Meet the Cast

CongregationHouse Productions is thrilled to present this Reader’s Theater presentation of The Laramie Project.

A breathtaking collage that explores the depths to which humanity can sink and the heights of compassion of which we are capable.

Abe is making his fourth appearance at the CongregationHouse Theatre, and he couldn’t be happier to contribute to such a profound and impactful production. His recent portrayal of Macbeth at Cuesta Performing Arts’ “Shakesperience” was well-received. Before that, he graced Morro Bay and Cambria community theaters and showcased his versatility in various roles for Cal Poly Shortcuts Films and the SLO Film Festival. Occasionally, Abe ventures to Los Angeles for minor roles in web series and has also appeared in commercials.

Jeffrey is honored to be a part of this production of The Laramie Project and for this story to be told, once again. Jeffrey has been singing and acting since high school and has over 30 shows under his belt. Favorite roles include Micheal in I Do! I Do!, Frederic in The Pirates of Penzance,  Billy Crocker in Anything Goes, and Dr. Chumley in Harvey. Jeffrey and his wife, Jeannie moved to the central coast from Chicago in 2008. He is a marketing director by day and is also the Director of Music at UCC SLO Congregational Church.

Max is humbled to be a part of such an incredible production. This is the first time he has played more than one role on any given night! You may remember him playing the roles of Brian Sewer (The Whiskey Murder, 2024)and Barry (Caffeinated, 2023) through Congregation House. Before that, he took acting classes at Linfield College and played the roles of Eric, Sneake, and Eino (Shanghaied in Astoria, 2006-2009) through the Astor Street Opry Company based out of Astoria, Oregon.

Diane Steinberg-Lewis is a singer/songwriter/pianist/performer whose musical experiences encompass classical to jazz, Memphis to Motown. She has recorded solo albums, composed themes for commercials for radio and television, and sung backgrounds for recordings by Rod Stewart and Steve Miller.

Diane co-starred as Lucy in RSO’s ’78 movie, Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, and was a radio talkshow host for WQBH in Detroit.

Richard moved to the Central Coast from St. Louis, Missouri in 2012. This is his fourth production with CongregationHouse. What fun it has been! He is especially honored and humbled to be a part of this production of The Laramie Project.

Stephen hails from the Central Coast and you might recognize him from previous CongregationHouse events (he was likely serving you a beverage). He is a Social Worker by day and a movie buff by night. His last stage performance was through Santa Maria Youth Theatre, when he was in junior high school. He lives in San Luis Obispo with his husband, Jason, and two kitties, Ella & Tippi. 

Colleen Baird is a retired attorney from the Midwest who is enjoying her new adventure in the world of community theatre.  Now appearing in her 3rd production with the Congregation House, she is honored to be part of the Laramie Project.  It’s a play which she hopes will raise awareness and meaningful conversation on important issues in our community.

Jason Sisk-Provencio has lived on the Central Coast for 36 years. Jason lives in SLO with his husband Stephen. They met at Starbucks 18 years ago. Jason is a graduate of Cuesta College, Cal Poly SLO, and Fuller Theological Seminary. He has pastored the United Church of Christ in SLO, an Open and Affirming church, for 10 years. Jason loves coffee, cats, philosophy, Star Trek, traveling, and movies. He is developing a new love of acting. 

Honored  to be directing this extraordinary production and gifted group of actors, bringing ideas to life is Jeannie’s motivation. From writing the first words, to envisioning a performance or final production, Jeannie loves the process of creating. A Chicago transplant, she and husband Jeffrey call the Central Coast home.