OC Theatre Guild
Nurturing, supporting, and promoting live theatre in Greater Orange County
2025 OC THEATRE GUILD BOARD CANDIDATES
Eric Bergstrom
Newport Beach
I have been actively involved in the Orange County theater community for many years, performing in productions across a range of local companies. At Camino Real Playhouse, I’ve played Bernard in Don’t Dress for Dinner and Boeing Boeing, Axel Hammond in The Nerd, Bingham in The Fox on the Fairway, Max Trueman in The Long Weekend, Billy Bright/Count Onnit in No Opera at The Opry House Tonight, and Judge Jerry Mander in Dirty Deeds at the Depot. At Cabrillo Playhouse, I appeared as Mansky in The Play’s the Thing, while at Z Playhouse I performed Ernst Ludwig in Cabaret. Other highlights include Val Slotsky in Laughter on the 23rd Floor (NTAC), Sir Rowland Delahaye in Spider’s Web (Westminster Community Playhouse), and roles in As You Like It and 24 Hour Creative with Dana Point Theater Company.
In addition to acting, I’ve supported the performing arts in Orange County through producing and hosting the TV show SoCal Safari, publishing OC On The Town, and directing television and internet commercials that often feature local talent. I also bring leadership experience from serving on the boards of the San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, and Laguna Niguel Chambers of Commerce.
My strong ties to Orange County’s creative community, both on stage and off, reflect my dedication to supporting and advancing local theater. I aim to contribute my experience, energy, and collaborative spirit to ensure the arts continue to thrive in our community.
Why do you want to serve on the board, and what skills, knowledge, or abilities do you feel you could offer in this role?
As the owner and managing editor of OC-On The Town, my skills in media and getting the word out, including video are
professional level.
Do you have any previous experience that would be relevant to serving on this board?
I have served on several Boards over the years dating back to 2004.
Any additional information you would like to share?
I would like to do my part in helping OCTG grow and maintain a professional level.
Haven Hanson
Irvine
Haven is a multi-hyphenate production designer and the owner of Costume Haven LLC, whose scenic, costume, hair, and makeup designs have graced stages across Southern California. His costume design and rental business supplies theatres with custom pieces while maintaining a stock of high-quality garments and an expanding catalog of full show package rentals. Haven trained in the Production and Design Conservatory at the prestigious Orange County High School of the Arts. He currently serves as the sole costume design adjudicator for the Musical Theatre Competitions of America and was named Musical Theatre West’s Costume Design Scholar of
2022. Professional highlights include costume, scenic, wig, and makeup design for Laguna Playhouse (The Winter of Oz, A
Cinderella Christmas, Rapunzel and Her Holiday Wish), Tustin’s Broadway in the Park (The Wizard of Oz, Cinderella, Grease, Mary Poppins), Chance Theatre (Jane Austen’s Emma The Musical, Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas, Fancy Nancy
the Musical), The Music Room, and JStage (The Music Man, Into the Woods, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,
Little Shop of Horrors, Beauty and the Beast, The Sound of Music).
Why do you want to serve on the board, and what skills, knowledge, or abilities do you feel you could offer in this role?
I want to serve on the board because I believe deeply in nurturing the next generation of theatre artists and strengthening the creative community that has shaped my own career. As a multi-hyphenate designer and business owner, I bring a perspective that bridges artistry and practical management. My skills in costume, scenic, wig, and makeup design allow me to see the full scope of production, while my experience running Costume Haven LLC has equipped me with budgeting, planning, and organizational abilities essential for long-term growth. I also bring a passion for mentorship,through my work adjudicating nationally for MTCA and recognizing emerging talent, I’ve seen the difference strong guidance can make. I would be honored to contribute both creative insight and strategic thinking to help guide the organization’s vision and support its artists.
Do you have any previous experience that would be relevant to serving on this board?
Yes. I was trained in the Production and Design Conservatory at Orange County School of the Arts and am now pursuing further
study at California State University, Fullerton. Professionally, I have designed for regional theaters including Laguna
Playhouse, Chance Theatre, Broadway in the Park, The Music Room, and JStage, spanning productions from Musicals to
British Pantomimes to Plays. In 2022, I was named Musical Theatre West’s Costume Design Scholar. I also serve as the
sole national costume design adjudicator for the Musical Theatre Competitions of America, evaluating aspiring artists from across
the country. Additionally, I own and operate Costume Haven LLC, a costume design and rental business, which has provided
me with hands-on experience in leadership, finance, and logistics. These combined experiences/artistic, entrepreneurial,
and educational, equip me with the perspective and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to board service.
