Jefferson Performing Arts Society

Jefferson Performing Arts Society

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Jagged Little Pill

April 17-26, 2026

Jefferson Performing Arts Center
6400 Airline Dr, Metairie, LA

  • Tickets

The musical "Jagged Little Pill" by Alanis Morissette contains mature themes, including sexual assault, drug abuse, overdose, and strong language. It is recommended for mature audience members 16 and up. The show addresses serious topics such as the impact of addiction and the complexities of family dynamics, making it a powerful and thought-provoking experience for those who are ready to confront these themes.

 

Book By Diablo Cody, Lyrics & Book by Lee Hall

Music by Alanis Morisette and Glenn Ballard

Directed by Jack Lampert

An exhilarating new musical inspired by the themes and raw emotions laid bare in Alanis Morissette's seminal album of the same name. The Healys appear to be a picture-perfect suburban family – but looks can be deceiving. When the cracks beneath the surface begin to show, they must choose between maintaining the status quo or facing harsh truths about themselves, their community and the world around them.

Mary Jane Healy is a high-achieving homemaker who will do anything for her family, including their adopted African American daughter Frankie, who is struggling to find her place in their lily-white community. But when the Healys’ lives begin to unravel, Mary Jane’s drive to keep her family together threatens to break them apart.

CAST

Click headshot for bio

Katie Harrison

Katie is thrilled to be making her JPA debut. Hailing from East Tennessee, Katie moved to Texas to serve as the music director and a performer at Six Flags Astroworld (RIP). She quickly made a name for herself in the Houston Theatre Community. Her “real” job, which brought her to New Orleans, is managing Nightly Spirits, a nationwide Ghost Tour Company. Locally, she has been seen as Diana in Next to Normal at Slidell Little Theatre, where she also directed RENT and Annie. She is very active with the Krewe of Dolly, supporting children’s literacy. She thanks her mother and Alanis Morrisette for getting her through her angsty teenage years!

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Katie Harrison

MARY JANE HEALY

Michael Smith

A graduate of Tulane University (BFA Musical Theatre), Michael has been a part of the New Orleans performing arts community since 2006 with the United States Marine Corps Band, Summer Lyric Theatre at Tulane, Rivertown Theatres for the Performing Arts, the World War II Museum, The Company at St. Bernard, and Jefferson Performing Arts.  He first appeared on the JPAS stage with The Addams Family (2021) as Malcom Beinecke and is thrilled to be back for the 2025-2026 season with the incredible cast of Jagged Little Pill!  Smith is a retired Marine Corps officer (32 years), including three combat deployments, the Director of the Marine Corps Band New Orleans, and the Head of Marine Corps Field Music at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.  Currently, he teaches Leadership & Character Development to high school seniors at the New Orleans Military & Maritime Academy as a Senior Marine Instructor.  Past local productions highlights include “Santa Meets Sousa,” a Marine Corps Toys for Tots Holiday Spectacular (Principal Conductor), Captain O’Hurley in two productions of FLY - The Tuskegee Airman Story, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas (Sheriff), Newsies! (Joseph Pulitzer), Assassins (The Proprietor), A Christmas Story (Ralphie’s Old Man), Pipin (King Charlemagne), Jekyll & Hyde (Gabriel Utterson), The Sound of Music (Captain von Trapp), Annie! (Daddy Warbucks), and most recently as Herbie in Gypsy.

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Michael Smith

STEVE HEALY

Amber Lemelle

Amber Rayne Lemelle is delighted to make her debut at Jefferson Performing Arts. A native of Leonville, Louisiana, Amber is a dancer at heart with performance and choreography experience throughout the greater New Orleans area. She is driven by a constant desire to grow as a performer and brings focus and intention to the rehearsal room. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from the University of New Orleans and an MBA from Louisiana State University, which inform her work ethic and collaborative spirit. Amber is grateful for the opportunity to portray Frankie in this wonderful production.

