screw), Clara Johnson (The Light in the Piazza), and the title role in Viardot’s Cendrillon. Natalie is an alumna of the Eastman School of Music and the Longy School of Music of Bard College.

Olivia Kellett is a full lyric soprano acclaimed for her rich, expressive sound and compelling stage presence. A graduate of the Prince Claus Conservatoire in the Netherlands, where she earned her Master's degree in classical voice, Olivia performs regularly in opera productions across the United States and abroad.

Recent performance highlights include the title role in Handel's Alcina with Opera Seme in Arezzo, Italy; Susanna in Mozart's Le Nozze di Figaro at the Broad Stage; and Lauretta in Puccini's Gianni Schicchi with Opera West in New Mexico. She has received congressional recognition for her artistry and performs regularly as a soprano section leader and soloist in the Los Angeles area. Olivia's thoughtfully curated recitals, including "Stranger Here Myself: Tales of Outsiders, Foreigners, and Vagabonds," demonstrate her commitment to making opera relevant and accessible to contemporary audiences. Based in Los Angeles, Olivia is equally dedicated to music education and community engagement. She maintains a thriving private voice studio with students across the country, develops innovative curriculum for schools and homeschool programs, and works as a Teaching Artist bringing opera to underserved communities. Her original "Little Mozart" course introduces young children to classical music through Saint-Saëns' Carnival of the Animals.

Steve “Mor” Moritsugu is pleased to return to the role of Remendado for the fourth time because it was one of his first roles on stage. He was recently the tenor soloist in the Haydn Lord Nelson Mass with Southland Symphony Orchestra; in the chorus of POP Turandot with international Helden tenor Clay Hilley as Calif; and the tenor soloist for the Japanese Messiah Project orchestra. He has sung many principal tenor roles on stage in SoCal including Alfredo, Cavaradossi, Count Almaviva, Don Carlo, Don Ottavio, Faust, Ferrando, Manrico, Otello, Pinkerton, Prince Ramiro, and Tamino. He originated the role of Tana in the 2025 world premiere of Daniel Kessner’s The Camp, an opera about the incarceration of 120,000 Japanese Americans during WW II including Steve’s mother and grandparents at Camp Amache in Colorado for 3 years. He has sung roles in other modern operas by Peter Wing Healey (The Blur, The Italian Lesson, The Tree), Nathan Wang (Shanghai’s World Emporium, LA Opera Connects: On Gold Mountainz), Dr Robert Chauls (The Trial of Goldilocks), and Carlisle Floyd (Cold Sassy Tree).

Patrick Bittner is an opera singer based in Los Angeles, California. Growing up in Minnesota, he began learning piano at a young age and began singing in choirs around his hometown of Andover. After high school, he moved to Flagstaff, Arizona, to study vocal performance at Northern Arizona University under the direction of Dr. Robert Allan Saunders. While in undergrad, Patrick spent time in Italy and England working with world-class musicians and directors during summer programs. After receiving his Bachelor’s degree, he moved to Los Angeles to continue his education, beginning his Master's program at California State University, Northridge, where he is currently attending. Patrick has portrayed many characters during his time as a performer, including Count Almaviva in Le Nozze di Figaro, Rev. Olin Blitch in Susannah, Tobia Mill in Le Cambiale di Matrimonio, The Father in Juniper Tree, Angelotti in Tosca, Dottore Spinelloccio in Gianni Schicchi, and the title role in Mozart’s Don Giovanni. Post-graduation, Patrick plans to continue performing and teaching the next generation of musicians.

Johnny DiGiorgio is a bass singer/actor originally from Long Island, NY and is thrilled to be performing with VOPA in his first classic opera. Previous opera includes Jonathan Dove's Flight at USC, where he studied acting and 3-D Animation. Regional theatre: The Jersey Boys regional tour at La Mirada Theatre, MT West, and CCAE San Diego, Wellness (PRT) Twelfth Night (8-Ball), Moments in Time (Odyssey Theatre), Troilus and Cressida (Carriage House Players). TV/Voiceover: Blindspot, Super Wings, King Herod/Barabbas in the recently released audio series The Christ: An Easter Audio Epic alongside Tom Pelphrey, David Oyelowo, and Paul Walter Hauser. DiGiorgio grew up speaking Italian at home with his family, making him a fluent speaker and beginning his love for opera. He is a first degree black belt in kempo karate with the rank of shodan, 18+ years training, and works as an SAFD-certified fight director, proficient in multiple weapon disciplines for the stage. He is also a multi-instrumentalist and teacher of five instruments, including trombone and accordion. He is a member of the Barbershop Harmony Society, and in his free time, can be found performing in Barbershop Quartet competitions with his quartet High Point, or making homemade red wine in his tiny apartment.

