Thorn 2025 Spring Cast & Crew

Alexander Jesus Burgos is a versatile actor born in Miami, FL, and raised in both the Dominican Republic and Florida. A passionate thespian, he began his career in theater and has successfully transitioned into film, television, and professional stage productions. Alexander’s extensive background in martial arts and sports enables him to perform his own stunts, bringing a unique physicality to his roles. Raised by two professional architects from the Dominican Republic, he was influenced by a creative and disciplined environment, which he brings to his work as an actor.

Alexander Kussovski is a Bulgarian Actor and Stunt Performer. He is known for his work on History of Mankind and Rise of Valerie. In 2021 he won The Golden Buzzer in Bulgaria’s Got Talent, got his 3rd degree Taekwondo Black Belt and moved to Los Angeles to pursue his acting dream. Alexander is currently training film fighting at 87North Productions and is working his way up to become the next action star. He is also part of NU Boyana Stunt Academy. IG:@alexanderkussovski

Andrew is a writer/director known for his work on inspirational stories, such as The Thorn and Cardboard Dreams. His directing work spans both stage & screen & has been seen by audiences from coast to coast. He began directing The Thorn in 2013 and has continued to helm it for the past 13 seasons. He hosts the podcast The Meaning of Movie alongside fellow director and friend, Rob Stennett.​

Ariana Gonzalez is a dancer from Williamsburg VA. She began her professional career in dance performing with Norwegian/Celebrity Cruise Lines. Ariana is so excited to return to The Thorn tour for her second season this year. She is beyond blessed to have the opportunity to share His story through movement. Her prayer is that every audience member has an intimate encounter with Jesus and leaves knowing how deeply loved they are. To Him be all the glory. IG: arianalyngonzalez

As a wife of an artist and a homeschool Mom of four, it's a far cry to say that her everyday life is full of exciting tales of adventures like riding racing ostriches in Africa or deep-sea welding off the coast of New Zealand (though, she has done at least one of those things). It is safe to say that Becca Schmidt's life isn't all that boring. She and her family tour the country in a Skoolie and are always ready for a new adventure on or off the stage. She is our Hair & Makeup Co-Lead and has brought the Narrator and Jesus to life and death on stage through SFX Makeup for the past 18 years.

Brianna is based in NYC and discovered her love for production as she joined her church’s (Fount) production team, learning how to amplify worship and the Word. After years of working in Operations, she took her skills on the road, joining The Thorn team. She is the Tour Manager for The Thorn, helping wrangle the tour team, keeping them housed and fed as we take the story of Jesus across the nation. IG: brialicia TikTok: bri_ordenes

Brooke Cheek, a native of Fredericksburg, Virginia, has built an impressive career in the performing arts. Her early years were distinguished by numerous competitive dance titles and an expansion into live theater. She toured with DanceMakers Inc. as part of The Collective (Season IX) on their Brighter Still Tour. Brooke is deeply honored to return to The Thorn for her fourth season, where she will captivate audiences nationwide as "Eve.” She hopes that audiences will leave feeling a profound connection and loved. Instagram/Facebook: @brookecheek TikTok: @brookecheek13

Growing up in New Jersey, Connor found his love for theatre upon moving to New York. Recent work includes Blueprint: A DNA Musical and Everyday Charlie, as well as producing his Red Umbrella Theatre Company's site-specific production of All My Sons, co-founded with Annika Rudolph. Connor continually searches for ways to tell unique stories, and thanks God for the ability to work with The Thorn to share the gospel! IG: @connor.kopko

Cruz Hartman is from Nashville, TN and has a background in wedding videography. He has worked many different jobs in the entertainment industry from Camera-op to craft services. The Thorn gave him the opportunity to branch out in the content he can capture and edit together by recording candid moments for The Thorn team. From social media reels to documenting chapters of the tour, he has been shooting the behind the scene magic that goes into The Thorn production. He hopes that his craft can show people how beautiful The Thorn can be so more people will hear, know, and learn about it!

Daniel is a native of Colorado. He transplanted to Tennessee with his wife the irreplaceable Jessalyn (also a tour member). This is his 21st year with The Thorn. Daniel interned with The Thorn for three years, where he learned costumes, props, & stage management amongst other skills.​

With a life spent feeding an insatiable creative addiction (he's dabbled in everything from 3D Animation to Glassblowing and even Tattooing), it is no surprise that Devin Schmidt has his hands in the visual spectacle of SFX Airbrush Makeup and Costume Design that helps bring The Thorn Supernaturals to life. When not on tour, he owns a Brand Design Agency in East Tennessee and has dedicated his life to bringing top shelf visual art into the world, as well as raising four top shelf children with his wife Becca.

