Sam Murphey is making his Directorial Debut with his play, Scars! He is from Fayetteville, AR. He graduated from the University of Arkansas in 2020.  with a Bachelor’s in Theatre. Before dipping his toes in Directing, he was a Stage Manager with over 30 productions under his belt. He would love to thank everyone who attends the performance as well as the Cast, Crew, and Production team for supporting him on this massive journey.

With a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Virginia Tech and over 12 years of experience supporting community theatre, Susie is passionate about creating inclusive and enriching theatrical experiences. As a dedicated advocate for neurodiverse performers, she has championed her son’s involvement in theatre for over a decade, fostering opportunities for actors of all abilities to shine on stage. In addition to her work in theatre, she is a Professional Organizer, bringing her skills in coordination and efficiency to every production. Above all, she values the connections she builds as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend, embracing the power of storytelling to unite and inspire communities.

Bio

Bio

Ashley Cohea is an NWA native who brings heart, hustle, and hospitality to the front of house. With almost 20 years experience in professional and academic theatre, Ashley has managed ticketing, events, and community outreach—always with a deep commitment to making theatre accessible and welcoming for all. Her dedication isn’t just professional; it’s deeply personal. Away from the theatre Ashley is an avid concert-goer and vintage toy collector. She can often be found hunting the local flea markets for He-Man, She-Ra, and TMNT finds with her husband and son or hitting the road for live shows.

Kendra was born in California before she moved to Arkansas when she was 13. She joined her school's theatre program and received the best in state for duet acting. Kendra  always loved theatre and everything it had to offer. She love cats, knitting, and anything creative.

Bio

Bio

Lynnette is a native of the NWA area, calling Fayetteville her home for the last several years watching her 4 children grow up into amazing adults- 2 of which have earned and are continuing to pursue theatre degrees. Lynnette holds a degree in Fashion Design and has spent a number of years in the fashion and retail industry. Currently she is working for an interior design studio. Theatre has captivated her since her very first role as Tiny Tim when she was in the 4th grade. She has done a handful of productions with Pilot Arts where she was privileged to work with Sam. She was very excited to learn about Defying Limits and is extremely honored to be a part of this amazing group and bring her experience and strengths to the table here.

Yesenia Mata is from Rogers Arkansas. She received her BA from the University of Arkansas' Department of Theatre with Playwriting as her area of focus. Storytelling and collaboration is one of her greatest joys in life and she couldn't be more grateful to be part of the Defying Limits Family!

Randall Lothes of Rogers, Arkansas has been a hair, wig and makeup artist in Northwest Arkansas over the past 15 plus years.  His work can be seen on stage and on film all over the region.  He is a member of the Arkansas Public Theatre board of producers and has worked with various theatre groups across the area.  Randall is also a Special Education Professional with the Rogers Public School District and has been working in the special education field for close to 18 years.  “Both my passion for helping others and my love for theatre have always wanted to converge. . . now they get that chance.”​

Jesse Fondren, has recently come to join Defying Limits Theatre Group. Over the course of his life He's had the great privilege of exploring creative mediums and is grateful for the opportunity to work with dedicated people to make something beautiful. In his personal time he's very passionate about books, games, tv shows and other media, especially RPGs with the classic Dungeons and Dragons! He believes it’s important for everyone to be able to participate in the theatrical arts, its medium is one that everyone can understand with a little patience and some fun.

Emerson is currently a theatre major at the University of Arkansas with a concentration in directing. He was recently Assistant Director for UARK’s production of Silent Sky, and has been a part of countless productions in all different kinds of roles. Outside of theatre, he enjoys art, music, and cuddling with his pets.