playbill vip

Cory Martin

Director

Cory Martin is excited to return to City Theatre of Independence, where she previously directed the award-winning production of Urinetown in 2022. A performer, director, producer, and arts entrepreneur, she leads American Vaudeville Company, C.A.S.T., and Café 333, creating theatre, cabaret, and live entertainment experiences throughout the Kansas City area.

When she's not on stage or behind the scenes, Cory's favorite role is being mom to her son, Alan. She would like to thank him for sharing his mommy with the theatre for a few weeks and for being her greatest source of joy and inspiration. Enjoy the show!

Erin Gilmore

Music Director

Erin Gilmore is a Kansas City–based music director, educator, and dramatic soprano. She is thrilled to serve as co–Music Director for Guys and Dolls alongside her husband, John Gilmore. Her creative team credits include Assistant Director for Elektra with Dramatic Voices Midwest and co–Music Director for Chess. As a performer, Erin has appeared with Dramatic Voices Midwest, Opera on Tap–KC, The American Opera Studio, and Red River Lyric Opera, including a 2025 performance in Germany as Lady Billows in Albert Herring. She holds degrees from Emporia State University and UMKC and currently serves as Director of Communication and Digital Strategy for Opera Kansas while teaching private voice and piano.

John Gilmore

Band Leader

John Gilmore is an accomplished percussionist and drum set artist in Kansas City, celebrated for his versatility across musical genres and ensemble settings. He has performed with a range of ensembles, from percussion duos to symphony orchestras, including many musicals, with recent highlights including Hairspray! (The J), Assassins (OCTA), and Annie (VarietyKC). He is excited to be able to play Guys and Dolls again, and to help bring this production to life!