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Amber Lemelle

FRANKIE HEALY

Colin Richard

Colin Richard (Nick) is excited to be back on the JPAC stage, trading icy mountains for the emotional intensity of Jagged Little Pill as he takes on the role of Nick Healy. He’s grateful for the chance to help tell this bold and heartfelt story of family, identity, and finding your voice.  He was most recently seen playing Kristoff in JPA’s Frozen the Musical.  Colin is a Sophomore at Loyola University New Orleans where he is majoring in Classical Vocal Performance and Communications. He recently played the role of Elder Gleaton in the Opera Susannah (Loyola University).  Other credits include,  Miles in JPA’s Our City Our Saints, Pig No. 2 in Shrek the Musical (Wing & A Prayer Productions-St. Luke’s United Methodist Church), The Dutchess in Alice by Heart (River Region Dram Guild), Davey in Newsies- The Musical (Wing & A Prayer Productions-St. Luke’s United Methodist Church), TJ in Sister Act, The Musical at Rivertown Theaters, Tin Man in The Wizard of Oz (Wing & A Prayer Productions-St. Luke’s United Methodist Church), and many more.  When Colin is not in the theater, he enjoys being a part of the chorale at Loyola, he is part of the cast for NOLA Pixie Dust, enjoys being an extra in movies, playing the guitar and hanging out with friends.  He can’t wait to share this powerful and meaningful story with Mr. Jack and the cast.  Colin would like to thank his family and friends for all of their support and Jack Lampert and Maestro for giving him this amazing opportunity! He hopes this production of Jagged Little Pill inspires you to reflect, to feel deeply, and to embrace your own truth.

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Colin Richard

NICK HEALY

Adrienne Simmons

Adrienne Simmons is a dancer, singer, and actor dedicated to inclusive representation that widens perspectives for diverse audiences. Formally trained in ballet, she has expanded her artistry by studying various styles of dance internationally. They are currently a member of Mélange Dance Theatre and a dance instructor at the Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts.  Adrienne holds bachelor's degrees in management and theatre, as well as an MBA from the University of New Orleans. Recent credits include Guys and Dolls (Le Petit), Love Letters (Mélange), and Penny Dreadfuls (TWTC).  IG: @adriennecsimmons

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Adrienne Simmons

JO TAYLOR

Ty Robbins

Ty works as a theatre maker and lower education arts instructor. He last was seen in the JPAS world premiere of Our City of Saints (Henry). Credits: Walt Disney Entertainment, The View UpStairs (Patrick), Songs for a New World (Man 2), The School for Lies (Oronte), Measure for Measure (Provost; u/s), Assassins (Zangara). While not in the studio or stage, Ty is feverishly typing his thesis work toward an MFA at the University of New Orleans. He is happy to work with familiar colleagues, Maestro Dennis Assaf and Director Scott Sauber. He sends endless appreciation to his partner, Alex.

(IG. Big.Blondelishous)

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Ty Robbins

PHOENIX

Candence Hebert

Cadence Hebert is thrilled to be making her JPA debut in Jagged Little Pill! From Belle Chasse, Louisiana, Cadence has spent most of her time on the stage—even at school. Currently attending NOCCA for Musical Theatre, she will soon be graduating as Class of 2026 and when not on the stage, she can be seen working backstage. Cadence couldn’t be more grateful (and excited) to star as Bella in JPA’s production of Jagged Little Pill.

 

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Cadence Hebert

BELLA FOX

Ariyana Ree

Ariyana is delighted to be a part of Jagged Little Pill! Previous credits include Frozen (JPAS), Hairspray (LSU), and Miscast Cabaret (LSU). When she’s not on stage, she’s deep in the world of research as a doctoral student in Instructional Systems and Workforce Development at Mississippi State University. Ariyana is endlessly grateful for her mother, father, sister, family and friends whose love and support make it all possible.

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Ariyana Ree

ENSEMBLE

Cynthia Jickling

Bio coming soon.