Hailing from Colorado, Evan is a seasoned acrobat and All-Star Cheerleader. He is a two-time USASF Cheerleading Worlds Silver Medalist and has performed across the country with The California Allstars Smoed, Top Gun TGLC, and the CHEER Live tour.

Jataun Gilbert a.k.a Juice raised in San Diego by way of Cabo Verde moved to LA to chase his dreams of becoming a musician/actor. Acting has taken off for him in his last 5 years in the city he has done over 100 films and TV shows as well as started his own production company causing him to learn how to Edit, Film and produce film and shows. His overall goal is to create a legacy, give back to his mom and dad and ultimately lead the path that God has set for him and walk in his glory. IG: @juicemanjaja FB: @Jataun Gilbert

Javi is originally from Charleston, SC but currently resides in Orlando, Fl. Javi has been a martial artist his whole life and has been training and coaching parkour for 8 years. The last 3 years have been spent learning and performing stunts with various shows around the US. When not doing stunts Javi loves to practice his photography, travel, and spend time with family and friends. This will be his 4th time touring with The Thorn and his ever deepening faith in God keeps him coming back each year to tell God's greatest story.

The human Jessalyn originated in Washington State and now lives in Tennessee with her favorite human, Daniel (who also moonlights as a tour member), and a couple of outrageously fluffy feline overlords. When she's not frolicking on tour, Jessalyn can be found in her natural habitat, defying gravity. She's not your average mortal; she imparts the mystical secrets of aerial silks and straps to other unsuspecting humans. Hanging from ceilings, capturing the magic of circus performers through her camera lens, and playing the role of a fledgling flying director for ZFX are all in a day's work for her. For the past nine years, Jessalyn has had the honor to be a part of The Thorn, embarking on exhilarating adventures on the road. You might spot her in her hidy-hole, running the show's motor like a maestro, or even shedding a tear or two on stage, casting her spell as a pedestrian sad-person.

Jim Miles lives in Austin,Texas with his beautiful wife, Jenny & their four children. Jim has served as The Thorn’s narrator for 17 years playing such characters as John the Beloved, Doubting Thomas, and Simon Peter. Jim describes himself not as an actor, but as a lifelong storyteller, & is cherishing the opportunity to tell the greatest Story ever told! ​jimmilesactor.com

Jon Hartman is a versatile singer, songwriter, and producer with extensive experience in music, touring, and film/TV production. His work spans over 100 episodes on major networks, including Nashville (ABC), Women of the Movement (CBS), Young Rock (NBC), and projects for National Geographic, CMT Music Awards, Netflix, and Peacock. He also has a million miles on the road with some of the top CCM artists since 2014 as a speaker and artist. He’s been tagging along with The Thorn since 2023, and this will be his fifth tour with some of the best cast and crew around. Passionate about music and media, he continues to create and produce impactful content across multiple platforms. His voice is featured on Love Song from The Thorn Original Theatrical Soundtrack, now streaming on all platforms.

Kelly Rayborn, is a dancer from Atlanta, Georgia. She began her training at Lawrenceville School of Ballet under the direction of Phyllis Allen. She furthered her education at Kennesaw State University as a ballet major where she trained with Christine Welker, former principal dancer with the Atlanta Ballet. She began her professional career in 2016 with Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, where she had the opportunity to perform on 6 different ships in 14 varying shows. Kelly also enjoys sharing her love for dance with the younger generations and instructs at several studios between gigs. Kelly is thrilled to be returning for a second season with The Thorn where she is able to share her passion for dance and love for the Lord all in one! @k_slaaay

Lauren Russo graduated from Point Park University with a BFA in dance. Upon graduating in 2021, she began her professional career setting sail with Royal Caribbean and was apart of the company until the Fall of 2024. She has a love for yoga and is a Registered Yoga Teacher through the Yoga Alliance. Lauren would like to thank her family, friends, and mentors who have continuously given their love and support throughout the years and God for the gift of dance. She is grateful to be back on her second tour with The Thorn where she gets to combine her passion for the arts while spreading the powerful message of the Gospel. To Him be glory and honor forever! IG: laurenmarierusso

