The Trinity Valley Community College Theatre Department proudly presents Working the Musical—a dynamic production that celebrates the unsung heroes of everyday life, from waitresses and construction workers to caregivers and stay-at-home parents.

This powerful musical brings to life the stories of 26 everyday Americans, celebrating their unique contributions and revealing how their work shapes their identities. “Working” dives deep into the lives of people from all walks of life, proving that for many, a job is more than just a paycheck—it’s a defining part of who they are.

“The stories you hear during the production are true stories of the lives of the working men and working women of America,” shared Director of “Working” Craig Lee.  “Working was originally created in 1978 and then revised in 2012. However, the characters, stories, and themes are just as relevant in 2025.”

Based on Studs Terkel's best-selling book of interviews with American workers, “Working” captures the heart and soul of the workforce often taken for granted: teachers, phone operators, waitresses, millworkers, masons, homemakers, and many others. Nominated for six Tony Awards, this beloved classic has been updated for modern audiences, featuring fresh songs by Tony Award-winner Lin-Manuel Miranda, alongside original favorites by Stephen Schwartz, Craig Carnelia, James Taylor, Micki Grant, and more.

"This production is a tribute to the hardworking men and women of America, and it speaks directly to the heart of who we are as a nation," Lee said. "It’s one of the most accessible, relevant, and impactful musicals ever created. I encourage everyone to come and experience this incredible show."

The production will include performances from TVCC Theatre, TVCC Cardinal Singers, and TVCC Cardettes.

The cast includes:

Claire Capehart as Amanda and Maggie

Brandon Cook as Conrad and Anthony

Heidi Davis as Freddy and Kate

Raelin Evans as Raj and Eddie

Mckenzie Garcia as Allen and Charlie

Jaci Gunnels as Sharon and Grace

Riley O’ Donnell as Rex, Utkarsh and Tom

Scott Peebles as Mike, Dillard, and Joe

Meadow White as Terry, Candy and Theresa

Jessie Wilson as Frank and Delores

Pluto Wilson as Rose and Roberta

The Working Dancers include:

Brooklyn Barrett

Melanie Campa

Stephanie De La Cruz

Valerie Garcia

Guilianna Guerrero

Kimberly Guerrero

Caylee Jackson

Haylee McGowan

Dulce Olvera

Ana Sofia Pacheco Jimenez

Mariana Peterson

Raine Pinson

Evelyn Quiroz

Jayden Teschke

The Working Choir includes:

Abigail Vives

Elizabeth Peredia

Raven Jacobs

Ashley Moore

Savannah Wasinger

Alexis Brey

Angel Rodriguez

Chandler Andrews

Hirdayendra Ghising

Alex Stinnette

The Working Band includes:

Justin Legel on Keyboard

Connor Wilcoxson on Piano and Percussion

Savannah Hairl on Bass

Avery Jones on Percussion

The production will be led by Director of Theatre Craig Lee, with music direction by Justin Legal. Scenic design will be crafted by Biz Nelson, with Bohb Nelson serving as technical director. Lighting design is by Sofia Escogido, and costume, hair, and makeup design is by Pluto Wilson. Vocal coaching and choir direction will is led by Dr. Kristin Huggins. Cardette Head Coach Emma Cox and Assistant Coach Carlie Birmingham assisted with choreography and dance numbers.  Sound engineering will be handled by Robert Bowen, Micah Collard, and Bryan Dotts. Production dates are April 3, 4, and 5 at 7:30 pm and April 6 at 2:30 pm at the Pauline Knight Perkins Auditorium on the TVCC – Athens Campus. Tickets are $10 each or free for TVCC students, staff and faculty with a TVCC ID.

“I am grateful to my fine arts partners: Kristin, Emma, Carlie, Biz and Justin for their time, energy, and dedication to make this production happen,” Lee expressed. “When you leave our theater, remember that we all need and deserve to “have something to point to.”