American Baritone Eli Alonso Katz was born and raised in Southern California into a family of musicians. He studied violin and piano along with his two sisters, and sang with his father. He had a great fortune of being mentored by Jeanine Wagner, who invited him to sing in the Wagner Ensemble which has taken him to Japan, South Korea, France, Germany and the Czech Republic. The 2018-2019 season opened up new singing opportunities with Galina Barskaya and the Independent Opera Company, starting with Romeo and Juliet, The Gypsy Princess, The Snow Maiden, The Medium, Don Giovanni, Die Fledermaus, and Kashchey The Immortal.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Colin A. Schmaltz has had a love for performing for as long as he can remember. Throughout his life he has performed in many theatre productions including but not limited to Once upon a Mattress (Sir Luce), West Side Story, Big Deal, Scapin Sylvestre, The Importance of being Earnest, Jack, and Hamilton King George to name a few. His operatic works include The Dialogues of the Carmelites chorus member, The Three Penny Opera (the Street Singer), and Die Fledermaus, Dr Blind. Colin has also been a member of Choral Ensembles like Musyca Children’s Choir and the Santa Clarita Master Chorale. Colin has trained for 2 years in musical theatre at Texas Christian University where he trained with Dr. J. David Brock, and is currently obtaining his Bachelor of Music in Opera Performance at California State University Northridge and being taught by Former Metropolitan opera singer Dr. Hugo Vera. Besides Musical Theatre and Opera, Colin dabbles in other musical genres like pop and heavy metal. Colin is expected to perform in a Concert with the Northridge Singers on October 23rd, give his Junior Recital on November 8th, and perform in the Santa Clarita Master Chorale’s Christmas Concert ‘Tis the Season.

Sandra C. Cook is delighted to be working with VOPA for the first time. Sandra is a singer and educator in the Ventura County area, recently appearing in Patience with the Ventura County Gilbert & Sullivan Repertoire Company as an ensemble member and understudy for the role of Saphir. Sandra currently tutors English literacy in Thousand Oaks, and in their spare time enjoys writing poetry and experimental pop music. She hopes you enjoy the show!

David Bruskin’s acting career began, peaked, and ostensibly ended at age seven when he played Michael Banks in a summer camp production of “Mary Poppins” (56 lines; several songs; eyepatch, glasses, and crew cut). In the decades that followed, he had great fun lip-synching Spike Jones classics like “Cocktails for Two” and “My Old Flame” (largest-ever audience: 1400  at his high school holiday program), performing improv with Los Angeles Theatresports, and writing and producing “The Hollywood Hills,” a song parody revue targeting the entertainment biz that played five months at West Hollywood’s late great Luna Park where it garnered raves from Los Angeles Magazine, Daily Variety, and Us Magazine. Earlier this year, he stumbled into VOPA’s enthusiastic mounting of “Oklahoma!” which became the first of his three VOPA performances in the chorus, the third being this production of J. Strauss’s operetta “Der Fledermaus” audaciously reset in ‘70s-era New York City’s iconic disco, Studio 54. A non-actor on the rise for his searing portrayals of furniture, David remains delighted to be associated with VOPA until they’re finally on to him.