Levi B. Foster is an actor, originally from Colorado with experience across film and stage. He is honored to have been with The Thorn for many years, beginning at 4 years old, and since touring nationally with show across 5 seasons, portraying a variety of roles. Some of his previous credits are on Disney+ for Nat Geo in “Something Bit Me” S1E10, on Amazon prime video in “The Thorn” and “Dream”, lastly on Netflix’s Are You Still Watching? YouTube in “Netflix Dreams” ep. 3&4. All glory to God, enjoy and be blessed. IG: @levibfoster

Lincoln is an actor, writer, and Air Force Veteran based out of Austin, Texas. He has been seen on the Lifetime Channel’s “My Crazy Ex,” and a variety of feature films, national commercials, and theatre premiers. Lincoln is a proud believer, husband, son, brother, and patriot. All glory to God! Instagram: @thelincolnkorver

Lori's started her choreography career in Colorado Springs in 1983, alongside her coaching career in gymnastics. She coached and choreographed for athletes on the national & international scene. Lori had athletes compete in the National Championships, Pan American Games, World Championships, & Olympic Trials from 1992-2001. She has choreographed multiple performances for the Rock 'n Roll Gymnastics Tour & various Christmas shows in Colorado Springs. Lori started working with The Thorn on choreography & directing for tumbling and aerials in 2004. She now focuses on helping with aerial choreography. Her passion is creating & telling stories through movement.​

Makenzie Murdock is a Los Angeles native, who has trained with the Joffrey Chicago Ballet, Alonzo King Lines Ballet, and Broadway Dance Center’s Professional Semester. She received her B.A. in Human Biology and a minor in Dance from the University of Southern California. Performing highlights: Victoria in Cats (Interlakes Theatre), Dance Against Cancer (Lincoln Center), and Night of Faith with For King and Country. Makenzie is grateful to her family and friends for their forever support and to God for the beautiful gift of dance. She is overjoyed to return to The Thorn for a fifth season as she gets to praise and share His story with you! IG: @makenziemurdock

Manny Elhilu is a California-based actor with a passion for bringing compelling stories to life on screen. He has trained at top institutions such as Baron Brown studio, Playhouse West, Groundlings, and the Identity School of Acting, refining his craft in both dramatic and comedic performance. His credits include leading roles in multiple independent films, as well as experience producing his own projects. Manny approaches his career with deep gratitude and appreciation for God, embracing every opportunity as part of his journey. Follow his journey on Instagram: [@mannyelhilu].

Mari Takayama was born in Japan and is now a professional ballet and contemporary dancer based in NYC. She has performed as a principal and soloist with Eglevsky Ballet, American Repertory Ballet, Connecticut Ballet, City Dance NY, and Neville Dance Theatre. She graduated from the ballet course at Senzoku Gakuen College of Music in Japan with two scholarships, where she also organized and choreographed ballet, contemporary, and musical theater performances. She is also an ABT Certified Teacher. She is very excited and grateful to be dancing with The Thorn for the second season. IG: @maritakayama_ballet

Mattea Harrison is from Pennsylvania. She studied theater production in Virginia specializing in costume design & wardrobe management. Mattea has worked as a designer for collegiate theater productions, a stitcher for Regional Theater & productions & undertaken several freelance contracts.​

Michael Girgenti is a Catholic 2x Grammy Award Winning Actor from Chicago. His main objective is to use his time and talents to further the Gospel. This is Michael's second tour with The Thorn family. He feels extremely privileged to be chosen to help live out the Lord's mission of spreading the good news across America through this incredible visual presentation. Beyond tour life and acting, Michael spends the majority of his time maintaining his boutique music management company “Premo Hq. Corp” and his independent children's book publishing brand "Strawberry Pencil Magic". Stay connected with Michael on any major social app @michaelgirgenti

Born and raised in Los Angeles, California. Michael A. Hel is a professional stunt performer, actor and Filmmaker. He started his martial arts training at the age of 8 years old in traditional Chinese Gong Fu and later transitioned to boxing, muay thai and taekwondo at 13 years old. Since then, he picked up parkour, tricking and tumbling throughout high school and started working as a professional stunt Performer after graduation. He studied Sport Medicine at Cal State Long Beach and holds several personal training licenses and on his off time he likes to draw, read, write and enjoys all things nerdy.

Milan, Born in London, UK, currently calls Fort Lauderdale, Florida, home. Milan has a background in dance and gymnastics, following in the footsteps of her late grandmother, Christine, a professional choreographer who used creative arts to spread the Christian message. Milan is grateful for the opportunity to continue the work her grandmother once did and is thrilled to be a part of the Thorn family. All praise to God for this wonderful journey!