Any additional information you would like to share?
In addition to my design and business experience, I also have a background as a performer. This perspective has given me a
deeper understanding of how design choices support actors in telling the story and how production decisions affect every
element of a performance. Currently, I am pursuing further training in Theatre Production and Design at California State
University, Fullerton, which keeps me connected to both professional practice and academic development. Above all, I
am committed to collaboration and service, and I would value the opportunity to use both my artistic and performance insights
to support the mission of the organization.
Molly Hardy
San Juan Capistrano
Molly Hardy is a California -based playwright, director, producer and lyricist. Ms. Hardy’s critically acclaimed plays have been produced at many colleges, and theaters, as well as for prison audiences, the US Military, and high schools throughout the country. Her plays especially attract young adults with emotional, and perhaps controversial but topical themes, that are written from her own life experiences delivering a memorable experience with compassion and humor.
Why do you want to serve on the board, and what skills, knowledge, or abilities do you feel you could offer in this role?
I moved to OC from LA and have the time and experience to contribute to the organization.
Do you have any previous experience that would be relevant to serving on this board?
I’m a playwright, producer and director at have worked with several different theatres in LA including the Stella Adler
Any additional information you would like to share?
Thank you for your consideration!
Lizzy McCabe, incumbent
Anaheim
Lizzy McCabe is a Director, Producer & Arts Administrator in Orange County, CA. She is the Founding Artistic Director and a
board member for The Larking House Theatre Company. In addition to her work with The Larking House, she currentlyserves as a staff member of Curtis Theatre, as an elected Board Member for the OC Theatre Guild for the last two years and
previously as the Education Production Manager for Arts & Learning Conservatory. Her career has found her working with
various organizations and institutions in SoCal including The Wayward Artist, OC Playwright's Alliance, Playground LA,
Chance Theater, Shakespeare Orange County, Fullerton College, Santa Ana College and Curtis Theatre. Lizzy received her BA in Directing from CSU Fullerton and her recent directing credits include: JU1CE (Wayward Artist), A Midsummer Night's Dream, Tartuffe, Cock (The Larking House) and A Streetcar Named Desire (Santa Ana College) as well as several world premiere plays and staged readings.
Why do you want to serve on the board, and what skills, knowledge, or abilities do you feel you could offer in this role?
I have been so grateful for the experiences and opportunities that being on the board has provided for me the last two years. I
would like to continue to contribute to the elevation of this amazing artistic community in a meaningful and integrated way
by serving another two year term.
Do you have any previous experience that would be relevant to serving on this board?
I bring with me a more seasoned understanding of the way the Guild functions as well as experience developing my own
organizations operations. My experience building The Larking House from the ground up has provided me with the skills and understanding to continue to serve the board and the community in the best way possible.
Any additional information you would like to share?
I value this community more than I can express into words, and it would be an honor to return as an Elected Board Member for
another two years.
Nathan Pothier
San Clemente
Nate Pothier, a longtime San Clemente resident, has spent the past eight years as founder and director of the Institute of
Theater Arts (ITA). He launched ITA with the mission of providing high-quality theatrical training and performance
opportunities for young artists in Orange County, creating a space where students can grow as performers and as people.
Nate holds a music degree from BYU and is certified through New York Vocal Coaching. With over 25 years of vocal coaching
experience, he brings deep expertise in vocal performance, theatrical sound design, and production. Under his leadership,
ITA has staged dozens of productions, engaged thousands of students, and built strong relationships within the local arts
community.Passionate about expanding access to the arts, Nate combines artistic vision with practical organizational management. His
work emphasizes collaboration, mentorship, and the belief that theatre has the power to inspire, connect, and strengthen
communities.
Why do you want to serve on the board, and what skills, knowledge, or abilities do you feel you could offer in this role?
