Get ready to groove with the coolest cat around! Maddy’s Theatre at the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine (CMTM) is thrilled to present “Pete the Cat,” and behind this exciting production is a team of incredibly talented individuals. Let’s introduce you to the dedicated crew who are working their magic to bring Pete and his groovy world to the stage.
Merritt Holman – Assistant Stage Manager
Merritt, identifying as she/her, is a rising star in the world of stage management. As a Junior at Deering High School right here in Portland, Maine, Merritt’s dedication to CMTM spans back to her childhood. Her return to the Maddys Theatre Team for “Pete the Cat” is highly anticipated. Beyond stage management, Merritt’s creative talents shine as a playwright, recently showcased at the Youth Playwright Festival. Her experience at CMTM is extensive, having served as Assistant Stage Manager or Deck Captain for a plethora of past productions including “Blueberries For Sal,” “Snow in the Jungle,” “Three Little Kittens,” and many more. Her meticulous work ensures the smooth running of “Pete the Cat” behind the scenes.
Emily M. Dixon – Production Manager
Emily M. Dixon is the powerhouse Production Manager who has her hands in every aspect of this “Pete the Cat” production and all others at CMTM. Directing credits include the much-loved “Dragons Love Tacos” (2022) and the eco-conscious musical “Gruff: An Epic Fairytale Eco-Musical” (2023). Notably, Emily also took to the stage herself in CMTM’s 2020 production of “Elephant & Piggie,” embodying the character of Gerald. Outside of her theatrical passion, Emily is a fiction novelist, enjoys kayaking adventures, and cultivates her green thumb in the garden with her wife. Emily dedicates this season to Sara, Linda, David, Maddy, and Rusty, highlighting the collaborative and heartfelt spirit of Maddy’s Theatre.
Holly Taylor – Choreography
Holly (she/they) brings the groovy moves to “Pete the Cat” as the choreographer! A Portland, ME-based dance educator, choreographer, and arts administrator, Holly’s return to Maddy’s Theatre and the CMTM team is met with great enthusiasm. Their diverse movement background spans modern, ballet, gaga, postmodern, site-specific composition, and various contemporary dance forms. With a B.A. in American Studies from Yale University and an M.A. in Performance Studies from NYU Tisch, Holly’s expertise is undeniable. Currently, they share their passion for dance by teaching youth classes at Casco Bay Movers Dance Studio in Portland, inspiring the next generation of performers.
Raynor Pavlov – Costume Design
Prepare for a visually vibrant “Pete the Cat” thanks to the costume designs of Raynor Pavlov (he/him). An award-winning fashion designer and musician, Raynor excels in creating colorful and textural garments perfectly suited for performance artists. His participation in productions that bring joy and hope is something he deeply values. A recent graduate with a BFA in Fashion and Textile Design from Maine College of Art & Design (May 2024), Raynor’s talent is already recognized in the professional world. He has contributed to Maine Opera’s 2024 production of “Aida” and holds the position of head costumer for Oak Hill Players in Scarborough ME. Raynor extends heartfelt thanks to his partner IZ for their unwavering love and support.
Kat Moraros – Props Design
Kat Moraros (she/they) is the imaginative mind behind the props for “Pete the Cat.” Having previously charmed audiences as Hattie in “Go, Dog. Go!” (2023) at CMTM, Kat is delighted to be back. Describing themselves as an all-around theater artist with a childhood filled with books and imaginative play, Kat’s creativity is perfectly suited to prop design. Interestingly, despite being “very allergic to cats,” Kat embraced the “Pete the Cat” project wholeheartedly, rocking out with Pete and his friends while crafting the show’s props. This dedication, even with allergies, speaks volumes about their commitment to theatre!
SeifAllah Salotto-Cristobal – Lighting Design
SeifAllah Salotto-Cristobal (he/him/his) is the lighting designer illuminating the world of “Pete the Cat.” A father, husband, educator, and storyteller, SeifAllah brings 19 years of experience in lighting and digital media design for Theatre, Opera, Dance, Concerts, and Live Events across the country. His impressive portfolio includes work with Lyric Stage Boston, Portland Stage Company, Ogunquit Playhouse, and many more prestigious companies. Holding a Master of Fine Arts in Design with a focus on Lighting and Projection Design from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, SeifAllah is also an Assistant Professor of Lighting Design at the University of Southern Maine. He is passionate about educating the next generation of theatre professionals, emphasizing storytelling and industry equity. A proud member of United Scenic Artists, Local 829, SeifAllah’s website is www.seif.design, where you can see more of his stunning work.
Adam Corriveau – Puppet Design
Adding another layer of creativity to “Pete the Cat” is Adam Corriveau, the puppet designer. A Portland-based writer and maker, Adam is thrilled to be joining Maddy’s Theatre for the first time. His previous work includes co-writing and puppet designing the short film “Tick!” (Damnationland 2022) and puppet designing “Túmacho” for Mad Horse Theatre Co. Adam also performed as the “gross little weirdo Grumbo” in “The Semi-Darkness Place” (PortFringe 2024) and served as assistant director and special effects coordinator for the short film “Come Home” (Damnationland 2024). Adam’s unique puppet designs are sure to add a whimsical touch to “Pete the Cat.”
This incredible team, each bringing their unique skills and passion, is what makes “Pete the Cat” at Maddy’s Theatre a must-see experience. Get your tickets now to witness their collective talent bring this beloved story to life on stage!