Ana Dragovich is happy to be working with Valley Opera Performing Arts for the first time! She is a Chicago-born, Tucson-raised, LA-based singer and actor. Credits include Carmen, Ursula, and Ensemble understudy in Sweet Charity (The Jaxx Theatre), Lily St. Regis in Annie (Saguaro City Music Theatre), Ensemble in My Fair Lady (Saguaro City Music Theatre), Maxine Hadley understudy in Dial M for Murder (Arizona Theatre Company), Mrs. Van Buren understudy in Intimate Apparel (Arizona Theatre Company), Fritzie/Fräulein Kost in Cabaret (Breckenridge Backstage Theatre), Ensemble/Sibella understudy in A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder (Breckenridge Backstage Theatre), and Taylor in the film Haunt Season (First Fright). When she’s not singing, dancing, or acting, you can find her celebrating Halloween (year-round), traveling, enjoying a body of water, or at a friend’s comedy show. Ana is a graduate of Loyola University Chicago (B.A. Theatre), Roosevelt Chicago College of Performing Arts (M.M. Voice Performance), and University of Arizona Eller College of Management (M.B.A).

Cymbaline Filippi is a professional singer, actor, dancer, pianist, and flautist with many years of experience in the sacred, classical, and musical theater genres. She has been dancing since the age of 5, and choreographed Seussical the Musical, as well as several dance, musical theater, and choral numbers for various performances. Some of her favorite roles include Anna in The King and I, Fiona in Brigadoon, Nellie in South Pacific, “Pop” in Chicago, Marian the Librarian in The Music Man, and Gertie in Oklahoma!. She is very excited to dance and sing in her third Best of Broadway and Everything Else concert. Cymbaline teaches general music and band at CHIME Charter School, and directs the children’s choir that will be singing in the program. This is her fifth production with the company, and she is loving being a part of the VOPA family.

Perry Fredgant is a full-time practicing attorney whose first love is music. He has been singing in choirs for several decades, and is a veteran of UCLA Opera’s fully-staged productions of La Boheme (Chorus) and La Traviata (Chorus), studio recordings of numerous choral film scores and individual choral works, and VOPA’s wonderful productions of Fiddler on the Roof (Pit Chorus), Oklahoma! (Ensemble), Best of Broadway and Everything Else 3! (Ensemble) and Die Fledermaus (Chorus), in which he had the time of his life. Perry is once again honored and delighted to be participating in the latest fully-staged VOPA production – Carmen, and is grateful to Shira and Dylan for giving him the continuing opportunity to be part of this amazing and stellar community.

Debra Kamenir is thrilled to be performing in VOPA’s production of Carmen. Most recently, she had the honor of conducting “The Star-Spangled Banner” for VOPA’s 20th Anniversary celebration. She has also appeared in VOPA’s productions of Grease (ensemble), Die Fledermaus (chorus), Best of Broadway… and Everything Else (ensemble), Oklahoma! (ensemble), and Fiddler on the Roof (bottle dancer and ensemble). Born and raised in the San Fernando Valley, Debra developed a love of singing and dancing at a young age. Inspired by her mother, Claire, she joined Maestra Noreen Green’s choir at Temple Ramat Zion, where they performed together. This marked the beginning of Debra’s long-standing friendship and continued musical collaboration with Noreen Green. Debra has performed alongside her husband, pianist and composer David Kamenir, in medleys and duets with groups including the Pierce College Community Choir and The Encore Singers. She also performs with Happy Notes, led by Kim Levett, throughout the Valley and Los Angeles. Debra studied dance for many years, majored in music at Pierce College, and continues voice training. She also runs a private salon in Tarzana.

American Baritone Eli Alonso Katz was born and raised in Southern California into a family of musicians. He studied violin and piano along with his two sisters, and sang with his father. He had a great fortune of being mentored by Jeanine Wagner, who invited him to sing in the Wagner Ensemble which has taken him to Japan, South Korea, France, Germany and the Czech Republic. The 2018-2019 season opened up new singing opportunities with Galina Barskaya and the Independent Opera Company, starting with Romeo and Juliet, The Gypsy Princess, The Snow Maiden, The Medium, Don Giovanni, Die Fledermaus, and Kashchey The Immortal.

Jennifer Kersey is so excited to help celebrate VOPA's 20th Anniversary!

Past VOPA: Grease as Sandy, Oklahoma as Laurey, Fiddler on the Roof as Tzeitel, and Die Fledermaus.

