The Players
Meet the talented cast bringing our stories to life on stage.
Pamela Karpelenia is the Founder, President, Executive Producer, and Artistic Director of Mosaic Desert Theatre. A lifelong performer, director, educator, and playwright, Pamela is dedicated to creating immersive theatrical experiences that bring audiences and performers together through interactive storytelling.
With more than 20 years of experience in arts education and performance, Pamela has worked extensively throughout Arizona’s community theatre scene as a director, producer, music director, actor, vocal instructor, and playwright. She is also the founder of the highly successful Murder Mystery Players of Casa Grande, known for original interactive productions that have entertained audiences at conventions, community events, and theatres across the state.
Classically trained in vocal performance, Pamela combines her passion for theatre with her background as an educator to mentor performers of all ages. Her work has included directing, producing, and coaching productions ranging from youth theatre and musical theatre to large-scale community productions and original works.
Through Mosaic Desert Theatre, Pamela’s vision is to create a professional, community-focused theatre company that produces innovative productions, develops original works, supports local artists, and makes theatre accessible to everyone. Under her leadership, Mosaic Desert Theatre continues to expand opportunities for performers and audiences alike while embracing its mission to invite every patron to “Step Into the Story.”
Outside the theatre, Pamela is a wife, mother of four, educator, vocalist, and nonprofit leader who remains committed to strengthening the arts throughout Pinal County and beyond. John 14:27 Lights Up!
Abigail Sheldon made the leap from theater fan to participant a few years ago when she joined the Murder Mystery Players of Casa Grande. Since then, she has participated in several murder mysteries, including portraying Abby Brewster in Arsenic and Old Lace. By day, she is a mild-mannered front office assistant at Mission Heights Preparatory High School, and while not currently practicing, she has been a licensed attorney for nearly three decades.
Sebastian Gardner is a Zoni Award-nominated actor who has been performing since a young age. He has appeared in productions across Arizona with Mosaic Desert Theatre and several other theatre companies, building a diverse repertoire of memorable roles.Some of his favorite performances include Leo Frank in Parade, Horton the Elephant in Seussical, and the Sheriff in Mosaic Desert Theatre’s original production, High Dusk. In addition to performing on stage, Sebastian proudly serves as a member of the Board of Directors for Mosaic Desert Theatre.He is grateful for every opportunity to tell meaningful stories and connect with audiences through the performing arts.
Mylee Renae made her theatrical debut as Elaine Harper in Arsenic and Old Lace, where she first met Pamela Karpelenia. She later joined Mosaic Desert Theatre and made her debut as Cassandra in Early ReDIErment.
Outside of the theatre, Mylee works as a professional babysitter and guitar instructor. In her free time, she enjoys reading, spending time with animals, and adding to her ever-growing collection of art supplies. She is thrilled to be part of the Mosaic Desert Theatre.
Mette Crabill is proud to be working with Mosaic Desert Theatre. Originally from Denmark, she recently landed in Casa Grande and loves Arizona. Mette is the mother of 3 sons, two of whom have been involved in theater since they were young children. Having lived vicariously through them for many years, she is thrilled to have been given chance to participate herself.
Amanda McNeil is a performer, stage manager, and creative collaborator who has been a member of the Murder Mystery Players since 2022. She has appeared in numerous productions while helping create engaging and memorable experiences for audiences throughout the community.Beyond the stage, Amanda has worked alongside Pam on several theatrical projects, serving in stage management roles and supporting productions behind the scenes. Whether performing or helping a show run smoothly backstage, she values the teamwork and creativity that make live theatre possible.Outside of theatre, Amanda enjoys tabletop roleplaying games, crafting, and spending time with her family. She is proud to be part of a company dedicated to bringing people together through storytelling, laughter, and shared experiences.
Courtney McBrizzle has been entertaining audiences with The Murder Mystery Players of Casa Grande since 2022. When she’s not solving fictional crimes on stage, she’s a belly dancer, artist, and self-proclaimed pizza connoisseur. A lover of random fun facts and an avid gardener, Courtney enjoys bringing creativity, curiosity, and a sense of fun to everything she does.
Tamara Child has been a valued member of The Murder Mystery Players of Casa Grande since nearly the company’s beginning. With a background in performance and a passion for storytelling, she has helped bring countless characters to life while contributing to the growth and success of the organization over the years.Among her favorite roles are Gentilly Diddy an audience favorite, “High Dusk” , a production that remains one of her favorite shows to date. Tamara enjoys the creativity, camaraderie, and audience interaction that make live theatre such a unique experience.As the organization continues to grow and evolve into Mosaic Desert Theatre, Tamara is excited to be part of the next chapter. She looks forward to helping expand opportunities for community theatre in Casa Grande and continuing to share memorable performances with audiences throughout Arizona.
Originally from North Dakota, Ania was actively involved in theatre throughout her teenage and college years. After graduating, she relocated to Arizona and began a career as an elementary school teacher, which led her to step away from the stage for several years.In 2026, she rekindled her passion for performance by joining The Murder Mystery Players of Casa Grande. She is delighted to return to the stage as Tiffany in Clue Who? and looks forward to continuing her theatrical journey and embracing new opportunities in the performing arts.
Apollo Child has been a dedicated member of The Murder Mystery Players of Casa Grande since the company’s second production and has become an integral part of the organization over the years. Serving in a variety of roles both on and off the stage, he has contributed as an actor, Assistant Director, and Actor Advocate, helping support fellow cast members while bringing memorable characters to life for audiences throughout the community. Known for his creativity, enthusiasm, and collaborative spirit, Apollo has portrayed a wide range of characters and continues to be a valued part of the company’s growth and success. His passion for storytelling extends beyond the stage and into many of his personal interests. Outside of theatre, Apollo enjoys modeling, playing guitar, and serving as a Dungeon Master for tabletop roleplaying games. His love of character development, improvisation, and imaginative storytelling makes theatre a natural fit and one of his favorite creative outlets. As Mosaic Desert Theatre continues to grow, Apollo is excited to be part of the organization’s future and looks forward to helping create new theatrical experiences for audiences throughout Casa Grande and beyond