I want to serve on the OC Theatre Guild board to help strengthen and expand the reach of live theatre across our
region. As the founder and director of the Institute of Theater Arts (ITA) for the past eight years, I have seen firsthand how
access to high-quality theatre experiences transforms individuals and builds community. I believe the Guild plays a
vital role in supporting artists, organizations, and audiences, and I want to contribute my time and expertise to further that
mission. I bring over 25 years of experience in vocal coaching, theatrical sound, production management, and arts education. My background includes launching and sustaining a successful theatre program that has produced dozens of shows, engaged
thousands of students, and fostered collaborations with local schools, nonprofits, and businesses. I have strong skills in
organizational leadership, community outreach, event production, and creative problem-solving. I am passionate about advocating for the arts, building partnerships, and creating opportunities that welcome and inspire people of all ages and backgrounds. I believe my blend
of artistic expertise, administrative experience, and community connection would be a strong asset to the board.
Do you have any previous experience that would be relevant to serving on this board?
Yes. I have a long history of building organizations from the ground up, guiding them from concept to sustainable operation.
My experience includes leading diverse teams, developing long-term strategic plans, and navigating the challenges of balancing
creative vision with fiscal responsibility. In addition to my work in theatre, I have successfully managed multiple businesses in different industries, which has honed my skills in governance, contract negotiation, marketing, and stakeholder relations. I am comfortable working within collaborative structures and contributing to group decision-making while also taking the initiative to move projects forward.
I have also served as a mentor to emerging leaders, helping them develop both their artistic and administrative skills. This
combination of entrepreneurial experience, leadership development, and familiarity with the unique needs of arts
organizations would allow me to contribute to the Guild’s operations, growth, and long-term sustainability.
Any additional information you would like to share?
I love Orange County, and I am passionate about Theatre and its future. I want to make a difference.
Carson Rodriguez
Costa Mesa/Newport Beach
Carson Rodriguez began his performing career at 6 years old participating in over 20 musicals until he was 18. He received
early dance training from CF Dance Academy in ballet, tap, and jazz and continued his dance and theater education through
local community theater, Dance Captain and assistant in choreography for several different show choirs at Los Alamitos
High School including Grand National Champions LosAl Sound FX, and Cypress College in the Dance and Theater Arts
Department. Over his performance career, he received multiple awards including “Best Dancer” and “Best Tenor” in show choir
as well as the Ruth M. Walp Scholarship for his achievements at Buena Park Youth Theater. Immediately following high school
graduation, Carson was chosen to be the resident choreographer for Buena Park Youth Theater for 2 seasons. He
has since been involved in over 30 productions across L.A. and Orange County on his own and under established theater
companies such as Arts & Learning Conservatory and Braver Players. He has choreographed for elementary and middle
school arts programs, high school show choirs, and college showcases. Carson, in conjunction with choreography, has also
directed, led summer camps, theater workshops, and theater tech classes. He wishes to inspire and nurture a love for dance
and theater in a safe space where everyone is welcome.
Why do you want to serve on the board, and what skills, knowledge, or abilities do you feel you could offer in this role?
I would be honored to be given a chance at serving on the board to build an even bigger and better community. I know my impact
on local theater and I know I am doing what I am meant to be doing when I teach and I would love for that love of musical
theater and dance to be fostered on a larger scale. My knowledge in being in schools in a variety of neighborhoods
would help me make decisions in establishing theater education and a sustainable community of artists everywhere. This
opportunity would allow me to use my leadership skills to build a network of diverse artistry and a voice to underserved
communities, giving appreciation to those who want, need, and deserve it.
Do you have any previous experience that would be relevant to serving on this board?
My first opportunity at teaching became available to me through a Youth Theater where I was able to contribute to how the
program was going to run. I made sure to incorporate the program’s long term goal and mission statement in not only
putting a show on, but educating the children. Along with that, I was in the room to make harder decisions such as mitigating
potential conflicts within the program, budgeting restraints and contract details. I acquired these leadership skills early on and
have been given chances to hone in on them and apply them wherever I need to.
Any additional information you would like to share?
My goal in life is to make a difference in as many people as I can. Through my teaching career, I have been able to inspire
and share my passion to many. This opportunity is not just another opportunity, but a real way to make an impact on my
community and I greatly appreciate your time considering me to continue my passion.
