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Biographies
Reba Hervas, President
While receiving my formal theatre training at Bob Jones University, the concept of Overshadowed Theatrical Productions was in its infancy. While I was a freshman in college, my Sunday School teacher impressed upon me that Christ should overshadow all facets of my life. She was so concerned that we hear Christ, not her teaching, that she paused before each lesson to pray silently for Christ’s power to fill her with His words. Each time she prayed, someone sang or played the simple song "Overshadowed" by H. A. Ironside. Those few moments directed my heart toward Christ and fixed in me a conviction that has been the underpinning for the more than fifty productions that I have had the privilege to direct. That conviction is simply that each act should be “to the praise of His glory.” My desire is that this theatre be “overshadowed” by God’s love.
After twenty-five years in education and church ministry, I have come to realize a need for Christian theatre in an entertainment-driven society. Christians must have an outlet for quality drama. It is my desire that everyone enjoy the variety of drama that this kind of theatre company can provide. Audiences at Overshadowed can consider the strong family atmosphere seen in Fiddler on the Roof or be moved by the Easter story depicting the passion week of Christ or even laugh with Snoopy in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.
Overshadowed Theatrical Productions is the realization of the dream born in that Sunday School class in college. It is my sincerest desire that you and your family will be blessed, and yes, entertained by the performances of this theatre company.
David Nelson, Technical Director
David was first drawn to the theatre in high school, working on the sets, lights, and small acting roles. While studying computer science at Millikin University, he was the master electrician for the drama department’s productions and designed the lighting for a senior recital and a promotional video. David also worked on the stage crew as a stage manager for the Kirkland Fine Arts Center. In addition to the larger university productions, Kirkland hosted performances by groups such as The Hubbard Street Dance Company, The Chicago Symphony, and the touring productions of Broadway shows such as Annie, Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Cats.
David is thrilled to be involved in quality productions that are family friendly and teach a Biblical message.
Lynn Nevens, Costume Coordinator
Lynn started costuming children productions for Highlands Baptist Church in Littleton, Colorado over 10 years ago. During the last 5 years, she has costumed both adult and student productions for Bethel Baptist Church and Schaumburg Christian School. Among her favorite productions were Music Man, Brigadoon, A Voice in The Wind, The Lamb and Another Christmas Carol. A verse that is key in Lynn’s life is Ephesians 2:8 and 9. “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” It is by God’s amazing grace that everything comes together in each production. It is wonderful to watch Him work. Lynn is excited about this first season of Overshadowed Productions and looks forward to being a part of many more.
Lisa Minnes, Marketing Director
When Lisa's parents took her to see Annie when she was eight years old, she fell in love with theater! She's thrilled to be part of the Overshadowed team and using her marketing skills and experience for an organization in which she truly believes.
Her education includes a B.S. in Radio & Television Broadcasting and an MBA in Marketing from Loyola University Chicago, and her corporate marketing experience is vast and includes Square D, Accenture, Deodandum Marketing Communications, and Regular Baptist Press.
Lisa thoroughly enjoys introducing people to Overshadowed and all the amazing benefits of having this wonderful theater company near Chicago. Her marketing & fund development work includes promoting each production including print & radio ads, press releases, print collateral such as posters, flyers, etc., as well as overall marketing efforts to introduce Overshadowed to new audiences and procure donations and grants from individual patrons, corporate sponsors, and grant givers.
Jim Cosmos, Director of Fund Development
Jim rediscovered his love of theatre when his daughters caught the performance bug. He's been part of the set construction and design for several productions. He's also been blessed to work on stage with each member of his family during the past three seasons. The fun and fellowship in being part of this team is something that he enjoys. It has been exciting for Jim to see the excellence of each production take shape and impact the audience as well as the cast and crew.
With the growth of the Overshadowed family, there is a pressing need to find a more permanent facility to unlock the full capabilities of the team's capabilities. Jim is able to bring his experience in business operations and business management into his role in this team. His aim is to use his abilities in business to compliment the great talent of the staff and actors, and to enhance the outreach and performances. He enjoys seeing a family friendly entertainment alternative that promotes wholesome and strong values. The root of this high quality drama is based on each member seeking excellence in the talents they invest. (Matt. 25) Just working with such a dedicated team has been and remains an awesome experience and privilege.