New Theater Director Cullen Wiley '16 Announces 24/25 Theater Season
September 24, 2024
Cretin-Derham Hall is thrilled to announce an exciting lineup for this year’s theater season, led by a familiar face, Cullen Wiley ‘16. With a passion for the arts and a wealth of experience in theater directing, Cullen returns to CDH to lead our theater program.
This year’s theater season will feature:
- Children’s Show: Frozen Jr.
- Winter Play: Little Women
- Spring Musical: The Addams Family
Cullen, who was deeply involved in CDH Theater and music during his student years, went on to earn his BA in Theater from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. His career has taken him to Skutt Catholic High School in Omaha, where he directed Footloose the Musical, and to Ashland Productions in Maplewood, where he directed Next to Normal and The Ashland Alumni Cabaret. He also served as an Assistant Director for The Spirit of '68 at the Nebraska Repertory Theater.
“Being back at CDH has been surreal!” said Wiley. “It’s been so fun getting to work alongside my former teachers. The CDH community has been nothing short of warm and welcoming."
Wiley is thrilled about the upcoming season and the opportunities it presents for students. He noted that the Fine and Performing Arts Department will play a significant role throughout the year, with all aspects of the productions being student-driven. One of the highlights for the spring show will be a student orchestra performing for the musical, The Addams Family.
Wiley is passionate about making CDH Theater inclusive and accessible to all. "My goal is to continue to grow the theater program and to get as many students involved as possible. There is a place for everyone!”
The enthusiasm among CDH students is already high. Sky McLeod ‘25 is excited about Cullen’s leadership: “I think Mr. Wiley is super nice and I love his passion for theater! I’m interested to see the difference between his directing and what we’ve done in the past. I think he’s done a great job so far of convincing underclassmen to try and audition for shows!”
Willa Pyle '26, another CDH theater student, is very excited about the season line-up: “I am so excited for all of these shows. I think they are going to be a lot of fun and we’ll be able to put on some fantastic productions. The Addams Family especially, I think, is a great choice for a big spring musical.”
See our website for audition details, performance dates, and more exciting updates from CDH Theater!