CAST Leo Finnie (Prof D) is a veteran actor who has performed at most of the nation’s prestigious regional theatres, OffBroadway theatres, and London’s Royal National Theatre. He originated the role of Philmore in August Wilson’s Jitney, for which he won the 2000 Drama Desk and Obie Awards. Although he’s most at home on the stage, Mr. Finnie has played multiple characters roles on all the Law & Orders, was Chief Saunder way back on All My Children, and he plays the recurring role of Grandpa Don on Hulu’s Life and Beth with Amy Schumer. Like most working actors, he’s appeared in numerous TV commercials and print advertisements. The loves of his life are his two daughters and one grandson. Mr. Finnie wants it to be known that Syracuse Stage has always been at the top of his bucket list, and is honored and excited to finally be here in this wonderful play by Kyle Bass, directed by the esteemed Gilbert McCauley; all under the fantastic creative staff of Robert Hupp, Jill Anderson, and Michael McCurdy. Finally, Mr. Finnie sends out a very special personal shout-out to his first acting coach Janet Schreiner and her encouraging words, “We’re going to make it happen!”–love you, Janet!
as the artistic director and co-founder of the West Bank Downstairs Theatre Bar where he produced, directed, and performed original one acts, Rand settled in Western Massachusetts. There he has worked as an educator while continuing his work as an actor and director. Rand’s recent regional acting credits include Alabama Story (Majestic Theater), The Foreigner and The Sunset Limited (New Century Theatre) and Endgame (Serious Play Theatre). Rand has directed well over seventy-five productions and is a resident director for the Majestic Theater in West Springfield where he most recently directed the musical 9 to 5. Some other directing favorites include The House of Blue Leaves, Death of a Salesman, A Streetcar Named Desire, Harvey, Painting Churches, The Boys Next Door, Johnny Got His Gun, and Lewis Black’s One Slight Hitch. Rand holds an M.F.A. in acting and directing from the Yale School of Drama. JanaZekeToshMiles…One Love! Chantal Jean-Pierre (Yolonda Mourning) is thrilled to make her Syracuse Stage debut. She has graced the stages of several reputable regional theatres around the country performing classics as well as contemporary works such as the title role in both Cincinnati Shakespeare Company and Orlando Shakespeare Theater productions of Antony and Cleopatra, Hostess Quickly and Alice in Henry V at Shakespeare Theater of New Jersey. She performed
Rand Foerster (Fish) is thrilled to welcome back live theatre and make his Syracuse Stage debut in the premiere of salt/city/blues. After more than a decade in New York City
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