Annie Young
Irvine
I am an educator with experience teaching drama to students with special needs. I minored in Drama at UCI and hold an
Introductory Theatre Credential. I am passionate about inclusive and accessible theatre, I have integrated sign language,
movement, and dance into my classes, exploring themes such as friendship, kindness, and self-esteem. My past credits include Arsenic and Old Lace (stage manager), Dracula (actor), and Our Town (actor). After COVID, I expanded my teaching by producing, directing, and writing plays for my special needs students and most recently have written and directed two 10-minute plays for the Irvine Theater Company. Currently, I am furthering my training through a playwright class at South Coast Repertory. In addition to classroom work, I have supported productions in multiple capacities, including assisting with house management and auditions for Godspell, marketing and backstage support for Clue Jr. and Shrek Jr., and mentoring emerging artists. I am committed to creating theatre spaces for people with disabilities, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA communities, with the goal of inspiring the next generation of performers and creators.
Why do you want to serve on the board, and what skills, knowledge, or abilities do you feel you could offer in this role?
I want to serve on the board because theatre is my people. Recently, I had the amazing experience of working alongside my teenager in a play festival. As I was getting back into theatre, she was already thriving in it. About two years ago, I had a heart attack, and it made me realize that life is too short not to follow my passion and do what makes me happy. Seeing my daughter love theatre reignited that fire in me.I also noticed a need to amplify diverse voices, and I believe I can help create opportunities for people with disabilities, BIPOC,
and LGBTQIA artists to shine. I bring many experiences as an educator, recently collaborating with programs like Studio D (Arts School for All Abilities) to bring musical theatre and dance classes to our school district. I have organized children’s fairs, resource fairs, and partnered with the community throughout my career. I know I can’t make this all happen alone, but I am a bridge builder. I know how to hold space for different points of view, bring people together, and foster collaboration. When we do that, we create something powerful—something truly magical. I want to help the board do that, and I want to be part of shaping a theatre community that empowers everyone who steps into it.
Do you have any previous experience that would be relevant to serving on this board?
I am an OCTG Voter and have gone to many of the theaters in SoCal experiencing both classic and new plays. I am also
currently serving on the boards for the Wayward Artist and the Sound of Music Guild for the Segerstrom Center for the Arts.
Additionally, I am a member of the Irvine Theater Company Brain-Based Collective (a community of actors, writers, and
directors working together under a shared philosophy rooted in neuroscience, embodied cognition, and the mechanics of
human behavior). We are currently working on building the Theater of Tomorrow in the city of Irvine.
Any additional information you would like to share?
Thank you for considering me as a board member for the OC Theatre Guild. I hope that my background and experiences are a fit to your needs. I truly love this theatre community and that big party, *ahem* the OCTG Theatre Awards I mean, is what it is all about. Some of you saw me helping out at the front, and I loved meeting each one of you. It's more than an event - it's a celebration of our successes, a chance to bring our collective voices together. It's a space filled with laughter, hugs, and connection. It's home.
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Vincent Washicko, incumbent
Yorba Linda
Vincent Washicko began his life in the theater as a musical theatre performer and quickly graduated to choreographing which led to directing. As a director his focus rests in finding the truth in the story and working with actors and helping them find honesty in their performances. His acting techniques have foundations in Stanislavski techniques that he has adapted to contemporary theatre practices. Select directing credits include The Last Five Years, The LionKing, Jr., and Five Women Wearing the Same Dress. Select acting credits include Musidorus in Head Over Heels, Prince Eric, in The LIttle Mermaid, Adam/Noah in Children of Eden, and Jaime in The Last Five YearsWhen he is not at a theater he enjoys spending time with his wife, daughter, and their corgi.
Why do you want to serve on the board, and what skills, knowledge, or abilities do you feel you could offer in this role?
I am a current board elect member and my current duties include managing the Facebook page and the new posting submission form. I was a showrunner at last year’s award show. If re-elected I hope to continue in this capacity as well as growing when other opportunities arise.
Do you have any previous experience that would be relevant to serving on this board?
As a current board elect member, I feel my time shows that I am a hard worker and a team player. I have learned much being on this board and I look forward to the opportunity to learn more and contribute to OC Theatre.
Any additional information you would like to share?
I’d like to say that the last almost 2 years of working alongside the great board members of The OC theater guild have been some of the most rewarding experiences in my theatrical career to date. The people I’ve met and the people I’ve reconnected with, have not only shown me what it means to be a good theater artist, but how to truly serve your community in a selfless way I hope that if I am reelected, I can create and share these experiences with the new members of the OCTG.