Nestor Vinelli comes to The Thorn from Hollywood CA. A United States Army Veteran and a recent graduate with a bachelors in film and television, an emphasis in cinematography from California State University Northridge. Actor/Director is the vision. “Life is art, acting is art, life is acting. We all put on a face for others to see, I like to explore these faces. Acting allows me to explore different lives and experiences through the thoughts of others. I think that’s beautiful”

Paris was born in London, UK, and currently resides in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He inherits his natural acting talent from his grandfather. Paris has successfully portrayed two lead roles in his school's annual Christian play. He feels blessed and grateful to be part of the Thorn Team, sharing the greatest story ever told.

Ronnie is from Maryland. He currently resides in Lynchburg, VA. Before moving back to “The Burg,” Ronnie spent a decade enduring the secular world of theater. He worked on cruise ships, at theme parks, dinners & regional theater. Ronnie is a lead server, banquet manager, floor supervisor & bartender at the Marriott Bonvoy Craddock Terry Hotel. He’s also choreographing in the local theater scene, sometimes balancing three shows. He is thrilled to embark on a journey with The Thorn, sharing the good news of the one who saves, Jesus Christ! ​

Sarah Bolin is all things details and logistics and people with The Thorn. She and her husband, John, are the creators and executive producers of the show and can’t believe it’s been 26 years stewarding this amazing Story of Jesus. Sarah finds joy in empowering others to use their talents and gifts to their fullest. In her not-Thorn time she loves to cook, read and spend time with her awesome 5 kids and husband.​

Steven L. Williams is the Theatre Coordinator and Full Professor at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO). He is a freelance scenic, lighting, and graphic designer who has designed over one hundred fifty productions with such notable theatre companies as the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, the Nebraska Shakespeare Festival, Omaha Community Playhouse, The Rose Theatre, Theatre Aspen, Heritage Repertory Theatre, Indiana University, Brown County Playhouse, and Mcleod Summer Playhouse. Since 1998, Steven has proudly served as Theatrical Consultant and Scenic Designer for The Thorn including the most recent film of The Thorn. His most rewarding design work has been for a police investigation/training facility for Project Harmony in Omaha, NE. Steven is in his twenty-ninth year with UNO.

Taofik Lucas-Walker, an actor and model, was born and raised in Washington, D.C., with roots in Trinidad and Tobago. He played professional soccer in DC United’s academy and later in Denmark’s 2nd division. Taofik discovered his passion for acting in 5th grade, performing as Tybalt in a Shakespearean play for his middle school. He continued to explore acting through improv classes during his time at Georgetown Day High School. His enthusiasm for acting grew alongside his soccer career. Fast forward to January 20, 2023, Taofik was cast as Jesus in “The Thorn” Spring 2023 tour, keeping his acting dream alive. Since then, he has transitioned to acting full-time, appearing in multiple commercials and has trained under Brenna McDonough at the Theatre Lab in D.C. Now on his fifth tour with “The Thorn,” Taofik is honored and ready to step back into the role of Jesus Christ. He hopes that you enjoy “The Thorn” and walk away being touched, knowing the full story of Jesus IG: @taofiklw

Tim Hildebrand recently located from LA to Nashville, where he continues to work in theater and film. Tim has 30+ equity stage credits and was nominated for LA’s Best Featured Actor Ovation Award in 2020. His most recent film appearances are Apple TV’s The Big Conn (Eric Conn), and the Sony/PureFlix series, Fragment: Oblivion (Harrison Arlow). Tim finds highest fulfillment in those rare opportunities where his faith and art intersect, and was overjoyed to land the role of Pilate in The Thorn.​

Tori Harden has worn many hats in the theater world. Starting as a Box Office Babe in high school with North Carolina Theatre to stage managing R&H Cinderella in Kazakhstan, and as a props technician at Cedar Point Amusement Park in Ohio. For the past three years Tori has traveled the world as a prop master with Norwegian Cruise Line working shows such as Summer, Beetlejuice and Jersey Boys. She feels very blessed to spend some time on land with fellow believers, sharing the love and life of Jesus.

Vija has been part of The Thorn since the early years and is responsible for setting our color palette, design and overall artistic direction of the show. She has faithfully prayed for The Thorn and all those that come to experience the love of God.