Staff/Contact Information



If you have ANY questions regarding this summer's production, please email the staff at flyingmonkey2011@gmail.com, and someone will get back to you ASAP.



Matthew Vala, (Director/Vocal Director)
Matthew Vala is a familiar face to Springfield audiences, having performed in several productions in the area and nationwide. A music teacher at Calvary Academy, Mr. Vala is responsible for the musical program there, as well.  As a director, he recently presented HCFTA's Grease to sold out crowds in the summer of 2010. Trained in Dallas in both music and theater, Matthew recently returned to Springfield - and makes his Muni directorial debut this summer with the show that first brought him to the Muni stage over ten years ago. 

Favorite Oz Character:  Toto.
If Matthew could ask the Wizard for anything, it would be: a clan of flying monkeys.


Mary Kate Smith (Assistant Director)
Mary Kate Smith is another local performer with a professional background who has been seen in numerous recent productions - most of which have been alongside director, Matthew Vala.  A former elementary music  teacher, Mrs. Smith has also worked as a private voice and audition coach as well as an instructor for STC's PAVE Arts Camp.  Mary Kate makes her assistant directing debut with Wizard Of Oz, which also happens to be the first show she ever performed on stage in.

Favorite Oz Character:  Mrs. Gulch
If Mary Kate could ask the Wizard for anything, it would be:  A smaller waist.


Elizabeth Cheney (Choreographer)
One of the foremost choreographers in the area, Elizabeth Cheney returns to the Muni for Wizard of Oz this summer - the latest on a long list of shows she has perfected for the Muni stage.  Ms. Cheney teaches dance in the Springfield area, as well as working on shows for various theater outlets and private organizations.

Favorite Oz Character:  Flying Monkeys
If Elizabeth could ask the Wizard for anything, it would be:  More hours in the day.

For a complete listing of the Wizard Of Oz staff, please visit the Muni webpage!