Other Credits: Frozen the Musical (Queen Iduna, West Coast Regional Premier), The Sound of Music (Sister Sophia, California Theater), The Sound of Music (Musical Theater West), The Sound of Music (BroadwayAsia International Tours), Laura Ingalls Wilder (Laura, Artspower Tours), Jekyll and Hyde (Emma Carew), Parade (Mary Phagan), Godspell (“Bless the Lord”), Maddi’s Fridge (Maddi, Storybook Family Playhouse). Disney's El Capitan Theater: Zootopia 2 (Judy Hopps), A Goofy Movie (Max, 2023-2025). Disney Cruise Line: Toy Story the Musical (Andy), Disney Dreams (Anne Marie). Operas: Cendrillon (Cendrillon, Viardot), Die Fledermaus (Adele). Theme Park Shows: Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood, Knotts Berry Farm (5yrs as Cameo Kate), Legoland, Six Flags America, Six Flags Magic Mountain, Paramount’s Kings Dominion- plus film, television, commercials, and more! @jactressz

Soprano Amy Komins is excited to make her VOPA debut as a chorus member in the production of Carmen. She has performed in various opera productions with regional opera companies in Southern California since 2011, most recently in Mission Opera's The Sojourner and Mollie Sinclair by Carlisle Floyd. Other recent staged performances include Mission Opera's Tosca by Puccini, Cinballera's Madama Butterfly by Puccini, and both Mission Opera and Cinballera's Amahl and the Night Visitors by Menotti. Amy has been a chorister of the Verdi Chorus since 2022. The Santa Monica-based Verdi Chorus is the only choral group in Southern California that focuses primarily on the dramatic and diverse music of the opera chorus. Amy studied classical voice on and off for over 10 years, most recently with Soprano Mariné Ter-Kazaryan at the Pasadena Conservatory of Music.

Marilyn Negron is a singer and composer from Orange County. Currently, she is a graduate student at CSUN and is studying voice with Dr. Hugo Vera. Previously, she studied voice with Krystle Menendez, Dr. Mark Goodrich, and Marie Halcrow. Ms. Negron began her music studies at Fullerton College. In early 2025, she received her B.M. in Vocal Performance from CSUF. While at CSUF, she received the Jane Smith Rodriguez Memorial Award in 2023. Upon completion of her graduate degree, she plans to embark on a professional career in opera. Furthermore, she plans on pursuing a D.M.A. in Vocal Pedagogy to focus on trauma-informed pedagogy. Additionally, she plans on composing music and hopes to collaborate with living composers. As a composer, many describe her compositions as haunting, dark, and enthralling. She is working on various projects, including a collection of songs for mezzo-soprano. Recently, she sang in the chorus for the world premiere of The Epic of Gilgamesh by Honiball Joseph. This August, she will be singing at Lawrence Opera Theater portraying the role of Tituba from Robert Ward’s The Crucible, the Medium from Timothy Peterson’s The Seance, and Old Biddy in Brewed Ambition by Michael Turnblom and BK Wells.

Ella Nelson is a soprano operatic and musical theatre singer. Recently, she has been making a living as a Fashion Inventory Assistant at RealList and as a lighting/costume designer, but she grew up wanting to perform and is excited to get back on the stage. Previous credits include: multiple cabaret style concerts with P3 Theatre Company, Cosi Fan Tutte (Ensemble), Alcina (Morgana), Jekyll & Hyde: In Concert (General Glossop/Ensemble), The Addams Family: the Musical (Alice Beineke), Heathers: the Musical (Heather Duke), Into the Woods (Cinderella), Camelot (Guinevere), Sweeney Todd (Joanna), and Oklahoma! (Ensemble).

Nathan Oelkers is an aspiring music educator working towards earning his teaching credential. He received his Music B.A. from California State University Fullerton in Fall of 2025. He currently studies voice with Hugo Vera, and has previously studied with Marian Bodnar, Courtney Taylor, Mark Goodrich, and Melissa Lyons-Caldretti. He is currently working as a music reading teacher for the All-American Boys Chorus. He has performed at a variety of locations including Honda Center, Disney Concert Hall, Angels Stadium, the Hollywood Bowl, and more. He has a wide variety of music interests and wishes to include aspects of all of them in his future teaching endeavors, and as such, has participated in musical theatre, jazz, opera, barbershop, and various other settings. Recently he was also in the premier of “The Epic of Gilgamesh.”

