Director
Arika Beals is the Director of Drama for Steven's High School. Previously, Ms. Beals taught 6th grade Reading and 8th grade Drama at South Middle School, and was an Adjunct Instructor of Drama for Black Hills State University. Ms. Beals holds a Masters in Drama from the University of Montana, and a Masters in Secondary Education from BHSU. Past production credits include The Little Mermaid for Performing Arts Workshop in Gillette, WY, Rabbit Hole for BHCT, Brothers Grimm Spectaulathon for South Middle School, and Beyond Therapy for the Firehouse Theater.
Assistant Director
Leah Ludwig has enjoyed her involvement in the performing arts for over 35 years. Her high school successes earned her a theatre scholarship at South Dakota State University where I graduated with a degree in education, theatre and communication studies. Living in Rapid City for over 15 years has given her an opportunity to be involved in community theatre and employment as the director of the Black Hill's Children's Theatre Troupe 1999-2001. Mrs. Ludwig's greatest achievement in life has been the blessing of being a proud parent of 5 amazing children, three graduates of Steven's HS and two currently enrolled. As a family, they enjoy time together outside with their 11 year old dog and mischievous cat. The most rewarding part of theatre for her is the reminder in show after show that there truly are no small parts. The entire cast and crew of every event she has had the privilege to be a part of has needed to work as a team and ended up forever friends with memories that continue to enhance her life years later. The relationships that form through the collaboration of ideas, skill full mastery, natural talent exposed, tears, laughs and sweaty performances continue to motivate good life choices for a lifetime. Mrs. Ludwig is honored to work with this incredible group of people as the assistant drama coach.
Scenic Design and Construction Mentor
Jason earned his BFA in Theater from USD and has plied his trade many places around the country, and even a few overseas gigs. His work has been seen locally at The Black Hills Playhouse, The Black Hills Community Theatre, the Firehouse Brewing Company Theatre, and a few commercials. He is married to his best friend Ingrid, and they are raising their pretty great kids; Sylvan and Fox. During the day, Jason runs his own business - Against the Grain.
Stage Lighting Mentor
Thom learned lighting design primarily while studying at the North Carolina School of the Arts. He graduated with a BFA in Lighting Design and Technical Direction. While at school he assisted Michael O. Watson in lighting an off-broadway show and dance performances in NYC; and for the Atlanta Theatre Company. His professional career includes assisting, and
learning from, notable designers such as Jennifer Tipton, Tom Skelton, and James F Ingalls while working at American Repertory Theatre at Harvard University, the Boston Ballet, Atlanta Ballet, Milwaukee Ballet, Boston Opera, and others. He ended one tour lighting a production filmed by the BBC at the Duke of York Theatre in London. Over his 12 yrs in professional theatre, he was involved in some capacity with performances in 10 countries and 38 states in over 200 theaters. He then traded the professional for the academic arena, and taught sound and lighting design for three years at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee in their Professional Theatre Training Program. After moving to the Black Hills to start a family with his incredible wife, he has kept up his love for the theatre and dance by lighting shows here in Rapid City. In working with students at Stevens HS, he is hoping to pass on his knowledge and passion to them. Who knows,
they may discover a whole new career opportunity!
