The Big Five Therapy Group
What would happen if the Big Five personality traits (from personality psychology) were in group therapy together? Would they use therapy as an opportunity for growth, or would they use their differences as an excuse to remain stuck as whom they believe they are?
About the Playwright, Jennifer Veilleux
Dr. Jennifer “Jenn” Veilleux is a Professor of Psychological Science at the University of Arkansas, and a licensed clinical psychologist. Jenn recently published her first book, Open to Emotion: How Acknowledging, Understanding, and Regulating Feelings Can Improve Mental Health. Back in the day, she majored in theater as an undergraduate at Macalester College with an emphasis on directing and playwriting. This play was initially written as a gift to her students taking a personality course she taught, to emphasize that personality is multifaceted and can change with effort (and to highlight the non-scientific nature of the Myers-Briggs).
Meet the Director and Cast
Erin Renfree (Director) has performed and directed locally for the past 30 years. Most recently seen at Main Street Theater in A Red Plaid Shirt, R25’s production of Three Viewings, and California Stage’s production of Dorothea Puente Tells All!, her other stage roles include Abigail Adams/Richard Henry Lee in 1776, Mother Superior in Nunsense, Theda in It Had To Be You, and Molly in The Unsinkable Molly Brown. She has directed for Davis Musical Theater Company and T Street theater and has developed and directed fund-raising shows for several nonprofit organizations.
Bryn Riley (Openness) is a Sacramento native with a love of theatre and music. She was most recently seen in FreeFall’s all-women 1776 this last June. Ms. Riley has a B.A. in Vocal Performance from Fresno Pacific University and has performed with Fresno’s Good Company Players in such musicals as Mamma Mia!, Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Into the Woods. She attributes her love of acting to her father, long-time FreeFall Stage board (and family) member Craig Riley, and dedicates her performances to him. Miss you always, Mr. Screwtape.
Chad Eldridge (Conscientiousness) grew up in theatre, performing many roles at Freefall Stage, like Charlie Brown in A Charlie Brown Christmas, Benny in The Boxcar Children, Tom Sawyer in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Joe and Reginald in the world premieres of Help Me and An Honest Apology respectively, and at other theatres, like Tiny Tim in Chautauqua Playhouse’s “Scrooge,” and Sir Bedevere in Sutter Street Theatre’s “Spamalot.” He’s studying for his Bachelor’s in English at Sac State, pursuing a writing career. His short playscript, “A Chance to Forgive,” was produced at Freefall’s 2024 play festival. He hopes you enjoy the show!
Erika Anderson (Extraversion) is returning to the stage for the first time in over 20 years and is thrilled to make her debut with FreeFall Stage. Last seen performing in elementary school, Erika was inspired by her brother – a longtime community theater actor – to finally give it another shot. She’s grateful for his support and for the warm welcome from the cast and crew. She’s excited to be part of the fun!
Denise Anderson (Agreeableness) is excited to make her Freefall Stage debut in The Big Five Therapy Group. She has enjoyed playing a variety of roles over the years, including multiple parts in Shakespeare’s King Lear and As You Like It, as well as bringing Susie to life in Voice of the Prairie. Denise loves exploring different characters and stories, and she’s thrilled to bring her experience and enthusiasm to this fun new production alongside a talented cast and crew.
Lisa Derthick (Neuroticism) has been an active performer in local community theater for many years. Most recently, she appeared in A Red Plaid Shirt (Deb) and The Quest For Don Quixote (multiple roles) at Main Street Theater Works. For FreeFall Stage, Lisa appeared in Screwtape as Mrs. Green. Lisa recently retired from her tutoring business and is enjoying more time with family, friends, and theater.
Bruce Seymour (Honesty) has been involved in community theater sporadically, since his retirement, and on and off for 50 years. Starting in junior high, and having a small break in performances for about 30 years. Most recently as the cabbie in Hack at the Ooley Theater (Thanks, Eddie) and Office Work (I really enjoyed that.). Bruce has also had small parts in a couple Shakespeare plays and a few other parts like in Done to Death. Shout out to Theater in the Heights, for getting me involved again, for an old guy. Hopefully I’ll be able to do a few more. Keeps the mind sharp. And THANK YOU for supporting community theatre. FreeFall Stage Rocks!