Bonnie Samotin is delighted to be performing in her third VOPA production, following Oklahoma! (Ensemble) and Fiddler on the Roof (Grandma Tzeitel Cover/Ensemble). Her additional credits include Hello Dolly! (Ensemble), and Thoroughly Modern Millie (Ensemble). Bonnie has performed with several choirs including the VBS Choir and Angel City Chorale. In her day job, Bonnie works as an associate producer, interviewer, and researcher for documentaries and nonfiction film projects. Thank you to everyone for your support of this production and of the arts!

Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Colin A. Schmaltz has had a love for performing for as long as he can remember. Throughout his life he has performed in many theatre productions including but not limited to Once upon a Mattress (Sir Luce), West Side Story, Big Deal, Scapin Sylvestre, The Importance of being Earnest, Jack, and Hamilton King George to name a few. His operatic works include The Dialogues of the Carmelites chorus member, The Three Penny Opera (the Street Singer), and Die Fledermaus, Dr Blind. Colin has also been a member of Choral Ensembles like Musyca Children’s Choir and the Santa Clarita Master Chorale. Colin has trained for 2 years in musical theatre at Texas Christian University where he trained with Dr. J. David Brock, and is currently obtaining his Bachelor of Music in Opera Performance at California State University Northridge and being taught by Former Metropolitan opera singer Dr. Hugo Vera. Besides Musical Theatre and Opera, Colin dabbles in other musical genres like pop and heavy metal. Colin is expected to perform in a Concert with the Northridge Singers on October 23rd, give his Junior Recital on November 8th, and perform in the Santa Clarita Master Chorale’s Christmas Concert ‘Tis the Season.

As the son of rock and folk musicians, RJ Ryan Seutter has been surrounded by performers all his life. Trained in the oral tradition by his father, True Thomas the Storyteller, he made his bones at venues such as Riverside Dickens Festival, Pomona Irish Fair, and Cal. Lutheran’s Scandinavian Festival. Following his years in the choir of conductor John Mosley, RJ would continue to sing with several caroling groups throughout the holiday season, culminating in a natural transition to his character work as Santa Bright. A descendant of French immigrants, RJ is delighted to participate in this rendition of Bizet’s master work and hopes that this is the first of many forays into the rich and complex recitatives the genre is known for.

David Vazana did not attend the prestigious Juilliard School, but he did take an “Acting for Non-Majors” course at the University of Florida. David sings daily in the shower, and as a member of the VBS Community Choir. David made his theatrical stage debut with VOPA for their fantastic production of Oklahoma! and is so excited to be here. David would like to thank his beautiful wife Carly and his kids Gavin, Riley, and Zoey for their patience and Shira, Dylan, Julia, Molly and Lilach for liking him enough to invite him back. Please check out The Poodoocast, available everywhere!

Ari Zev is excited to join VOPA's production of Carmen! He previously performed in the ensemble in VOPA’s production of Oklahoma! and in the male orchestra pit choir for Fiddler on the Roof. Ari is a member of the Kol Ami Choir, conducted by Noreen Green, and has participated in various choirs over the years. He is often called upon by synagogues for his skillful and melodic Torah chanting and has worked for many years as a Bar and Bat Mitzvah teacher and coach, guiding students and their families. He also accompanies his wife, Bonnie, on the keyboard and together they lead spiritual services for seniors and others, including Shabbat services, Passover Seders, and other rituals. Ari also serves on the Board of the Los Angeles Jewish Symphony and worked for more than two decades on the senior management team at USC Shoah Foundation. He extends his thanks to Dylan, Shira, Noreen, and everyone at VOPA for this opportunity!

Ginny Cary is delighted to return to VOPA in the cast of Oklahoma! Ginny's previous roles include Bielka in VOPA's Fiddler on the Roof, Baby Bear in MET2's performance of Shrek Jr. the Musical, and Gretl von Trapp in the 5-Star Theatrical Production of the Sound of Music, as well as the same roll at High Street Arts Center. When Ginny is not on stage, she enjoys singing, playing with her brother, Levi, and talking about singing. She would like to thank her family, friends, and the amazing cast of this show for their support.