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Cynthia Jickling

ENSEMBLE

Alyssa Daigle

Alyssa Daigle is a second year musical theatre student with a minor in social media communications at Loyola University, and a theatre instructor with The Adderley School. Her recent credits include Alice By Heart (Ensemble/Alice Spencer US) with Loyola University, and The Polar Express (Bailey) with Rail Events Productions.

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Alyssa Daigle

ENSEMBLE

Noah Smith

Noah Smith is thrilled to be in Jagged Little Pill.  He graduated from Louisiana State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre. His recent credits include Frozen (ensemble) with JPA, You Really Suck (Derrick) with Queer New Theatre, The Trojan Women (Greek Soldier) with Fat Squirrel Theatre, and Clue (Ensemble) with JPA.  Noah would like to thank his parents and friends for all of their support!

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Noah Smith

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Nathan Parrish

Nathan Parrish is grateful to appear in Jagged Little Pill. His recent credits include Pabbie in Frozen the Musical, Man #2 In I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, Cal in Waitress, Ensemble in Jekyll & Hyde, Dewey Finn in School of Rock, and Jesus Christ Superstar, all with JPAS. He also appeared as Charlie in Kinky Boots at Cutting Edge Theater. Nathan teaches voice and guitar, performs in a cover band, and holds a Bachelor’s in Performing Arts from Southeastern Louisiana University. He is thankful to the JPAS community for their continued support and opportunities. @nathanparrishmusic

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Nathan Parrish

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Allee Peck

ALLEE PECK (ENSEMBLE) is thrilled to be part of this powerful and deeply moving show. She was most recently seen as Bulda in JPA’s Frozen and strikin’ it rich as Yukon Cornelius in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, now one of her all-time favorite roles. Some of her favorite past NOLA productions include Petite Rouge (Crawfish), Marvelous Wonderettes (Betty Jean), Zanna, Don’t! (Roberta), Avenue Q (Lucy T. Slut/Others), and The Little Mermaid (Ursula). She was also a Big Easy Award nominee for her portrayal of Maggie Jones in Rivertown’s 42nd Street and was a Patchwork Player for three years. Offstage, Miss Allee choreographs school shows year-round throughout the metro and Slidell area with Scott Sauber. She is also an award-winning karaoke host, voted Flame Magazine’s Best Karaoke Host of 2020! You can catch her at regular and pop-up karaoke nights around New Orleans or book her for private events—purrfect for all ages (IG: @djalleecat). Her heartfelt thanks go out to her family and friends for their continued love and support, to the cast and crew, and, as always, to Maestro. Catch her next bending and snapping as Paulette in Rivertown’s production of Legally Blonde this summer.

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Allee Peck

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Christina Ingrassia

Christina Ingrassia (ensemble) is making her debut on the JPA stage! Recent credits include: Cabaret (Sally Bowles), The Rocky Horror Show (Magenta), Rent (Mimi Marquez) and Pride and Prejudice (Jane Bennet) at 30 by Ninety Theater; Chicago (Velma Kelly) and A Streetcar Named Desire (Stella Kowalski) at the Evangeline Theater Company. Christina is a born-and-raised New Orleanian and a local real estate entrepreneur. After spending the last few years on the Northshore, she is now back based in New Orleans and thrilled to be “playing” in her hometown once again! @cingrassiarealtor

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Christina Ingrassia

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Jenevieve Fortes

JENEVIEVE FORTES (Ensemble) is thrilled to return to the stage in Jagged Little Pill. She holds a Bachelor in Musical Theatre from Loyola University New Orleans, she loves sharing her passion for storytelling and art with others. Recent credits include Our City of Saints (Lucy/Ensemble), Joe & Marilyn (Stage Manager), The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Logainne), Much Ado About Nothing (Claudio), Urinetown (Urinette/Little Sally US), Into the Woods (Little Red Ridinghood), Head Over Heels (Philoclea), and multiple JPA productions as Crew. She is deeply grateful to the JPA team for the opportunity to create and play, and sends endless thanks to God, her family, and her newlywed husband for their love and support.