Adalia Filippi is a creative spirit who loves art - including drawing, painting, sculpting, and music - including singing, dancing, and playing piano and violin. She also performs with aerial silks, hanging from the ceiling and doing tricks. She lives with her mom and dad and 5-year-old little brother, Yeshiah. She has performed with VOPA in their Best of Broadway and Everything Else Concert, twice, as well as Fiddler on the Roof. She is thankful to Mr. and Mrs. Thomas for giving her these wonderful opportunities to perform.

Maximilian Huerta is currently in sixth grade. He is a member of his school’s church choir and The San Fernando Valley Youth Chorus. He has performed as Les in Newsies, Odysseus/Narrator in The Girl Who Brought Spring and Seussical (Summer 2026). He enjoys playing his piano and is an accomplished athlete in Cross Country, Junior Lifeguard and Track and Field.

Rebecca Ishutkina is a huge animal lover, funny friend and loving daughter. Any performing arts is her favorite, she does it all dancing, choir and theater. A little bit drama, a lot of heart, and just enough of sparkle to leave a trail wherever she goes.

Bella Mankovitz fell in love with musical theater while watching VOPA’s Spring 2023 production of Fiddler on the Roof. Inspired by the amazing cast, and seeing her friends on stage, motivated her desire to try her hand at it herself! Bella enjoyed her most recent experience in the ensemble of Beauty and the Beast and is excited to add Oklahoma! to her growing list of credits.

Lilian McPherson is member of the San Fernando Valley Youth Chorus, and regular with Class Act Musical Theater. Professionally, she has performed with soul artist Elmeine and Lionel Richie. In her free time she loves writing and illustrating.

Adelyn McTiernan lights up every stage she steps onto with her love for singing and performing. Whether she’s rehearsing for a musical or putting on little shows at home, her energy, passion, and confidence shines in every performance. Performing has become such a special way for her to express herself and share her love of music with others.

Eden Moccia is delighted to join VOPA's production of Carmen. She has performed in elementary musicals and, as a solo singer/guitarist/pianist, in middle school talent shows. Eden was a cast member of the Nutcracker ballet (California Dance Academy) for several years, and has been singing with the SFVYC for two years now. She also enjoys both ballet and contemporary dance (Relevé Studios). When she isn't on stage, Eden can be found curled up with a good book, developing book ideas, or practicing for her next Model UN conference. In the future, Eden, a ninth grader, aspires to be a publishing editor or a theoretical psychologist.

At 11 years old, LilyAnn Thomas has already been an active performer. She has been in eight musicals with Kismet Kids Musical Theatre (KKMT) – Willy Wonka, Annie, Grease, Hercules, Frozen, Aladdin, Newsies, and The Wizard of Oz. LilyAnn has also been in two different productions of the opera Suor Angelica, playing the title character’s child opposite her real-life mom, Shira Renee Thomas. LilyAnn has performed with the choir at her school, CHIME Charter, which has performed on 3 different VOPA concerts. She also performed opposite her dad, Dylan F. Thomas, in two award-winning VOPA musicals: Oklahoma! and Fiddler on the Roof. Besides theater, LilyAnn also enjoys drawing, designing clothes, Roblox, and being with her friends, family, and doggies.

Eden Wattez is 9 years old and will be entering 4th grade next year. Most recently, she played Toto in The Wizard of Oz at the Encino Community Center, where she perfected barking with emotion. Her past roles include a student in Matilda and Cinderella in Into the Woods, both with YADA. She also appeared as Flounder in The Little Mermaid. Eden loves taking jazz and ballet classes and is happiest anytime she gets to be on stage.

Jude Wattez is 11 years old and will be heading to middle school next year. He has loved musicals ever since seeing Annie at the Hollywood Bowl. His past roles include Mr. Wormwood in Matilda, Spot Conlan in Newsies, and Jack in Into the Woods, all with YADA. He has also appeared in musical medleys from Annie, The Sound of Music, and The Little Mermaid. His newest passion is Dungeons & Dragons, which is really just another way to keep playing a character.

This is Lev Zlobinsky’s first professional theatrical performance. He has been singing and performing in his living room as early as he could speak. He loves music, singing, and karate. He recently won first place at the school talent show for singing.