 

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Jenevieve Fortes

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Nathan Long

Nathan Long is excited to be performing in this production of Jagged Little Pill! He is from Floyds Knobs, IN, and began dance training with the Oldham County Performance Troupe and with Michael Thomas back home. Nathan also graduated with a B.A. in Musical Theatre from Loyola University New Orleans in May 2025, studying voice from Professor Melissa Marshall and dance from Donald Jones Jr. and Keith Pinkston. Past performance credits include Hans in Disney’s Frozen, Lord Glossop in Jekyll & Hyde and ensemble in School of Rock (JPAS), Ensemble in Carousel, Roy in A Chorus Line, and Ensemble in Sweeney Todd (SLT). He is thrilled to be working with this cast and crew!

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Nathan Long

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Rachel Gagnard

Rachel is excited to return to the JPA stage with the Ensemble of Jagged Little Pill. Rachel received her Bachelor of Music Education from Loyola University New Orleans in 2009. Rachel was recently seen in All Shook Up (Ensemble) and Disaster! (Ensemble) at Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts. Recent local productions include Once Upon a Mattress (Princess #12), The Sound of Music (Elsa Schraeder), The Polar Express (Steward), Jekyll & Hyde (Ensemble) and Jesus Christ Superstar (Mary Magdalene alternate/Ensemble). She spent many years as a Victory Belle at the National WWII Museum. Rachel is currently studying voice with the amazing Michael Civitano. When Rachel isn’t performing, she works as a registered nurse on a neuro stepdown unit. Rachel would like to thank her husband for being so supportive of her passion for the stage!

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Rachel Gagnard

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Donnie Lawson

Donovan Lawson is a musician and vocalist whose artistry blends jazz, classical, and contemporary styles. Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, Donovan has called New Orleans home since 2018, drawn to the city’s rich musical heritage and vibrant spirit. At Missouri State University, Donovan pursued a Bachelor of Music in Trombone Performance under Dr. Jason Hausback and performed as first-chair trombonist with the university’s Jazz Ensemble directed by Randy Hamm. Highlights of his collegiate career include a featured performance at Le Poisson Rouge in New York City as part of the Theater Department Senior Showcase. Donovan is thrilled to join the team of esteemed individuals at JPAC. His first and most recent credit is the roles of Coach Comet and Boss Elf in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

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Donnie Lawson

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Alyssa Bennefield

Alyssa Duke Bennefield is excited to be back on stage at JPAS! She was an NFL Cheerleader with the New Orleans Saints from 2022-2025. Prior to that, she was a NBA dancer for the Atlanta Hawks from 2017-2020. She has been seen performing with many famous artists such as Ciara, Migos, 21 Savage, New Kids On The Block, Ying Yang Twins and more. Recent stage credits include: Our City of Saints (Alyssa/Ensemble), Charlie & The Chocolate Factory (Mrs Bucket), Rock of Ages (Sherrie), Kinky Boots (Nicola/Angel), The Prom (Angie) and More! In her free time she loves to spend time with her husband Brandon, and their two sons - Parker and Denver! IG: @alyssabenne

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Alyssa Bennefield

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Ryan Kelly Moore

Ryan Kelly-Moore (Ensemble) is thrilled to be in his sixth production now with JPA. He studied at the University of Southern Missisppi  where he received his B.A. in Theatre and minored in Music. Previous JPA shows include Ensemble in School of Rock, Jekyll & Hyde, Billy Elliott, Waitress and most recently Oaken in Frozen. Other favorite roles include Henry in Next to Normal and Ensemble in Into the Woods and Something Rotten! . Ryan is relocating to St Louis and wants to thank everyone he has met here in JPA in the past two years here for welcoming him to their theatre family. He would also like to thank his friends and family for their unwavering support, especially his mother and husband.

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Ryan Kelly Moore

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